Saturday 28 July 2012 Faced with intense competition for places on their chosen degree courses, today’s A Level students have to go the extra mile to make their university applications stand out from the crowd. Demonstrating potential for success at degree level will be critical, so The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is helping its sixth form students to develop their study skills thanks to an innovative partnership with the University of Leeds. For the first time at GSAL, sixth form students have the opportunity to undertake the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) – a research project on a topic of the student’s own choice – with guidance from academics at the University and access to its superb range of learning resources. Dr Abigail Harrison Moore, Deputy Head of School and Senior Lecturer, School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies, said, “The project with GSAL is the first school collaboration in terms of the EPQ for the University of Leeds, and we hope it will be a pilot for projects supporting a number of schools across the UK next year. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the staff and students at GSAL on their EPQs – all parties have learnt a great deal about the qualification and the students’ abilities and interests. The range of projects that the students are proposing is wonderful. “Although currently the EPQ doesn’t count towards our entry requirements, it will enhance the student’s personal statement and interview performance. It develops vital skills needed for undergraduate study, for example research using primary and secondary sources, critical thinking and writing skills, and demonstrates motivation and commitment. It also gives students a taste of what university study is like so they can decide whether it’s right for them.” Lower Sixth student Leonora Cherry is researching an EPQ based on symbols of the afterlife in ancient Egypt, prior to applying to study Anthropology and Archaeology at university. She said, “By doing the EPQ I will demonstrate that I can think outside the box, work on my own initiative and take an active interest in topics beyond the A Level curriculum. The sessions with University academics have been really useful, training me in essential research skills for the development of my project.” Dr Claire Jones of the University’s Museum of the History of Science, Technology and Medicine is pictured demonstrating 19th century medical equipment to student Stuart Duffy. General Senior School Sixth Form News
