Classics is the study of the languages, literature, history, art, archaeology and architecture of the civilisations of ancient Greece and Rome.
At Hartismere pupils have the opportunity to study Latin in years 8 and 9. It is recommended that pupils pursuing the study of Latin have displayed some propensity for the study of languages in French and German lessons. Pupils who make sufficient progress are able to enter the i GCSE (the international GCSE) in Latin. As a general rule international GCSE's are slightly easier than home GCSE's and are more commonly entered by pupils at private schools. The Latin i GCSE remains challenging though for pupils of a younger age.
The school follows the Cambridge Latin Course and the subject is studied in class and through on line technology in association with the Cambridge Classical Association.
Students in the Sixth form have the opportunity to study Classical Civilisation to A level standard. This is conducted on a fast track basis and is recommended only for students who have a particular interest in the subject as an addition to the other subjects studied.
The course focuses on Roman civilisation during year 12 but reference is made to the world of ancient Greece. We look closely at the life and times of Cicero and the end of the Roman Republic. This is the era of Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, Antony and Cleopatra and the beginning of the reign of Augustus.
This is followed by a study of the Odyssey. We follow the Greek hero Odysseus as he finds his way home to his beloved Ithaca. Along the way we meet the sirens and the Cyclops, we enter into Hades and Olympus, the home of the Gods.
No course work is involved in AS study. Instead students take two examinations both worth 50% of the final grade. Main school pupils and Sixth Form students along with their families are welcome to have an informal chat with the Headmaster about their suitability for these subjects.
Mr J McAtear
Head of Classics