What is the iPQ?

The ISEB Project Qualification (iPQ) is an internationally benchmarked qualification for pupils in Years 5 to 9, designed to develop curiosity, independence, and critical thinking. Through a 15–20 hour pupil-led project, pupils choose a question that interests them, explore it in depth, develop a solution, present their findings, and reflect on their progress, building self-evaluation skills and deepening their learning.

Flexible by design, the iPQ can be delivered as a stand-alone qualification or integrated within your existing curriculum. It is offered at three levels: iPQ2 in Years 5 and 6, iPQ3 in Years 7 or 8, and iPQ4 in Years 8 and 9.

Upon candidate registration, ISEB provides the framework for teaching and supports the delivery of the iPQ throughout the year, while assessment is moderated externally using RM Compare, removing the burden of internal marking.

The iPQ is structured around five key stages - Define, Research, Create, Reflect, and Present - which form the foundation of our moderation process using Adaptive Comparative Judgement (ACJ). This innovative approach reduces subjectivity and streamlines moderation, providing a clear, consistent assessment of pupil achievement both within your school and across the global iPQ cohort.

The qualification equips pupils with valuable transferable skills that prepare them for senior school and beyond, while also giving them a tangible project to showcase to prospective schools during the admissions process.