Held on the last day of term before the Easter break, pupils, parents and staff celebrated the school’s 135th anniversary with music, readings, prayers and speeches. As an old girl Cheryl Knight, who will be performing her one woman show at the Hall for Cornwall on 21 July, gave a highly entertaining address in which she talked about her own memories of Truro High and particularly speech and drama tutor Maggie Hutton who had inspired her choice of career.
“I will always be eternally grateful to Maggie who helped me discover my passion for theatre,” said Cheryl who has performed in West End musicals, plays and TV adverts. “I learnt some life-changing lessons as a pupil – including the importance of friendship and the fact that life is an incredible adventure. My advice is say yes to the good opportunities that come your way – you’ll be amazed by what happens.”
Current students displayed their own talents during the service. Felicity Hood, 12, from Truro performed Amazing Grace on the bagpipes, Head Girl Laura Manhire, 18, from Newquay, Deputy Head Girl Ellen Rodda, 18, from Hayle, and sixth former Holly Hick, 17, from Falmouth, did readings and String Trio Zoe Hastings, 16, from Truro, Abigail Leigh, 15, from Truro and Molly Leigh, 15, from St Austell gave a beautiful rendition of The Rose. The school’s Prep, Senior and Chamber choirs also sang during the event.
“Founder’s Day was a wonderful way to mark the end of term,” said Headmaster Dr Glenn Moodie. “Truro High has enjoyed a long tradition of excellence since first being established by Archbishop Benson in 1880 and continues to go from strength to strength. Like Cheryl, thousands of girls have gone on to enjoy a wide range of exciting careers after completing their school years with us and it’s always a joy to welcome them back and find out what they’ve been doing.”