At Chigwell School, intellectual curiosity lies at the heart of our learning culture. The Project Qualification (PQ) programme, running throughout the Senior School, offers pupils a wonderful opportunity to explore their own interests in depth while developing the skills that underpin lifelong learning.
Pupils may embark on the Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ) in Years 7–8, progress to the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) in Years 10–11 (equivalent to a GCSE), and culminate with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in Years 12–13 (equivalent to half an A Level). Across each stage, pupils are encouraged to plan, research, write, and present a project on a topic of their choice - cultivating independence, creativity, and critical thinking, all of which are highly regarded by universities and employers alike.
Just before half-term, the School hosted its annual HPQ and EPQ Presentation Evening, celebrating the achievements of 26 pupils who proudly showcased the outcomes of their months of research and reflection. The event, presented in a lively market-stall format, featured striking displays illustrating pupils’ research journeys, discoveries, and the invaluable skills they have developed along the way.
The diversity of topics was particularly impressive - ranging from artificial intelligence, CRISPR technology, and the human microbiome, to Victorian fashion, space exploration, and musical theatre. Alongside written research projects, several pupils created artefacts, including an innovative study-planning app. The evening also featured captivating live performances: an original musical piece for flute and clarinet by Angelique Dawson, and two dynamic dhol drum compositions by Krish Vekaria and Nihal Singh.
The atmosphere was one of genuine excitement and pride, with guests commenting on both the quality of the presentations and the confidence with which pupils shared their ideas. It was especially heartening to see younger pupils attending, inspired by the creativity and scholarship on display - a true reflection of the curiosity and ambition that thrive at Chigwell School.
