Pupils participating in our Diocesan Schools Singing Programme have been sharing their experiences as they prepare to lead hymns of praise in St Mary’s Cathedral later this summer.
The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle’s Schools Singing Programme launched in September 2025, joining over 25 Catholic and Anglican Dioceses across the UK in delivery of the National Schools Singing Programme.
Each week throughout the school year, Choral Director Eimear Hurley leads weekly singing sessions for Lower Key Stage 2 pupils in 10 schools across the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust. The programme engages over 700 children, supporting them to develop their musical skills and experience the joy of group singing.
Eimear also leads two after-school choirs based at St Mary Cathedral – one for girls and one for boys – formed of children taking part in the schools programme. In these weekly rehearsals, accompanied by Cathedral Organist David Allison, children delve deeper into ensemble singing and musicianship skills.
The children were excited to talk about the programme at a recent rehearsal and shared lots of feedback:-
“ I really like singing – it helps me to relax“.
“I am really excited to be in the choir.”
“The sessions are so much fun and a great way to learn music language. It is not too hard because our teacher explains it and makes it into a fun game. My favourite game is beat detective.”
“It makes me so curious, you just don’t know what is coming next because there are lots of songs and games that we can all join in. It is never too hard for anyone, there is something for everyone.”
“Music allows you to be lost in a whole new world.”
“I love the fun warms ups that get us ready for some challenging work.”
The Children’s Choir will be singing in St Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday 14th June before a festival of sound involving all ten schools involved taking place on Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th June.
