SIXTH formers have been inspired by an ancient community whose final moments in life were captured for time immemorial in volcanic rock and ash.
Richmond Sixth Form College students Claire Heseltine and Samya Kelly were particularly affected by the plight of the people of Pompeii, petrified in the volcanic eruption of Vesuvius in AD79.
The 18-year-olds are now hoping to read classical studies and archaeology at Oxford and Cambridge universities next year.
They were among two parties of Richmond sixth formers on a seven day trip to Italy, one visiting Naples the other Venice.
“It was incredible seeing the shapes of people preserved in ash and pumice,” said Samya, of Arkengarthdale.
“It has made me think seriously about what I would like to study at Cambridge and I am now leaning more towards archaeology.”
Claire, of Richmond, who hopes to study at Oxford, added: “The trip was incredible and brought to life what we have been studying at college. It was incredible looking at artefacts that were nearly 2,000 years old.”
Both students said they had decided on classical studies after enjoying Latin at Richmond School.
“Our teachers are inspirational with their passion for and knowledge of the subject and they understand how to get the best from the students,” said Samya, who is currently working with Richmond Soroptomists and hopes one day to work for a development organisation or charity.
Sixth Form lead learning manager Sally Byrom, who helped organise the visit, said: “Visits like the ones to Italy are designed to inspire students and I’m delighted they gained so much from the study trips.
“They were incredibly interested in everything they saw which certainly helped get over the relevancy to contemporary life of looking in detail at past civilisations.”
