Sustainability at Truro School

Putting Sustainability at the Heart of Truro School

At Truro School in Cornwall, sustainability is embedded in our policy, teaching, campus operations and long-term strategy. We are committed to making considered, measurable and effective environmental improvements as part of our journey towards Net Zero Carbon.

Environmental responsibility is not a standalone initiative — it is a whole-school ethos that shapes decision-making, infrastructure investment, and student engagement.

Recognised Environmental Excellence

This year, Truro School was awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag with Distinction, following the successful completion of the internationally recognised 7-step programme and the creation of a pupil-led Eco Code.

We also achieved Plastic Free Schools Status through Surfers Against Sewage, demonstrating our proactive commitment to reducing single-use plastics across campus.

These accreditations recognise our sustained, whole-school approach to environmental responsibility — across both operations and education.

Student-Led Sustainability Initiatives

Our dedicated Eco-Committee meets weekly to lead environmental initiatives and promote sustainable practices throughout the school community. Recent projects include:

  • Organising participation in the Big Battery Hunt

  • Launching a new Eco Club (September 2024)

  • Developing practical sustainability solutions such as pinecone firelighters

  • Supporting biodiversity and garden planning projects

  • Promoting waste reduction and wildlife enrichment across campus

By empowering students to take ownership of environmental initiatives, we are nurturing the next generation of environmentally conscious leaders.

Sustainable Infrastructure & Net Zero Strategy

Truro School continues to invest in sustainable infrastructure to support our long-term Net Zero Carbon ambitions.

Renewable Energy & Photovoltaic Panels

We have installed advanced photovoltaic (PV) solar panels across key buildings, including:

  • 528 PV panels on the Sir Ben Ainslie Sports Centre roof

  • 86 PV panels on the Fencing Centre roof

Together, these systems generate 275 kWp of renewable energy, significantly reducing our carbon footprint while improving energy efficiency.

In addition, the introduction of electric minibuses supports cleaner transport solutions across our campuses.

Sustainable Building Design – The New Music Centre

Sustainability is central to the design and construction of our new state-of-the-art Music Centre, currently in development.

The building is BREEAM certified (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and designed to achieve Net Zero Carbon in operation through:

  • Solar panel integration

  • High-performance insulation

  • Triple-glazed windows

  • Advanced soundproofing and energy-efficient systems

Our estate is continually monitored and improved to ensure buildings operate as efficiently and sustainably as possible.

Environmental Education & Whole-School Commitment

Beyond infrastructure, Truro School works to embed environmental excellence into education and daily life. Through strategic planning and community engagement, we aim to be an institution where every pupil and staff member contributes to meaningful environmental change.

By combining sustainable development, renewable energy investment, and student-led environmental action, Truro School is proud to be one of Cornwall’s leading independent schools in environmental responsibility.

- Rotary Club of Truro Boscawen -

I wish to say a massive thank you for the help and support we were given. Everyone looked after us splendidly and without a doubt a good time was had by all. The facilities were excellent and the evening a great success, please take a deal of the credit for that outcome.

David Roberts - RC Truro Boscawen
- Singing Teachers Workshop -

Thank you so much for your hospitality in providing such excellent facilities for the AOTOS Access Day. We were very happy with the arrangements. The caretakers and catering staff were so approachable and willing to help.

Annabella Waite MBE - AOTOS
- Mayor Making -

I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you. Everything went smoothly and we were very appreciative of you accommodating some of the last minute requests. You were on hand for the entire evening and many people commented on how wonderful the setting and food was.

Rachel Dartnell - Truro City Council
- Cornwall Business Fair -

CCC were delighted with the SBA Sport’s Centre for its Business Fair 2018 and received really positive feedback from attendees. Truro School’s team were very efficient and the space was transformed into a professional business fair.

Laura Barnes - Cornwall Chamber of Commerce