Hereford Cathedral School is one of the UK’s oldest schools, with a rich history that dates back to 676 AD. As the sixth oldest school in the country, we began as a song school attached to the Cathedral – a tradition of educating choristers that has continued unbroken to this day. This deep-rooted heritage informs our commitment to preparing pupils for the future, blending centuries of tradition with forward-thinking education.
As a co-educational independent school, we guide our 750 pupils, aged 3-18, from Nursery to Sixth Form, towards leading fulfilling and happy lives. In a rapidly changing world, we focus on developing personal skills such as emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness, alongside a practical understanding of technology and global systems. Our approach is driven by innovation, excellence, and a global perspective, all grounded in the timeless values of kindness, courage, and integrity.
Our school community thrives in the inspiring setting of Hereford Cathedral. Choristers here receive a musical education like no other, performing in one of the UK’s most historic buildings and at prestigious events worldwide. We invite young singers, aged 7 to 9, to join this extraordinary tradition, supported by grants to ensure this opportunity is accessible to all.
Our Choristers
The cathedral choir sings Evensong at 5.30 pm on five days a week, and at three services on Sundays. Boys and Girls sing together as one top line and choristers are admitted until the end of Year 8 (or until their voice changes).
The choristers rehearse for services, and extra events like tours, broadcasts and recordings, on five mornings a week from 8.10 to 9 am and on Sundays from 8.55 to 9.50 am. There is also a short rehearsal each afternoon with the professional adult singers of the choir and on Friday evening from 6.15 to 7.15 pm.
Choristers also have the opportunity to perform in the world-famous 3 Choirs Festival which takes place each summer.
Find out more about becoming a chorister at Hereford Cathedral School
