St Patrick’s pupils take on the classics

All first-year pupils will be studying the ancient world and Latin after winning a grant from the organisation The Friends of The Classics. It is the only school in Northern Ireland to receive the grant this academic year.

Principal Dr Seamus Quinn said: “Research has demonstrated that pupils who study Latin develop analytical skills, intellectual rigour and cultural awareness.”

He added: “It is a one year grant, but if we have enough interest I can see us delivering it to GCSE level.”

Graduates from Cambridge University specialising in Latin who are living in Northern Ireland will be supporting the school in the delivery of the year-long course which includes the study of the four major western civilisations – Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome.

And five months into the year, the study of classics has proved a big hit with the pupils who are thoroughly enjoying it.

If you want to know more about The Friends of The Classics, which is a society for anyone fascinated by the world of the ancient Greeks and Romans, or are interested in applying for a grant visit www.friends-classics.demon.co.uk.