Academics
What is Classical Christian Education?
Formation Not Merely Information
Unlike most modern educational methods that tend to focus on memorizing information in order to pass a test with the goal of preparing a student for a future vocation, classical Christian education (CCE) begins with a different goal- that of cultivating the whole student to view the world with certain foundational truths and to align their desires with God’s ideal. The goal is formation, not merely information.
Classical Christian education is a time-tested education that teaches students how to learn, how to think and reason, how to work hard and to communicate clearly and persuasively. While there is no single recipe for CCE, emphasis is on a “language-learning” approach (reading and writing) as opposed to “image-based” (videos, tv, etc.) that prioritizes the study of “great books” (the classics), immersion into the study of history using original sources, and the study of Latin, foundational to success in learning the Romance languages and biblical study. Teachers employ a Socratic discussion of questioning-answering to encourage reason and critical thinking skills.
Christian Paideia
Classical education, originally created by the Greeks, later became Christianized to become “classical Christian.” The goal is to cultivate wisdom in light of Christ’s creation and train students to establish a biblical worldview. Paideia is the Greek word for an ancient concept referring to the rearing and education that forms the soul of a human being and results in a person who can think critically and logically and be an ideal member of society. The concept of the Christian paideia lies in the Bible as foundational and the standard of truth across all subjects, not confined to one aspect of life or Bible class. Before the mid-eighteenth century, the Christian paideia was the purpose of nearly all Western education. Students are taught to make connections across subjects and to learn to use all of their skills in every class. The result is a well-educated student who can see the rich interconnections across subject matter, all the while connecting it back to God’s hand in all creation.
The Trivium
Classical education is a three-stage process that follows a child’s natural stages of learning: the Grammar, or early years, where facts and information are primary; the Logic stage, where those facts are integrated and arranged to form an argument; and the Rhetoric Stage, where the previous two stages are integrated to “make a case” eloquently, logically, and forcibly. This classical pattern is called the trivium, meaning “the three ways.”
The trivium, taught since ancient times, has remained the most effective structure for educational success. When subjects are taught in a way that follows a student’s natural learning progression, learning becomes a delight and a natural interest in learning the subject is enhanced.
Those familiar with CCE will undoubtedly know of Dorothy L. Sayers, who, while studying at Oxford in 1947, presented an essay titled, “The Lost Tools of Learning,” in which she argued that “modern” education was failing to teach students the ability to learn; instead it simply taught students what to learn by teaching various subjects in isolated fashion. She called for a return to the methods of teaching found in medieval universities, the “trivium.” Her remarks set the stage for a return to the tried and true classical education style that has become the foundation for today’s classical Christian education.
CCE embraces the trivium as a way of learning that goes hand in hand with a child’s natural ability to learn and develops a student’s ability to think critically and speak clearly and eloquently, all the while seeking truth, goodness, and beauty as it reveals connections between subjects and shares the view of God’s overarching sovereignty in all creation.
As an interesting note, although today’s classical Christian education is centered on the trivium, spanning grades K-12, in the ancient world, after completing the trivium, students would progress to the quadrivium, “the four ways,” to learn arithmetic, astronomy, geometry, and music. While the trivium focused on the “language arts,” the quadrivium focused on the “number arts.” Together, the trivium and quadrivium completed the study of the traditional seven liberal arts. Completing the full study provided students an appreciation and understanding of the interrelatedness of God’s creation and the correct ordering of the soul.
Our Classical Curriculum
Hunter Classical Christian School follows a Classical Christian Education approach rooted in the liberal arts and following the trivium to allow students to learn in ways best suited to their natural abilities as they grow and mature. Although subjects are taught independently, purposeful integration across subject matter allows students to make rich interconnections between subjects and to apply all of their skills to each. Teachers instill a love of knowledge (philosophy) by sharing a genuine interest in the subject matter and the love and study of God (theology) while teaching the strong connection to God’s hand in all that is learned.
Bible
Biblical truth is the foundation for all we teach. Students attend daily chapel services where they study scripture and sing hymns of praise as a means to instill and shape moral values. Classes recite weekly Bible passages in chapel that have been studied and committed to memory. Each grade-level teacher includes a particular Biblical theme into the year’s curriculum that may include reading Bible stories, memorizing scripture, creating an art project, or learning and singing hymns of praise.
English Language
In addition to reading great literature (the classics), foundational skills are taught in a way children love by using stories, songs, chants, and poetry. Students begin to study phonics in kindergarten. Rather than merely memorizing words, as in traditional spelling programs, students are taught the rules of spelling that help to analyze the reasons behind a word’s spelling and pronunciation which serves as a strong foundation for reading, writing, and vocabulary skills. As students progress, these skills allow them to create solid work in various writing styles.
Textbooks: Spell to Write and Read, Shurley Grammar, Wordly Wise, Institute for Excellence in Writing
History
Sharing great stories instills in students a desire to learn history. Students are taught history via original source material, story-based textbooks, memorization of chronological events through song, and art, or language arts based supporting projects.
