Why Study Latin?
"But nobody actually speaks Latin, so why do we have to learn it?" This is the most common question asked by those beginning to learn Latin. The truth is that there is a multitude of reasons why the study of Latin is important.
Latin is the first subject we do in life entirely for its own sake. A degree at university in classics leads to almost any job in the world. It gives one a disinterestedness in the study of any subject. Disinterestedness is not being uninterested. Quite the opposite: it is a love of studying without any practical result intended and it gives the soul a peace, an inner control, a quiet joy beyond words.
Through reading fantastic stories that have graced the scripts of many a Hollywood blockbuster, students of Latin are able to develop an understanding of grammar, literary style, politics, philosophy and the discipline of a logical approach to textual analysis.
Third Form - Sixth Form
In the Third Form, all pupils are offered the opportunity to study Latin, either as a beginner or as someone who has already been learning for a year or more.
Latin is a popular option at GCSE and there are usually a number who start studying the language in Third Form and continue through to GCSE. We follow the Eduqas (WJEC) Latin GCSE syllabus, which allows for the development of translation and reading skills in Latin, as well as an introduction to the literature of the Ancient World.
For those that continue the study of Latin beyond GCSE, the world of Ancient Literature really opens up. Lessons in Ancient Greek are available, although usually as an additional subject off the normal timetable and by prior arrangement.