We are proud to be able to offer Latin, Ancient Greek and Classical Civilisation to all our students. The benefits of studying Classics are as wide-ranging as our curriculum, which focuses primarily on language, literature and history.

The study of Classics improves students' analytical, critical, creative and linguistic skills, which are key to both academic and professional success. Through the course, students gain a broader understanding of both ancient and modern societies and languages. They gain valuable insights into modern culture and enhance their understanding of English and Modern Foreign Languages and of the concept and patterns of language in general. By studying literature and history, students learn to challenge modern and ancient ideas and concepts as well as their own abilities.

Classics is a growing and forward thinking department, which benefits from excellent facilities and teaching expertise. The department has strong links with other departments in the school, including Modern Foreign Languages, History, English and Drama and with local primary schools via the Minimus Project. We also foster links with other Classics departments around Europe. Our lively curriculum includes ancient drama, theatre visits, lectures and seminars, and visits to local, national and international classical sites.

KEY STAGE 3
Latin is compulsory in Year 7 and 8 and an emphasis is placed on language, history and culture. Language work throughout Key Stage 3 aims to equip pupils to read and understand passages of moderate difficulty and to gain a clear understanding of language structure and its impact on English and other modern languages. Pupils will also develop their literary criticism. Lessons are regularly enriched by the participation of the Sixth Form as learning mentors.

In Year 9, students are given the option of studying Latin or Classics International (CLINT), a non-language based course. In Latin, pupils develop their linguistic skills and their understanding of Roman Britain and focus on particular sites and institutions, for example, religion and the Roman army. The CLINT course consists of six modules including the Egyptians, Mythology and Religion, Alphabets and Language, Ancient History and Ancient Attitudes to Food and Drink.

The department runs a lively Classics Club, which seeks to enhance pupils' enjoyment and understanding. From Year 8 onwards, there is also the opportunity to study Ancient Greek as an extra-curricular activity. Pupils wishing to study Ancient Greek at GCSE should attend.

KEY STAGE 4
Both Latin and Greek are now available on curriculum at GCSE level. The course is divided into language, literature through intensive study of set texts and history/culture via the coursework module. Recently studied authors include Homer, Virgil and Pliny. Our students continue to achieve impressive examination results. We also offer GCSE Classical Civilisation.

KEY STAGE 5
We offer Latin A-level and Latin and Greek IB (Higher and Standard level). We aim to study a combination of prose and poetry and to encourage a high level of literary response and linguistic understanding.

A-level Classical Civilisation is also offered. Current courses include Art and Architecture, Epic and Satire and Society.

Our Sixth Form students play a lively role within the department and promote Classics throughout the school and the wider community through their involvement in lower school lessons, teaching the Minimus Primary Latin Project, organising visiting speakers, assisting with planning trips and through their extra curricular activities, such as ancient drama.