Classics in the 6th form

In the 6th form, Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation are offered at AS and A2 level. Usually the OCR syllabi are followed for the three subjects, although sometimes AQA is used for Classical Civilisation. Class sizes for Latin and Classical Civilisation vary from between 3 -10 pupils; Greek sets are smaller but comprise the most dedicated and committed students. Pupils who wish to study Latin and Greek must have taken the subject at GCSE but there is no pre-requisite knowledge required for Classical Civilisation, although a GCSE is helpful.

The study of Classical Civilisation is commonly combined with other Arts and Humanities subjects such as English and History. An AS in Classical Civilisation would also offer a broad-based complement to Science courses. There are, however, no required or precluded combinations.

In Classical Civilisation students read, in English, Homer, Virgil and Greek Tragedy and Comedy, as well as writing research projects and doing presentations on a wide range of topics.

Latin and Greek involve a more advanced study of language, which is tested in the form of translation and comprehension; prose composition is also encouraged. The extensive study of literature of different genres allows pupils to develop grammatical, historical and literary criticism skills, and to get a taste of the ancient world through primary sources. Texts currently being read include the poetry of Homer, Ovid and Virgil and the historical writings of Tacitus, Sallust and Herodotus.

Because the study of the Greek and Latin languages develops skills in the close analysis of information and the systematic application of the rules of grammar, and the study of literature promotes artistic sensitivity, they can be combined with any subject. Latin/Greek are commonly combined with modern languages such as English, French, Spanish and German; with humanities such as History and Geography; or with sciences such as Mathematics, Biology and Economics. There are, however, no required or precluded combinations.

The library is well-stocked and boys are strongly encouraged to peruse the subject and develop their own areas of interest. Each year a number of boys go on to read pure Classics or Classical-related degrees at universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. An A-Level in Greek/Latin gives excellent preparation for many courses at university. Apart from students of Classics and Archaeology, modern linguists and historians will also find an A-Level in Classics of great support to their studies. Qualifications in the Classical subjects may open doors to a huge variety of careers from journalism to accountancy, from management to publishing.

Classics in the 6th form

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