The Classical Association is offering up to three* study bursaries for state sector teachers to take online A level Classical Civilisation with the National Extension College (NEC): 

Learners enrolled on A level Classical Civilisation with NEC study the literature and culture of the ancient world, from epic poetry and ancient comedy, to cults, rituals and religion. Along the way, they make fascinating connections between the culture, politics, and society of ancient Greece and Rome as Homer’s Odyssey, Virgil’s Aeneid and the works of Euripides, Sophocles and Aristophanes transport them to the ancient world.

Through this course, learners critically analyse the issues and values that shaped classical civilisation and their influence on today’s world. They develop skills in presenting coherent, well-evidenced arguments and sharpen their critical-thinking skills. Now more than ever school students need critical-thinking for future employment and this A level will help teachers support them in developing these transferable skills.

NEC students have achieved a 100% pass rate in A level Classical Civilisation since 2020, with 100% achieving grades A*-C in 2025. The Classical Association is pleased to have the opportunity to partner with the NEC to support teachers to achieve this A level and continue to build on this record of success.

“I absolutely love the course. Reading the Odyssey has been an amazing experience, from the perspective of the story telling, the philosophical elements and the evolution of the characters – it has helped me redesign my year 8 lessons in which we teach the story of the Odyssey and my A level teaching of Philosophy. More importantly, it has made me reflect on what it’s like to be an A level student and the challenges they face.”

– Cressida, recipient of a CA bursary in 2025

The Classical Association has up to three* full bursaries available for state sector teachers who can begin studying now and complete the Classical Civilisation A level either in June 2027 or 2028. At a time when teachers are busier than ever, the NEC course gives you the flexibility to fit your learning around your lifestyle and to study the OCR syllabus at your own pace, with a personal online tutor supporting you throughout. This provides an opportunity for personal development, an enhanced CV, and for enriching the support you can offer to students throughout your school. The CA will not only pay your course fees but also your exam fees, making each bursary worth an estimated £900 based on current course and exam fee scales. Exam fees are included on the basis that your Exams Officer enters you for the exam. The CA will reimburse your school.  If you choose to use the NEC exam service instead, the CA will contribute the equivalent amount towards the NEC exam service fee.  You will be responsible for the balance of the costs of the NEC exam service.

To apply please write a statement of up to 400 words explaining why you want to study Classical Civilisation A Level online and how you will use it to benefit students at your school. 

The deadline for applications is 29th May 2026. You will be notified by 26th June whether you have been awarded one of three bursaries available* for commencement of the course as soon as you have completed enrolment.