Truro – A Worldwide Boarding Base

The boarding houses at Truro School are home to pupils from around the world, welcoming them into a warm and supportive community.

Among them are Isaac and Leana from Hong Kong, who both joined the School as boarders at our UK Boarding School. We caught up with them to learn more about their experiences so far.

Issac:

Isaac chose boarding at Truro School because of its location away from large cities, preferring a slower pace of life. He is currently studying Geology, History and Mathematics, having already completed Chinese A-Level last year. Alongside his academic studies, he is an active member of the School’s Badminton Club and Symphony Orchestra.

One of Isaac’s favourite aspects of his UK Boarding School is the weekend trips, which allow pupils to try new activities and explore Cornwall. His standout memory so far has been visiting the giant swing at Adrenalin Quarry. He has also enjoyed discovering coastal towns such as Padstow and St Ives, appreciating their calm atmosphere and exceptional seafood.

Although he felt homesick during his first week, Isaac quickly settled in, made new friends and adapted to his new environment. He particularly valued the support of Mrs Sanderson in the boarding house, who was especially kind and reassuring during those early days.

Isaac has found Cornwall very different from Hong Kong. He notes the contrast in landscape, with far fewer skyscrapers than the towering cityscape he was used to, something he now realises could feel quite overwhelming at times.

Looking ahead, Isaac plans to attend university in the UK, with his family also planning to relocate. Reflecting on his decision to join Truro School UK Boarding School, he explains:

“There are weekend trips almost every weekend, and we all have single bedrooms, so we don’t have to share. That’s something I think other schools cannot always provide.”

Leana:

Leana chose to study at a UK Boarding School to strengthen her English and selected Truro School because of its beautiful coastal location, with beaches less than 30 minutes away. Boarding students have many opportunities to explore the local area through organised trips, as well as independent travel for Sixth Form students. Leana has particularly enjoyed visiting St Ives, which she describes as “a pretty coastal town with lovely shops. There’s a vintage arcade with a photo booth, and we had so much fun taking photos there.”

Now in the Sixth Form, Leana is studying A-Levels in Psychology, Business, and Geology. Alongside her academic work, she has embraced the school’s wide range of social activities and clubs. She regularly uses the extensive sports facilities, including the gym, and takes part in HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) sessions twice a week at lunchtime, where both students and teachers exercise together. A keen musician, she also takes weekly piano and singing lessons. Previously, she attended cookery club in the school’s Leiths-accredited cookery school, where she developed valuable culinary skills.

When asked about her most memorable experiences at Truro School, Leana shared, “My favourite moment was the Sixth Form Christmas Ball at the Alverton Hotel. It was such a lovely occasion — I enjoyed getting dressed up with my friends, and the food and dancing were fantastic.” In boarding, her fondest memories include Saturday evening film and snack nights. Watching films like Mamma Mia, Scary Movie, and The Greatest Showman and singing along with her friends made those evenings especially enjoyable. She adds, “I love making new friends. By coming to Truro School, I’ve met people from all over the world, which has really improved my confidence and social skills.”

Although Leana initially felt homesick during her first few months, she soon began to feel more settled. She credits the caring boarding staff, especially Mrs Mulready, for their constant support. Her close friends, particularly Martha and Matilda from the Isles of Scilly, have also been a great source of comfort and encouragement. Living in the boarding house has been a positive experience, allowing her to spend time with friends and meet students from different countries. Now fully settled, she says, “I’m happy. I enjoy the independence and the opportunity to learn how to look after myself and develop life skills. Truro School has given me independence, friends from around the world, fun memories, the chance to explore the coast and countryside, and a stronger grasp of the English language.”

Life in Truro has been very different from Hong Kong, but Leana finds the environment much more relaxing. She previously found studying in Hong Kong stressful and highly competitive. In contrast, at Truro School she feels encouraged by her teachers to pursue her passions and enjoys a healthier work–life balance. She explains, “In Hong Kong, I used to wake up at 5.30am. School started at 8am and finished at 3.30pm. It’s busy and loud — everyone is always rushing. I do miss the easy transportation, especially the MTR, though. Trains in Cornwall are less reliable, and I definitely miss the food!”

After finishing at Truro School, Leana plans to remain in the UK for university, where she hopes to continue studying psychology. Her long-term ambition is to become a family therapist. While she is still deciding which university to attend, she is excited to continue the journey she began at Truro School and pursue a career in a field she is truly passionate about.