AQA acquires Extended Project Qualification platform Project Q
Published: Tuesday 6 Dec 2022
We’ve acquired the popular Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) platform, Project Q.
Project Q provides tailored workflow tools that significantly simplify the administration of the EPQ. The platform delivers time-saving support for teachers and real-time interaction with their students' EPQ progress. It also compiles the information required for submission of students’ assessment evidence.
Project Q has developed a strong reputation amongst users, evidenced by teacher feedback and the very high levels of on-going use by schools and colleges.
AQA has acquired the technology to further enhance its market-leading EPQ offer and will be investing in development to improve its support for teachers and students.
The EPQ is an A-level standard qualification (worth half an A-level) designed to provide an opportunity for students to extend their skills beyond chosen sixth form courses of study, and to stand out and prepare for university or their future career.
Research from the University of Southampton observes that higher proportions of students with an EPQ achieve first class and 2:1 degree awards compared to the proportion of students that don’t have an EPQ.
In addition, exploratory analysis of their most recent research indicates that the EPQ may contribute to reduced awarding gaps for students from underrepresented backgrounds in Higher Education.
The latest entry figures for summer 2022 show that approximately 40,000 students took the EPQ, and around two thirds were entered with AQA.
Colin Hughes, AQA’s Chief Executive, said:
"AQA’s charitable purpose is to advance learning and teaching by providing the best possible educational assessment.
"Research consistently shows that the EPQ is highly valued by universities and employers and can be the critical difference that gives students an edge and makes them stand out.
"We also know how precious teachers’ time is, so by adopting and further developing Project Q for schools and colleges we open up some really exciting opportunities for more students to access the EPQ and the advantages it delivers."
