Classics

Classics, the study of the literature, language and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, gives students the opportunity to improve their general linguistic ability as well as their understanding of cultures which have had a significant impact on today’s Western civilisation while around 20 girls in the year group study Classical Civilisation, learning about the culture and literature of ancient Greece and Rome in translation.

All girls study Latin in L4 (year 8). In U4 (year 9) most girls continue their study of Latin, while around 20 girls in the year group study Classical Civilisation, the culture and literature of ancient Greece and Rome in translation.

Having enjoyed their introductory two years students have the opportunity to select GCSE Latin or Classical Civilisation as one of their GCSE options. Students must have completed the first two years of Latin, however no previous study of Classics is required to study GCSE Classical Civilisation. Both offer students the chance to engage in the literature, culture and society of ancient Greece and Rome.

At A Level, girls have the opportunity to develop their study of Latin. Girls may also opt to choose A Level Classical Civilisation, in which both Literature (in translation) and cultural papers are taught. The study of Classical Civilisation at A Level requires no previous study of Classics. Both Latin and Classical Civilisation A Level combine well with a wide variety of other A Levels.

Students’ study of Latin and Classical Civilisation is enriched by a structured programme of co-curricular events such as scholar talks and trips to ancient sites and museums abroad and in the UK.

The study of Classical subjects leads naturally to a large number of university courses, most commonly Classics or the large range of degrees centred on combinations of Classical Studies, such as Ancient History and Archaeology.