Textbooks: Story of the World History series, Veritas History Timeline cards
Mathematics
Emphasis is on foundational number concepts and basic mathematical skills- addition, subtraction, multiplication, division. Memorization of multiplication tables is required and is introduced in 2nd grade by using chants and playing games. Algebra concepts are formally introduced in logic school. New concepts are taught while continuous review of information introduced earlier allows students the time and practice to retain and build a strong foundation of earlier material.
Textbook: Saxon Math
Science
Students are exposed to the wondrous natural world where curiosity is fostered with hands-on science exploration in addition to inquiry-based textbook learning. Focus is placed on skills of observing, inferring, predicting, classifying, and evaluating. Students are encouraged to find God’s design in the orderly beauty and complexity of creation. Creative projects using artistic, writing, and oral presentation skills are an integrated part of the curriculum.
Textbooks: Elemental Science, Apologia
Latin
Students are introduced to Latin culture in third grade and grammar study begins more formally in fourth. The study of Latin provides numerous benefits:
In studying Latin, students learn the structure of all languages. This is especially helpful in understanding English. Additionally, since 90% of the words in the “romance languages” come from Latin, mastering additional languages in the future will require much less effort.
Latin roots are in 50% of all English words, greatly enhancing students’ English vocabulary.
Verbal SAT and GRE scores are higher among students who have studied Latin.
Latin is found everywhere! Latin is the language of the church and theology. It is found in the study of science, mathematics, history, literature (the classics), logic and the Bible.
In addition to learning language fundamentals, students also learn about Greek mythology and early Greek and Roman culture. This is important because much of our culture today is derived from this ancient Republic. Each spring students eagerly anticipate our Latin banquet in which toga-clad students recite memorized passages in Latin and feast with their teachers and parents. Textbook: Ecce Romanum Latin
Logic School supplemental Studies
French
Students have the option to begin learning French in Logic school. The study of French is the pleasure of learning a rich, beautiful and melodious language. French is also an analytical language that structures thought and develops critical thinking. In addition to the study of the language, students explore the rich literary, historical and cultural traditions of the French-speaking world.
Textbook: Discovering French Nouveau
Socratic Method
The second area of elective study for Logic students is Socratic Method. Named after the classical Greek philosopher Socrates, Socratic method is the art and study of critical thinking through inquiry and cooperative debate. Students explore their principles, values, and beliefs through investigative dialogue and intellectual exploration.
Fine Arts
Our music program uses the Kodaly method of creating music primarily through folk songs, hymns, and well-known American patriotic music. Students learn basic musical elements such as rhythm, pitch, and expression through listening, games, and movement. Students are introduced to the recorder, xylophone, guitar, and various percussion instruments and enjoy the opportunity to perform at various school functions.
Strings
Beginning in 4th grade, students begin strings class and receive instruction in either violin, cello, or classical guitar.
Studio Arts
Students also participate in studio arts where they are taught the fundamentals of sketching, painting, sculpting, and the use of other creative media. They learn of great works of art and the historical significance of each.
Physical Education
Healthy activity is a fundamental part of developing the whole child. Students learn essential body management skills, develop teamwork, sportsmanship and cooperation. Creating a positive exposure to physical education can build self-confidence and lead to a lifelong enjoyment of athletics.
10 Benefits of Classical Education
Compared to children who are educated in modern or traditional classrooms today, a classical education provides many benefits. Specifically, the benefits of classical education are that it:
Gives children a much better grounding in romance languages by teaching Latin.
Prepares children to analyze data intelligently instead of being a victim of it.
Teaches children to work hard.
Teaches children how to define terms and argue to the point.
Helps children learn facts with a view to discerning their meaning logically, instead of for learning facts for the sake of it.
Makes them examine issues through a moral lens.
Reduces the ‘Umm’, ‘Ahh’, ‘like’ count.
Gives students the tools for learning for further education.
Educates the children to present themselves well so they can convey the wisdom of their words.
Creates wise students, not foolish, loquacious, and insensitive pupils.
Benefits of Having a Small Class Size
We intentionally limit our class size so that every student is seen as a unique individual. Each student is known, loved and developed as a whole person.
Every Student is Heard
Each student is part of the conversation. Small class size fits perfectly with a classical education which uses the Socratic method of discussion by engaging students in the asking and answering of questions. Students begin to see their ideas as valuable and to learn to be able to give and appreciate receiving feedback. Even shy students find it easier to share their ideas and participate in classroom discussions.
Learning is Enhanced
Increased class participation keeps students engaged and enhances interest in and understanding of the subject matter. This results in enhanced learning and the opportunity to cover more course content in an academic year.
Teachers can Teach
Smaller classes offer more opportunities for teachers to spend their precious time available, after daily grading and other tasks, on planning creative lessons geared to work best knowing the unique make-up of their class. Additionally, smaller classes can allow more hands-on learning opportunities that further enhance learning.
Class Becomes a Community
Students are able to connect with peers more closely and value each others’ unique differences. These connections foster confidence and promote the open exchange of ideas and perspectives. As students move up in grades each year, these friendships are reinforced.
