Young people are a vital and very visible part of the life of St Mary's. They may be spotted singing in the choir, serving at the Altar or simply sitting in services. Their active and integral participation is also sought and enjoyed by those in the congregation who look after other aspects of Cathedral life such as Faith + Growth, Outreach, and Ministry to Visitors. On a wider front, the gifts and strengths of the young are well utilised and well, recognised at special events and activities - project days, dramatic presentations, exhibitions, and fund-raising. They also organise and participate in their own special events and activities - project days, dramatic presentations, exhibitions, and fund-raising. In particular, the Youth Education Group aims to cater, care and offer support for the specific spiritual and other needs of our young people.

• The Crèche in the secure confines of the Chapter House, looks after our very youngest members, friends and visitors in the 0-3 age slot. A warm weekly welcome from a rostered band of volunteers is always there (high days and holidays included!) during the 10.30 a.m. Cathedral Eucharist for parents wishing to drop off their little ones (or staying if they prefer). The recently launched St Mary's Mothers' and Toddlers' Group runs on Friday mornings from 9.30 to 11.30 a.m. in either the Chapter House or the Walpole Hall.

• The Robin Club with its venue in the Walpole Hall offers a lively programme of activities for the 3 to 5s during the 10.30 a.m. service in school term time. As with other youth groups which meet at that time, the children usually join the rest of the congregation before Communion and go with their families to the Alter.

• The Toddler Group meets every Friday morning from 9.30 - 11.30 in the Walpole Hall, Chester Street. It is a place where local (for most part) mothers, nannies and carers can meet up for coffee and where their children have the much needed opportunity to race around on bikes, be creative with playdough and crayons and enjoy a sing-song. Everyone who comes appreciates the chance to make friends, as living in the West End can be quite a lonely experience for both carers and children, especially when quite a few come from abroad. The group is run by Jane Tupper and Alison Howard, but we are very keen to involve other members of the congregation.

• Sunday Groups for the 5 to 10s meet in the Walpole Hall during the 10.30 a.m. service for worship and activities geared to individual age groups. The keywords here are fun, music, games, and friendship! Click here to find out more!

• The Junior Youth Group (ages 10 or so upwards) get together in the glass-fronted section of Walpole Hall each Sunday as above. Lively discussion centred on the bible is always on the menu, with hot chocolate and toast!

• The Senior Youth Group for the older teenagers, led by Cathedral clergy, normally meets out with the 10.30 a.m. Sunday service for regular lunchtime gatherings and other activities.

In addition, classes are held regularly for anyone who wishes to be confirmed, or for young children to be admitted to Communion. Further information for young people, parents and anyone wishing to participate in any way with us, for example by becoming a leader or helper (training available!) may be obtained in the first instance by contacting the Cathedral Office.

The Walpole Hall, the northmost of the buildings adjoining the Cathedral, houses the Sunday Groups, Robins and Junior Youth Groups on Sundays and is the congregational meeting place where coffee is served after the Sunday Eucharist. It is also used for congregational functions and other informal events. Please Contact the Cathedral Office for more details and bookings.