Carpe Diem for MAS students

A group of MAS students from Years 8 to 11 recently returned from a trip of a lifetime to Italy, to see firsthand the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The trip served as an exceptional opportunity for our young people to deepen their understanding of the Latin language and ancient Roman society, which is certain to have a positive impact on their studies.

The trip began with a visit to Mount Vesuvius, the active volcano responsible for the destruction of the two cities. Ascending to the summit, the students took in some spectacular views over the Gulf of Naples, gaining a clearer idea of the sheer scale of the eruption during Roman times.

Next on the agenda was Herculaneum, a wealthy seaside town at the time of the eruption. The remarkable level of preservation of many of the town’s streets, buildings and mosaics was fascinating to see, giving students an authentic feel for life in ancient Rome. Seeing the Latin inscriptions also gave them a chance to test their language and translation skills.

 

The following day saw the group take in Pompeii, including a trip to its intact amphitheatre and Roman baths. To complete the tour, the group sailed across to the picturesque island of Capri, exploring the shimmering coves and the Villa of Jupiter, once the residence of Emperor Tiberius.

 

“My favourite part of the trip was the tour of Pompeii; being able to see the remains of the city was amazing”, said Abdulrahim Mohamed in Year 10.

 

The expedition proved to be a hugely rewarding one for the students, with all involved seizing the opportunity to go beyond the classroom to see ancient Roman history and the Latin language brought to life.