Last week, Manchester Cathedral came alive with the joyful sounds of singing, dancing, and worship as hundreds of children gathered for their Year 6 Leavers’ Services - a cherished annual tradition in our diocese.
Organised by the Diocesan Education Department, eight services were held over four days, welcoming nearly 5,000 pupils, teachers, and governors from 121 Church of England primary schools across the diocese. The celebrations were filled with energy and enthusiasm as children marked the end of their primary school journey and looked ahead to the next chapter.
Paper chains adorned with prayers written by each pupil decorated the Cathedral, creating a vibrant and meaningful backdrop. The children joined in uplifting songs led by iSingPOP, while Year 7 students offered words of advice and encouragement to help ease the transition to secondary school.
The services are a memorable way for children to mark the end of their time in primary school, and serve as a reminder and reassurance that God leads them on their path to secondary school.
Bishop Mark Davies, Chair of the Diocesan Board of Education, joined the celebrations and, to the delight of many, proved to be an excellent flag waver! As he reflected on the week, Bishop Mark shared:
“The Diocese of Manchester Y6 Leavers’ Services came to a close yesterday – 5,000 shared in these wonderful services. Thanks to everyone who attended, to Manchester Cathedral, to Emma at iSingPOP, and to our awesome Education Team for their inspirational work.
“Most especially I want to thank the Y6 leavers – they were such a blessing and showed us how to enter into the exuberant joy of song and dance, as well as how to hold a deep, prayerful silence and how to encounter the Lord Jesus in both. Thank you. Praying for them all at this time.”
Thank you to everyone who helped make these services such a meaningful and memorable experience for our Year 6 pupils. As these young people prepare to move on to secondary school, we pray they carry with them the joy, faith, and confidence they shared with us last week.
