A Church of England Foundation dating back over 100 years, St Paul's Cathedral School currently caters for boys aged 7-13. It is governed by the Dean and Chapter of St Paul's Cathedral. Originally solely a choir school, it expanded to accept day boys in 1989 and caters for boys of all faiths. A new pre-prep for boys and girls (4-7 years) will open in September 1998.
The school offers a broad curriculum leading to scholarship and Common Entrance examinations. The refurbished school facilities include modern class rooms, science laboratory, computer room, art room, music room and practice rooms, library, hall/gymnasium, common room and a TV/video room. All boys are encouraged to play a musical instrument (most boys play two) and there is a school orchestra. A wide variety of games is offered - boys play field sports at local playing fields and have weekly swimming lessons. The boys have their own playground and the use of the hall for indoor games and gymnastics. Located in a purpose built block at the eastern end of the Cathedral site in London's 'Square Mile', every opportunity is taken to make use of the school's proximity to museums, galleries, theatres and other attractions which London has to offer. The chorister boarders are housed on the same site and are fully integrated with the day boys for all their academic studies and games. The stimulating cathedral choral training offers the chorister boarders a unique opportunity to participate in the rich musical life of St Paul's and the City. The co-ed pre-prep department will have purpose designed classrooms and separate play areas.
Non-chorister day boy candidates are invited for interview and short test before entry in September at 7+ years. Voice trials and tests for prospective (boarding) choristers are held generally in February, May and October. Pre-prep children are seen in Autumn of year before entry at 4+ years.
Alumni - Walter de la Mare, Poet (1883-1889); Sir Charles Groves, Conductor (1924-30); Patrick Ireland, Musician (1933-37); Neil Howlett, Opera Singer (1942-48); Christopher Herrick, Organist (1951-56); Jeremy Jackman, King's Singer et al (1961-65); Simon Russell Beale, Actor (1969-74); Anthony Way (1990-96).
