Why do we teach Latin?

We teach Latin for our language curriculum in Key Stage 2. We have thought carefully about what language we will teach at Key Stage 2 and chose Latin for several reasons.

1.We do not know what language children will go on to learn. However, Latin is the base of all European languages. So, what ever the Secondary School teaches, the children will have a strong grounding.

2.Latin is a classical language. This means the focus is on reading Latin. This makes it more accessible for all. Other languages require reading, writing, speaking and listening.

3.Latin has a highly accessible letter sound link. Each letter spells one sound.

4.Latin is everywhere today. Exit is a Latin word. Much of the language we use is based on Latin. Pater is father, think paternity. Mater is mother, think maternity. Salve is hello (v is pronounced w) think salute. This is why we have these words today. Latin unlocks vocabulary we have everywhere.

5.Stories from Latin and still used today in cartoons, films, books, television shows.

Latin offers powerful knowledge that unlocks the world. Children will start to look at the world around them differently and spot links. This natural curiosity is highly motivating and incredibly engaging. 

Minimus

Minimus is a unique Latin course for younger children.

It's based on a real family who lived at Vindolanda in 100AD: Flavius, the fort commander, his wife Lepidina, their three children, assorted household slaves, their cat Vibrissa - and Minimus the mouse.

Minimus was designed for children aged 7-10. Since publication in 1999, it has been used by students aged 4-97! It is used in so many different situations, from a timetabled subject compulsory for all, to lunchtime and after-school clubs. It is used in some secondary schools, particularly for those struggling with language learning; as enrichment material for some students and, during the 2020 pandemic, we have been contacted by a large number of homeschooling parents who want to give their children the opportunity to learn some Latin.

Resources can be found on this website and at http://www.minimuslatin.co.uk/