Liverpool is a place that does things big! Not only does it have the largest Catholic and Anglican cathedrals in the country, it also has two of the largest singing programmes with a total of 63 schools benefitting every week.

A headteacher in an Anglican Primary School said:

‘Over the last three years St Mary and St Paul’s School have been involved in a number of exciting musical projects delivered by the brilliant team at Liverpool Cathedral highlighted by children as “the best part of the year”. Watching, listening and taking part has inspired a number of our children to play musical instruments – something that wouldn’t have happened without these fun and engaging sessions. The drama elements that have been brought in have bolstered learning in school and helped to build confidence in some of our quieter children too. I would absolutely recommend Stephen and his team as excellent and a joy to work with!’

A headteacher at St Albert’s Primary School said:

‘The Schools Singing Programme has had a truly remarkable impact on our school community. Above all, it has significantly increased the enjoyment of music lessons across the board. The buzz in the school is palpable; you can feel the excitement as children eagerly engage with the subject. It’s a joy to witness so many more children joining in singing activities, creating a vibrant celebration of music.

‘What’s even more encouraging is that musical literacy has improved dramatically. More children are able to answer questions on dimensions of music, showcasing their newfound knowledge and confidence. It’s wonderful to see their understanding deepen, and they’re not just singing along; they’re truly grasping the concepts behind what they’re performing.

‘On top of that, the programme has provided a huge boost to staff morale. Teachers find themselves playfully squabbling over who gets to involve their class in singing activities, which reflects their enthusiasm and the benefits they see in their students, particularly in their wellbeing. In our end of year performance it was great to have that sense of collaboration and a bit of friendly competition among the staff as they championed their budding singers.

‘Each year, we’ve had to increase our involvement in the programme, as the demand from both students and teachers continues to grow. It’s a clear indication that the programme is not just a passing trend; it’s becoming an integral part of our school culture. The increased repertoire of songs used in church services has also had a positive impact. Younger year groups, in particular, have developed a better understanding of the scriptures, as they can relate to the hymns they know, making the messages more accessible and meaningful to them. Overall, the Schools Singing Programme has truly enriched the lives of students and staff alike at St Albert’s.’