Above: Strong Latin GCSE results at Dame Allan’s Schools 

A strong performance in GCSE Latin has seen Dame Allan’s Schools reintroduce the subject at A-Level for the first time in over 30 years, allowing pupils to continue their study of the classical language into the Sixth Form.

Thirteen pupils sat GCSE Latin this year, collectively achieving six grade 9s, five grade 7s – the equivalent of A* and A – and two grade 6s. Several of the cohort will now study A-Level Latin in the Sixth Form.

Kate Davies-Tse, from Newcastle, joined Dame Allan’s in Year 5 and achieved a straight set of nine grade 9s. She will study Latin alongside history and German at A Level.

Kate said:“I’m really, really pleased – I didn’t expect to do this well so I’m very happy. Oscar and I have wanted to do Latin at A-Level for a while and we really showed our enthusiasm, so I’m delighted we can take it further. 

“The Latin set was really enthusiastic, with a great atmosphere, and our teacher was excellent. I’d love to go on to study history or classics at university.”

Oscar Xu also achieved nine straight grade 9s across his GCSEs. He will continue with Latin alongside psychology and philosophy in the Sixth Form. Oscar said: “I’m really happy with my results. I’ve chosen Latin as I think it will support a future career in law.”

Lucy Lim, who achieved a grade 9 in GCSE Latin, is also considering taking the subject at A Level. 

Latin is an ancient classical language that served as the foundation for the Romance Language and heavily influenced English vocabulary. 

Andy Lawrenson, Head of Latin, said the language supports the development of analytical thinking and an understanding of classical literature and history. “I am so proud of this fantastic bunch of pupils, who have risen to the intellectual challenge of Latin study. They have shown amazing enthusiasm throughout, which I am sure will carry through to A Level. It has been great to see the growth of Latin at Dame Allan’s, and I hope it will long continue.”

Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Latin is very much alive at Dame Allan’s, and its reintroduction at A Level is a real celebration of our thriving languages and classics programme. Our pupils’ achievement in the subject shows just how important classical studies remain here – it’s a fantastic foundation for their Sixth Form studies and beyond.”