Councillors resolve to grant Trinity School planning application

We are delighted to announce that local councillors have resolved to grant planning consent for the proposals to expand the facilities at Trinity, which will support the extension of our co-education provision from 2027. 

At a meeting held last night (30 April 2026), Croydon Council’s Planning Committee gave their endorsement to the planning application, subject to the completion of a legal agreement. Their decision comes one year after we announced plans to become fully co-educational from September 2027. 

These plans sought permission for the “erection of new sixth form block and fitness suite/classroom block, demolition of staff accommodation, demolition and replacement of estates building, alterations to entrance layout including enhanced drop-off and pick-up area, reconfiguration of staff and visitor car parking areas with associated landscaping.” 

Proposed floor plans showed ten new high-quality classrooms, a Sixth Form building with café and study space, and a Fitness Suite with sports reception and changing facilities. Several landscaped outdoor spaces are proposed as part of the plans. 

“We are very pleased to receive the green light on the works to support the gradual expansion of the school over the next five years,” said Alasdair Kennedy, Headmaster.

“While it has only been one year since we announced our plans to become fully co-educational, the sense of momentum within the school is growing. It has been wonderful to start meeting families with daughters, as well as sons, interested in applying for 2027 and beyond.  

“These new facilities will play an important role in supporting that next chapter and will benefit both current and future students across the whole school community.  While getting the physical environment right is important, this is just part of evolving the culture of the school such that boys and girls of all ages can truly thrive here.  Our work on this with staff and students continues.

“We also really value being part of the local Shirley community, and we will continue to work with our neighbours as we plan works over the next two years. ” 

The £40 million expansion project is being funded by the John Whitgift Foundation and will be delivered without any financial contribution from parents.  

CEO of John Whitgift Foundation, Roisha Hughes, said: “We are delighted that these ambitious but practical plans have been endorsed by the Planning Committee. This marks another significant milestone for Trinity School and the Foundation.  

“Expanding Trinity and enhancing the environment in which our students learn, grow and socialise, will enable us to meet the needs of our current students and those joining us in the years ahead, and the impact will be felt for generations to come.”  

Subject to the completion of the legal agreement, the programme of work at Trinity School Croydon is due to begin later this year. 

If you are interested in Trinity for your son or daughter, please register your interest here. We have some upcoming events for those looking at entry in 2027 or beyond, check out our Open Events.

More information about the transition to full co-education, including FAQs, can be found here.