GENERAL INFORMATION
News for the 2026 Course
For 2026 we are thrilled to announce that our course will return to Wells Cathedral Specialist Music School, Somerset, surrounded by beautiful English countryside in the historic City of Wells, the smallest city in England, and only 30 minutes from Bristol International Airport.
The course was previously held here for it’s first 7 years, and we are delighted to hold our course here once again.
Wells Cathedral is one of the oldest schools in the world, founded in AD 909, and the school is comprised of historic and beautiful buildings, alongside a few more contemporary ones, including the magnificent state-of-the-art Cedars Concert Hall, with it’s superb acoustics, where our Student Gala Concert will take place on 26th July.
Some of our practise facilities available are situated on the famous Vicar’s Close, one of Europe’s oldest residential streets, now used by the school and cathedral.
Our Day Off, 18th July
Our day-off trip on 18th July will be a visit to Wookey Hole, one of the Somerset’s most iconic attractions, offering an unbeatable day out filled with history, adventure and magic!
Nestled in the heart of the Mendip Hills, this legendary destination has captivated visitors with its awe-inspiring caves, fascinating legends and exciting activities.
Wookey Hole caves is only 15 – minutes journey by coach from Wells.
Here is a link for more information -
https://www.wookey.co.uk/discover-wookey-hole
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ACCOMMODATION
Our students will be accommodated in comfortable and beautiful Georgian houses, set in the grounds of the school. Bedrooms are for 2-4 people, with shared toilet and shower facilities.
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Houses are equipped with laundry facilities, small kitchens, lounges, TV, WiFi.
The quiet location of our accommodations gives a perfect opportunity to relax in between lessons and rehearsals and a chance to socialise with other students on the course.
If you would like to accompany your child on the course, you can stay in one of the many fine bed and breakfasts or hotels in Wells, as well as AirBnb options.
The county of Somerset is a beautiful area to explore, and not far from Devon and Cornwall.
Please ask if you need guidance.
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The boarding houses will be supervised by experienced DBS checked assistants who will look after our students.​
RECREATION TIME
Aside from the busy music schedule, there are a wide range of activities to take part in during your free time, including swimming pool, football pitch and wonderful private grounds to explore, as well as the comfortable lounge areas to chill out in the boarding houses. Students will be allowed in small groups to visit the shops and cafes of Wells High Street, 2 minutes walk from the school.
DINING
The entire course gathers three times a day in the dining hall. We have excellent chefs and there is a choice of hot/cold meals and a salad bar, served buffet style. There are also vegetarian options available. Specific dietary requirements can also be accommodated.
INSURANCE
Encore Course fees do not include medical, travel or musical instrument insurance and we strongly recommend our students to purchase suitable insurances that cover them during their trip.
TIMETABLE
You will be given your individual timetable with clear timing of all your lessons. The lessons will start on the morning of Tuesday, 14th July 2026.
ARRIVAL
VIA PLANE
We recommend via Bristol International Airport, only 30 minutes by taxi from Wells.
After arrival, you can be met by an Encore representative and brought to the school.
VIA TRAIN
The nearest train station is Castle Cary, which is 25 minutes by taxi to the school and 2 hours 45 minutes from Central London.
VIA CAR
Wells Cathedral School
The Liberty, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2ST
VISA INFORMATION
For non-UK students, please check the visa regulations with your embassy.