This is another in our series of caches in honour of the cult film ''The life of Brian'' based on the People's Front of Judea's bumbling antic's of trying to undermine the might of the Roman Empire..!! We will be hopefully placing all the things named in the ''what have the Romans ever done for us'' scene in modern day appropriate places.
The Romans thought that education was very important. Children were mostly taught at home and learned about law, history and social customs so they could become responsible citizens.
•A good education was seen as a status symbol, not a way to get a good job.
•Children did not need to have a minimum level of education and much Roman education was to prepare them for real life.
•The Roman education system was largely based on the Ancient Greek system, which the Romans admired. Greek language and grammar were important and knowledge of Greek meant sophistication.
•Children aged 11 and 12 went to school, although the classroom was often just a room in a house or shop. The subjects taught were reading, writing and basic mathematics.
•The Roman education system was strict and children were caned for performing badly. School took place 7 days a week, although there were many religious holidays and school was closed on market day.
•Girls did not usually go to school, although some rich families paid for home tutoring. Girls were taught sewing, music and how to run a kitchen, as well as other skills needed to look after the house.
•Some boys went on to learn public speaking, which was considered important to get a job as a politician or statesman. Students learned other advanced subjects, including literature, geography and philosophy.
•Physical education was important, as many boys went on to serve in the army. Boys learned to fight, to swim in cold water and to ride a horse.
•Roman education ended when boys graduated left school at the age of 16. After graduating, they were allowed to wear a white woollen toga, or robe and were considered to be responsible citizens.