Chetham's School of Music

Chetham's School of Music, founded in 1969 (with roots in the Chetham's Hospital School established in 1653), is one of the world's leading specialist music schools and the largest full-time music school in the UK. Located in the heart of Manchester's historic Cathedral Quarter, Chetham's educates approximately 290 full-time students aged 8 to 18, all of whom are selected on the basis of outstanding musical talent and potential. Students study the full GCSE and A-Level curriculum alongside an intensive music training programme, making Chetham's unique in the UK's educational landscape. The school is funded partly by the UK government's Music and Dance Scheme (MDS), enabling access regardless of financial background. Chetham's is accredited by the Independent Schools Council (ISC) and inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The school has produced some of Britain's most distinguished performing musicians, including conductors, soloists, and chamber musicians who perform at the highest international level. Students come from across the UK and internationally, representing over 20 nationalities. The school's extraordinary combination of elite musical training and rigorous academic education sets it apart.