At Gateway School, we’re always looking for ways to offer a curriculum that not only engages our pupils but also broadens their horizons. One subject that truly sets us apart is Classics—an exciting and enriching subject taught in Years 5 and 6. With its blend of ancient history, mythology, and languages, Classics provides a window into the foundations of modern culture, and it’s a privilege to share its many benefits with our students.
In this blog post, I’d like to delve into what Classics is, why it’s such a valuable subject, and how its inclusion at Gateway School helps prepare our children for the future.
What is Classics?
Classics is the study of the ancient civilisations of Greece and Rome, their languages, literature, history, and culture. The subject ties together multiple disciplines, from history and literature to philosophy and art, offering pupils a rich, interdisciplinary learning experience. We learn about Transliteration, the process of converting text from one alphabet into similar sounding letters in another alphabet and explore Homer’s epics, The Iliad and the Odyssey, focusing on how these ancient Greek stories continue to shape and inspire modern life.
The Benefits of Learning Classics
There are many reasons why Classics is such a rewarding subject for children:
- A Stronger Foundation in Language
Many English words have roots in Ancient Greek. Transliteration helps identify these roots, enriching vocabulary and deepening understanding of word origin - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Classics encourages analytical thinking. From decoding Ancient Greek words to exploring the moral dilemmas in Greek myths, students learn to interpret complex ideas and think critically about human nature and society. - A Love for Storytelling
Mythology forms a large part of our Classics lessons, and stories of gods, heroes, and epic adventures captivate children’s imaginations. These timeless tales also teach valuable lessons about resilience, courage, and creativity. - A Broader Cultural Perspective
Classics connects the past with the present. By studying ancient societies, children develop a deeper understanding of how history shapes the modern world and gain an appreciation for the contributions of Greek civilizations to art, politics, and science. - A Confidence Boost
Tackling a subject as unique as Classics helps build self-assurance. It challenges children to step outside their comfort zones, engage with new ideas, and develop skills that will serve them for life.
At Gateway School, our decision to include Classics in the curriculum reflects our commitment to offering an education that’s as distinctive as it is enriching. By introducing pupils to this subject, we give them access to a world of knowledge that few other schools provide.
Moreover, the study of Classics aligns beautifully with Gateway’s ethos. It encourages curiosity, nurtures intellectual growth, and inspires a love of learning—all key values that we hold dear. Our small class sizes ensure that every child receives the attention and encouragement they need to thrive in this subject, no matter their starting point.
We’re proud to offer Classics as part of our curriculum and look forward to inspiring many more young minds with the wonders of the ancient world.
Mrs Izard
Classics Teacher
Gateway School
