At Newton Prep, we celebrate Classical Civilisations and the plethora of ways in which they have influenced modern language and culture. In Year 6, pupils have one Latin lesson per week. From Year 7 into Year 8, pupils have one Latin, and one Classical Civilisation lesson each week. Classical Civilisation forms part of the Newton Prep Diploma.
Latin at Newton Prep nurtures keen linguists with a love for the Ancient World. From Year 6, pupils learn key elements of Latin vocabulary and grammar, whilst developing translation skills. As our pupils progress through Upper School, they tackle more complex Latin texts which complement their Classical Civilisation lessons; adapted texts about The Trojan War, Kings and Emperors of Rome, and tales of divine intervention.
Our pupils delve into the Ancient Greek and Roman World, learning about their culture and way of living, whilst studying the Latin language. In Classical Civilisation, pupils gain the ability to communicate ideas and conduct discussions eloquently, developing and justifying their points of view in speech and in written work. Pupils follow a linguistic (Latin) and non-linguistic (Classical Civilisation) course to gain a comprehensive view of the Classical World. The course aims to provide students with the tools to appreciate the similarities and differences between ancient and modern society, and thus to respect the debt which many European cultures owe to Roman and Greek civilisations.
Every two years, Years 7 and 8 have the opportunity to embark on an odyssey of their own to the Bay of Naples, visiting Pompeii, Herculaneum and Capri. This trip takes our pupils’ learning beyond the classroom offering them a chance to see murals, handle artefacts and walk the streets of this Ancient Civilisation.
