Latin

Why study Latin?

Latin is a highly valued A Level subject that offers students a unique opportunity to explore the language, literature, and culture of the Roman world. By studying Latin, students will gain a deeper understanding of the legacy of the Roman world and its influence on modern languages, literature and society. The course cultivates precision of thought, develops students’ appreciation of their own language and culture, and fosters a deeper understanding of literature through the study and critical appreciation of set texts.

Entry requirements 

Normally, students are advised to have attained a grade 8 or above in their Latin GCSE to pursue the subject at A Level successfully. 

Course Content 

The course involves two main components: 

• Latin Language: Students will continue to develop their language skills, learning to translate from Latin into English and from English into Latin. The passages for translation will be taken from two specified authors, namely Ovid and Livy. 
• Latin Literature: Students will study a range of set texts, including prose and verse, from authors such as Cicero, Tacitus, Virgil and Ovid. 

Relevance 

An A Level in Latin is highly valued by universities and employers for its intellectual integrity and is well respected as a subject in its own right. It is an advantage for anyone wishing to read Classics at university but also goes well with both arts and science subjects. 

Career versatility 

Previous A Level Latin students have gone on to read a wide variety of subjects at university, including Classics, Modern Languages, History, Medicine, Biological Sciences, Theology, English Literature, Law, and Music. The skills developed through this course are highly transferable and can be applied to various careers. 

Academic flexibility and skills developed: 

The Latin A Level course promotes the development of a wide range of skills, including analytical and problem-solving skills, intellectual flexibility, and a sensitive appreciation of language. Students will also develop their ability to appreciate literary techniques, styles, and genres, as well as their ability to articulate an informed response to the material studied, using a range of appropriate evidence to construct coherent, logical, and persuasive arguments and evidence-based judgements. By studying Latin, students will gain a unique perspective on the world and develop a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of the Roman world.  

Latin is a truly amazing subject, and if you enjoyed it at GCSE it gets better! I have loved learning it at A Level because you really go into depth about the Literature. For me, I really enjoy looking at the stylistic features of writing (especially enclosing word order!) and the reasons why an author would include them in their text.
Sixth Form student