Classics

Latin and Ancient Greek are sometimes dismissed as ‘dead languages,’ but at Badminton, they are very much alive! 

The department sparks interest in the ancient world and its languages through intellectual discussion, dramatic dialogue and translation practice. Co-curricular activities range from climbing the slopes of Vesuvius on trips to Italy to reading the myths of Ovid in Classical Literature Club.  

Latin is taught from Year 7 – 9, and girls can choose to continue their studies into GCSE and A level. A GCSE in Ancient Greek is offered as a plus option in the Sixth Form and Classical Civilisation as an AS and A Level. 

At Badminton I feel privileged to be surrounded by girls who are
open-minded, bright and inquisitive.

Ms McNee, Head of Classics

All pupils in Year 7 study Latin, and can choose it beyond Year 7 as one of their language options for Year 8 and Year 9. We follow the Suburani Latin course, following the life of a Roman girl Sabina who lives in the Subura. They also study broader topics about the Roman world, supported by trips to the Romano-British towns of Cirencester and Caerleon. 

GCSE 

At GCSE we follow the OCR curriculum, which is divided half and half between Language and Literature. Pupils extend and deepen their linguistic understanding and explore ancient texts in the original Latin. 

Outside lessons, Ancient Greek Club and Latin Literature Club are very popular. We are also fortunate to have speakers visiting from leading universities and there are also trips to Roman sites in Britain. 

A Level Latin 

Pupils can opt to study Latin at AS and A Level. The A Level course, like GCSE, comprises both language and literature. Enrichment is provided through entry in Oxbridge essay competitions which includes cultural and translation tasks. There are trips to London for lectures on literature set texts. 

Those who enjoy Latin in the Sixth Form go on to a wide variety of specialisms at university. Classics is one of those, of course, but girls always say how valuable they have found the skills Latin gives them no matter what degree course they choose. 

A Level Classical Civilisation 

Pupils can also opt to study Classical Civilisation at A Level, which requires no prior experience. Pupils study epic texts in translation (the Aeneid and Iliad) in the World of the Hero module, while studying for additional modules in Greek Theatre and Greek Religion. Enrichment is provided through regular theatre trips to London on the set plays.