HIGHER PROJECT QUALIFICATION

LEVEL 2: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: AQA

The HPQ is taught alongside the Sociology GCSE as part of the Level 2 Social Science pathway and worth 50% of a GCSE.

HPQ allows you to conduct your own research project on a topic of your choosing, culminating in a 2000-word essay, a research log and a presentation.

You will be taught research skills and how to navigate different resources, including online digital databases and how to use AI software safely. You will record your research, reference it in your essay and be expected to do a small presentation at the end of the process.

You will develop critical, reflective and independent learning skills which will help propel you onto Level 3 study or into employment.

The appeal of this subject is that it has no limits in terms of what you can conduct your research on, meaning it is entirely tailored towards you!

Much of your time will be spent researching, writing and preparing your project. However, at key intervals in the year, we will focus on the following areas:

  1. How to conduct academic research.
  2. Choosing your HPQ topic
  3. Narrowing down your ideas.
  4. Recording your research and referencing.
  5. Writing academically
  6. Presenting to an audience

This course is 100% coursework based.

This will include a 2000-word essay, research logbook and presentation.

You must be aged 16 years+ to complete the Level 2 Pathway, including HPQ.

The standard entry requirement is a GCSE profile of grade 3s. However, a minimum of a grade 4 in GCSE English Language or Literature, or another essay-based subject, is highly recommended to ensure the best chance of success.

The Level 2  programme is also aimed at students who haven’t had the opportunity to sit GCSEs, this could be for several reasons which could include students who have been home-schooled.