For a child who becomes a Chichester Cathedral chorister, the experience can be life-changing. They receive exceptional musical training, sing in one of the country’s great cathedral choirs and become part of a tradition that has been at the heart of Chichester for centuries.
The Cathedral’s choir currently comprises 19 choristers, boys and girls, supported by six professional Lay Vicars. Alongside their daily musical commitments, choristers receive their education at The Prebendal School, Sussex’s oldest school, located next to the Cathedral. Through services, concerts, broadcasts, recordings and tours, they develop skills, confidence and friendships that can stay with them throughout their lives.
Every chorister receives a scholarship covering at least 25% of their school fees. Additional means-tested bursaries help ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent a talented child from taking up a choristership.
A full five-year choristership costs £57,470 from September 2026, including the 25% school fee scholarship and specialist music training. Donations to the Bursary Fund, including Gift Aid, help provide additional support to families who need assistance with the remaining fees.
Why sponsor a chorister?
By sponsoring a chorister, you can help give a child the opportunity to discover their musical potential, receive an outstanding education and become part of Chichester Cathedral’s musical life.
Whether you are an individual, trust, organisation or group of friends sponsoring together, your support makes a direct difference to a young person’s experience while helping to sustain the Cathedral’s choral tradition for future generations.
Sponsors receive regular updates, invitations to special services and recognition for their generosity, including the opportunity to receive a commemorative Choristership Medal.
To learn more about choristerships, please contact Alison George, Director of Fundraising, Chichester Cathedral Restoration & Development Trust:
T: 01243 812480
E: alison.george@chichestercathedral.org.uk