Classics

The study of classics remains an integral part of education at King Edward’s School. We believe that Latin and Greek have great value, providing a different kind of linguistic challenge, opening up an understanding of our own language, leading to the study of great literature and an understanding of two civilisations which have had a massive influence on our own.

All boys study Latin for the first three years and Greek is available as a language option in Year 9.

The GCSE courses involve linguistic ability in translation but also literary and cultural awareness in the study of set texts which include, in Latin: Vergil, Tacitus and Pliny and, in Greek: Homer, Euripides and Thucydides.

The department runs a number of trips to support its teaching, in this country to the Roman Baths and overseas to the Bay of Naples and mainland Greece. There is also an Ancient World Society, where pupils give talks on ancient cultures, languages or religions that they find of particular interest.

Sixth Form

Latin and Greek are both available at either Higher or Standard Level as part of the IB Diploma. The IB courses involve the study of either Greek or Latin literature in its cultural context, building on the linguistic and literary skills that have been practised at GCSE. In addition to two examined papers on language and literature, Latin and Greek pupils also complete a research dossier on a classical topic of their choice.