EPQ Presentation Evening

On Wednesday, we welcomed students, families and staff to the annual Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Showcase Evening, where our Sixth Form students presented the results of months of independent research, investigation and creativity.

The EPQ is a highly regarded qualification that allows students to explore a subject of their choosing in depth while developing valuable academic and professional skills, including research, analysis, project management and public speaking. Projects can take a range of forms, from dissertations and investigations to performances and artefacts, but all culminate in a formal presentation to a non-specialist audience.

The evening offered a fascinating insight into the curiosity, determination and originality of our Sixth Form students, with topics spanning politics, medical science, architecture, sport, music and local Cornish industry.

Sam T explored whether financial disparities in men’s English professional football are fair, analysing the economic structures and regulations shaping the modern game.

Vladyslav K examined the collapse of the Soviet Union, weighing the significance of Gorbachev’s reforms against deeper structural weaknesses within the state.

Rocco L-W investigated whether anabolic steroids should be legal to sell in the UK, analysing the issue through ethical, legal, economic and health perspectives.

Matthew W researched the potential revival of tin mining in Cornwall, exploring environmental, logistical and economic factors surrounding the industry’s return.

Oliver S designed a Renaissance-inspired redesign of the exterior of the Royal Cornwall Museum, combining architectural research with detailed model-making.

Wilf O created a hand-built surf-skate, investigating whether a homemade design could match the performance of commercial models while remaining affordable.

Ella S wrote and produced an original five-track album at home, drawing inspiration from rock, jazz and blues and learning professional production techniques using ProTools.

Isaac S evaluated whether the proposed ban on no-fault evictions would benefit Cornwall, considering the potential long-term impacts on tenants and housing supply.

Hattie B explored whether vaccinations could be the most effective method of eradicating bovine tuberculosis, assessing scientific, economic and agricultural perspectives.

Ben N debated whether rugby union should be banned in schools, balancing concerns around concussion with the sport’s physical and social benefits.

Pawel R investigated whether stem cells represent the most effective treatment for cancer, comparing them with existing therapies in terms of accessibility, cost and outcomes.

Ella B examined whether Iceland could become self-sufficient in horticultural food production through innovations such as greenhouse cultivation and smart farming.

Zack R analysed whether boycotts in international sport are an ethically justifiable form of protest, drawing on historical examples and ethical frameworks.

Sophie D evaluated the growing impact of genomics on healthcare, highlighting the role of genetic research and personalised medicine in improving patient outcomes.

Following each presentation, the audience had the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the students’ research, creating a lively and thoughtful discussion throughout the evening.

The EPQ Showcase Evening is always a highlight of the Sixth Form calendar, offering students a chance to share their work while building the confidence and communication skills that will support them in university study and future careers.

We would like to congratulate all of this year’s EPQ students for their impressive work, and a huge thank you to Mrs Stone, Mrs Thurlow and Mrs Ellison, who supported them throughout the process. Their guidance, encouragement and expertise help our students to realise the full potential of their ideas.