Exeter College's Festival of Carols Lights Up the Cathedral

Exeter College proudly hosted its annual Festival of Carols on Thursday evening, uniting students, parents, and the broader Exeter community in a celebration of the festive season and a reflective conclusion to the year. The event took place in the magnificent setting of Exeter Cathedral. 

The service was led by Reverend Matt Clayton, Leader of Unlimited Church and UNLTD Coffee, and Reverend Canon Chris Palmer, Canon Treasurer at Exeter Cathedral. 

The evening began with welcome speeches from Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy CBE and Reverend Canon Chris Palmer. Students then marked the opening with a candlelit procession down the nave, singing ‘Betelehemu’, a Nigerian Christmas carol. 

John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College, expressed his admiration, saying: “I am continually amazed by the incredible talent of our students— whether they’ve sung, performed, played in the orchestra, or delivered a heartfelt reading. This year’s display of talent was truly exceptional. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the students and staff who made this event such a resounding success. 

“The Festival of Carols offers a wonderful opportunity to mark the start of the festive season. It also creates a magical moment for us to thank our community whose partnership and support are vital to the College’s success.”   

A full cathedral audience was captivated by performances from the College’s diverse array of musical groups, including the Exeter College Student Choir, Exeter College Orchestra, Performing Arts Cathedral Choir, Exeter College Big Band, The HILL Choir, and The Exeter College Festival Ensemble. 

Guests were treated to well-loved classics such as ‘It Came Upon the Midnight Clear’, ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, and ‘The First Nowell’. 

Several learners also did readings amongst many other student performances, including Lucy Beane, from Ide. Lucy is studying A Levels in Sociology, Politics and Early Modern History. Speaking about why she auditioned to read at the festival, she said; 

“The historic element of being in the cathedral setting knowing that for hundreds and hundreds of years people have performed and read these verses is magical, and it's quite remarkable to say that you've done something like that. It’s nice to do something festive, do something a bit Christmassy and it's important to remember the true meaning of Christmas in this busy world that we all live in.” 

Rose Gordon Clark, from Crediton, also performed a reading. Rose is studying A Levels in Drama, English Literature, Sociology and Geography and hopes to pursue her love of Drama when she finishes at college. She said; 

“It's wonderful to feel part of the community.  It's so much fun, and you get to meet all these amazing people.” 

This charitable event, while free to attend, raises funds for a different nominated charity each year. This time Exeter College chose to support Pets As Therapy (PAT). Pets As Therapy is a national charity that enhances the health and wellbeing of thousands of people in communities across the UK. They strive to ensure that everyone, no matter their circumstances, has access to the companionship of an animal. The College is very lucky to work regularly with Pets as Therapy to provide support to students. 

Special thanks go to Mia Tang for the beautiful artwork used for the Festival of Carols Programme. Mia is studying the Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma in Creative Practice; Art, Design and Communication. 

This year's Festival of Carols was kindly sponsored by Peninsula Project Consulting and Pollards Print.