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A Level in Classical Civilisation

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Trafford College

Location

Altrincham Campus

Further Details

Age

College 16-18

Department

A Levels

Course Start Date

Tuesday 1st September 2026

Course Duration

Full-time, 2 Years

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 1080.00
You may be eligible for support with your tuition fees - please visit the college website - funding and finance page for further information

Course Code

AFQ-AL3L-1125

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Course Overview

A Level Classical Civilisation is an engaging, unique and accessible humanities subject that explores the literature, history, politics, religion and culture of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. You will study epic literature, ancient drama, philosophy, art, architecture and key historical events, examining how classical ideas continue to influence the modern world.

No prior knowledge of Latin or Greek is required – all texts are studied in English translation.

Awarding body: OCR

Course Requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 5 including Mathematics and English Language.

What you will Learn

You will explore a range of fascinating topics from the ancient world, such as:

– Epic heroes and mythology (including Homer’s Odyssey)
– Love, relationships and society in antiquity
– Politics and democracy in Athens and Rome
– The Roman Republic and its leaders
– Art, architecture and religious belief

You will develop skills in:

– Critical analysis of ancient sources
– Essay writing and extended argument
– Evaluating historical and cultural interpretations
– Making links between the ancient and modern worlds

Assessment

– 100% written examination
– Three exam papers at the end of Year 13
– Combination of short-answer questions and extended essays
– No coursework

Assessment focuses on analysis of literary and visual sources, historical understanding, and evaluative essay writing.

Progression

This subject supports progression to a wide range of university courses, including:

– Classics or Classical Studies
– Ancient History
– History
– English Literature
– Law
– Philosophy
– Archaeology
– Politics

It is highly regarded by universities due to its emphasis on analytical writing and critical thinking.

Career Options

A Level Classical Civilisation supports careers in:

– Law
– Teaching
– Journalism
– Civil Service
– Heritage and Museums
– Publishing
– Politics
– Academia

The qualification develops strong analytical, evaluative and communication skills valued by employers across many sectors.

Mandatory Units

All students study:

Component 01: The World of the Hero (40%)
– Homer’s Odyssey
– Virgil’s Aeneid

Plus two additional components (Component 02. Culture and the arts and Component 03. Beliefs and ideas – 30% each) selected from areas such as:

– Greek Theatre
– Imperial Image
– Invention of the Barbarian
– Greek Religion
– Politics of the Late Republic
– Democracy and the Athenians
– Love and Relationships
– Greek Art

(Subject to final centre selection).

Contact Details

For further information please contact T: 0161 886 7070 or E: info@trafford.ac.uk

Extra Costs Involved

Exam Validation Body

Hours Per Week

How Long To Complete

Programme Structure

Contact Details

Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.

READY TO begin your journey?