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Classical Civilisation A-Level

Classical Civilisation A-Level at The Bedford Sixth Form 2021

Qualification: AS/A-Level | Exam board: OCR

Classical Civilisation is a study of the ancient Greek and Roman world.

We investigate these fascinating civilisations from many angles, including their history, politics, languages, social structure, architecture, archaeology, love, relationships, and art to piece together an image of the ancient lives.

Two units are studied in first year. Firstly, the ‘World of the Hero’ unit comprises an in-depth study of Homer’s Odyssey.

Classical Civilisation A-Level at The Bedford Sixth Form 2021

Year one course content

Two units are studied in first year. Firstly, the ‘World of the Hero’ unit comprises an in-depth study of Homer’s Odyssey.

This unit uses literature in its English translation, though students will have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with the ancient Greek language. This will involve book reviews, literary analysis, language analysis, social and historical context studies, and students will gain an extensive understanding of ancient Greek mythology and traditions.

The second unit in year one is ‘Imperial Image’. This study of ancient Rome involves a thorough investigation of the Roman leader Augustus’ life and rule over the empire. This includes a study of Roman archaeology, architecture, politics, religion, art and social culture.

Classical Civilisation A-Level at The Bedford Sixth Form 2021

Year two course content

Year two begins with a continuation of the ‘World of the Hero’ component, this time focussing on the Roman epic, Virgil’s Aeneid. As in year one, this work is studied in translation, though students will have the opportunity to engage with the Latin language in which it was originally composed. This will involve book reviews, literary analysis, language analysis, social and historical context studies, and students will be able to utilise the knowledge gained from the year one Imperial Image module.

The second unit studied in year two is ‘Greek Religion’. Within this unit students will gain a detailed understanding of Greek mythology, philosophy, social and religious structures, rituals, festivals, cults and mysteries. This will involve and investigation into ancient literature and material/visual culture. Students will be able to connect the study of Greek Religion to their understanding of Homer’s Odyssey from year one.

Additional information

What does this course prepare me for?

This course would prepare any student considering a Degree or employment in Journalism, Literature, Teaching, Government, History, Theatre, Art, Languages, Heritage, International Relations, Psychology, Sociology and many others.

Course support and enrichment

Ancient language lessons are available as enrichment opportunities that aim to teach students the basics of Latin, Ancient Greek and Egyptian Hieroglyphs.

Guest speakers from Russell Group universities are invited to come and lecture at the Sixth Form to give Classics students an opportunity to learn directly from some of the best scholars in the field.

Online resources, such as podcasts, bespoke virtual tours of Rome, videos, workshop materials, and stretch-and-challenge activities are all available via the Bedford Sixth Form Moodle page.

Assessment

Students will be assessed internally on a regular basis, including through formal mock exams.

There are three exams at the end of two years.

  • Imperial Image – 1 hr 45 mins
  • Greek Religion – 1hr 45 mins
  • World of the Hero – 2 hrs 20 mins.

These include a mixture of essay questions and reporting on material and literary sources in the exam. They are close book.

Assessment and exam practice will be present throughout the two-year course where student progression is monitored.

Entry requirements

Standard entry requirements

  • At least five GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English Language and Maths (one Vocational or Technical qualification at Merit or above may be counted)

AND

  • At least grade 4 (or Merit for Vocational or Technical qualifications) in any subject(s) that you have taken at GCSE and wish to continue studying at Level 3

AND

  • Average GCSE (best 8) of at least 4 (38 on the old points table)

AND

  • Grade 4 (or Merit), at least, in any subject previously studied
  • Students will take either 3 A-Level subjects or 1 Diploma subject with 1 A-Level
September 2025

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Applications to join us in September 2025 are now open!

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