I was taught Latin from second year (Year 8) at a state comprehensive with a catchment covering several areas of significant deprivation in the late 1980s.
I have found my small knowledge of it to be very useful in life: in spelling, in understanding word families, in learning about grammar and, of course, in gardening and sciences.
I also feel that my introduction to Latin has meant I am not afraid of discussing things with those who have had a classical education.
Why did I get this chance? Because my state comprehensive had been a grammar and had always offered it, and didn’t wish to make the remaining Latin teacher redundant. I say: quite right, Boris.
mrsmummy, Via www.tes.co.ukforums.