Croydon's Planning Committee has granted approval for a significant expansion of Trinity School, a move that will see the Shirley Road institution transition to a fully co-educational establishment by 2031. This change is linked to the closure of the Old Palace of John Whitgift School, previously an independent girls' school.

The rationale behind the transition is to create and deliver a more diverse, inclusive and safe learning and social environment that benefits the pedagogical outputs and well-being of pupils, staff and visitors to the School in the future. The school plans to gradually introduce girls, starting with Years 6 and 7 in September 2027, aiming for full co-education by 2031.

Architectural rendering of the proposed expansion of Trinity School, showing students and a modern building design.
Architectural rendering of the proposed expansion of Trinity School, showing students and a modern building design.

The approved plans include the construction of a new three-storey sixth form block and a linked three-storey building housing a fitness suite and classrooms. This development is set to accommodate an increase in student numbers from 1,050 to 1,398, alongside a rise in teaching staff from 220 to 293.

As part of the expansion, existing staff accommodation dwellings and an estates building will be demolished. The projected timeline for this demolition is late 2026 to early 2027, coinciding with the construction of a new parking area. The meeting information does not specify where staff will be temporarily housed during this period.

Aerial view and site plan illustrating the proposed expansion of Trinity School, including new buildings and landscaping.
Aerial view and site plan illustrating the proposed expansion of Trinity School, including new buildings and landscaping.

The plans also involve reconfiguring parking areas and enhancing landscaping across the school grounds.

During the committee meeting, concerns were raised by neighbouring residents regarding potential overlooking and loss of privacy from the new buildings. However, planning officers noted that separation distances exceeded policy requirements, and additional tree planting would be implemented to mitigate these concerns.

Discussions also touched upon the school's travel plan, with some members questioning the robustness of its data and targets for reducing car usage. Despite these points, the application was ultimately approved, subject to a Section 106 agreement that will cover employment and training obligations, travel plan monitoring, and public realm delivery. Further details on the planning reports can be found in the Public reports pack and the Agenda frontsheet.

The expansion is a key step in Trinity School's vision to provide a more diverse, inclusive, and safe learning environment.