In the midst of an active academic term, alongside their regular and musical commitments, the choristers recently enjoyed their annual Ski trip, and ended the week with a wonderful Choir tour to Washington D.C. last week. This included singing Evensong in the Washington National Cathedral and the opportunity to sing a memorable concert at The Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America. This is a remarkable location with such a beautiful acoustic that was appreciated by a number of parents and local musicians and music lovers alike.
In parallel to these special events and the usual rich and active day to day life at the Choir, the Transition Committee of the Vestry, comprised of representatives from the school, Music department, Vestry, Board Members and Parents, have been working hard alongside colleagues from Professional Children’s School (PCS), to focus on preparations for our residential and school schedule, calendar for 2025-2026, as well as HR, legal matters and Communications.
One of the most significant aspects of the Committee’s work in recent weeks is the evolving team-work between STCS and PCS. We have all been especially focused on securing a rhythm of residential and church life for our Choristers with the guidance of our senior admin team, who will continue to care and nurture them with commitment and care. The pattern of their weekdays will typically include, wake-up and breakfast followed by STCS specific lessons such as Music theory and practice, Voice and instrumental lessons, Latin, Theology and Health. Our Choristers will also continue to have Choir Practice at STCS for four days, before attending PCS for core lessons, either side of lunch. In the afternoon they will return to the Choir School for sport or preparing for church for Evensong. Weekend routines will remain exactly the same as they do with their myriad of activities for boys who either go hone for part of the weekend, or stay to enjoy exploring new experiences in the city with their friends.
In addition to multiple discussions and meetings with parents, families as well as faculty and staff have also had several opportunities to visit PCS. Their openness to exploring ways to enrich the boys learning and seeing the challenges that accompany change as opportunities for reflection and growth is remarkable, the faculty and staff at PCS could not be more hospitable and welcoming, and respectful of our many traditions and multiple questions we always bring. If you wish to learn more about PCS or have any queries or questions from a parishioner’s perspective, please feel free to direct them to me at transition@choirschool.org and we will be pleased to reply.
One recent visitor on her first impressions from her meeting colleagues at PCS said this “PCS is school where educators are genuinely dedicated to supporting their students’ emotional, spiritual and intellectual growth, and this commitment is evident at every level. The school clearly fosters an inclusive and thoughtful environment, prioritizing the well-being of each child. I feel that it’s a safe space where students can truly be themselves. It is a place for everyone to thrive and grow and that there is indeed a place for everyone.”
Please do reach out to me if you have any questions.
Alison
