The Latin Programme – Via Facilis

Our belief

“In 2007, only 35% of five year olds in the most deprived areas reached the expected level of attainment, compared to 51% of pupils in other areas […] This gap grows throughout school years so that by GCSE levels only 21% of disadvantaged pupils achieved 5+ A*-C GCSEs including English and Maths in 2007 compared to 49% of non‐FSM pupils” (Department for Children, Schools and Families, 2009).

The Latin Programme – Via Facilis is passionate about reversing this trend. Learning Latin is known to improve the understanding of the structure of language and encourage logical thinking, although traditionally this subject has only been available to the lucky few. We believe Latin is for everyone. Working in State Primary Schools, we teach Latin through English and English through Latin, teaching English grammar before introducing the same concepts in Latin. Our unique approach therefore directly addresses English literacy and facilitates a rich foundation for language learning.

Latin is a key which opens the door to clear communication. In past ages, in the West, Latin was like the internet. People who did not speak each other’s languages, could meet and understand each other through Latin. Today. Latin is still the clearest – and also the most enjoyable – route to understanding your own grammar, in any  language. And grammar is the basis not only of clear writing but clear thinking.

Ruth Padel, Friend of The Latin Programme – Via Facilis

TLP gratefully acknowledges the support of The SHINE Trust