EPQs, IRPs and IB extended essays: how study travel can inspire your project
If you take a trip with Blue Stamp Travel, why not write about it for your extended, independent research projects?
Whether you are completing an IRP, EPQ or IB extended essay, these projects are about demonstrating your independence, curiosity and exploring a topic that goes beyond the classroom. The best projects often come from real experiences and genuine interest, which is why study travel can be a great starting point.
What is an EPQ?
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a standalone qualification at A Level standard, designed to help students showcase and further develop their abilities beyond their A Level studies.
It can be taken alongside other Level 3 qualifications and is worth up to half an A Level, contributing up to 28 UCAS points. Many universities also make lower A Level offers to students who are undertaking an EPQ.
Students choose their own projects, planning and carrying out research on a topic that is not covered by their other qualifications. This could be inspired by anything.
For example, you could take a trip with Blue Stamp Travel and:
- Travel to Granada and explore the history of Moorish rule in Spain and how this has impacted architecture and in Andalusia
- Travel to Lyon and research the importance of food culture in France, including gastronomy, cooking and the role of family meals
The possibilities are endless.
The EPQ is usually presented as a 5000 word written report. If it is a practical project, students can submit an artefact or production alongside a shorter 1000 word report.
Assessment includes:
- A production log documenting your journey from initial ideas to final evaluation
- A written report, artefact or performance
- Supplementary evidence
- A presentation, typically around 10 minutes, followed by a question and answer session
There is minimal supervision, meaning structure, research and meeting deadlines are all the responsibility of the student.
What is an IRP?
IRP stands for Independent Research Project, and it can vary depending on the subject you are studying, although this is most commonly featured in A-Level Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) speaking exams.
IRP in A Level languages
This is a speaking exam component.
You will:
- Research a topic related to a country where the language is spoken
- Explore areas such as society, politics, history or culture
- Present your findings and answer questions in the foreign language
For example: how did the Algerian War of Independence influence French society?
Taking part in a trip abroad can give you real life context, helping you develop stronger ideas and more authentic responses in your speaking exam, as well as improving your speaking skills, of course.
IRP in other subjects
In subjects such as sociology, health and social care or psychology, the IRP is coursework based.
You will:
- Research a topic using real data, such as surveys or interviews
- Conduct a mini research study
- Analyse your results and write a report
For example: how does social media affect teen self esteem?
This version is more like a mini dissertation and focuses on research and analysis rather than language.
What is an IB extended essay?
The IB extended essay is part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
It is a 4000 word independent research essay based on a subject you are studying. You will develop a focused research question, carry out research and present your findings in a structured academic format.
The extended essay is externally assessed and is often compared to a mini university dissertation.
Like the EPQ and IRP, it requires strong research skills, independent thinking and effective time management.
Turn your trip into your project
These projects are designed to inspire learning beyond the classroom, just like a trip with Blue Stamp. Through study travel you can obtain primary research for your project, as well as develop a wider knowledge of your topic.
Whether you are exploring architecture in Spain, food culture in France or practising language skills abroad, your trip can be the starting point for your EPQ, IRP or IB extended essay; shaping your ideas and giving your project real depth.
A trip with Blue Stamp will enable you to:
- Experience different cultures first hand
- Gather unique insights and examples
- Develop more original and engaging ideas
- Build a project based on something you have genuinely experienced
Start your journey
If you are planning your independent research project, think beyond the classroom.
Take a trip with Blue Stamp Travel and turn your experience into something more. Your next destination could be the inspiration behind your best work.
