The E.P.Q. is designed to encourage students to develop skills relevant to Higher Education as well as the workplace. Working largely independently but also with support from a supervisor, the students had a remit to research an area of personal interest – which might be connected to their studies but which also might be on a topic completely different to what they ordinarily explore in class. Students then wrote a 5000 word essay, delivered a presentation on research findings but also reflections on the learning process which are recorded in their Production Logs – a log which charts the overall process and experience.

Topics included:

• The impact of the 2006 tsunami on the tourist industry of Phuket
• The impact of government policy in mitigating the health risks of London Underground travel
• How far psychopathy in serial killers is a result of nature or nurture
• The extent to which gender impacts autism diagnosis rates

We were so pleased that all students passed at the top grades – with 6 of the students securing the very top grades of A*-A.

Irrespective of results, it was a terrific experience to be a part of as either a student or as staff.

Well done all!