Latin | The Royal Belfast Academical Institution

Department

Latin

Level

KS3, KS4, KS5

Head of Department

Mr R Gallagher

Members of Dept

Mr R Gallagher

Gallery

Why study Latin?

Latin, contrary to popular belief, is not a dead language—rather, it is eternal. Studying Latin breathes life across modern languages, sciences, and humanities, providing pupils with a linguistic foundation that enhances critical thinking and communication skills. In a landscape where the study of Latin is becoming increasingly scarce, the Classics Department stands as a torchbearer, offering pupils the unique opportunity to unravel the mysteries of an ancient language and delve into the annals of human history. Research shows that an understanding of Latin enhances literacy in English and strengthens pupils’ ability to learn other languages.

Beyond language skills, the study of Latin and Classics cultivates critical thinking and analytical skills that easily transfer across the Northern Ireland curriculum. Studying classical literature, history, and philosophy connects pupils with timeless themes of the human experience, which continue to resonate in today’s world. As a result, studying Latin not only enriches pupils’ academic lives but also prepares them for thoughtful, informed participation in a diverse and complex global society.

What Latin offers?

Key Stage 3

In Year 9, pupils are invited to study Latin. Those who choose to study Latin follow the newly published Suburani Textbook, which follows the adventures of Sabina, a Roman living under Nero’s reign in 64 AD, the year of the Great Fire of Rome. Beyond historical narratives, Latin at this stage serves as a catalyst for literacy development and consolidation, enriching pupils’ communication skills across almost every academic subject.

Additionally, pupils have access to online resources that bring Latin into the modern world and help support vocabulary acquisition. Along with studying the language, pupils also explore Ancient History and the pantheon of Roman gods.

Suburani Textbook Link

Key Stage 4

The KS4 Latin curriculum aligns with the OCR GCSE Specification. Pupils sit three examination papers:

Language (50%)
Prose or Verse Literature (25%)
Literature and Culture (25%)

The papers cover comprehension and translation, the study of Latin rhetoric, and the captivating realms of Roman Britain, the grandeur of gladiator spectacles, and the enchanting world of myths and beliefs, where pupils delve into the pantheon of Roman gods.

Key Stage 5

Building on the foundation laid at GCSE, pupils ascend to the pinnacle of Latin education with the OCR Latin A Level specification.

At AS Level, students engage with two seminal books, honing their analytical skills and deepening their understanding of classical literature.

Progressing to A2 Level, students continue their exploration of the same book, unlocking deeper layers of meaning and mastery.

https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/latin-h043-h443-from-2016/

Beyond the Classroom

Studying Latin not only enriches pupils’ academic lives but also prepares them for thoughtful, informed participation in a diverse and complex global society.