Classics

Latin is taught from Year 5 upwards. Whilst it can be a demanding subject to study, requiring determination and hard work to succeed, it can also be very rewarding and it encourages clarity of thought and a logical approach to solving problems. It also opens the door to the Ancient World, as well as helping with the study of modern languages at a later date and a better understanding of our own language.

Of necessity, the emphasis has to be on tackling the grammar and vocabulary right from the beginning, but there is always time to spend looking at background topics from the Classical world, along with the timeless stories of Greek mythology. The department is equipped with a computer and interactive whiteboard, these help bring the subject to life, with DVDs, videos and computer programs, together with an ever-growing classroom library of background books for independent reading and class use.

The pupils work towards the Common Entrance and Public School Scholarship examinations which are taken in Year 8, with different levels of ability being catered for. In their final term, the scholarship group is introduced to Ancient Greek, which poses yet another challenge for them, but one which they find stimulating and enjoyable.