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Classics The Classics Department offers GCSE courses in the study of Latin, Classical Greek and Classical Civilisation. Latin and Greek involve study of the ancient languages whereas Classical Civilisation involves learning about the Greeks and Romans entirely in the medium of English. In order to take Greek and Latin for GCSE, boys are required to have studied these subjects in Year 9 but Classical Civilisation may be taken afresh in Year 10. Boys taking Greek often study Latin as well, but this is not a necessity. Why choose a classical subject? Although they are not directly vocational subjects, Classics continues to be respected by a wide range of employers, albeit in the more ‘traditional’ careers. The general consensus among universities and employers is that study of Classical subjects produces versatile minds and the intellectual skills acquired through study of them are numerous, diverse, and difficult to come by. One suggestion as to the appeal of Classics to employers can be found in the Times: “It’s quite an unusual choice. I suppose it implies that the person is quite interesting, that they have followed their interests and done something off the beaten track. I think employers look on that favourably.” (a spokesman for Milkround Graduate Recruitment)
