Latin
At Whiston Worrygoose our Upper Key Stage 2 learners are encouraged to explore the roots of language, engage with classical stories, and develop confidence in reading, writing, and speaking Latin. Our Latin curriculum, based on the Maximus Classics scheme, inspires children to understand the foundations of English, develop analytical and literacy skills, and gain a deeper appreciation of Roman history, culture, and mythology.
We believe a high-quality Latin education is essential for pupils to engage with the classical world and to develop a love of language, as well as their skills in reading, writing, translation, and oral expression. Pupils develop a critical understanding of Latin texts, allowing them to translate, discuss, and compose their own Latin sentences. Latin also has strong links with inference skills, memory, and attention to detail. Through our curriculum, pupils become confident in the mechanics of language, which supports their literacy across all subjects and prepares them for future study of languages and classical studies.
For more information about our Latin Curriculum, please use the links below:
INTENT
Latin is taught weekly to Upper Key Stage 2 pupils, with many opportunities to explore Roman history, mythology, and language connections across the curriculum. Using the Maximus Classics scheme as our core resource, we aim to ensure that every child develops a secure understanding of Latin vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. As children progress, there are opportunities to read and translate increasingly complex texts, understand the historical and cultural context of stories, and compose their own Latin phrases. Pupils are encouraged to see how Latin has influenced English vocabulary, spelling, and grammar, as well as to develop a deeper understanding of Roman culture and history.
IMPLEMENTATION
Latin at Whiston is taught in blocks throughout the year, allowing children to achieve depth in their learning. At the beginning of each unit, children demonstrate what they already know as prior learning is retrieved to ensure knowledge is embedded. Throughout each year, pupils have the opportunity to read, translate, and compose in Latin, as well as engage with Roman myths and cultural stories.
In Upper Key Stage 2, pupils expand their grammar knowledge, read and translate passages from Maximus Classics, and compose their own sentences. Lessons include speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities to ensure well-rounded language development. Performance and presentation opportunities throughout the year are planned for pupils to recite Latin phrases, present translations, and share their understanding of Roman culture. All Curriculum Unit Plans are carefully sequenced to ensure children receive high-quality lessons with meaningful endpoints that will stay with them throughout their lives.
IMPACT
Outcomes in Latin and floor books evidence a broad and balanced curriculum and demonstrate pupils’ acquisition of key knowledge. As children progress through Upper Key Stage 2, they develop a deep understanding of Latin grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure, as well as an appreciation of Roman culture, history, and mythology. Regular opportunities to read, translate, compose, and perform in Latin provide relevant and memorable experiences.
By the end of Upper Key Stage 2, our learners will have gained a rich body of classical knowledge and a wide range of transferable skills, including literacy, analytical thinking, and cultural awareness. We assess pupils at the end of each block to build a rounded picture of each child as a Latin learner.
We aspire for children to leave our school being able to read, translate, discuss, and compose in Latin with increasing accuracy and confidence, and to understand how Latin has shaped the English language and European culture.
