BELFAST HIGH SCHOOL
CLASSICS
We aim to introduce all pupils to ‘the glory that was Greece, and the grandeur that was Rome’. We seek to instil a life-long love of the classical world and all it has to offer. At all Key Stages, we strive to live and work according to the values of Belfast High School, perhaps proving in the process that, for us, labor ipse voluptas.
Head of Department
Dr J King MA PhD PGCE
CURRICULUM
Key Stage 3
All pupils in Year 9 study Greek and Roman Myths and Legends and Latin Language, using the light-hearted but traditional and effective textbook series ‘So You Really Want To Learn…’ At the end of Year 9 all pupils complete an introductory course in Classical Greek leading to the EMACT Greek certificate. In Year 10, pupils may choose to continue studying Latin. Classical Civilisation, which focuses on the Ancient Greeks, is also offered.
GCSE
At GCSE, pupils follow the OCR Classical Civilisation and Latin specifications. The history, culture, languages and literature of both the Ancient Greeks and Romans are studied.
A Level
At A Level, pupils follow the OCR Classical Civilisation and Latin specifications. In Latin, a greater quantity of more sophisticated language and literature is studied, in both verse and prose. In Classical Civilisation, we focus on the great epic poems of Homer and Virgil; the causes and consequences of the fall of the Roman republic; and Greek drama.
Co-curricular Activities
Classical Greek is offered as an extra-curricular club throughout the school year. Additionally, Museum and theatre visits, attendance at Oxbridge open days for Classics and annual trips to Italy and Greece enhance the pupils’ learning experience.