BoysIndependentBoarding

Westminster Cathedral Choir School

London, Westminster, Greater London · SW1P 1QH

At the heart of this small Catholic boys' school is a living musical tradition: choristers here sing at Westminster Cathedral, and music shapes the rhythm of school life. With around 269 pupils aged 4 to 13 and a pupil-to-teacher ratio of about 18, it offers a focused environment in central London, with boarding available alongside day places. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school 'excellent', a judgement echoed in its assessment of pupils' personal development, and compliance standards were met. It is a distinctive choice for a musically gifted boy and a family drawn to a Roman Catholic ethos.

269

Pupils

excellent

ISI

£30,330

Day fees / yr

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Overview & data

Gender: Boys
Type: independent (fee-paying) school
Age range: 4-13
Pupils: 269
Pupil:teacher ratio: 18
Location: London, Westminster, Greater London
Website: https://www.choirschool.com/
Telephone: 020 7798 9081

Headteacher

Headmaster Mr Neil McLaughlan

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Teaching & academics

The ISI's 'excellent' rating reflects strong all-round standards within an intimate setting. A pupil-to-teacher ratio of roughly 18 supports close attention, while a SEN support figure of around 4 per cent suggests a cohort with relatively modest additional needs. Entry at 11+ is available for families seeking a place beyond the early years.

Learning support & SEN

SEN support: 4.29%
EHC plans: 0%

Arts & extracurricular

Scholarships

Music

Beyond the classroom

Music is the school's defining strength, with daily singing at the Cathedral giving choristers a level of performance experience few schools can match. Music scholarships recognise and reward this talent, and choristers may receive bursary top-ups to help with fees.

Ethos & heritage

Religious character: RC
Boarding: Yes

Mobile phone policy

No phones or electronic devices, including Apple and smart watches, allowed. Boys in years 7 and 8 who travel to school by themselves may have a phone but it must be dropped at the gate in the morning and collected at the end of the day.

Money matters

Day fees (per year): £26,640 - £30,330
Boarding fees (per year): £12,840

Choristers can receive bursary top-ups

Inspection reports

ISI rating: excellent
ISI personal development: excellent
Last inspected: 14 June 2023

Read the full inspection report ↗

The last word

A rare specialist setting where a chorister's voice and a Catholic faith life sit at the centre of everything. Best suited to musically committed boys and families who value that focus.

The Passmate verdict