BTEC (LEVEL 3)

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) gives you the chance to follow your own interests, ask thoughtful questions and create something that’s completely your own.

It’s an opportunity to work independently, explore a topic that matters to you, and develop the skills that prepare you for university and beyond.

You arrive as you are, and you’re celebrated for it. You leave ready to take on the world.

— Sixth Form student

Course Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Why Choose the EPQ at St Paul’s?

Our EPQ programme combines expert guidance with an encouraging environment where every student is supported to achieve their best.

Choose a topic that inspires you and design your own project, from scientific research to creative production.
Develop independent learning skills that universities and employers highly value.
Receive personalised mentoring from experienced staff who guide you through research, planning and presentation.
Gain confidence in communication by presenting your findings to an audience.
Open up future opportunities by demonstrating initiative, critical thinking and self-motivation in your chosen field.

Where the EPQ Can Take You

Our students who partake in the EPQ often progress to top universities or degree apprenticeships, where their ability to research independently, think critically, and manage complex projects helps them excel across a wide range of disciplines.

I thought about leaving, but I realised no one else would care about me the way St Paul’s does. Here, I’m not starting over, I’m moving forward.

— Student Name

What You’ll Study

Selecting your topic & defining your aim – Choose a meaningful subject or question that sparks your interest or extends your learning, then draft a clear objective and rationale. Pearson Qualifications+1
Planning & project management – Create a structured plan, set manageable milestones and take ownership of your time-management and research strategy. Pearson Qualifications
Conducting research and using resources – Investigate your topic thoroughly, gather and assess relevant data or information, and explore connections and complexities in your chosen field. Pearson Qualifications
Producing and presenting your outcome – Depending on your chosen route (dissertation, investigation/field study, performance or artefact), produce a well-developed outcome and make a presentation of your findings or work. Pearson Qualifications
Evaluation and reflection – Reflect on your project, evaluate your own learning and performance, draw conclusions and consider how you might develop or extend the work further. Pearson Qualifications

Full details of the course can be found in the exam board’s official Edexcel specification.

You arrive as you are, and you’re celebrated for it. You leave ready to take on the world.

— Sixth Form student

Entry Requirements

In addition to our standard entry requirements, a number of our courses have specific entry requirements to ensure you are ready to thrive in the subject. For Mathematics, you’ll need:

An average GCSE point score of 8 or more

These requirements are in place to help set you up for success and make sure you have the right foundation to enjoy the challenge of Sixth Form study.

I thought about leaving, but I realised no one else would care about me the way St Paul’s does. Here, I’m not starting over, I’m moving forward.

— Student Name

Hear From Our Students

Maths at St Paul’s really boosted my confidence. The teachers never let you struggle alone, they always explained things in different ways until it clicked. Because of that support, I achieved more than I thought I could and now I’m planning to study Engineering at university. It’s opened so many doors for me.

— Sixth Form Student

In lower school the larger class size made me rarely feel like I was fully challenged to improve my mathematical abilities. However, the small classes at A-Level in St Paul’s has boosted my confidence a lot, as the teachers get to know you well and are always there to support you. Maths is also a great asset to have for university applications.

— Maria (Mathematics Student)

Maths is an awesome subject. I enjoy the challenging aspect of problem solving and greatly appreciate the support that the Maths department at St Paul’s is always happy and ready to give.

— Julina (Mathematics Student)

Thank you for your interest in the Extended Project Qualification at St Paul’s. The EPQ is a wonderful opportunity to explore something that genuinely interests you while developing skills that will serve you well beyond Sixth Form.

Our experienced team will support you as you design, research and complete your project, helping you stay motivated and proud of what you create.

If you’d like to find out more about how the EPQ could enrich your studies or future plans, please do get in touch.

Send me a message

We’d love to hear from you, whether you want to talk about subject choices, entry requirements, or your future career ideas.

Ready to think independently, follow your curiosity and create something that’s truly your own?

Begin your EPQ journey at St Paul’s.

Whatever course you choose, you’ll be joining a community where every student is known and loved. Our mission is not just to help you succeed academically, but to help you grow as a person, supported and celebrated every step of the way.