Thomas Hardye School pupils learn Latin

Year 13 student Vicki Brown, 17 has become the first Thomas Hardye pupil to sit GCSE Latin since the school was created out of a merger in 1994.

Vicki, who is one of around 30 sixth formers studying Classical Civilisation at the Thomas Hardye School, has also recently been offered a place at Cambridge University for next year where she hopes to continue her studies.

She said: “Studying Classics has given me a much greater understanding of the Classical world.

“Learning Latin has been thoroughly interesting and I am now going to study it alongside Classical Civilisation at University.”

Deputy headteacher Richard Wheal explained how GCSE Latin was studied alongside A-levels and praised Vicki for setting an example to other students.

He said: “We are immensely proud of Vicki’s achievement in Latin, which has required a lot of hard work in her own time.

“She has shown other students what is possible.”

Another student taking up the chance to study Latin offered by the school is Year 12 pupil Christie Broom, 16.

She said: “Latin adds to my range of A-levels – it’s a traditional skill that gives depth to other studies, such as English or Modern Languages.”

Fellow Year 12 pupil Hatty Cumber, 16 added: “Latin is a really useful language to learn.

“It is interesting to see how it is the basis of many words we use today.”

Studying alongside the pupils is mature student Adriano Placidi, who has children at the school, and is using distance-learning and study in the classroom.

Adriano, who is enjoying applying his professional knowledge of building to studying Roman architecture, said: “It is great to have the opportunity to study a subject I am fascinated by and the staff and students of the Thomas Hardye School have been very supportive.”

Classics teacher at the Thomas Hardye School, Steve Fraser, said: “The classics are clearly making a comeback, and more and more students are realising that there is much to gain from studying the ancient world.”