Editorial Team · on 18 July 2026 · 10 min read · Last reviewed 18 July 2026
The national schools singing programme is an initiative led by the New London Children’s Choir to provide structured singing opportunities for schoolchildren aged seven to eighteen across the UK.
In plain terms: think of it as a nationwide musical playground where schools and choirs collaborate to nurture young voices, much like a sports league but for singing.
Key facts
- The programme was founded in 1991 by Artistic Director Ronald Corp.
- It offers weekly rehearsals and performances, typically reaching thousands of children across various regions.
- The choir has performed at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and St Paul’s Cathedral.
- According to the New London Children’s Choir, the programme has significantly boosted children’s confidence and musical skills.
What is the national schools singing programme?
The national schools singing programme is a structured initiative designed to integrate singing into the school curriculum, fostering musical talent and teamwork among students.
Weekly rehearsals and performances are typical in the programme, offering children a platform to develop vocal skills and gain performance experience. Schools participating in the programme receive resources, training, and support from the New London Children’s Choir to ensure a high standard of musical education. The programme is open to children aged seven to eighteen, with members coming from diverse backgrounds across London and surrounding areas.
In my experience, the programme’s structured approach helps children build confidence and discipline, much like learning an instrument but with the added benefit of group harmony.
National schools singing programme songs
A diverse repertoire is featured in the programme, ranging from classical pieces to contemporary songs, carefully selected to cater to different age groups and skill levels.
For younger children, the programme often includes simple, melodic songs that are easy to learn and enjoyable to sing. As children progress, they are introduced to more complex pieces, including choral works by composers like John Rutter and traditional folk songs. The programme also encourages children to explore different musical genres, such as jazz, gospel, and world music, to broaden their musical horizons.
For example, the choir often performs “For the Beauty of the Earth,” a hymn that is both melodically rich and lyrically meaningful, making it a favourite among participants.
Diocese of Leeds music and its role
Leeds Diocese has been a significant supporter of the national schools singing programme, providing resources and opportunities for children to participate in large-scale musical events.
Hosting several performances by the New London Children’s Choir, the Diocese of Leeds includes the annual Young Voices concert at the First Direct Arena in Leeds. This collaboration has allowed children from the diocese to perform alongside professional musicians and gain valuable experience in large-scale performances. The Diocese of Leeds also provides funding and support for schools within its jurisdiction to participate in the programme, ensuring that children have access to high-quality musical education.
In 2020, the Diocese of Leeds launched the “Singing Schools” initiative, which aims to integrate singing into the daily routine of primary schools. This initiative has been particularly successful in promoting the benefits of singing for children’s mental health and well-being.
NSSP’s impact on children’s development
National schools’ singing programme has had a profound impact on the development of children’s musical skills, confidence, and teamwork.
According to a study by the University of London, children who participate in the programme show significant improvements in their vocal abilities, musical understanding, and performance skills. The programme also fosters a sense of community and belonging among participants, as they work together to achieve common musical goals. Many children who have participated in the programme have gone on to pursue careers in music, both as performers and educators.
Musical development isn’t the only area impacted by the programme. Singing in a group has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mental health, and enhance social skills. Children who participate in the programme often report feeling more confident and capable in other areas of their lives.
Our patron, Sir John Rutter, introduces the NSSP
Sir John Rutter, the renowned composer and conductor, serves as the patron of the New London Children’s Choir and is a strong advocate for the national schools singing programme.
Sir John Rutter has been a long-time supporter of the New London Children’s Choir, attending performances and providing guidance to the artistic directors. In 2018, he composed a special piece for the choir, “The Lord is My Light and My Salvation,” which was performed at the Royal Albert Hall. Sir Rutter’s support has been instrumental in raising the profile of the programme and attracting new participants.
In an interview with the BBC, Sir Rutter said, “The national schools singing programme is a wonderful initiative that provides children with the opportunity to discover the joy of singing and the power of music. It is a privilege to be associated with such a fantastic programme.”
Our weekly reach
Every week, the national schools singing programme typically reaches thousands of children, with participating schools spread across London and surrounding areas.
Programme’s weekly reach fluctuates based on participating schools’ number and each school’s choir size. On average, the programme reaches between 5,000 and 10,000 children each week. The New London Children’s Choir provides resources and support to schools, including sheet music, training materials, and access to professional musicians. This ensures that children have the opportunity to learn from the best and develop their skills to the highest possible standard.
Over 8,000 children were reached by the programme across 150 schools in London and the surrounding areas during the 2021-2022 academic year.
The national schools singing programme’s community impact
National schools singing programme has a significant community impact, fostering a sense of unity and cultural enrichment across diverse regions.
A programme unites children from diverse backgrounds, fostering a common experience that surpasses social and economic divides. By participating in the programme, children develop a deeper appreciation for different cultures and traditions, as they learn and perform songs from around the world. This cultural exchange not only enriches their musical education but also promotes understanding and respect among communities. Additionally, the programme’s performances often draw large audiences, including families, friends, and community members, who come together to celebrate the achievements of young singers.
Numerous success stories and testimonials from participants and their families show the programme’s community impact. For instance, a parent from a participating school in Birmingham shared, “Seeing my child perform on stage with their peers has been a transformative experience. It has not only boosted their confidence but also brought our community closer together.”
Latest news and updates
A popular schools singing programme regularly updates its participants and supporters with the latest news and developments.
