Earlier this year, Mathilde B, Antara K, Maryam K, Evelyn K (Year 9), and E Ern C, Daniel C, Dvita D, Dolce L, Rhea V (Year 10) took the National Latin Exam (NLE). Created nearly 50 years ago and run by the American Classical League and National Junior Classical League in the United States, the NLE aims to offer Latin students around the world, regardless of ability, the opportunity to challenge their knowledge of this sometimes complex but fascinating subject. 

Here, Dvita D and Rhea V share more about their experiences of participating in this global learning initiative and their personal journeys of learning Latin. 

Rhea V: 

Exploring new material outside of class gave me a sense of curiosity about the subject. The preparation was both challenging and rewarding, and it pushed me to strengthen my understanding of Latin and develop a greater appreciation of the language. Beyond the accomplishment itself, I genuinely enjoyed the experience of immersing myself more deeply in Latin. 

The experience has motivated me to continue building my knowledge of Latin, and I look forward to developing this foundation in the years ahead. I hope to keep challenging myself and deepen my appreciation for the language.

Dvita D:

When I first chose Latin as one of my GCSE subjects, I was honestly a little hesitant. It was such a different subject from the others I was considering; I think my hesitation came from the fact that Latin isn’t a spoken language. When choosing my GCSE subjects, I remember wondering what the point of studying it was and whether it would be useful in the future. I was also worried because Latin has a reputation for being difficult. 

The turning point for me came during the first term when I realised that Latin wasn’t just another language subject. I was surprised by how relevant and applicable it was. Learning Latin never felt like simply memorising vocabulary or grammar rules — every lesson felt connected to something bigger through literature, history, mythology and culture. 

What really changed my perspective was realising how many transferable skills the subject develops. Latin teaches problem-solving, how to learn effectively, how to memorise large amounts of information, improves vocabulary and literary analysis, and teaches you how to think critically, even when faced with difficult material. These are skills that are not always easy to develop elsewhere, and I quickly realised that the value of Latin extends far beyond the language itself. 

Taking the NLE has strengthened my passion for Classics even further, and I am now considering studying Latin as part of the IB Diploma Programme. What began as uncertainty when choosing my GCSE subjects has turned into a subject that I truly love studying.