Starting in third grade, students begin to move into the grammar school years at HLN. Why are they called the “grammar” years? This is because the Latin grammar is the primary focus of academic work during these years. Yes, there is deep and slow work in other studies as well: Classics, Literature, Composition, Math, Science, and more. However, it is this heart of the studies, the Latin Grammar, that lends this age its title. We do not neglect to give students the classical skills that will be needed in Upper School and beyond to think and live well.

Upper School describes the years otherwise known as “high school.” In the years leading up to ninth grade students work diligently to acquire the classical skills of mastering of the Latin grammar, reading deeply, writing clearly and beautifully, and calculating precisely. Like thoroughbreds in the gate before a race, they have prepared to run. Upper school begins, the bell rings, and the gate opens. The students go forth; delighting to do what they have been well prepared to do. Upper school students translate traditional Latin works, develop persuasive and logical arguments, delve deep in classic literature (Shakespeare, worthy novels, poetry, and philosophy), study linguistic logic and Aristotelian rhetoric, refine heightened mathematical skill, explore areas of science, and perhaps most importantly, do so under the leadership of master teachers and with a small group of like-minded peers. This is truly a fellowship of learning. We pursue wisdom and virtue together.