Governors Report

An example of this change is to hold Speech Day in the Hall for Cornwall. This is a departure from the historic norm. As most people will know, the Hall for Cornwall has been recently refurbished and, as such, has an increased capacity.

The holding of Speech Day within the Hall shows Truro School to be at the heart of the community and our city, and to be in a position to show off our achievements. I do not say this with an ideology of selectivity or elitism, but with one of inclusivity. The School firmly believes in providing opportunities for all and is exceptionally proud of the level of involvement that we have in our city and our county.

Initial feedback identifies that having Speech Day within the centre of our community was a success. The School will take feedback from the initiative and all views are welcome.

A further initiative developed has been that of the Summer Festival. The re-landscaping of the Terrace in front of the school and the development of this into a performance area allowed (along with excellent summer weather) some wonderful performances of drama and music of all genres. These events showcased the talent, ability and courage of our students. The Summer Festival is certainly an aspect of School life which will be built upon and amplified in years to come.

All governors work entirely voluntarily for the good of the School, and I commend their commitment and dedication to ensure the best environment for the education of all children. We have recently had a very successful recruitment process for new governors, and I am pleased to see the desire of community members to oversee and help provide strategic direction for the School.

Truro School is a special place. It has an important role in the whole community, and I strongly feel that it is integral, and plays a vital part, in the whole education system in Cornwall.

A large part of making Truro School a special place is our Methodist ethos and the engagement of our Chaplain, Aubin de Gruchy. Aubin, as most will know, is sadly leaving us this year after 21 years in post. As a governing body, our ethos and direction is core and the Christian teaching and pastoral care that he has provided through the School has been so important to us all here. We have all benefited at some point from the Rev’s care and advice.

RICHARD THOMAS CHAIR OF GOVERNORS

I would, in this review, also like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow governors for their part in the structure of the School. They are not involved in the operational duties, but play a vital role in the leading of the process of setting the strategy of the School and delivering governance. This includes the compliance with educational policy and standards, the long-term development of the School’s buildings and facilities and maintaining a sound financial footing for a sustainable business.

So, to you all, on behalf of myself and the whole Governing Body, thank you. There are exciting, if challenging, times ahead, and as a school we will look to deliver our aims and maintain our values in the community that is Truro School.

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