The 5th EPQ Marketplace and Conference
Ms Danijela Milovanovic
Chemistry Teacher / EPQ coordinator
The recently concluded 5th EPQ Marketplace and Conference at our school was not just an event, it was a celebration of pupils’ innovation, intellectual curiosity, and the remarkable capabilities of our young scholars. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a research-based qualification that empowers pupils to delve deeply into a chosen topic, producing an extended piece of work that can take many forms, from research papers and investigations to artefacts and performances. Equivalent to half an A-level, the EPQ has become an invaluable platform for our pupils to develop essential skills and showcase their academic prowess.
We are exceptionally proud of our fourteen EPQ pupils, who have embraced the school's ethos of being learners, connectors, and changemakers, demonstrating that they are well-equipped to navigate and contribute significantly to the world beyond our classrooms. The marketplace and conference were vibrant, interactive spaces where pupils had the opportunity to present their diverse projects.
From business and economics to biology, physics, biochemistry, medicine, neuroscience, psychology, art and design, and application of mathematics and artificial intelligence, the marketplace was a panoramic exhibition of intellectual richness and creativity. Each pupil was not merely showcasing their findings, they were engaging visitors with detailed explanations of their research questions, methodologies, and conclusions.One cannot overstate the magnitude of skills that the EPQ process imparts. Our pupils have learned how to formulate compelling research questions, conduct comprehensive literature reviews, analyze data critically, and present their findings effectively. They have juggled time-management challenges and applied their research skills in varied contexts, all while maintaining an impressive level of rigour and discipline.
The 5Is were prominently displayed throughout the event, serving as both guiding principles and proofs of concept for our pupils' work. Independence was evident as pupils confidently navigated their self-directed research projects. Inspiration radiated from each presentation, reflecting the genuine passion driving each pupil's inquiry. Intellectual curiosity shone through in the depth and breadth of the topics explored. Inclusivity was embodied in the diverse perspectives and collaborative spirit that permeated the event. Finally, individuality was celebrated in the unique approaches and personal insights that each pupil brought to their project.
The marketplace and conference were more than just showcases; they were educational experiences themselves. Visitors had the opportunity to interact directly with pupils, gaining insights into the research process and the substantive findings that resulted from months of hard work. The event underscored the high-quality learning and critical-thinking capabilities that our EPQ program fosters. It was clear to all attendees that our pupils are not only acquiring academic knowledge but also developing the skills necessary for success in higher education and their future careers.
We do not doubt that the lessons learnt from undertaking the EPQ have provided a firm foundation for their successful futures. Congratulations to all the pupils for their enthusiasm, hard work, determination, and passion. We wish our pupils all the best and we are looking forward to seeing the final project’s grades in January 2025.