A Celebration of Light and Hope: AKS Christmas Carol Service 2025

The AKS Christmas Carol Service took place on Tuesday 16th December at St Thomas’ Church in St Annes, bringing the school community together for a moving evening of music, readings and reflection that beautifully told the Christmas story. Set within a reverent and atmospheric setting, the service united students, staff, families, alumni and friends of the school in a celebration of faith, tradition and musical excellence.

The evening opened with a confident and expressive solo performance of Once in Royal David’s City by William C (Year 7), setting a reflective tone for the service. The First Lesson, Genesis 3, was read by Alfie K, Head Student, followed by a choral performance of For the Beauty of the Earth by John Rutter, which highlighted the warmth and clarity of the choir.

The Second Lesson from Genesis 22 was read by Evangeline D, Deputy Head Student, before a powerful solo rendition of O Holy Night by Adolphe Adam. The Third Lesson, Luke 1, was read by Archie M (Year 6), leading into a moving performance of Do You Have Room? by Shawna Edwards, sung by a Year 13 trio.

Nancy H (Year 7) delivered the Fourth Lesson from Luke 2, after which the Chamber Choir performed Away in a Manger to the Normandy tune with sensitivity and poise. The Fifth Lesson, Luke 2, was read by Maxwell K (Year 11) and followed by two contrasting and uplifting choral works, Bring a Torch by Lloyd Larson and Mary Did You Know by Lowry and Greene.

A special moment in the service came with the Sixth Lesson from Matthew 2, read by former member of staff David Smyth. This was followed by a vibrant performance of Carol of the Bells by the Flute Ensemble. The Prep School Chamber Choir then charmed the audience with Winter Carol by Fiona Lander.

The Seventh Lesson, Matthew 2, was read by Sally Yelland, member of staff, before a heartfelt solo performance of Breath of Heaven by Maisy M. A thoughtful reflection was delivered by the Reverend Canon Anne Beverley, providing a moment of stillness and contemplation. The Chamber Choir continued with Scots Nativity by Alan Bullard, followed by a stirring solo of Bring Him Home from Les Misérables by Henry C, and a beautifully blended performance of May It Be by Enya and Roman Ryan.

The Ninth Lesson from John 1 was read by David Harrow, Headmaster, drawing the narrative of the service to a powerful conclusion. The congregation joined together in traditional hymns, including Once in Royal David’s City, In the Bleak Midwinter, Hark the Herald Angels Sing and O Come, All Ye Faithful.

The evening concluded with a joyful and inclusive final performance by the choir of At This Table by Idina Menzel, leaving the audience with a strong sense of togetherness and celebration.

We were also delighted to live stream the performance on the night, allowing audiences near and far to share in the occasion. Within just 12 hours of the service, 3,800 viewers from across the world had enjoyed the concert via the live stream, making it a truly global celebration of the season.

Our sincere thanks go to St Thomas’ Church and Reverend Canon Michael Manley for their warm welcome and support, to the Music Department for their exceptional preparation, musicianship and dedication in bringing the service to life, and to all the performers, readers and staff whose contributions made the evening so memorable.