Tuesday 6th July saw the inaugural TIFS Roman Regatta Day event and, as another first in the history of the school, the Roman Flag was raised on the school flagpole in recognition of the day.

To begin, pupils watched some clips created by Year 9 GCSE Latin pupils on living conditions in Roman times. They then created their own mosaics based on the style of mosaics that Romans would have had in their villas – considering geometry, symmetry, colour and style. As part of this session they also looked at some mosaics found locally at Brading Roman villa – although our pupils’ mosaics were slightly different in that they were created using a variety of different types of beans and peas.

The next session focused on the Roman theatre, a popular form of entertainment which the Year 7s have been learning about in their Latin lessons. Pupils created some fantastic masks based on examples of masks used by actors at the time. The masks had to be large and portray expression as they needed to be seen by the spectators right at the back of the theatre.

Lunch was absolutely delicious and the kitchen team produced a menu fit for an Emperor! Whilst the two year groups ate, they were treated to piano playing, storytelling, poetry recitals, and Mr Marriott and Mr Wye even reclined on the tables, whilst being fanned and fed grapes. Everyone was relieved that the traditional Roman dish of peacock wasn’t on the menu! Mrs Peace was particularly impressed by Emily B in Year 9 who recited a poem that she had written herself, to both year groups.

Following on from lunch, pupils created their very own TIFS god/goddess after learning about all the different gods and goddesses that the Romans worshipped. Amongst some of creations were the gods of enrichment, learning and lines!
The day culminated with the impressive gladiator fights. A film was produced featuring members of staff dressed as as gladiators fighting each other, and pupils had to guess who would win each fight. There was a lot of cheering heard down the KS3 corridor and it was a wonderful end to the day.

Thanks to everyone involved for making the day such a success and bene factum to all!