New Hall School Achieves Royal College of Organists Accreditation
New Hall School in Chelmsford has been formally accredited by the Royal College of Organists (RCO), becoming the first Catholic independent school in the United Kingdom to receive this prestigious recognition.
The RCO accreditation recognises schools that demonstrate the highest standards of organ tuition, performance opportunities, and support for students aspiring to pursue organ studies at advanced levels. This achievement affirms New Hall’s commitment to musical excellence and its exceptional provision for organ and choral education within a thriving Catholic community.
Mr Andrew Fardell, Deputy Principal commented: “We are honoured to be the first Catholic independent school in the country to receive the RCO accreditation. This recognition is a testament to our Music Department’s outstanding work and we take pride in inspiring our students to pursue excellence through faith, service and dedication to learning an instrument that is central to our School’s life.”
Mr Jonathan Turner, Director of Music, added: “Our organ and choral traditions lie at the heart of New Hall School and our historic Tudor Chapel. This endorsement celebrates our ongoing commitment to nurturing young organists, providing them with first-class opportunities to develop and perform within supportive yet inspirational surroundings.”
Founded in 1642 and steeped in a rich choral and liturgical tradition, New Hall’s music provision is centred on its historic Chapel and exceptional Music Department, where students benefit from access to three organs for practice. The School offers organ awards in addition to music scholarships, expert tuition, and regular opportunities for students to perform in concerts, services and assemblies, as well as international music tours.
As an RCO Accredited Institution, New Hall students now have access to an extended range of professional opportunities and national networks, including specialist training, masterclasses, and mentoring schemes through the Royal College of Organists.
