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Classics: State Education

Asked by Joe MorrisLabourDepartment for EducationTabled Answered 23 March 2026UIN 105315

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether she has plans to increase the number of state school students able to study Latin and the Classics.

Answered by Georgia Gould

The government is committed to supporting a broad and balanced curriculum that is inclusive and accessible to all pupils. The study of classics and ancient languages can teach pupils valuable lessons in history, politics and art that are still relevant today. All schools are free to include Latin, Ancient Greek and classics as part of their curriculum, and there are GCSEs and A levels available in all three subjects.

The department has worked with organisations such as Classics for All, The Classical Association and Hands Up Education to ensure schools are aware of free support available to help teach these subjects.

We also continue to provide bursaries for trainee language teachers, including ancient languages. For the 2026/27 academic year, this will be £20,000.

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