From using Virtual Reality (VR) to explore the ancient world to creating 3D-printed Greek pots, Teacher of Classics, Mr Philip Harper, has been awarded the 2025 Classical Association Teaching Award for Innovative Pedagogy in recognition of the positive impact he has had on the teaching of Classics.
The annual awards hosted by The Classical Association aim to celebrate teaching of the subject across the UK. This year, they were sponsored by Cambridge University Press and hosted at the University of St Andrews, where Mr Harper received his award.
Taught from Year 7, Latin is a popular subject at Loughborough Grammar School and Mr Harper plays a key role in keeping a wide range of pupils engaged. From Year 9 pupils can also take Classical Civilisation and Classical Greek, with all three Classics subjects offered to A Level.
From his weekly Digital Classics Club for pupils in Years 8 and 9 to GCSE and A Level classes, his innovative teaching methods use a range of technologies and applications. A standout approach is the use of VR to allow pupils to experience aspects of the ancient world as they were when they were built. Pupils can virtually explore the Roman Colosseum, for example, learning about the architectural structure of the amphitheatre in an immersive, yet factual, way. This provides the perfect complement to exploring historical sites, ruins and artefacts, bringing the ancient world to life.
Another pivotal technique is the use of Minecraft as a familiar Computer-Aided Design (CAD) modelling tool which enables pupils to create their own 3D replicas of important landmarks. The pupils’ own designs can then be explored in VR, turned into tangible models and even into Lego sets.
Mr Harper’s innovative and imaginative approach to teaching Classics conveys a real sense of awe and wonder to pupils, encouraging them to enjoy learning about other cultures. The pupils’ heightened sense of cultural awareness, along with skills developed around logical processes and attention to detail, create strong foundations for degree-level study and a wide range of career opportunities.
Speaking about his passion for the subject, Mr Philip Harper said: “The pupils at Loughborough Grammar School are energising to work with as they respond enthusiastically to new projects and ways of learning. So, while it was a joy developing various activities for them to show that Classics is a 21st Century subject, it was still an honour to receive national recognition for this.”
The teaching of Classics at Loughborough Grammar School provides pupils with a wide range of transferable skills and, as a result of Mr Harper’s enthusiasm, we’re proud to see many pupils go on to develop a real passion for the subject.
