Minimus Latin

A project to introduce primary pupils from 10 different schools across Brighton to classical civilization, history and Latin. Pupils come to Brighton College on a weekly basis throughout the academic year and are taught by L6th pupils, supported by a member of the Classics department.

Aims

A project to introduce primary pupils from 10 different schools across Brighton to classical civilization, history and Latin. Pupils come to Brighton College on a weekly basis throughout the academic year and are taught by L6th pupils, supported by a member of the Classics department.

Background

This project is well established, and has run for the past 4 years. We now have multiple classes which allow us to stream pupils into “beginner” and “experienced.” It has two aims; firstly to give pupils in primary state schools the opportunity to study a subject they are otherwise not taught, and secondly to challenge our sixth form pupils to plans, resource and deliver high quality lessons and stretch their own knowledge of Latin

Resources

One member of staff, sixth form pupils, two classrooms

Impact

Pupils complete feedback forms where we assess the pupils’ enjoyment of Latin and their likelihood to continue with further study. Each year we have seen the vast majority of pupils rate their enjoyment as “very high” and many say they would like to continue learning Latin. A tracking system set up in 2019 is aiming to measure whether attendance at Minimus lessons has an impact on whether a pupils chooses an ancient or modern language at GCSE.

Pupil Involvement

23 pupils from 10 different primary schools attend regularly, and lessons are planned and delivered by a team of 6 sixth form pupils, supported by one member of the Classics department.

Frequency

Weekly in term time, for one hour. Now in its fifth year.