The Times: Poorer pupils learn to benefit from Classics

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Latin and the works of Sophocles are no longer the preserve of public schools thanks to a project that links professors with underprivileged teenagers.

An initiative between King’s College London (KCL) and Newham Sixth Form College in east London offering lessons in Classics to bright sixth-form pupils is now in its second year.

Students from disadvantaged backgrounds with high academic potential can attend the classes, which are designed to inspire and engage them in challenging topics that are often the preserve of private schools.

Lecturers cover subjects including ancient literature, religion, theology, Persian history and philosophy. Some teenagers from neighbouring state schools also attend. The students act out Greek plays such as Antigone by Sophocles and are encouraged to consider Classics as a degree.

Edith Hall, a Classics lecturer at KCL, said: “We wanted to enable the students from Newham to understand the richness and relevance of the classical world. They have a unique opportunity to engage with world-class lecturers.”

The full online article can be found here.

Charity, Education, Higher Education, Languages, Media ArticleSarah NorrisLando EducationLatin, The Times, media article, Sophocles, public schools, state schools, Kings College London, KCL, Newham Sixth Form College, classics, sixth-form, students, education, lectures, ancient literature, religion, theology, Persian History, philosophyComment