Latin

‘Classics is about the past, but it's also about how we understand ourselves now...Classics students are trained to think hard, to express themselves and to write well qualities a hell of a lot of employers are looking for.’

Mary Beard, Classicist

We build upon the classical tradition in this school which has been unbroken since it was founded. We offer the full complement of classical subjects at Simon Langton Grammar School; one of a handful of state schools offering Greek at GCSE and A-level. Classics has a vital role to play in the school’s curriculum for the following reasons:

• Classical Civilisation sets our own civilisation in context. The impact of Greek and Roman civilisation on European thought & culture was transforming and enduring. We present this creatively in the classroom and enhance the curriculum with trips to Italy and Greece, and to drama productions and museums in London.
• The study of Latin & Greek provides an in-depth understanding of language structure which builds steadily on the journey from year 8 to year 13.
• All 3 subjects (Latin, Greek & Classical Civilisation) provide access to some of the most influential western literature: Homer’s Iliad, Virgil’s Aeneid and the works of Euripides, Sophocles and Aristophanes.
• We provide the opportunity to access classics at all levels, from year 8 to university entrance. Every student has a chance to encounter this from year 8 onwards.
• In the sixth form we produce ambitious classicists of the highest calibre who understand how to access the latest research and compete with the best students nationally

Minimum Entry Criteria

Essential: 7 in Latin

Board

OCR

Outline of the Course

OCR’s A Level in Latin allows learners to develop their understanding of the Latin language and the related ancient literature, values and society. It enables students to:

• acquire the language skills which enable learners to read literary texts, both prose and verse, in the original language
• develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the literary, historical and cultural features of the ancient world
• acquire the literary skills which enable learners to read ancient literature, both prose and verse, in its original language with appropriate attention to literary techniques, styles and genres
• apply analytical and evaluative skills at an appropriate level which show direct engagement with original texts in the ancient language
• make an informed personal response to the material studied
• begin to develop a sensitive and analytical approach to language generally
• develop research and analytical skills to enable them to become independent learners

Component 1: Unseen Translation – Students build their knowledge of and fluency in the Latin language, including vocabulary, linguistic structures, and style to enable them to translate unseen passages of Latin prose and verse.

Component 2: Prose Composition or Comprehension – Students develop and demonstrate their knowledge of vocabulary and language structure by: – translating unseen material from English to Latin; or showing understanding of an unseen prose text through comprehension and questions on grammar and syntax.

Component 3: Prose Literature – Students will be introduced to a range of prose authors, including Tacitus, Apuleius, Caesar; Students taking A Level in 2025-2026 will study Cicero’s Pro Caelio

Component 4: Verse Literature – – Students will be introduced to a range of verse authors, including Catullus and Ovid; Students taking A Level in 2025-2026 will study Virgil’s Aeneid II depicting Aeneas’ escape from Troy.

Both literature components involve translation of the text, literary analysis and commentary, and essays.

Assessment

 Bridging Task - Latin​ Sixth Form Programme of Courses