Year 12
Developing Research Skills
and Starting the Project
In Year 12, students begin by learning the fundamental skills needed to plan, manage and deliver an extended research project. This includes guidance on academic writing, time management, referencing, and evaluating sources. Students are supported through 30 hours of guided learning, with the remainder of their 120 study hours spent independently researching, reading, writing and preparing their final presentation.
During this year, students choose a topic of personal interest outside their existing A Level subjects, allowing them to broaden their academic portfolio. After agreeing on a title and key questions with their supervisor, students begin preliminary research, plan their approach and draft the structure of their written report, production or artefact. This is a year of exploration and idea development, where learners begin shaping a project that reflects their passion and academic ambition.
Year 13
Completing, Reflecting
and Presenting
By Year 13, students move into the final stages of their EPQ. Building on the foundations laid in Year 12, they carry out in-depth research using primary and secondary sources, conduct interviews if appropriate, and refine their chosen format, whether that be a 5,000-word research paper, a production, or a physical artefact.
Alongside this, students complete a detailed production log, keeping track of their decision-making process and the evolution of their ideas. A reflective 1,000-word evaluation is required for production or artefact-based projects, allowing students to assess what they have learned and how they overcame challenges. Each project concludes with a presentation delivered to a non-specialist audience, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate their communication and public speaking skills.
The EPQ provides invaluable preparation for university-level study, giving students a competitive edge when applying to higher education. It rewards independence, resilience and initiative, qualities that are highly prized in both academic and professional contexts.
Exam Board – WJEC
Benefits of an EPQ
- It is an AS qualification assessed at A Level
- It can count as part of a University offer
- University admissions value the skills and independent approach to learning that it requires
- You can explore an area of study totally different from your other A Levels
- It enriches your A Level studies
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000
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