My experience as a coronation choirboy

Key stage

KS2

Subject

History

Collection

Coronations

Format

PDF (205kb)

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James Wilkinson, former chorister for Westminster Abbey

Overview

Former Westminster Abbey choirboy James Wilkinson shares his first-hand experience of singing at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation on 2nd June 1953 when he was 12 years old. Pitched at KS2 pupils, James Wilkinson offers unprecedented insight into a young teenager’s memories of living through a coronation. This opinion piece can be used to spark discussion in the classroom about public reaction and personal experience when a significant event takes place.

Learning objectives

  • To read a personal account of being a choirboy at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation