Durham University stands at the forefront of classics education with its globally unique research centre dedicated to the subject. The centre's mission is to broaden access to Latin instruction in schools and communities, a goal that was bolstered by a £4 million, four-year initiative launched by the Conservative government in 2022. However, the Labour government abruptly discontinued the project in February 2023, citing budget constraints. Despite Latin's continued presence in the national curriculum, this decision has sparked criticism from academics and advocates who argue for its educational value, particularly for disadvantaged students.
The now-defunct project aimed to reintroduce Latin into state schools, a task that proved challenging as only two schools in the region had capitalized on the opportunity. Research spanning seven years indicates that Latin study significantly benefits children from less privileged backgrounds. A 2020 British Society study further highlights the disparity, finding that while only 3% of state schools offered Latin, it was available in 49% of fee-paying institutions.
Prof Arlene Holmes-Henderson, who leads the department at Durham University promoting Latin and Classics, emphasized the importance of making Latin accessible to all.
"Despite the cost of offering the subject, it is that social justice aspect." – Prof Holmes-Henderson
Durham Johnston School exemplifies this commitment by offering Latin up to GCSE level as part of its regular curriculum. Cathy Bothwell, who has taught Latin there for a decade, underscores the school's dedication to providing demanding academic subjects to a diverse student body.
"We have a very varied demographic and providing everyone with access to demanding academic subjects like Latin is a key part of that." – Prof Holmes-Henderson
The government's decision to cut funding stems from fiscal challenges. A Department for Education spokesperson cited financial constraints as a primary reason.
"The £22bn black hole we inherited means tough decisions are needed across the public sector." – Department for Education spokesperson
Despite these setbacks, Latin GCSE students sitting exams this summer will receive necessary support. Prof Holmes-Henderson reassures Latin learners with a message of resilience.
"Nil desperandum" – do not despair.
Rachael Maskell, another advocate for classics education, stresses the importance of providing Latin access to underprivileged youth. She highlights Durham University's pioneering role in this endeavor.
"Giving young people from less privileged backgrounds access is really important." – Rachael Maskell
"Durham University has the only research centre in the world dedicated to classics education research, engaging multiple stakeholders on how we can widen access to the teaching of the subject in our schools and communities." – Rachael Maskell
The benefits of studying Latin extend beyond academic achievement. Prof Holmes-Henderson notes that students with special educational needs, those learning English as an additional language, and those eligible for free school meals experienced significant improvements in English literacy through Latin study.
"Three groups of pupils who benefited most – young people with special educational needs and disabilities, students who speak English as an additional language and those who qualify for free school meals." – Prof Holmes-Henderson
Latin's utility is not confined to the classroom or academic circles. Marianne, a student with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, recognizes its practical applications.
"I want to become a vet and in medicine it's a kind of universal language for all sorts of things, so it's really useful." – Marianne
