West Hatch A-Level students have recorded a 100 per cent pass rate in their Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
 

Of the passes achieved by the Year 13 students, 71 per cent were at A* to C grades.

Naseem Alahi, the school’s EPQ co-ordinator, said: “We are confident that the EPQ success will stand them in good stead for the future.

“Many universities really advocate the EPQ as it bridges the higher education skills gap better than anything else.”

She added: “Our EPQ students will already have a genuine taste of what studying for a degree is actually like. All round they are better prepared for university and the world of work - critical, reflective independent learners with skills such as academic skills, independent research skills, data handling, report-writing and presentation skills, project management and self-directed learning.”

Aaron Sharma, whose research involved looking at different genres of music and how they affected the mood and personality of people, said: “I believe the EPQ has equipped me with a solid foundation for me to pursue independent research for when I am at university and has allowed me to research into a field that I enjoy."

Head Girl Deanna Mathers created a dessert recipe book having looked at modernising pre-war and wartime recipes.

She said: “The EPQ is an opportunity to indulge and learn about something you love. It stretches your skills enabling you to learn lots and improve lots too!”

Aspiring architect Reece Davey said: “The extended project has helped me develop not only as an academic but as a person.

“It has taught me valuable skills they can be applied to daily life. My project was based around architecture and it helped me gain a space on the UCL summer school which is one of the most prestigious universities In Europe.”  

Reece redesigned a teacher’s house with his work directly linking to his intention to study architecture at university.

The EPQ aims to inspire, enthuse and motivate students by giving them the freedom to choose a project on a topic linked to subjects they are studying or an area of personal interest.

It is a stand-alone qualification, worth up to 70 UCAS points – equivalent to an AS level.

Mrs Alahi said: “We are delighted to have over 25 students studying for the Extended Project Qualification this year.

“Project titles are diverse and fascinating, some are dissertations, but we have a few artefacts too: ‘Graffiti: Is it art or vandalism?’ and ‘To write a screenplay for a drama genre film’.”

Other project titles include ‘How safe are you when you fly?’ ‘How has the English language shifted since the 20th century?’ ‘Goal technology in football.’ And ‘Should capital punishment be brought back in the UK?’

“We are excited about seeing the students develop and complete their projects this year.

“In a rapidly changing world with increased competition for places at universities and in the job market, the EPQ will set West Hatch students apart and give them an edge over other students applying for university or in the world of work.”

PICTURE CAPTIONS

West Hatch High School EPQ students