Focus on Learning
When teachers have the opportunity to get to know each child, different learning styles can be better identified and addressed. Teachers have more opportunity to engage one-on-one with students. Smaller classes often have less distractions and allow those who are easily distracted to stay more engaged.
More Feedback
Teachers have the opportunity to provide more individualized feedback to students and
parents. Parent meetings are richer and more meaningful because the teacher genuinely knows each student and can provide stronger insights. A strong parent-teacher connection supports the philosophy of classical Christian education.
The Grammar Stage
Grades K-5
Students in grades K-5 develop a natural love of learning by delighting in reading aloud classic children’s literature, mastering arithmetic, singing songs and chants and memorizing rhymes to learn phonics and grammar, developing penmanship and composition skills, and introducing the study of Latin in third grade. They develop an appreciation of what has come before by a timeline based study of history from creation to the modern era. They learn to create beautiful art and music. All of these subjects are taught with a purposeful integration across subjects which allows students to make connections between subjects and to use all of their skills in each. They develop courtesy and character, memorize Bible verses, and learn to make biblical connections woven across all subjects that show God’s hand in all things.
What Your Child Will Do
Use phonics to learn to read
Participate in school-wide annual Spelling Bee
Memorize and Recite Bible scripture
Learn the parts of speech using Shurley English jingles
Use Saxon Math
Memorize multiplication tables
Learn key historical events from creation to the modern era via timeline study
Learn Latin culture and grammar
Visit Maymont Nature Center and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Participate in the 5th Grade Science Fair
Books Your Child May Read
Aesopʼs Fables
Chronicles of Narnia
Goodnight Moon
Johnny Tremain
Little House in the Big Woods
Little Women
My Side of the Mountain
Old Yeller
Peter Pan
Sign of the Beaver
The Book of Nursery and Mother Goose Rhymes
The Penderwicks series
The Secret Garden
The Ugly Duckling
The Velveteen Rabbit
Treasury of Fairy Tales
Trumpet of the Swan
Each year at Hunter, we are pleased to welcome rising kindergarten students from many exceptional Pre-K preschool programs across the greater Richmond area. We are eager to continue in partnership with parents to carry on the development and educational formation preschool programs instill during a child’s earliest years of formation. We look forward to working with preschools and families to transition children into kindergarten.
A ministry of Derbyshire Baptist Church, home of HCCS, is Derbyshire Preschool, which serves children 6 months – Pre-Kindergarten. For families interested in the opportunity for all of their children to be served under one roof, view their website or contact Director Megan Hughes for more information.
The Logic Stage
Grades 6-8
Although students in grades 6-8 continue to learn and recite memory verses, they are now ready to use the knowledge they have acquired in previous grades. They use their grammar skills to express logical thought in both oral and written form; they apply basic arithmetic skills to solve abstract problems; and they begin to make connections and comparisons between concepts. Students begin a formal study of logic in 7th grade to develop their ability to correctly reason. They participate in Socratic discussions with their classmates and teacher by asking and answering questions with supporting facts in order to foster critical thinking. They do all of these things as they continue to make connections across subjects, use all of their skills in every class, and see the Bible as foundational and the standard of truth across all subjects.
What Your Child Will Do
Participate in an annual Field trip to our nation’s capital
Read excerpts from classics in Latin class
Write research reports to support a thesis and develop essay writing skills
Participate in Socratic discussions
Discuss and debate topics while studying the Classics
Participate in school-wide annual Spelling Bee
Develop algebra skills using Saxon Math
Develop formal logic skills beginning in 7th grade
Memorize and recite Bible scripture
Books Your Child May Read
Around the World in 80 Days
Black Ships Before Troy
Captains Courageous
Number the Stars
Robinson Crusoe
Swiss Family Robinson
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
The Adventures of Odysseus
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
The Book Thief
The Bronze Bow
The Diary of a Young Girl
The Hobbit
The Island of the Blue Dolphins
The Pilgrim’s Progress (children’s version)
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
The Three Musketeers
The Witch of Blackbird Pond
Tuck Everlasting
White Fang
We specialize in developing children in grades K-8. Our students learn to think logically, speak clearly, and write eloquently. As such, they are well equipped to complete their education (grades 9-12) at various institutions. Hunter students have demonstrated success in matriculating to private schools, classical Christian schools, and public schools.
Portrait of a Hunter Student
At HCCS, we begin with the end in mind. We strive to develop faith-filled leaders who pursue excellence in academics and life, with a heart to serve the Lord and others. As we cultivate our student’s minds to think well, we aim to train our students to rightly order their affections to pursue goodness, beauty, and truth whether they are in the classroom, on the athletic field, or in their community.
Hunter students
• Pursue goodness, beauty, and truth in all things.
• Embrace the Gospel and grow in faith with Jesus Christ.
• Engage in study, prayer, and service as lifelong pursuits.
• Value the life of the mind.
• Speak and write with wisdom and eloquence.
• Navigate in the world without becoming of the world.
• Cherish honor and integrity.
• Are prudent in thought, word, and deed.
• Display humility in success and grace in failure.
We equip our students to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually after they graduate from Hunter and go on to the college or the world of work.