How did Romans manage arithmetic in Roman numerals? By doing their calculations not on paper, but with dried beans on a counting board. This highly visual system uses different mental skills from modern arithmetic and is often attractive to children who find our system difficult – as well as being popular with those who do like modern kinds of maths. In this workshop participants will work in small groups at their own pace, starting off with what Roman numerals are and how a Roman abacus and counting board function.
They will explore addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, with the opportunity to learn what these operations are for those who have not yet had them at school. More advanced possibilities will include calculating six percent compound interest. Don’t know what percentages are or what interest is? No problem – it will all be explained.
Can be paired with graffiti workshop, use the code ROMANS to buy both workshops for £45.
Kids can be dropped off from 9am.
About the workshop
Half day workshop, 10am - 12pm
Explore numerical concepts in a new, fun way and strengthen numerical skills
Learn Roman numerals and perform arithmetical operations with them
Learn about the power and danger of compound interest
Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings
Ability to count to 100 is necessary before starting
Philomen Probert is Professor of Classical Philology and Linguistics at Wolfson College Oxford and the author of an alarming amount of academic research on topics including relative clauses and accents in Ancient Greek.
Charles Stewart took an MA in Classics and Ancient History at the University of Reading after retiring from a career in finance; he also has Masters degrees in Engineering and in Business Administration. He is the author of an article on Roman fractional arithmetic published in the prestigious Journal of Roman Studies. But despite these credentials, both Philomen and Charles have extensive experience of teaching Roman arithmetic to students of all ages (from preliterate to retirees), having introduced and developed the Reading Ancient Schoolroom’s arithmetic offerings.
This workshop is offered in partnership with the Reading Ancient Schoolroom, an educational charity started at the University of Reading in 2014 with the aim of bringing Roman schools to life and sharing them with today’s children. The ancient schoolroom will be in residence at Butser’s Roman villa from 26-31 August 2025, offering a range of workshops and drop-in activities.
Included in your ticket
Entrance to the farm, tuition and all the materials.
workshop info
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!
Ability to count to 100 is necessary before starting.
This workshop is suitable for ages 8-16.
If you have any mobility concerns, special requirements, or other questions, please contact workshops@butserancientfarm.co.uk for help!