Ancient History
Ancient History at The Perse Sixth Form is a source-led subject that explores the culture, literature and history of the ancient world. Through the close study of original sources, students develop advanced skills in textual analysis, interpretation and critical thinking while engaging with some of the most influential civilisations in human history. Small-group seminar teaching encourages discussion, debate and intellectual independence, providing an experience that closely mirrors university-level study.
Learning through sources
Ancient History A level is built around the careful analysis of ancient evidence. Students learn to read sources critically and place them within their historical and cultural contexts, developing the close reading, evaluation and communication skills valued by universities and employers alike.
The subject combines particularly well with History, English, Classics, Philosophy and Politics, although many students also successfully study Ancient History alongside STEM subjects. Its emphasis on analysis, argument and interpretation makes it a highly respected academic discipline and excellent preparation for higher education.
Learning beyond the classroom
Ancient Historians are part of a vibrant Classics community at The Perse. Students can participate in the Senior Classics Society, Lyceum, the Women in Antiquity lecture series and the Ancient Languages Society, while making use of the department’s dedicated Classics library and range of academic publications.
Sixth Form students are also encouraged to take on leadership roles within the department, including helping to run the Ancient Languages Society, supporting the Junior Classics Society, Acropolis, and contributing to the Lower School Latin play.
Educational visits further enrich learning, with opportunities to take part in the Classics Department’s long-running programme of trips to Greece and Rome, alongside visits to museum exhibitions in Cambridge and London.
University preparation and future pathways
Ancient History develops highly transferable skills in close reading, critical analysis, research, interpretation and written communication. Students go on to study a wide range of subjects at university, including Ancient History, Classics, Classical Archaeology, History and English.
The analytical and communication skills developed through Ancient History are also valued in careers including journalism, law, the Civil Service, education, publishing and many other professions that require strong literacy and engagement with human cultures and societies.
Recent highlights
The Perse has a thriving Sixth Form Classics community, where Ancient Historians learn alongside students of Latin and Greek and regularly engage with academic life beyond the classroom. In recent years, students have enjoyed success in a range of essay competitions, reflecting the department’s strong culture of scholarship, intellectual curiosity and independent thinking.
Assessment details
Two written examinations at the end of the Upper Sixth. The examining board is OCR.