St Edmund's

Classics

Latin & Classical Civilisation

Those pupils choosing to study Classics at St Edmund’s – whether Latin, Greek or Classical Civilisation – will find it lively, relevant and valuable: as much about gaining a confident understanding of languages, culture, literature and politics today as the study of the languages of ancient Rome and Greece.

This is a supportive environment, with classes small and collaborative, and with everyone encouraged to participate. Besides grammar and vocabulary, Classics pupils learn to apply knowledge logically, analyse and make deductions. We inspire our pupils to extend their learning and achieve their best – keen to question, debate, analyse and apply their knowledge; and ready for a challenge.

Classics at St Edmund’s thrives beyond the classroom. We encourage pupils to stay abreast of new discoveries and relevant discussions, and Classical Greek is available as an extra-curricular activity. We also arrange visits to museums and to hear lectures in Canterbury and London, with regular trips to Rome offering an opportunity to experience both the ancient Romans in situ and the modern city.

Classics pupils develop skills and attributes that are attractive to employers, with the subject respected in higher education; in recent years pupils have won places at universities including Cambridge, and tasted success in national competitions.

Teacher Profile

Dominic Burrell

Classics Teacher

I started my teaching career in 2014, after obtaining undergraduate and Master’s degrees from the University of Oxford studying the ancient world, its archaeology and culture. I trained through the Teach First programme, spending two years teaching in schools in areas of high socio-economic deprivation, gaining a PGCE and a further Master’s degree from Canterbury Christ Church University. Following a further two years teaching in Oxfordshire, I relocated to Kent in 2018 to help with the establishment of a new free school as part of the first cohort of teachers. I remained there for five years, teaching English, leading the History department, and establishing the teaching of Classics (both Latin and Classical Civilisation). In 2023, I leapt at the chance to join St Edmund’s, beginning as the school’s Latin and Classical Civilisation teacher in September of that year. I facilitate the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teaching, which helps to keep my own practice up to date. I have also recently submitted my doctoral thesis in Education and am preparing for the viva (an intensive interview in which I have to defend my ideas) in spring 2025.

I love working at St Edmund’s, and have done ever since I started. I am extremely lucky to work with a talented and welcoming group of colleagues, and gain real satisfaction in teaching highly engaged students who are determined to do well. My days are interesting and varied – I might go from teaching year 7 about using cases in Latin translations straight to an intensive discussion with year 13 about Augustan politics in the Aeneid. Most of all, though, I love the school’s ethos around the co-curricular programme, which places great value on providing opportunities for students to learn skills, have fun, and find “their thing”. The school values the commitment that staff make in these areas – as a keen musician, I can often be found in the music department during my breaks and lunchtimes, helping out with ensembles and choirs, and have been astounded by the opportunities this provides. My first St Edmund’s carol service was an awe-inspiring experience, and the level of talent displayed by students during the annual Festival was simply astonishing to behold. It is a privilege to work with staff and students alike at St Edmund’s.

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