Latin
A level Latin at The Perse Sixth Form develops exceptional precision, intellectual independence and analytical confidence. Through the close study of original texts, students learn to read complex Latin with forensic attention to language, authorial style and historical context. The course offers direct access to some of the greatest surviving works of the ancient world, from political oratory and epic poetry to history, philosophy and love elegy.
Developing analytical thinking and linguistic precision
Latin is an academically demanding subject that trains many of the habits of mind prized by leading universities: careful analysis, intellectual resilience, independent thought and persuasive written and spoken argument. Students learn to engage critically with sophisticated ideas while developing the close reading and linguistic accuracy needed to interpret challenging texts in their original language.
This emphasis on analytical thinking and intellectual independence makes A level Latin excellent preparation for both higher education and a wide range of academically rigorous disciplines.
Learning beyond the specification
Students are encouraged to think beyond the A level specification, exploring a wide range of authors and developing the confidence to discuss literature at a sophisticated level with an awareness of its wider social, political and cultural context.
A level Latin 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 strong culture of scholarship encourages students to pursue their own interests while taking active leadership roles within the Classics community.
Learning through language and culture
Trips and visits bring the classical world vividly to life. Students can participate in the Classics Department’s programme of visits to the Bay of Naples, Rome and Greece, alongside museum exhibitions, Roman sites, theatre productions and specialist lectures.
These experiences help students encounter Roman culture first-hand, demonstrating its enduring influence on society today.
University preparation and future pathways
Latin develops highly transferable skills in close reading, analytical reasoning, intellectual independence and persuasive communication. It provides excellent preparation for competitive degree courses including Classics, English, Ancient History, Modern History, Philosophy, Law, Modern Languages, Archaeology and Politics.
The subject’s combination of linguistic precision and critical thinking is valued by universities and employers alike. Former Classicists have progressed into careers including law, finance, consultancy, journalism, academia, teaching, publishing and the creative industries.
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 students take leading roles in the department’s societies and enrichment activities, and each year a number undertake ambitious independent research projects that reflect the intellectual curiosity and scholarly independence fostered by the subject.
Assessment details
Four written papers at the end of the Upper Sixth: unseen translation, prose composition or comprehension, prose literature and verse literature.
The examining board is OCR.