An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a stand-alone qualification enabling pupils studying in Years 12 and 13 to independently investigate a specific subject of their choice in depth. The outcome of this work can be a 5,000-word report or dissertation, or an artwork/artefact with a shorter piece of writing. An EPQ is highly valued qualification for employment and/or progression to higher education, worth half the UCAS points of an A-Level

Launched in July 2021, The Photographers' Gallery’s EPQ in Photography supports a group of pupils to attain an EPQ, free of charge. The programme offers a structured grounding in photography history, theory and techniques through taught lessons, exhibition visits and one-to-one mentoring. Pupils are supported to select a topic and independently develop practical or essay-based work for presentation and assessment

The programme includes 50 hours of taught sessions. Pupils are required to undertake a further 70 hours of independent research and work. Taught sessions take place from Monday through Friday, in half day sessions, outside of the school term. Once pupils have attended their taught sessions and produced their final, independent writing /artwork, they present their work for assessment in order to gain their qualification. 

The EPQ in Photography is open, by application, to pupils studying at Hammersmith Academy, John Lyon School (our programme partner and assessment centre), Pimlico Academy, St Augustine's CE School and Westminster Academy. All programme fees, as well as travel, gallery visits, materials and equipment costs, are covered by the programme.

This programme is supported by John Lyon's Charity.