EPQ results achieved for St Columba’s pupils.

EPQ or Extended Project Qualification is an English and Welsh qualification held in high regard by many universities. It allows each pupil who undertakes it to embark on a self-directed project. Currently St Columba’s School is one of the only schools in Scotland who offer this qualification.

Earlier this month were delighted to learn the results for 3 St Columba’s pupils who sat an EPQ, all of whom passed, with two pupils achieving A grades.

Pupils are required to produce a 5000 word dissertation or a physical outcome such as a design, artefact or performance on a topic of their choice following 90 hours of research and taught skills. They are also required to present their topic to an audience of non-subject specialists.

As part of the research pupils were given an induction and passes to Glasgow University library. Along with this, pupils were taught referencing systems, planning, research and critical thinking skills.

Topics this year included the relevance of economist Adam Smith in the present financial climate, 1970s Cuban economic theory and the impact of drinks targeted at children on milk teeth.

The qualification is considered excellent preparation for university. It also helps guide wider reading and distinguishes candidates in their UCAS application. Many English universities lower their grade offer if an EPQ is achieved to a high standard.

This is our first year of entry and an excellent start to this blossoming programme.