Princess Anne in Cornwall: Camborne School of Mines, Penryn

Students, staff, and representatives from the Cornish community welcomed Her Royal Highness on Wednesday, October 4. 

During her visit to Camborne School of Mines, which is now based on the Tremough Campus in Penryn, the Princess Royal learnt more about its vital role in developing the UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy, and the global sustainable mining.

She then visited the mining school’s laboratories, the Deep Digital Cornwall exploration suite, and the CSM museum, as well as meeting delegations of current students and staff.

After the tour, the Princess Royal was invited to unveil a special plaque to officially commemorate the opening of the Camborne School of Mines’ new degree apprenticeship programme.

The visit comes as Camborne School of Mines celebrates the 135th anniversary of its inception and 30th anniversary of being located at the University of Exeter, Cornwall.

Professor Lisa Roberts, vice chancellor of the University of Exeter, which the School of Mines is now part of, said: “We are deeply honoured and absolutely delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Royal, to the Camborne School of Mines.

“As well as celebrating the school’s rich and proud history, we were able to showcase the exciting future CSM has at the forefront of sustainable mining and the UK’s critical minerals strategy. We know that mining is integral not just to our modern society, but also to build a greener future for us all.”

As well as her visit to Camborne School of Mines, HRH also opened a new packing centre at St. Ewe Free Range Eggs (Image: St. Ewe Free Range Eggs)During the visit, The Princess Royal was given a unique view of Cornwall’s special mining heritage and future, through a special interactive digital presentation that explores the county’s underground resources and shows up-to-date data on environmental factors in different locations.

Professor Pat Foster, Head of Camborne School of Mines and who helped lead the special visit said: “We are extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to welcome The Princess Royal to the Camborne School of Mines.

“CSM is renowned across the global mining industry and leads the way in pioneering new techniques in sustainable mining practices and sourcing critical minerals required for the transition to net zero. We were honoured to be able to showcase just some of the incredible work being conducted by our staff and students, as well as highlight to integral role CSM has in the Cornish community.”

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Since being formed in 1888, Camborne School of Mines has developed an enviable reputation for producing pioneering research, focusing on the key challenges of resource sustainability, environmental production and mine health and safety.

It is recognised as having a global impact on the mining and minerals industry, by training graduates who are now leading the sector in new and exciting ways. It has also built close relationships with local, national and international businesses, helping to promote advances in sustainable mining, geological exploration and renewable energy.