Year 13 student Gabrielle Mallet infused her audience with her enthusiasm for Japan, when she gave a fascinating presentation of her EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) this term.

The presentation was an overview of Gabrielle’s exploration into the social impacts of the assimilation policies of the Ainu people, implemented by the Japanese government from 1855.

Gabrielle gave an illuminating insight into this highly specialist topic; her passion, knowledge and an exceptional level of mature research were clearly evident throughout.

As part of the assessment process, as well as presenting her findings, Gabrielle had to answer a number of questions from the audience which she did with assurance and confidence.

Gabrielle’s EPQ is another step of her journey to pursue her passion for Japan as she hopes to study Japanese at university.  As she explained to the audience, Japan and everything Japanese have been an absorbing interest from a very young age and the EPQ was the ideal opportunity to fully explore an intriguing aspect of Japanese history.

The Extended Project Qualification is highly regarded by universities as it prepares students for university by equipping them with key skills such as: writing a dissertation, conducting research, analysis and evaluation.

Research has shown that students doing an EPQ are more likely to achieve a higher grade in their A-Levels; it may even assist in securing a university place if a student misses a grade required within a conditional offer.

All Sydenham High Sixth Form students now undertake an EPQ as part of their academic program. Gabrielle is an excellent role model to Year 12 who will soon be choosing their EPQ topics.