Classics
The Classics department plays a key role in the curriculum at Birkdale. It offers students much, both in its own right and supports the work of many other departments. The study of Latin and Classical Civilisation make a valuable contribution to both the general education and personal development of our students.
We have a tradition of high achievement in public examinations and university entrance.
We are proud of the high standards achieved by pupils of all abilities.
Although Classics no longer has a place in the crowded national curriculum, Birkdale continues to offer the unique advantages afforded by study of the Classical World.
Students are constantly urged to make comparisons between the Classical and modern world and form value judgments. In the early years of the Senior school they look closely at language and the influence of Latin on other languages, particularly English, French and Spanish.
We encourage students to interpret stories and situations according to their own life experiences.
They develop a sense of how the Classical world has influenced the history and culture of the Western world.
In the later stages of the curriculum students respond personally to Latin and Greek literature and make their own judgments about the Greek and Roman world using first hand evidence.
In the sixth form we extend the range and scope of inquiry and personal response. We encourage our students to read more widely and think about the issues raised by the archaeological and literary record of the A level topics.
