Largest ever DCG extended project qualification showcase described as 'Outstanding'

Hard working students at the Derby College Joseph Wright Centre who have created Extended Project Qualifications (EPQ) alongside their A Levels, had the opportunity to showcase their work at a public event.

The EPQ programme, which began in January, involved careful planning and preparation, culminating in over 100 student presentations exhibited at the recent JWC event. The biggest display to date.

Over a hundred relatives and friends of the students and other interested people viewed the displays at Derby College Group’s JWC. The students have used creativity, problem-solving, and planning skills to create their own projects in different academic and creative areas.

There was such a broad range of subjects being showcased, including mental health, women’s football, the influence of social media, dentistry and air travel.

At the event, it was evident that there was a strong sense of community amongst the students, and that they want to make a difference, with examples of the EPQ titles including: ‘How does a plant-based diet affect sports performance?’, ‘Advantages and disadvantages of lowering the voting age in the UK?’ and ‘Is social media accountable for the rise in mental illness amongst the youth.”

An EPQ is worth important UCAS points and can boost a university application. It shows the ability to work independently and conduct research, skills that universities highly value.

Matt Ridgill, Assistant Principal at DCG commented: “Congratulations to all the hardworking students, it was truly an outstanding and impressive showcase. The Extended Project Qualification plays a key role in helping students become independent learners, critical thinkers, and strong communicators. It allows them to explore their interests, conduct detailed research, and address real-world challenges, fostering a passion for lifelong learning and equipping them to make a meaningful impact on their future."

Katrina Osane (17), A Level Student’s project was entitled ‘New Life in a New Place: A children’s book exploring cultural differences of the UK and Latvia’. Katrina, originally from Latvia, commented on his experience of the EPQ: “It has been fun, I have learnt lots of new things and it has taught me a lot about researching and referencing and is good preparation for my next step in my learning journey. I am looking forward to university and would love to become a paediatric nurse.”

Arun Basi (17) included writing a biography for his project, entitled “Chris Brown: How did he become Breezy?” Arun commented, “The project helped me with research, and I have improved my writing skills. I appreciate all the support the College has given me.”

Chris, who is studying Law, English Language and Criminology, is looking to become a solicitor in the future.  One of the students, Ejiro Kafi who completed an EPQ entitled ‘Don’t water dead flowers – help for healing: creating a self-help book' also created a Vlog featuring many of the enthusiastic students.

It is anticipated that there will be greater demand for students wishing to showcase their EPQ work at next year’s event.

More details of A Level study at DCG can be found here.