Celebrating EPQ Presentations at OIC Brighton: Independent Research, Ambition and University Preparation

This week, we were proud to celebrate our Sixth Form students as they presented their Extended Project Qualifications, EPQ, to our Principal, Tess St Clair-Ford. 

The presentations showcased the depth of independent thinking, curiosity and commitment our students bring to their learning at OIC Brighton. Each project reflected the ability to explore a chosen subject in detail, ask meaningful questions and communicate ideas with confidence. 

For ambitious Sixth Form students, the EPQ is a valuable opportunity to go beyond the exam specification and develop the academic skills needed for university study and future success. 

What Is the Extended Project Qualification? 

The Extended Project Qualification allows students to explore a topic they are genuinely passionate about in significant depth. 

Students may choose to complete their EPQ through a dissertation, investigation, performance or artefact. This flexibility gives them the chance to shape a project around their own interests, academic strengths and future university ambitions. 

At OIC Brighton, the EPQ supports our wider approach to personalised learning. Students are encouraged to think independently, take ownership of their research and develop confidence in presenting complex ideas. 

Developing Independent Research and Academic Skills 

The EPQ helps students build a wide range of skills that are highly relevant to university study. 

Through the process, students develop: 

• Independent research skills
• Critical analysis
• Academic writing
• Creative problem solving
• Time management
• Presentation and communication skills
• Confidence in exploring complex ideas 

These skills are especially important for students preparing for competitive university courses, where independent learning and intellectual curiosity are essential. 

The quality of the work presented this week reflected the ambition and academic confidence of our students. Many used their projects to cross subject boundaries, showing genuine engagement with ideas beyond standard exam preparation. 

Strengthening University Applications Through the EPQ 

The EPQ is recognised by many leading universities and valued by admissions teams as evidence of independent study, subject passion and academic maturity. 

For students applying to competitive university pathways, the EPQ can help them demonstrate wider engagement with their chosen field. It can also provide valuable material for personal statements, interviews and academic discussions. 

In addition, the EPQ has the potential to earn students additional UCAS points, making it a useful qualification for students who want to strengthen their university applications while developing meaningful academic skills. 

 

Celebrating Student Achievement at OIC Brighton 

We would like to congratulate all students involved for their hard work, thoughtful presentations and impressive commitment to their chosen topics. 

We are also grateful to Principal Tess St Clair-Ford for taking the time to support and celebrate their achievements. 

At OIC Brighton, opportunities such as the EPQ and Fusion Project reflect our belief that students should develop more than academic excellence. Through independent research, critical thinking and confident communication, students build the skills and mindset needed to thrive at university and beyond.

 

Learn more about Fusion