BMS Students Complete Higher Project Qualifications (HPQs) 05 December 2023

This term, 14 Year 11 students have successfully completed their Higher Project Qualification (HPQ), culminating in a presentation to their staff supervisor and fellow research students. The presentations have been a wonderful celebration of the students’ research skills and commitment to their own learning.  

The Higher Project Qualification is a super-curricular opportunity and formal qualification students can undertake alongside their GCSEs, beginning in Year 10. The course asks students to carry out research on a topic that is not covered by their other studies. They then use this research to produce a written report and, in the case of practical projects, a physical artefact or a production.   

What have students been researching this year? Phillip wanted to know whether Donald Trump really was the worst President in American history; Izzy explored how the lives of citizens were affected by communist regimes in the 20th and 21st centuries; Tami asked whether music can transcend language and Eleanor challenged herself to create a costume for Glinda the Good from ‘Wicked’ that subverted gender stereotype. Eleanor designed and handmade the gender-neutral costume and spent many hours stitching on each sequin herself. 

 The HPQ allows students to discover the benefits of independent learning, take responsibility for their own study and develop life and study skills.