Classical Greek
A level Classical Greek at The Perse Sixth Form offers students rare access to some of the most influential works in world literature in their original language. From Homeric epic and Greek tragedy to philosophy and history, students engage directly with texts that continue to shape modern thought and culture. We are one of a small number of schools nationally able to offer Classical Greek at A level, making it a distinctive and intellectually ambitious choice for students with a passion for language, literature and ideas.
Personalised learning and intellectual challenge
Classical Greek is one of the most intellectually demanding and rewarding subjects available at The Perse. Small class sizes allow for highly personalised teaching, lively discussion and close academic mentoring, enabling students to develop rapidly as independent thinkers and linguists.
Students are encouraged to think beyond the specification, exploring a wide range of authors while developing the confidence to discuss literature at a sophisticated level and engage with the social, political and cultural contexts in which texts were produced. The subject develops precision, close reading, analytical confidence, intellectual independence and persuasive written argument, all of which are highly valued by universities.
Learning beyond the specification
Students join a vibrant community of classicists, both pupils and teachers, with a shared enthusiasm for the ancient world. A level Greek students can extend their studies through the Senior Classical Society, Lyceum, relevant 42 lectures, essay competitions, Oxbridge-style breakfast seminars, independent research opportunities and mentoring younger pupils.
The department’s dedicated Classics library and strong culture of scholarship encourage students to pursue their interests beyond lessons, while leadership opportunities allow Sixth Form classicists to play an active role within the wider department.
Learning through language and culture
Trips and visits bring the classical world vividly to life. Students can participate in the Classics Department’s long-running programme of overseas visits to the Bay of Naples, Rome and Greece, alongside museum exhibitions, classical sites, theatre productions and specialist lectures.
These experiences allow students to encounter Classical Greek culture first-hand, helping them appreciate the ancient world not as an abstract concept, but as something tangible, influential and enduring.
University preparation and future pathways
Classical Greek provides outstanding preparation for competitive university courses including Classics, English, Ancient History, Modern History, Philosophy, Law, Modern Languages, Archaeology and Politics. The subject’s emphasis on linguistic accuracy, analytical thinking and independent scholarship makes it particularly valuable for students considering Oxbridge and other highly competitive university courses.
Former students have progressed into careers including law, finance, consultancy, journalism, academia, teaching, publishing and the creative industries, demonstrating the versatility of the skills developed through Classical Greek.
Recent highlights
The department has a proud tradition of preparing students for Oxford, Cambridge and other leading universities, while supporting many more in pursuing Humanities degrees across a wide range of disciplines. Sixth Form classicists play a leading role in the department’s societies and enrichment programme, and each year students undertake ambitious independent research projects that reflect the intellectual curiosity and academic independence fostered by the subject.
Assessment details
Four written examinations at the end of the Upper Sixth.
The examining board is OCR.