David Ellis CO58 Returns after 68 Years

It was a pleasure to welcome Old Truronian David Ellis back to Truro School recently after 68 years. David boarded between 1951-58 from the Isles of Scilly. David told us that he particularly enjoyed music, theatre, and performing in school productions. He spoke warmly of his years at the school, recalling his teachers and friends and describing his time here as a very positive experience.

Whilst at School, David served as a school prefect, and also excelled in cricket – being named as part of the U15 team in 1955, before being awarded team colours for cricket in 1958 (scroll down to see the 1958 cricket team photo). He also became House Chess Captain and was elected secretary of the school chess team in 1956.

David told us he kept in touch with several of the boys from Scilly who also attended the school and returned to the islands for a memorable reunion with his old friends a few years ago.

After leaving Truro School, David taught English and History for around 20 years. His life then took an exciting new direction after meeting his wife, prompting a move to Australia, where he has now lived for more than 50 years. He continued his teaching career there while raising his family, which includes his son, John, and daughter, Tanya.

Alongside his work in education, David has become a well-known figure in the Australian chess community. Based in Western Australia, he is recognised as a chess player, writer, and organiser. He authors a popular weekly chess column for The West Australian newspaper, helping to promote the game to readers across the state. His contribution to chess has also been recognised through the David Ellis Cup, an annual FIDE-rated tournament organised by the Chess Association of Western Australia in his honour.

It was lovely to welcome David and his family back to Truro School and to hear about the journey his life has taken since leaving Cornwall.