Schools
Our popular programme for schools aims to support teachers in the delivery of the National Curriculum, as well as giving students and pupils a broad experience of the spiritual, cultural and artistic life of the Cathedral. This lively programme is supported by a range of written materials and we are happy to deliver follow-up lessons in schools afterwards. We have web pages designed specifically for teachers, pupils and language schools. Our programme appeals to both staff and pupils; have a look at what they say about their time in the Cathedral.
Community
Our community learning programme encourages all learners irrespective of faith, age, ability or background to take part in a variety of events and activities both within the Cathedral and outside in the community.
Children and young people
The Cathedral provides opportunities to suit different ages and interests. These range from running a preschool music group and an active Sunday School to programmes which enhance the skills and employability of young people. An innovative partnership with Norwich City College enables young people to gain catering experience through working in the Refectory.
Library
Our Library not only houses a number of diverse collections but also provides a superb place to study. The modern theological collection has some 30,000 books and thirty periodicals and the historic Dean & Chapter Library contains books, some even pre-Reformation, on theology, philosophy, science, history, poetry, travel, and many other subjects. The Library staff also organize lectures and exhibitions and provide resources to support the Diocesan Training Team.
Art and architecture
The Cathedral has long been a cultural centre for art and architecture. The architecture of this Norman building and the beauty of its many treasures continue to inspire visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The tradition of celebrating the glory of God through stone, wood, glass and painting endures and the Broderers' Guild continue to combine beauty and symbolism in creating new vestments. The Cathedral hosts exhibitions and commissions new art, for example a new misericord featuring Norwich City Football Club.
Music
Music has always been an important part of our worship and today the Cathedral plays a key role in the musical life of the city and county. The Cathedral hosts preschool music classes and an eclectic mix of concerts ranging from world-leading artists to local schools and amateur choirs. We recently launched an innovative music outreach programme to develop singing in the wider community and also take very seriously our educational role as regards all who sing in the various Cathedral choirs. We also run a unique scheme to recruit and train young adult singers at an early stage in their singing careers and welcome visiting choirs from all over the world.
The natural world
The Benedictine monks found inspiration in the beauty of nature and had extensive knowledge of plants and their uses. In 2002 a new Herb Garden was planted near the site of the original monastic equivalent; it was created with help from local unemployed youngsters who acquired new skills through the project. The garden is maintained by dedicated volunteers. Today that inspiration and knowledge is shared with adults and young people who come and spend time in the garden either alone in quiet reflection and prayer or in group tours and workshops. Two of the volunteers have written a book about this garden, its plants and their uses and the history of herb gardens generally. The garden is also a haven for wildlife and plays host to an annual bug hunt.