Why do we Teach Latin?
Probably the most frequently asked question of all….but actually very easy to answer:
- Studying Latin improves our English, allowing us to understand how our own language is put together, why it is spelt so strangely, and literally growing our vocabulary.
- Studying Latin helps us to learn French, Spanish and Italian – it is the foundation for all these languages, and a good grounding in Latin at Prep school makes learning a modern foreign language at Senior School so much easier.
- Studying Latin is the best “brain-trainer” there is – it teaches us to think quickly and logically, to see patterns and learn sequences, and to have an eye for detail, whilst still seeing the bigger picture.
- It’s packed with great stories – Greek and Roman Myths still appeal to children (and adults) after 2000 years, and are the root of all modern literature.
- It’s not as hard as you might think – we use our own bespoke course, taught by degree-level specialists, and utilising all the modern technology available. “I wish we’d had this when I learnt Latin” is something we very often hear from parents!
Latin is Fun!
At Spratton we aim to make Latin fun by including it in quizzes, House competitions, assemblies, trips and activity days; whether meeting a real-life Roman soldier, puzzling through a “Trump or Trajan?” quiz, or visiting one of the best-preserved sites in Britain at Roman St Albans, Spratton pupils have plenty of lively experiences to add to what they learn in the class room.
