Course content & format

This is a two-year A Level course, normally studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. It is ideal for students who are interested in the ancient world, literature, history, politics, religion and culture. You do not need to have studied Latin or Classics before.

The course is assessed entirely by external examination at the end of the two-year programme. You will complete three written papers, featuring a mixture of short-answer, source-based and extended essay questions. OCR’s A Level Classical Civilisation includes one compulsory component, The World of the Hero, plus one option from Culture and the Arts and one option from Beliefs and Ideas. At this college, students study:

· The World of the Hero – Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid

· Greek Theatre

· Greek Religion

Throughout the course, you will develop skills in analysis, interpretation and evaluation. You will study literary sources in translation alongside visual and archaeological evidence and you will learn to build clear, well-supported arguments about the classical world.

In The World of the Hero, you will explore the ideas of heroism, duty, leadership, honour and fate through two of the most important texts of the ancient world: Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid. You will examine the actions of Achilles and Aeneas, the influence of the gods and the values of Greek and Roman society.

In Greek Theatre, you will investigate the importance of drama in ancient Greece and its links to religion, politics and public life. You will study both tragedy and comedy, exploring how playwrights used myth, humour and performance to respond to major issues such as war, power, justice, suffering and leadership.

In Greek Religion, you will examine the role of religion in everyday Greek life. You will study temples, sanctuaries, rituals, festivals, mystery cults and hero cult, and consider how religion shaped communities, identity and belief in the ancient world. You will also explore questions about impiety, tradition and the place of individuals such as Socrates within Athenian society.

Your unique experience

This course offers the opportunity to explore the ancient world in a lively and engaging way, both in and beyond the classroom. You will take part in discussion, debate, close reading, essay writing and source analysis, helping you to develop strong academic and communication skills.

Students may have the opportunity to take part in educational visits, including the Pompeii and Rome trip, where you can experience key sites of the ancient world first-hand. Visits may include Pompeii, the Roman Forum, the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, helping bring the subject to life beyond the classroom.

You may also benefit from guest speakers, lectures, study days and enrichment activities designed to support your studies and broaden your understanding of the ancient world.

Entry Qualifications

Entry requirements for A Level courses

· Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics.

· A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.

· A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment.

· An interview may be required as part of the application process.

Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.

How is this course assessed?

This course is assessed 100% by external examination at the end of the two-year programme.

Assessment consists of:

· The World of the Hero – 2 hours 30 minutes, 40%

· Greek Theatre – 1 hour 45 minutes, 30%

· Greek Religion – 1 hour 45 minutes, 30%

What can I do next?

A Level Classical Civilisation is a strong foundation for higher education, employment and apprenticeships. It is particularly valuable for progression into subjects and careers that require analysis, critical thinking, written communication and evaluation of evidence.

Possible progression routes include:

· Higher Education

· Employment

· Higher or degree apprenticeships

Studying Classical Civilisation, Ancient History or related humanities subjects can lead to careers in areas such as:

· Law

· Journalism

· Teaching

· Politics

· Marketing

· Public Relations

· Civil Service

· Heritage and Museums

· Publishing