SPOTLIGHT ON EPQ: ELEANOR SHARES MORE ABOUT HER PROJECT
06.03.2025Students at HNC have endless opportunities to pursue their passions. Recently, we shared more about the College’s Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) programme, and how undertaking an EPQ is one of the ways our students can become their best selves. You can read the original article here.
In the next in this series, we speak to Head Student, Eleanor, who is in the process of completing an EPQ. Eleanor shares more about her project, and how taking part is helping her to stand out from the crowd.
What topic have you chosen to study for your EPQ?
I have chosen to investigate the social construction of hair styles and how different styles and colours of hair can be stereotyped. People are often superficially judged on their appearance and I am interested in how someone’s hair style can affect others’ perceptions of them.
What was the inspiration behind choosing your topic?
The topic was originally inspired by my studies in A Level Sociology. Understanding others and the challenges people face is something that really interests me, and as I was aware that I wouldn’t be studying Sociology beyond A Level, it was a chance to study a topic I enjoy in more depth.
What has taking part in the EPQ taught you?
The EPQ is a brilliant challenge that has pushed me outside of my comfort zone – it has definitely taught me to be open to new opportunities! I have learnt really important skills such as referencing too. I think it’s a great way to build your confidence in yourself and what you can achieve.
Do you recommend taking an EPQ to others?
I would definitely recommend taking part in the EPQ – it’s challenging but incredibly rewarding. It’s provided a genuine insight into degree level study which will be a benefit when I get to university. I am confident with managing a project and reading academic papers now and feel ready to take on the challenge of degree level study.
What are your progression plans after HNC?
My plans post-HNC are to progress to University to study Law and then secure a role in the Legal sector – I think the skills I have developed throughout taking part in the EPQ will help support this!
We will be sharing more about our students’ projects in the coming weeks. Hoping to join HNC in September 2025? If you would like to find out more about the College’s EPQ programme, please speak to your interviewer.
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