Exploring the Ancient World with the STOA Project

Here at Greenhead College, a team of our A1 Humanities students recently took part in the annual STOA project, led by Dr Sam Gartland from the University of Leeds.

This exciting and enriching initiative offers students studying subjects such as History, Classical Civilisation, Politics, and Philosophy, Religion and Ethics the opportunity to experience university-style learning first-hand. It also provides a unique chance for students to contribute meaningfully to the development of future university courses, giving them a voice in shaping how their subjects may be taught in higher education.

Throughout the project, students engaged in a wide range of hands-on and thought-provoking activities designed to reflect the experience of academic study at university level. Highlights included working with ancient sources and handling historical artefacts such as coins, allowing students to explore how material evidence can be used to build an understanding of the past. These practical experiences helped bring history to life, offering a deeper appreciation of the methods historians and scholars use in their research.

In addition to these activities, students were encouraged to reflect on their expectations of university learning and the transition from College to higher education. Through discussion and collaboration, they explored broader and more conceptual questions, particularly around local and national identity. Students considered how individuals and communities present themselves, and how identity can be shaped, interpreted, and communicated in different historical and contemporary contexts.

A key strength of the programme was its emphasis on discussion-based learning, giving students the opportunity to share ideas, challenge perspectives, and develop their critical thinking skills. Many students commented on how much they enjoyed engaging with complex, real-world questions in a supportive academic environment, gaining confidence in articulating and debating their views.

Overall, the STOA project proved to be an intellectually stimulating and highly enjoyable experience. It offered students a valuable insight into university life, deepened their subject knowledge, and inspired them to think more critically about both the ancient world and the modern one.