THE FPQ AND EPQ PROJECT QUALIFICATIONS
At Farringtons School, we believe in nurturing not just academic knowledge, but also the crucial skills that empower our pupils to thrive in their future academic and professional lives. That is why we are particularly proud of our comprehensive project qualification pathway. This starts with the Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ) in Year 9, which seamlessly leads into the highly regarded Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in Year 12.
Indeed, these are not just extra qualifications; rather, they are transformative experiences that equip our pupils with a unique set of abilities. This sets them apart and prepares them for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ) in Year 9
The FPQ introduces our younger pupils to the exciting world of independent inquiry. By choosing their own research topic, they embark on a journey that prioritises:
- Early introduction to project management: The FPQ empowers pupils to take ownership of their learning from the outset. They learn to plan, organise, and manage their projects effectively – invaluable skills for any future endeavour
- Encouraging independent learning and responsibility: This qualification fosters a sense of personal accountability and the ability to learn autonomously. These are qualities that universities and employers actively seek
- Developing essential key skills: Through the FPQ, pupils hone crucial skills like time management, problem-solving, and critical thinking
- Boosting confidence: By allowing pupils to delve into topics that genuinely interest them, the FPQ ignites their enthusiasm for learning and builds their confidence in tackling complex tasks independently
- Strengthening analytical abilities: The FPQ provides an early grounding in academic research, evaluation, and critical thinking, laying a strong foundation for future academic pursuits
- Fostering creative freedom: Pupils can choose their project focus and how they present their findings, encouraging creativity and personal expression
- Supporting progression: The FPQ acts as a natural stepping stone towards the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) and ultimately the EPQ in later years, building confidence and experience along the way
- Enhancing future applications: Demonstrating the initiative and commitment required to complete the FPQ adds valuable weight to future CVs and applications
- Giving a valuable Introduction to academic conventions: The FPQ introduces pupils to essential academic practices such as referencing and formal report writing, preparing them for the rigours of higher education
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in Year 12
Building on the skills developed through the FPQ (for those who take it) and open to all Year 12 students as part of our Floreat Programme, the EPQ offers an even deeper dive into independent academic exploration. The qualification is equivalent to half an A Level.
EPQ students take complete ownership of their learning journey, from selecting their research topic to deciding on their final output. This could take the form of a comprehensive 5000-word essay or a tangible artefact, accompanied by a formal presentation and a detailed logbook documenting their progress.
The EPQ provides fantastic preparation for university study by:
- Developing crucial time management skills: Students learn to manage their time effectively over an extended period, a vital skill for the demands of undergraduate life
- Honing advanced research and communication skills: The EPQ demands rigorous research and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively, both in writing and through presentations
- Fostering independence and self-direction: With teachers providing guidance but the project being student-led, the EPQ cultivates the independent learning and self-motivation essential for university success
- Providing a taste of undergraduate study: The independent nature of the EPQ mirrors the demands of university-level research and study, giving students a valuable head start
- Highly prized by universities: Universities recognise the EPQ as a strong indicator of a student’s ability to think critically, conduct independent research and manage a substantial project
An amazing range of topics: The possibilities are endless
The beauty of both the FPQ and the EPQ lies in the freedom it offers pupils to explore their passions. The diverse range of topics undertaken by our Year 12 students in recent years truly showcases this:
- For instance, from the rhythmic analysis of rap evolution to the architectural nuances of Georgian house facades
- From inquiries into Churchill’s electoral defeat to cutting-edge explorations of bone transplant futures and the impact of AI on finance
- From creative playwriting to scientific investigations into lamnid shark predation and the potential of hallucinogenic frogs in healthcare
- Even exploring the profound influence of artists like Basquiat on subsequent generations
Ultimately, the possibilities are endless, driven only by the pupil’s desire to delve deeper into a subject that captivates them.
Therefore, by offering the FPQ and EPQ, Farringtons School empowers its pupils to become independent, critical thinkers and confident learners. These qualifications enhance their academic profiles and equip them with invaluable skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey. We look forward to seeing the fascinating inquiries they will pursue in the years to come.
