Age range. 8–13.
Number of boys. Up to 35 all chorister boarders.
Fees per term (2024-2025). £3,753.34 inclusive of tuition on two instruments. Additional bursaries may be available in cases of real financial need.
Westminster Abbey Choir School is the only school in Britain exclusively devoted to the education of boy choristers. Boys have been singing services in the Abbey since at least 1384 and the 30 boys in the school maintain this tradition.
Westminster Abbey Choir School is a special place, offering boys from eight to thirteen a unique and exciting opportunity to be a central part of one of our great national institutions. Boys sing daily in the Abbey and also take part in many special services and celebrations both in the UK and abroad.
The small size of the school, the fact that all boys are boarders and the high proportion of staff who live on the premises, allow the School to have an extended family atmosphere.
A full academic curriculum is taught by specialist staff, and boys are prepared for the Common Entrance and academic scholarship examinations; most boys win valuable scholarships to secondary independent schools when they leave at 13.
Music obviously plays a central part in the school. Every boy learns the piano and at least one orchestral instrument and there are 15 visiting music teachers. Concerts, both inside and outside school, are a regular feature of the year.
Besides music and academic lessons there is a thriving programme of other activities and there are many opportunities for boys to develop interests outside music.
Sports played include football, cricket, athletics, hockey, sailing, canoeing and tennis.
Entry is by voice trial and academic tests. Further details are available from Jennifer Benjamin (Headteacher’s PA and Admissions Officer). The Headteacher is always pleased to hear from parents who feel that their son might have the potential to become a chorister.
Charitable status. Westminster Abbey is a Registered Charity, number X8259. It is a religious establishment incorporated by Royal Charter in 1560.