Why do British school graduation certificates include Latin?
Latin is a language that has been used for thousands of years and has played a significant role in the development of many modern languages, including English. In the United Kingdom, Latin is still taught in many schools as a subject, and its influence can be seen in many areas of British culture, including the legal system, medicine, and academia. One of the most visible examples of Latin's enduring legacy in the UK is the inclusion of Latin phrases on school graduation certificates.
The history of Latin in British schools
Latin has been taught in British schools for centuries, dating back to the medieval period when Latin was the language of scholarship and the Church. Latin was an essential subject for students who wanted to pursue a career in law, medicine, or the Church, and it was also seen as a way to develop critical thinking skills. Today, Latin is still taught in many schools, although it is no longer a compulsory subject. However, many schools continue to teach Latin because it is believed to have educational benefits, such as improving language skills and enhancing cultural awareness.
The importance of Latin on graduation certificates
Latin phrases have been included on British school graduation certificates for many years. These phrases, such as "pro meritis," which means "for merit," and "ad eundem," which means "to the same degree," are used to signify the achievements of the student and the level of their academic success. Latin is used on graduation certificates because it is a language that has been used for centuries and has a sense of tradition and authority. It also adds a level of prestige to the certificate and can make it more impressive to potential employers or universities.
The relevance of Latin today
Despite the fact that Latin is no longer a widely spoken language, it still has relevance in many areas of modern life. For example, many medical terms are derived from Latin, and a knowledge of Latin can be helpful for understanding these terms. Latin is also used in the legal system, where many legal terms are still written in Latin. In addition, Latin is still used in academia, where it is used to name new species of plants and animals, as well as to give names to new scientific discoveries.
Conclusion
Although Latin is no longer a compulsory subject in British schools, it continues to have a significant influence on British culture and education. The inclusion of Latin phrases on school graduation certificates is just one example of the enduring legacy of this ancient language. Latin is still taught in many schools, and its relevance can be seen in many areas of modern life, from medicine to the legal system. As such, it is likely to remain an important part of British education for many years to come.
