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Learning played a major role in the lives of the Benedictine
monks who founded this cathedral over 900 years ago. Today this tradition
continues through a wide range of activities and relationships as the
Cathedral responds to the needs of the new millennium.
Schools
Our programme for schools aims to support teachers in the delivery of
various curricula, as well as giving pupils a broader 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 once back in school. We have web pages designed specifically
for teachers and pupils.
We are currently seeking a new Schools
Officer.
Community
Our community based learning programme encourages
all learners irrespective of age, ability or background to participate
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 regular pre-school
music group, an active Sunday School
and sessions for young archaeologists to programmes which enhance the
skills and employability of young people. An innovative partnership with
Norwich City College enables youngsters to gain catering experience through
working in the Refectory. Other youngsters acquire tourism skills through
time spent as a guide in a scheme we run with the Millennium Volunteers
whilst some also learn traditional building skills through work experience
with the Cathedral Works team.
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 20,000 books and 30 series of periodicals and the
historic Dean and 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 wondrous architecture of this building
and the artistry and 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
regularly hosts exhibitions and
commissions new art , for example a new misericord featuring Norwich City
Football Club.
Music
Music has always formed an integral part of Cathedral worship and today
the Cathedral plays a key role in the musical life of the city and county.
The Cathedral hosts regular pre-school music
classes and an eclectic mix of concerts
ranging from world-leading artists to local schools and amateur choirs.
We are currently working on an innovative new music outreach programme
for the wider community and also play a proactive educational role as
regards members of the Cathedral choir.
The Cathedral helps pay the school fees of boy
choristers recruited from the Norwich School and works intensively
with these youngsters to develop both their musical talents and other
life skills like concentration and multi-tasking. We have also recently
set up a ground-breaking scheme to recruit and train young adult choristers
at an early stage in their singing careers. We also regularly welcome
visiting choirs to sing services.
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 created close to the site of the original monastic equivalent
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 in quiet reflection and prayer or
on tours and workshops. Two of the Volunteers have written a book about
the new garden explaining the history of herb gardens generally, why we
planted these particular plants in Norwich and their various uses. The
Cathedral Library also stocks a range of material on herbs and gardens.
The garden is also a haven for wildlife and plays host to an annual bug
hunt.
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