Classical Civilisation and Ancient History in British Secondary Education

"The book makes a substantial contribution to the history of classics education in its exclusive focus on non-linguistic classics which have often been overlooked in favour of charting the fortunes of Greek and Latin. One of its key strengths is that it offers a more personal history, identifying key players alongside pivotal moments, and drawing on personal testimonies. This not only makes for a more engaging read, but a more comprehensive picture of the forces that have shaped the classics education landscape.

What makes it even more original, is the attention it gives not just to the history of teaching Classical Civilisation and Ancient History, but to its present and future." - Prof. Sharon Marshall, University of Exeter

‘This book is the first of its kind to seriously take notice of the development of the school curriculum subject of Classical Studies …There’s nothing comparable.’ - Steven Hunt, University of Cambridge

‘One of the book’s strengths is its narrative coherence. Although each chapter could stand alone, taken together, they map a persuasive progression from vernacular humanism to contemporary inclusivity, with Hall’s rhetorical flourish and Holmes-Henderson’s documentary precision (itself symbolising the alliance of advocacy and evidence), complemented with generous illustrations, photographs of classrooms and graphs of exam uptake. In its national frame the volume is commanding, a definitive resource for historians of education and a persuasive model for reformers elsewhere. It confirms that Classics, long imagined as the preserve of the lucky few, can thrive when treated as a common good accessible to the many.’ Stuart Falconer, The Classical Review