Exeter Cathedral Chorister Programme at Exeter School

Exeter School is a community rooted in kindness, character and ambition. From September 2026, we are proud to become the new educational and musical home for the chorister body, while musical training and commitments continue to be led by the Cathedral, with the same care, expertise and pastoral support choristers receive now.

We recognise that this period may bring both practical decisions and strong emotions for families. Our priority is to ensure that every child joins a community in which they can truly thrive. We take time to understand individual needs, learning profiles and pastoral considerations, and work closely with families to ensure Exeter School is the right fit.

Choristers at Exeter Cathedral

The Exeter Cathedral Choir includes up to 18 male and 18 female Choristers each year. These include a small number of Probationers, who are Choristers still in their learning phase. Overall, 38 boys and girls (usually from Years 3 to 8) make up the Cathedral Choristers. Each week, during term time, they sing around 8 services alongside the Adults of the Choir (Lay Vicars and Choral Scholars). As you can expect, this is a truly remarkable experience which develops a unique musical training and maintains a centuries-old spiritual tradition.

School life as a Chorister

Exeter School is working closely with Exeter Cathedral and the programme will feel familiar and reassuring, providing continuity for families while benefiting from Exeter School’s broad educational and pastoral provision.

A typical day includes:
• Before school: rehearsals at the Exeter School Music School, with morning drop-off by parents
• During the school day: full access to the curriculum, lessons and wider school life
• After school: rehearsals and services at Exeter Cathedral, with parental collection from the Cathedral at the end of the day
• Weekends and holidays: services and rehearsals held at the Cathedral

Each chorister receives one weekly private music lesson (voice or instrument), funded by the Cathedral. Musical direction continues under Timothy Noon, Director of Music at Exeter Cathedral, working in close collaboration with Exeter School’s music department.

Pastoral care for Choristers

The wellbeing of choristers is central to the programme’s success. From September 2026, pastoral support is led by a dedicated Head of Chorister Care, and we are delighted that Mr Jonny Titchin has agreed to take on this role. Mr Titchin is Head of Junior School Music at Exeter School and will be familiar to many of you for his inspiring work with young musicians.

He is also an active performer and countertenor, bringing wide professional experience to his teaching and leadership. This new role will ensure:
• High-quality pastoral and safeguarding oversight
• Day-to-day support for choristers and families
• Close collaboration with the Cathedral and Exeter School

The Head of Chorister Care is trained to Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) level, ensuring robust safeguarding, clear communication and joined-up care. This dedicated role ensures that every chorister is known as an individual and supported academically and emotionally.

Moving to Exeter School and The Chorister Programme

Voice Trials