Project Based Learning with our Employer Partners
Employer projects are a cornerstone of the Liverpool Life Sciences UTC curriculum. Our students have the unique opportunity to take the theory they learn and apply it to ‘real’ projects designed and delivered by our employer partners.
Why do PBL?
Project Based Learning (PBL) sessions are designed to help students develop a wide range of technical and transferable skills aligned with our specialist career pathways: medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, health and life sciences, engineering, creative and digital technology, game development, and social sciences.
Students gain technical skills in industry-standard facilities, including innovation labs, health suites, engineering and advanced manufacturing labs, digital/Mac suites, and basement project development spaces. Through industry-linked projects, students develop sector-specific technical skills and transferable skills such as problem-solving, resilience, agile project management, leadership, teamwork, and effective communication. These experiences prepare students for higher education, apprenticeships, and careers.
The curriculum also aims to develop students as global citizens by using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) as a framework for project work and activism. Additionally, students can apply for roles within the Baltic Research Institute, gaining unique insights and experience in potential careers.
PBL also enhances academic skills, such as time management, source evaluation, report writing, data analysis, reflection, and evaluation. The PBL programme integrates with all areas of GCSE, A-level, and BTEC study, spanning the full range of our specialist pathways.
PBL and EPQs
Year 12 students are given the opportunity to start a Level Three Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which involves them either conducting a piece of original research, developing an artefact or writing a research based written essay. The topic of this research project is chosen by the student, who then works with a Supervisor to develop their project idea. The EPQ is highly valued by Universities and some will accept it as UCAS points, some use it to lower an offer and others like students to talk about their original research during applications and interviews.
What is an EPQ?
An EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is a sixth-form qualification where students select a topic, conduct research, create a report (or a 'product' and report), and deliver a presentation.
What Does it Involve?
Students can choose from several types of EPQ:
- Research-Based Report: Writing a dissertation (usually around 5,000 words).
- Practical Projects: Organising events like charity fundraisers, creating art or models, or putting on performances.
- Creative Projects: Producing creative writing or multimedia pieces.
Regardless of the type, students must demonstrate academic value, linking their project to current studies or future careers. The final stage involves a 10-15 minute presentation to non-specialists about their topic. Typically, students spend around 120 hours on their EPQ, supported by a supervisor, usually a teacher. Research often begins in the summer after Year 12, with completion in the first term of Year 13.
How is it Graded?
EPQs are graded from A* to E and are worth half an A level, providing up to 28 UCAS points. An A* is worth 28 points, an A 24, B 20, C 16, D 12, and an E 8. The qualification is offered by AQA, Edexcel, OCR, and WJEC, with grading typically broken down as follows:
- 20% - Project Planning and Time Management: Use of time and resources.
- 20% - Research Skills: Collection and use of information.
- 40% - Development and Outcome: Planning and creation of the project.
- 20% - Evaluation and Presentation: Reflection on the process and communication of the project.
Benefits of an EPQ
- University and Employment Appeal: Highly regarded by universities and employers.
- Skill Development: Enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, presentation, and creativity skills.
- Preparation for Further Study: Prepares students for independent research and project management.
- Passion-Driven Learning: Allows in-depth exploration of topics of personal interest.
- Interview Advantage: Provides unique discussion points in university or job interviews, especially if related to the chosen field.
