Outline
The course is divided into three units.
Unit 1 – The World of the Hero
You will study two of the most influential works of classical literature:
- Homer’s Odyssey, following the story of Odysseus and his journey home
- Virgil’s Aeneid, exploring the story of Aeneas and the legendary birth of the Roman nation following the fall of Troy
You will consider the heroes, values, beliefs and societies presented within these epic works.
Unit 2 – The Imperial Image
You will explore the life, times and achievements of Caesar Augustus, Rome’s first emperor, from 27 BC to AD 14.
You will examine how Augustus established and presented his power and consider the image of imperial leadership he created.
Unit 3 – Politics of the Late Roman Republic
You will investigate the dramatic final decades of the Roman Republic between 79 and 43 BC.
The unit explores how the ambitions, rivalries and actions of major political figures, including Julius Caesar, contributed to the collapse of the Republic.
Classics remains relevant far beyond the ancient world. Its influence can still be seen in language, literature, politics, law and education today.
Even the College’s Latin motto reflects this continuing influence: “lux, veritas, virtus” – light from truth begets virtue.
Classical Civilisation also provides breadth alongside other academic A Levels and can complement subjects including History, English and other humanities.
Progression
Classical Civilisation can provide a strong foundation for further academic study and careers where research, analysis, communication and evaluation are important.
Teaching and academia
You could progress towards studying Classics or related subjects at university and pursue academic or teaching careers in schools, further education or higher education.
Museums and the public sector
The course can support progression towards careers in museums, archives, local government and other public-sector organisations.
Business and wider careers
The transferable skills developed through Classical Civilisation can also be applied in areas including management, business, industry and commerce.
Assessment
Classical Civilisation is 100% examination assessed.
All three units are examined at the end of the two-year programme of study through three examinations.
Entry Requirements
A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE. Subject Specific Entry Requirements: GCSE English Language at Grade 5.
*Fees
Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.
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Name
Available At
Start Date
Fee
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Academic Yr
27/28
Name
Classical Civilisation (A-Level) (Level 3)
Available At
Pendleton Sixth Form College
Start Date
01/09/2027
Fee
Free *
Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.
* Subject to Eligibility
Please confirm you are applying to start in the
Academic Year