Information Book Just for Starters - Stockport Grammar School

CLASSICS
What happens further up the school?
At GCSE pupils can choose between Latin and Classical Civilisation or, for true Classicists, study
both. In GCSE Classics, pupils will examine the lives and deaths of the citizens of Pompeii,
the family life and entertainments of Rome. We also read Homer’s Odyssey – the first, and
greatest, adventure story. GCSE Latin is a challenging and well-respected qualification. Pupils
will be taught to translate and appreciate the power and beauty of Roman literature in the
original Latin - a skill offered to few and acquired by even fewer. Students can then continue
to study either or both subjects at A Level. A level Classical Civilisation involves the study of
a number of different aspects of the immense cultural achievement of Ancient Greece. We
marvel at sculpture and architecture, are moved by Homer’s Iliad, the first novel in western
literature, argue over the motivation and meaning of Greek drama and admire Alexander the
Great, king at 20, immortal legend at 32. A level Latin is the culmination of many years study
of the language. At this stage pupils will be translating original Latin, written two thousand
years ago, with confidence and an emerging sensitivity. Pupils learn to appreciate Ovid’s rich
humour, Virgil’s epic grandeur and Tacitus’ biting sarcasm. Classical courses have become
popular choices at University for many of our pupils.
Are there any extra-curricular activities?
There are a number of clubs offered by the Classics department. First Years can join Classics
Club which gives pupils an opportunity to explore the ancient world through a variety of
craft and other educational projects. The annual Classics Play has now been running for eight
years, with Euripides’ Bacchae being performed in January 2013. Additionally, suitable pupils
in the Third Year are offered the chance to take Ancient Greek GCSE in the Fourth Year, after
a course of extra-curricular lessons.
Do you go on any trips?
In 2010 the department took a large party of pupils from the Fourth Year upwards on a tour to
Rome and the Bay of Naples, this trip will be running again in 2014. In 2012 the department
took a party of 50 pupils on a tour of Greece, visiting Athens, Delphi and Olympia amongst
other sites. The Sixth Form have been on trips to the British Museum in London, Chatsworth
House in Derbyshire and the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford. Regular theatre trips and
museum visits are also offered.
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