St Mary’s Cathedral was filled with music this week as hundreds of children gathered for ‘Cantate’—a vibrant celebration marking a full year of learning, worship, and community-building through song.

The event is the culmination of the academic year for ten primary schools within the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust. Funded by the National Schools Singing Programme (NSSP), the initiative builds musical confidence and enhances school liturgy.

The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle’s Schools Singing Programme launched in September 2025, joining a successful network of over 30 Catholic and Anglican dioceses across the UK partnered with the NSSP.

Each week, Choral Director Eimear Hurley leads singing sessions for over 700 Lower Key Stage 2 pupils across the Trust, helping them develop their musical skills and experience the joy of group singing.

The programme’s impact also extends beyond the school day. Eimear directs two specialised after-school choirs at the Cathedral—one for girls and one for boys—formed of children from the schools programme. Accompanied by Cathedral Organist David Allison, these weekly rehearsals allow the children to dive deeper into advanced musicianship.

‘Cantate’ stands as a wonderful testament to what these young singers have achieved in their very first year, showcasing the transformative power of music in our schools and parishes.