Westminster Abbey Choir School

Since January 2024, Emma Margrett, previously head at Radnor House Prep, Sevenoaks. Following a degree in theology and religious studies from Bristol, worked in international trade finance before studying for an MPhil in development studies at

No formal entrance test. Boys, normally in year 3, come for informal voice trial with the organist and master of the choristers. Then invited to attend evensong, followed by an invitation to a day at school – morning consisting of further audition,

Destination schools make impressive reading. Most leave with music award, many with other awards too. King’s Canterbury perennially popular, with a regular sprinkling (do not forget we are talking about five or six leavers a year) to Winchester,

Mixed among the upstairs classrooms are airy dormitories with cubicles of bunks – four in a cubicle, three cubicles to a dorm, each with fitted cupboards. Nothing too luxurious, but all perfectly adequate, with colourful bedding and newly decorated

Fees significantly cheaper than comparable schools. Tuition fees covered by the Abbey, leaving only boarding costs, with bursaries available up to 100 per cent. Currently, about half the boys receive one. Strikingly few extras: no additional charges

One of only three schools in the world catering exclusively for full-boarding choristers, the other two in New York and in Montserrat, outside Barcelona. Housed in a purpose-built building at the heart of Dean’s Yard, in the precincts of Westminster

Music is the touchstone but not the defining outcome, with the school offering an exceptional education on all fronts. Produces fascinating and fascinated boys. Attend a service and see them in musical action!