From September 2026, ASDAN will expand its qualifications offer with two new project-based learning qualifications – the Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ, Level 1) and Higher Project Qualification (HPQ, Level 2) (pending Ofqual approval).
These qualifications will sit alongside the existing Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), creating a complete progression pathway from Level 1 through to Level 3. Together, they give learners more choice, flexibility, and recognition as they develop confidence, independence, and transferable skills that prepare them for future study, work and life.
At ASDAN, we believe that learning is most powerful when it’s personal. Our project-based qualifications enable learners to take ownership of their learning, explore their interests and showcase their abilities.
“Project qualifications are so closely aligned to our DNA as an organisation,” says Cath Moss, ASDAN’s Head of Curriculum Development. “They allow learners to demonstrate their skills in a context that’s meaningful to them – whether that’s through an academic dissertation, an artefact, or a project linked to work experience. That freedom is incredibly powerful for engagement.”
Why schools are choosing ASDAN
Across UK schools and colleges, the narrative is shifting from looking at how students can perform in exams to how well can they apply what they’ve learned – in university, at work and in the real world.
While the EPQ is available from several awarding organisations, ASDAN’s EPQ stands apart for one key reason: it is built to integrate real-world learning through community projects, vocational experiences or work placements.
This means ASDAN’s EPQ doesn’t just assess a project. It develops the learner behind it.
The World Economic Forum identifies the most in-demand skills for the next decade as problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, communication and adaptability.
ASDAN’s Project Qualifications are intentionally designed to cultivate exactly these capabilities. Learners don’t just write about ideas; they plan them, manage them, and bring them to life. The qualifications allow students to demonstrate initiative, independence and innovation – the hallmarks of future-ready learners.
What makes ASDAN’s EPQ stand out?
Unlike traditional EPQs that focus primarily on academic research, ASDAN offers a wider range of assessment pathways:
- written reports and academic dissertations
- practical artefacts or performances
- community or work placement-based projects
This flexibility means every learner – whether academic, creative or vocational – can achieve and excel.
ASDAN’s EPQ is Ofqual regulated and UCAS recognised, giving students up to 28 UCAS points. It is also suitable for delivery within tutorial, enrichment or core timetable slots and is mapped to the skills required by higher education and employers. Every project develops the competencies identified by the World Economic Forum as essential for the 2030 workforce.
With FPQ and HPQ now joining the suite, ASDAN will offer entry points for every ability, and a progressive project pathway from early curiosity (Level 1) to university level autonomy and career clarity (Level 3).
Benefits for learners
ASDAN’s FPQ, HPQ and EPQ give learners the freedom to explore topics that inspire them while developing skills that last a lifetime.
Key learner benefits:
- choice and autonomy – learners select their own project topic, increasing ownership and motivation
- transferable skills – research, planning, evaluation and communication are embedded throughout
- recognition and progression – EPQ carries up to 28 UCAS points, while FPQ and HPQ provide valuable stepping stones with GCSE equivalence
- engagement and confidence – learners who may struggle in traditional settings thrive when learning is contextualised and relevant
“Being able to choose the context for their study is transformative,” says Cath. “It allows learners to demonstrate what they can do through a topic of personal interest, rather than being limited to what a syllabus dictates.”
A seamless progression pathway
With the introduction of FPQ and HPQ, ASDAN offers a clear progression route for learners at every stage.
Learners can move from ASDAN Short Courses and Personal Development Programmes (PDP) into Personal Effectiveness Qualifications (PEQ), and then progress onto project qualifications at Levels 1, 2 and 3.
Wherever a learner begins their journey, there’s now a supported route to achievement that recognises their individual strengths and aspirations.
Looking ahead: first teaching in 2026
First teaching for the Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ) and Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) is planned for September 2026. ASDAN is already working closely with members to prepare for delivery.
These qualifications reflect ASDAN’s mission to help learners flourish through personalised, skills-based learning that connects directly to their interests, aspirations and real-world experiences. Classroom knowledge is turned into capability, curiosity into confidence and ideas into action. They are more than qualifications they are launchpads for real-world success.
Find out more
ASDAN’s new project-based qualifications will give educators and learners powerful tools to strengthen engagement, develop transferable skills and achieve meaningful outcomes.
• Not an ASDAN member yet? Fill out our expression of interest form to learn more about delivering ASDAN’s project qualifications.
• Already a member? Contact our education development partner team to discuss how project qualifications can complement your curriculum and learner progression plans.