Westminster College Biblical and Ancient Languages Winter School 2026
Step into the world of ancient texts – in the heart of Cambridge.
This January, join us for the 2026 Ancient Languages Winter School at Westminster College—an immersive opportunity to study biblical and other ancient languages in a focused, supportive, and academically rich environment.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, refreshing your skills, or pursuing advanced research, our Winter School offers a tailored and enriching learning experience. Hosted in one of Cambridge’s historic theological colleges and taught by expert tutors, the programme blends rigorous teaching with small-group community—ideal for deep study, reflection, and connection.
Two Course Formats to Fit Your Needs
We offer courses in two distinct formats, based on your level of experience:
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🗓️ Four-day courses – for Beginners and those seeking a Refresher
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🗓️ Ten-day intensives – for Experienced Linguists (PhD students, post-docs, and experienced independent learners)
Each course is delivered in a separate, level-specific group—no mixed-level classrooms—ensuring focused learning alongside peers at a similar stage.
🟦 Biblical Hebrew
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Beginner (4 days) – Learn the Hebrew alphabet, core grammar, and essential vocabulary to begin reading biblical texts. No prior knowledge required.
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Refresher (4 days) – Revisit key grammar and build confidence in reading short passages. Ideal for those with some previous Hebrew.
🟨 New Testament Greek (Koine)
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Beginner (4 days) – Learn the Greek alphabet, foundational grammar, and basic reading strategies in a supportive environment. No prior knowledge required.
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Refresher (4 days) – Re-engage with the language, refresh your grammar, and explore New Testament texts more fluently.
🟩 Intensives
For postgraduates, post-docs, and independent learners with prior linguistic training
These intensive, research-level courses are designed for experienced linguists—typically those with a strong background in ancient or classical language study—who are now turning their attention to a new language or expanding into less familiar territory.
Subjects offered in 2026:
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Christian Arabic (January 6 – 15, 2026)
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Biblical Hebrew (January 6 – 15, 2026)
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Koine Greek (January 6 – 15, 2026)
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Vulgate Latin (January 12 – 15, 2026)
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Syriac (January 15 – 24, 2026)
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Coptic (January 15 – 24, 2026)
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Ge‘ez (January 15 – 24, 2026)
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Biblical Aramaic (January 15 – 24, 2026)
Courses are taught by subject specialists with deep academic and teaching expertise. Participants will engage with original-language texts, translation practice, and historical-linguistic context.
These courses assume prior training in ancient languages (e.g. Latin, Greek, Hebrew), but not necessarily prior study of the specific language chosen.
When applying, please give attention to the specific requirements for the course of your choosing.
Why Join the Winter School?
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🏛 Study in Cambridge – Westminster College offers historic charm and modern facilities
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📚 Expert teaching – Academic rigour delivered in a clear and accessible format
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👥 Right course, right group – Beginner, refresher, and advanced levels taught separately
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🍽️ Community atmosphere – Shared meals, breakout spaces, and optional chapel life
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✨ Depth and support – Ideal for both personal growth and formal academic development
Apply Now – Save with Early Bird Pricing
Spaces are limited and many courses fill quickly—book early to secure your place and save.
💸 Early Bird Discount – Save 25%
Register by 1 August 2025 to receive 25% off the full course fee.
🎓 Full-Time Student Discount – Extra 10% Off
Full-time students receive an additional 10% discount on top of the early bird price.
📅 Courses run in January 2026 in Cambridge at Westminster College.
👉 [Explore Full Course Details and Register By Following the Links Below]