Xaverian College is delighted to have been named runner-up at the 4th annual Impact Awards by Classics for All, which champions the teaching of Classics in schools across the country.
The charity aims to raise the aspirations and build the cultural capital of young people from all backgrounds by teaching them about the ancient world, working with over 180,000 pupils in over 1,200 education providers. The Impact Awards aim to recognise the outstanding achievements of providers and teachers across the country who have worked directly with Classics for All.
As a College with a rich interest in literature and history, students have always been drawn to studying Classics and many students choose Xaverian College specifically to study the two subjects. Ancient History and Classical Civilisation A Levels are hugely popular, capturing the hearts and minds of the College community. Now, with over 190 students, Xaverian’s ancient world department has doubled in size over the last few years and is larger than any other sixth form in the country.
Teachers are committed to enriching students’ knowledge outside of the classroom and each year, as a department, they create a range of fantastic trips, such as university visits and an annual visit to Greece and offer enrichment opportunities, such as Latin and Greek clubs, that are fun, interesting and educational, to help give students a really fulfilling College experience.
Kiranjit Kaur, former Stretford High School pupil, who joined the College in September 2023 is currently studying A Levels in Classical Civilisation, History and Sociology. She said: “I absolutely love studying Classics! Our Teachers are incredibly passionate about their subjects and their experience shines through in every lesson. They always present us with opportunities to expand our knowledge – I have been lucky enough to go on trips to University of Warwick’s Ancient Performing Arts Festival and The British Museum earlier this year and they really helped link our learning to real life! I’m also really excited about going to Greece. I’d encourage everyone to explore the subject, it’s super interesting and I think you’d fall in love with it like me, and everyone else that is already studying it!”
Will Dearnaley, Ancient History and Classical Civilisation Teacher, commented: “Classics for All were so impressed with the dynamics of our department, the amount we do and the hugely positive comments from the students about how inclusive they find us. They also remarked on the prestigious universities our students attend and how Classics is such a great route to social mobility.”
If you love thinking deeply about the world around you and are fascinated by culture, then Ancient History and Classical Civilisation are courses you’ll find irresistible. They provide an opportunity to share your observations, opinions and interests, alongside developing essential critical and creative thinking skills.
Principal at Xaverian, Tony Knowles, said: “Being named runner-up in the Impact Awards by Classics for All is a testament to the teaching of Matthew and Will and the constant support they give students to ensure they develop their talents and reach their full potential. Our Ancient History and Classical Civilisation A Levels have become increasingly popular over the last few years and it’s always pleasing to hear students talking so positively about their experience studying the ancient world.”