Projects FAQs

Does the Project need to be related to the subject of the Diploma?

The Project can either be related to the line of learning or on a subject of personal interest. This gives learners the flexibility to select a relevant and engaging Project subject, to maximise their achievement and development. However, a sector/subject-relevant Project can enhance and complement the Principal Learning content.

What kinds of projects can learners undertake?

The Project qualification assesses the process of planning, executing and evaluating a Project brief identified by the learner. Learners need to show they can plan, deliver and present a piece of work. The outcome of the Project can either be a written report, a photographic journal, a piece of art, a DVD or even computer software. However, they must also include a completed Production Log; a written report (if the learner has submitted an essay as their Project outcome then they do not need to submit an additional report) and complete a presentation.

How does a learner select their project?

The Project allows learners to explore an area they are already studying, or extending their learning to include a broader subject area. Learners should be encouraged to select a topic that particularly interests them to enhance their engagement and learning outcome. The topic is to be selected in consultation with the tutor. Whilst there should be minimal overlap between anything undertaken as part of a learner’s core studies, the Project allows learners to develop their understanding of a subject which extends from their Principal Learning. Centres must not offer a list of Project titles related to their specialist expertise or Project briefs set by employers.

Can a learner start a project at Level 1 and change to a higher level?

Do the projects have to be approved by a moderator?

Project titles/subjects do not need to be approved by a moderator or Awarding Body.

How do tutors guide learners where the subject of the Project is outside their expertise?

The assessment criteria for the Project focuses on the successful response to a Project title which has been identified by the learner, in terms of managing the Project, effective planning, selection and use of relevant resources, executing the planned outcomes and reviewing these outcomes. Tutors may call on other members of the consortium for advice and guidance, however Level 1 and 2 Projects can be delivered by any tutor experienced in research-based assessment. The Extended Project may require that learners have access to specialist subject support during the Project which is likely to require a coordinated approach from the consortia.

Who looks after the Project?

Projects are separate to the Principal Learning and will not necessarily be run by the same subject teams as administer the Principal Learning requirements of the various Diplomas. Consortia should have a leader for the Project. The project is administered from AQA’s Manchester Office (0161 953 1180) by Charlotte Christie.