Classics | Senior School | King's Ely | Private School near Cambridge

By studying GCSE Classical Civilisation, students learn to develop and appreciate the influence of the Classical world on today’s society, which in turn helps to enrich the students’ understanding of many areas of modern life.

Studying Classical Civilisation gives insight into other cultures, places and historical periods. It is a subject which requires rigorous attention to detail and a liking for precision. From studying past cultures, you will develop good imaginative powers and the ability to enter into the thoughts and worlds of others, which is a very useful skill at work.

What do I need to study GCSE Classical Civilisation?

No prior experience needed! You do not need to have studied it at all, but if you have studied either Latin or Classical Civilisation previously, you may have some understanding of the periods covered. All texts are studied in English.

What does the course involve? 

There are two papers, each worth 50% of the total GCSE mark. The first paper is Myth and Religion – an exploration of Roman and Greek gods and heroes, and what their stories and myths in Classical culture can reveal about ancient beliefs and values.

The second paper is Homeric World – an investigation of the Mycenaean Bronze Age, including archaeological sites, sculpture, frescoes and tombs. This paper also covers sections of Homer’s Odyssey with enduring themes of the behaviour of heroes, the lives of women and the importance of adventure.

Both papers ask a variety of questions, ranging from 1-mark and 2-mark factual recall questions, to 8-mark stimulus questions (analysing a picture or a piece of writing), to a 15-mark essay question.

Classical Civilisation GCSE Exam Specification

GCSE Latin is a fantastic option for anyone looking to combine the study of language with culture, history and critical thinking. Not only does Latin offer students the chance to explore the language from which all modern Romance languages originate, but it also offers a new perspective on English and forms a strong basis for the study of any other language later in life.

In addition, Latin GCSE introduces students to original Latin literature and encourages them to approach translation in a logical and analytical way.

Latin GCSE equips students with the tools needed to understand the Classical world and the significant impact it has had on modern European culture. Furthermore, students who study Latin develop invaluable skills in analysing and manipulating language, critically evaluating sources and applying logic and reasoning to problem solving.

All these skills are highly sought after by universities and employers and a background in Classics can often lead to diverse careers in which these skills are directly applicable, including Medicine, Law, Programming, Finance, Business, Teaching, Research, Civil Service, Archaeology, Politics or Journalism.

What do I need to study GCSE Latin?

Previous experience with Latin in Year 9 and before is essential for this course. Students who have studied Latin at King’s in Year 9 will be very well equipped to begin GCSE Latin. Those who have studied Latin elsewhere or who did not study Latin in Year 9 should contact the department to discuss their eligibility for Latin GCSE.

What does the course involve?

There are three papers. The first is a language paper (50%) which incorporates translation, comprehension and short, easy grammar questions.

The remaining two are literature papers, each worth 25%, and including short translation and factual questions, a longer analysis question and a short essay.

For June 2027, the Prose literature set texts will be Aulus Gellius Attic Nights 5.14 and Pliny Letters 9.33; the Verse literature set text will be Ovid’s Metamorphoses 4.55-166.

Latin GCSE Exam Specification

GCSE Classical Greek presents a great option for anyone who is interested in the way language works, in ancient languages and the ancient world or for those looking for a challenge.

Studying Classical Greek language, alongside prose and verse literature, gives students a unique insight into the Classical Greek world. It also offers students a new perspective on English and other languages, as well as the chance to develop analytical and lateral logic skills which are valuable for future study in arts, humanities and sciences.

What do I need to study Classical Greek GCSE?

It is helpful if you have studied Classical Greek beforehand in some form, either at King’s or elsewhere. The Intermediate Certificate in Classical Greek is an excellent basis for further study but is not essential. For more information about whether you would be eligible to take Classical Greek GCSE, please contact the Classics Department.

What does the course involve?

There are three papers. The first is a language paper (50%) which incorporates translation, comprehension and short, easy grammar questions.

The remaining two are literature papers, each worth 25%, and including short translation and factual questions, a longer analysis question and a short essay.

For June 2027, the Prose literature set texts will be Tales from Herodotus VI (How Arion was saved by a dolphin) and X (Respect for suppliants enforced by an oracle); the Verse literature set text will be extracts from Euripides Trojan Women.

Greek GCSE Exam Specification