Latin
Subject Intent
Latin offers rich opportunities for learning. As well as being a fascinating language in its own right, knowledge of Latin helps to develop literacy skills.
Latin offers the opportunity to reinforce the teaching of English vocabulary and grammar and is a logical step after phonics, as it reinforces the notion of structure and pattern in language.
Through Latin, children develop their knowledge of spelling and develop a richer vocabulary through learning Latin roots of English words and deepen their understanding of grammar. Alongside language learning, the study of Roman and Greek civilisations aids cultural literacy, encourages cultural insights and gives opportunities for wide-ranging thinking across many linked subjects (including history, philosophy, art, maths and science). Latin also provides a paradigm for language learning in KS3 and beyond, and supports the learning of other romance languages such as Spanish and French which are widely taught in our local secondary schools.
In our school:
- We deliver on the National Curriculum aims for modern/ancient foreign language through our Latin programme, Maximum Classics.
- Children receive weekly Latin lessons that include both language learning and classics (study of Ancient Rome and Greece), enabling them to make substantial progress in the language.
- Lessons provide a balance of spoken and written language, enabling children to understand and communicate ideas, facts and feelings in speech and writing.
- The focus is to provide a foundation for reading comprehension and an appreciation of classical civilisation.
