Education

‘It is to be desired that a Cathedral should be a teaching institution, a lighthouse in the world’
– Spencer Cecil Carpenter, Dean of Exeter (1935 – 1950)

Welcome to Exeter Cathedral, a fascinating a beautiful Cathedral which has, at its heart, a lively religious community. A visit to this ancient building invokes wonder, inspires learning and enriches life.

Over 4,500 pupils visit us every year to explore and enhance their study of subjects such as RE, History, Art and Music. We welcome groups of all sizes and endeavour to provide a high quality service based on the individual requirements of each group.

Making a Visit:

There are a number of visiting options available. To discuss your needs, our charges and to arrange a visit please contact the Visitors’ Department on 01392 285983 or by email to visitors@exeter-cathedral.org.uk.

The available options are:

Programmed Days:
Your group will begin the day with a guided tour around the Cathedral with one of our specially trained education guides. The tour can be a general overview of the life and history of the Cathedral or can focus on certain topics such as signs and symbols, art in faith, architecture or geology. Pupils will complete a craft activity (brass rubbing, clay gargoyle or tile making) providing artistic resources for creating class displays or for taking home as souvenirs. Lunch can be taken on the Cathedral Green or in one of the education rooms. Time can also be scheduled for visits to our shop inside the Cathedral or for independent activities such as sketching or completing worksheets.

Guided Tours:
We also offer guided tours for those groups who wish to spend around an hour exploring the Cathedral. The tour can be a general overview of the life and history of the Cathedral or can focus on certain topics such as signs and symbols, art in faith, architecture or geology.

Activity Booklets:
Activity booklets which enable children to explore the building in groups or individually are available from the Visitors’ Department. They take around 60 minutes to complete.

Self-directed Visits:
This allows you to visit the Cathedral to carry out your own prepared work.

Pilgrimages, School Services and Music Outreach:
If you require any information about making a pilgrimage to the Cathedral, holding a school service here or would like information about the Music Outreach Scheme please contact the Music and Liturgy Department on 01392 285984 or by email to liturgy@exeter-cathedral.org.uk

Staff and Volunteers:
The Education Officer and Head of Visitor Services will arrange your visit supported by a team of dedicated volunteer education guides. The majority of our Education Guides are from teaching backgrounds and have all been specially trained to work in the department.

Developing Education at Exeter Cathedral
In 2010 Exeter Cathedral made a successful first-round application to the Heritage Lottery Fund. Their support has enabled the development of plans for new education opportunities and facilities at the Cathedral (including the improvement of accessibility to the Cathedral Library and Archive). A second-round application was made in summer 2011 with a decision expected in late 2011.

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