Celebrating 145 Years of Truro School

Our Past: A Proud Foundation

Truro School began its journey on January 20, 1880, as Truro Wesleyan Middle Class College, welcoming 35 boys into a chapel schoolroom in the heart of the city. By 1881, the school’s rapid growth led to the purchase of its current site, which opened the following year. In 1931, it adopted the name Truro School, reflecting its evolving character, and in 1934, it gained public school status by joining the Head Masters’ Conference (HMC). The move toward independence was completed in 1977, coinciding with the end of the Direct Grant Scheme.

The first steps toward co-education began in 1976 with girls joining the Sixth Form, and in 1990, the school became fully co-educational.

Significant milestones have included the Prep School opening in 1936 and major developments such as the sports hall and technology block (1977), an indoor swimming pool (1996), the Burrell Theatre (2002), the Sir Ben Ainslie Sports Centre (2013), and the Cookery School (2018).

Our Present: Excellence and Innovation

Today, we are proud to be a school committed to educational innovation and holistic excellence, and to empowering personal development, firmly rooted in our Methodist foundation and strong Cornish heritage. Our motto, Esse Quam Videri – “to be rather than seem to be” – drives a values-based approach to education that prioritises academic ambition, co-curricular engagement, and personal growth.

Our academic results are consistently region leading, with value-added at both GCSE and A Level in 2024 being in the top 10% nationally. Our bespoke curriculum frameworks, such as the Diploma and MiYPortfolio, encourage personalised educational journeys for every pupil and student. Beyond academics, our nationally award-winning co-curricular program ensures every child has the opportunity to explore their interests and develop lifelong skills. All of this is underpinned by a firm and well-resourced commitment to expert pastoral care.

Our Future: A Legacy of Ambition

As we celebrate our 145th year, we remain committed to thoughtful evolution and development. Among our upcoming projects is a new Truro School Music Centre linked to a refurbished assembly, events, and examination hall, set to open in 2026. This transformative facility will enrich both our school and the broader community we are proud to be part of, enhancing musical and cultural opportunities across Cornwall. The project will also pave the way for improved wider facilities to support pupil wellbeing and inclusion.

We thank our incredible community – of pupils, parents, and staff, past and present – whose dedication and contribution have shaped and defined our shared journey. We look forward with excitement and ambition to a successful future in which we continue to deliver exceptional education and experiences that prepare and empower children for their futures in an ever-changing world. Thank you for your interest in our journey.