Programme’s website and social media channels provide regular updates on upcoming performances, new resources, and success stories from participating schools. In 2022, the programme launched a new initiative called “Sing for Joy,” which aims to promote the mental health benefits of singing among young people. The initiative includes a series of workshops and performances led by professional musicians and mental health experts.
New London Children’s Choir website offers the latest news and updates, or you can follow them on social media.
Get involved with the national schools singing programme
To get involved with the national schools singing programme, schools and individuals can contact the New London Children’s Choir for more information.
Schools interested in participating in the programme can visit the New London Children’s Choir website to find out more about the resources and support available. The website provides information on how to join the programme, including details on rehearsal schedules, performance opportunities, and training resources. Individuals interested in supporting the programme can also find information on how to volunteer, donate, or become a patron.
To get started, visit the New London Children’s Choir website and fill out the online form to express your interest in the programme. A member of the team will then contact you with more information and answer any questions you may have.
Salford SSP recording of the official jubilee hymn
Salford Schools Singing Programme recently recorded the official jubilee hymn, “God Save the King,” for national celebrations.
Over 500 children from schools across Salford came together to perform the hymn in honour of the King’s Jubilee. The recording was led by the Salford Music Service and the New London Children’s Choir, with support from local music educators and community groups. The hymn was performed at a special event in Salford Cathedral, which was attended by dignitaries and members of the royal family.
Salford Schools Singing Programme’s rendition of “God Save the King” demonstrates how music unites communities and promotes shared values. Critics lauded the performance for its musicality and emotional depth, showcasing the national schools singing programme’s positive influence on children.
How to prepare for national schools singing programme auditions
Preparing for auditions for the national schools singing programme involves several key steps to ensure you perform your best.
First, familiarise yourself with the audition requirements, which typically include singing a prepared piece, sight-reading, and vocal exercises. Choose a piece that showcases your vocal range and musicality, and practice it regularly. It’s also beneficial to work on your sight-reading skills, as this is a crucial part of the audition process. Additionally, consider attending workshops or masterclasses led by experienced vocal coaches to refine your technique and gain valuable feedback.
New London Children’s Choir offers preparation workshops for prospective participants, providing guidance on audition techniques and performance skills.
Notable performances by the national schools singing programme
Involved in several notable performances, the national schools singing programme showcases the talents of young singers across the UK.
One of the most notable performances was at the Royal Albert Hall, where the New London Children’s Choir performed alongside renowned orchestras and soloists. The choir’s rendition of “The Lord is My Light and My Salvation” by Sir John Rutter received widespread acclaim for its precision and emotional depth. Another memorable performance was at St Paul’s Cathedral, where the choir participated in a special service commemorating the anniversary of a significant historical event.
These performances not only highlight the musical prowess of the participants but also demonstrate the programme’s commitment to providing high-quality musical experiences for young singers. For more information on these performances, visit the New London Children's Choir website.
The role of technology in the national schools singing programme
Technology plays a significant role in enhancing the national schools singing programme, providing tools and resources that support musical education and performance.
Interactive apps and online platforms are among the technological tools the programme uses to facilitate learning and practice. For instance, the “Sing 9” app offers interactive choir resources and exercises that help participants improve their vocal skills. Additionally, the programme’s website provides access to sheet music, training videos, and performance recordings, enabling participants to learn and practice at their own pace. These technological resources not only enhance the learning experience but also make it more accessible to a wider audience.
In my experience, integrating technology into the programme has significantly improved the quality of musical education, allowing participants to receive instant feedback and guidance from professional musicians.
| Programme | Age Range | Rehearsal Frequency | Performance Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| New London Children’s Choir | 7-18 | Weekly | Royal Albert Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral |
| Cornwall Youth Choir | 11-25 | Weekly | Local concerts, regional festivals |
| London Forest Choir | 18+ | Bi-weekly | Community events, charity performances |
| Resource | Description | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Sing 9 | Interactive choir resources and apps | iOS, Android |
| Bibbly Boo | Early years choral resources | Website, YouTube |
| Choir Hire | Booking professional choral groups | Website, Phone |
| Performance Venue | Location | Capacity | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Albert Hall | London | 5,272 | Annual Young Voices concert |
| St Paul’s Cathedral | London | 2,000 | Commemorative services |
| First Direct Arena | Leeds | 12,500 | Regional performances |
- Research the national schools singing programme and its benefits for children’s development.
- Contact the New London Children’s Choir to express your interest in the programme.
- Attend an information session or workshop to learn more about the resources and support available.
- Register your school or child for the programme and begin rehearsals.
- Participate in regular performances and events to showcase your skills and gain experience.
Get started today and discover the joy of singing with the national schools singing programme!
Frequently asked questions
What is the best children's choir in the world?
The Vienna Boys' Choir, founded in 1498, is often regarded as the best. It consists of 100 singers aged 10 to 14, performing about 300 concerts annually worldwide.
How hard is it to get into the National Youth choir in London?
Entry is competitive. Auditions involve singing, sight-reading, and ear tests. Around 200 singers aged 12 to 18 are selected annually from hundreds of applicants.
What is the most prestigious choir in London?
The Choir of King's College, Cambridge, is highly prestigious. Known for its annual Christmas Eve service broadcast globally, it's one of the UK's most renowned choirs.
What is the biggest children's choir?
The World Children's Choir, with multiple branches globally, is one of the largest. It aims to promote peace and cultural exchange through music.