It has been reported that the government is going to scrap the Latin excellence programme in February. If this goes ahead, we can only lament the shortsightedness of the education secretary, Bridget Phillipson. The programme has allowed students in state schools to read Latin in key stages 3 and 4, and prepare for GCSEs in the subject, giving them the same opportunities as students in private schools.
Latin has provided English with a large chunk of its vocabulary and helps to understand the grammar. Latin developed into the Romance languages and can help in learning French, Spanish and Italian. Latin and Greek are behind medical vocabulary, and biological names of species are in Latin. The Romans, who wrote and spoke in Latin, gave Britain straight roads, toilets and city walls. Latin literature is the basis of western literary culture, and Roman law is reflected in our legislation. Latin also supports rhetoric and logical thinking.
The cost of the whole programme is only £4m, and the change would take place in the middle of the school year. This derails students’ education. A classics degree at a Russell Group university is highly regarded by City firms and other respected employers. Is the government saying that the state pupils do not deserve wide, ambitious education and these professional opportunities? This cannot be about money, considering the small sum that will be saved.
Dr Ulla Rajala
Anstey, Leicestershire
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