There is an apocryphal tale that, when asked to list the uses of the School chapel, a former Head Master replied: “assemblies, carol services, coronations, etc.” The historic relationship between Westminster School and its remarkable neighbour, Westminster Abbey, allows the school community to see the Abbey as its very special chapel.
All pupils attend services there twice a week, and across the year, the Abbey also hosts concerts and special services, giving pupils the opportunity to speak and perform in this inspiring and beautiful setting. Pupils, staff, and invited external speakers often take to the pulpit to share reflections on their experiences, interests, and the issues that matter most to them. These thoughtful addresses punctuate the beginning and end of each week, prompting open discussion in house meetings and classrooms.
The Abbey also houses some of the School’s history: information covering the earliest recorded period of our history can be found in the Westminster Abbey Muniment Room and Library.
The Dean
As a further link between the two institutions, the Dean of Westminster Abbey is an ex officio member of the School’s Governing Body.
The Dean regularly attends the School’s weekly services in the Abbey and performs a key role in our annual tradition of the Pancake Greaze, granting the community a day’s holiday in November.
The Chaplain and the Chapel
Due to our deep roots in the Church of England, the Chaplain has a key role in the School’s pastoral system. Most notably our Chaplain, Fr Dan Warnke hosts the popular Chaplain’s Breakfast each week, as well as mentoring and preparing any pupils wishing to be confirmed before their confirmation by the Bishop of London in the Abbey.
The School’s Chapel is nestled in Purcell’s and yet, much like its ethos of welcome, remains available and open to the entire school community. Led by Fr Dan, the Chaplaincy aims to model kindness and inclusivity, hospitality and integrity, dignity and love. Whilst opportunities for the spiritual and moral development of pupils are the responsibility of all staff in all areas of school life, more broadly, the promotion of the spiritual wellbeing of all staff and pupils is nurtured through the daily life of the Chaplaincy.
