Classics Department
"Perhaps the single most important quality for a senior executive is the ability to communicate clearly and succinctly. I can think of no better way to learn these skills than by the study of Classics."
We believe that the study of Classics is essential for the training of young minds to think rationally and for the appreciation of the complexities of language. It is also impossible to have a clear understanding of the world today without some knowledge of the cultures which have shaped western society. Our literature, language, philosophical and political tenets all come from the world of the Greeks and Romans. Yet even these are secondary considerations in a subject the study of which is fascinating for its own sake and, above all, great fun.
All girls start Latin and Classical Civilisation in Year 7. After three years of study, they can then choose to continue either Latin or Classical Civilisation to GCSE and A Level. Classical Greek is also available as a challenging option for GCSE and A Level. Many have made this choice and there is a well-worn route to Oxbridge Classics courses taken by our former pupils.
The Classics community is strong within the School with activities to supplement and enrich work done in the classroom and which draw all ages together. There is a Greek Club for Year 9 to give a taste of what they can expect from Greek GCSE. We run a Classics Film Club which is well attended by all ages. From Year 10 upwards, girls are encouraged to help with the Primary Latin Project, an exciting course to stretch and stimulate young children from our own and other local junior schools and to give confidence to the helpers. There are residential trips to Greece and Italy as well as day trips to Roman sites and museums.