Forward with Classics: Classical Languages in Schools and Communities

In this review of Forward with Classics: Classical Languages in Schools and Communities the reviewer finds a thoughtful examination of why Latin and Greek are returning to wider educational and community settings. Written for educators, outreach organisers and anyone interested in the modern role of ancient languages, the book's biggest strength is its evidence-led look at motivations behind the renewed interest in Classics, showing how teaching now extends beyond traditional classrooms into hubs, universities, parks and even prisons.

Key Features

• Evidence of resurgence: Documents the growth in state-maintained schools studying classical subjects since 2012, offering useful context for curriculum planners.
• Community reach: Explains how regional Classics hubs and evening classes make Latin and Greek accessible to adults and children outside school hours.
• Teaching settings: Describes diverse learning environments from university outreach to informal public spaces, showing practical options for organisers.
• Motivations explored: Investigates why teachers and learners choose Classics, providing insight for recruitment and retention strategies.
• Historical perspective: Places the 1988 curriculum removal and subsequent changes into a readable narrative for historians and critics.

Who It's For

This book is best for school leaders, Classics teachers, community educators and university outreach teams who want a researched account of how and why classical languages are re-emerging in the mainstream educational arena. It is also helpful to policy researchers and historians tracing curriculum change and the social framing of classical subjects.

Readers seeking a practical textbook on pedagogy, step-by-step lesson plans, or a beginner's Latin or Greek course should look elsewhere; this is a study of trends, motivations and settings rather than a language primer or classroom resource pack.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Carefully documents the increase in state-school provision, giving readers a clear evidence base to support programme development.
• Highlights community-based learning in a range of settings, useful for anyone planning outreach or adult education.
• Provides historical context that helps explain contemporary debates about Classics and access.

Cons

• Not a practical teaching manual, so those wanting classroom activities will need supplemental resources.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Forward with Classics is a persuasive, well-documented study for anyone interested in the cultural and educational revival of Latin and Greek. It offers clear evidence and useful framing for programme development and outreach, making it good value for educators and policymakers who need a researched account rather than classroom materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include teaching resources?
No. The book focuses on motivations, settings and trends rather than lesson plans or language exercises.

Is the resurgence limited to private schools?
No. The book highlights that since 2012 more students in state-maintained schools study classical subjects than in independent schools.

Does it cover community learning outside schools?
Yes. It documents community hubs, university outreach and informal settings such as parks and prisons.