At Oxford International College Brighton, we are proud to offer opportunities that allow students to explore their interests in depth and take real ownership of their learning. The Extended Project Qualification, known as the EPQ, plays an important role in developing independence, intellectual curiosity and academic confidence. This year’s projects have been particularly impressive in both scope and ambition.
We run project qualifications throughout the College, with most students choosing to complete their EPQ in either Year 11 or Year 13. The qualification is an optional addition alongside GCSEs or A Levels and is designed for students who want to challenge themselves beyond the formal curriculum.
For many students, the EPQ is their first experience of independent academic research. It allows them to plan, manage and complete a substantial project on a topic of their own choosing, developing valuable skills that extend well beyond a single subject.
The working titles selected by this year’s cohort reflect the diversity of their interests and the confidence with which they approach complex ideas. Projects have explored questions such as "How does Corporate Ethical Governance Affect Public Data Openness?", "How has iconoclasm shaped political and social movements in the United States?" , " Electrical cables: Life models for insulating materials in Combined-stress conditions and practical applications." and "How does running contribute to the releases of neurotransmitters in the brain?"
These topics span humanities, sciences and engineering, highlighting the breadth of academic passion among our students.
As students progress through their EPQ, they are encouraged to research deeply and think critically about their findings. Many discover that their initial assumptions do not always hold true. For example, some students have found that media sources from different political perspectives can demonstrate similar levels of bias. Others have learned valuable lessons about the limitations of primary research, such as the challenge of gathering representative data when survey respondents are drawn largely from their own age group.
Through this process, students become experts in their chosen field. They are then challenged to present complex and specialist research clearly and accessible to a non-specialist audience. This develops confidence in academic communication and a strong understanding of how knowledge is shared effectively.
I have been extremely impressed by the independence and commitment shown by this year’s students. Much of the EPQ work takes place during the summer between Year 12 and Year 13, a period when students are already managing demanding academic schedules.
For some, the EPQ has felt very much like a fifth A Level alongside their existing studies. Maintaining focus, organisation and motivation throughout this process is no small achievement. The determination students have shown is a real credit to them.I have also been struck by the breadth of interests on display. These projects demonstrate the passions our students hold beyond the curriculum and strongly reflect our College value of Curiosity.
The benefits of the EPQ extend far beyond the final grade. The qualification helps students develop essential skills that prepare them for success at university. This is why a strong EPQ result can contribute positively to university applications and, in some cases, lead to reduced offers.
Time management is one of the most valuable lessons students learn. Although a year may feel like a long time at the outset, balancing an EPQ alongside a busy College life requires careful planning and sustained discipline. These habits are excellent preparation for undergraduate study.
Students also gain early experience of academic research. They learn how to use high level sources, analyse and evaluate findings, conduct primary research and maintainaccurate references and bibliographies. These are skills many students only encounter once they reach university. Completing an EPQ gives our students a significant academic advantage.
The EPQ remains a cornerstone of our commitment to developing confident, independent learners at Oxford International College Brighton. This year’s projects have been a pleasure to follow, and I am excited to see how our students continue to apply these skills as they progress to the next stage of their academic journeys.
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