This is something that has come out of the new Diplomas, but pupils don't have to be completing the Diploma to take it. This year, we're piloting it with six of our brightest year 12s, who have been specially invited, and who are working with the Head of Dance, Mr Clark, as their mentor. The qualification details are here.
It all looks very exciting, for a few reasons.
Firstly, with my History teacher hat on, anything which encourages pupils to develop their research and extended writing skills is a worthwhile venture in my book, because those skills are directly applicable to my subject.
Secondly, I think this is what school should be about! The chance to research and study something of your own choice, in a supportive environment, with access to advice and guidance from people who already know you well, doesn't come along very often. The skills these pupils will be developing will prove invaluable at university - indeed, Cambridge is among the universities who are extremely supportive of the extended project - and tick a lot of boxes for independent working too, which will be helpful in the world of work: time management; developing and testing a hypothesis; and self-motivation.
I'm really excited that pupils at this school are getting the opportunity to complete this, and hope that it will be accessible to more in the future. Look out for updates from the pupils involved on how they feel about the project.
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