Scott Tacchi CO07

Scott attended Truro School from 2000-2005. He works as a Lighthouse Technician for Trinity House which is a charity that supports seafarers and the maritime community. Scott has recently been published in national news for his stunning photographs from the lighthouses he works on.

Did you enjoy your time at Truro School?

I did yes. I found the school always had an amazing atmosphere and there was always so much going on. I wasn’t the best academically but there was always fantastic support which really helped me to gain the fundamental knowledge and skills. Also, the school dinners were amazing!

Do you have any special or specific memories of your time at Truro school?

For me, it was the amount of amazing opportunities the school has to offer. From the huge range of sports/activities to the various field trips available which helped to create fantastic memories that I still think about now. One of my favourite memories is a skiing trip to Les Menuires in France.

Did you have any specific career dreams or aspirations? Or when did you first decide upon a particular path?

It took me quite some time to realise what I wanted to do career wise. I was 20 years old when I discovered an interest in engineering. It wasn’t until I was at the age of 32 and 2 apprenticeships later that I eventually got to the position I am in now.

What did you do immediately after leaving Truro School?

After my GCSE’s I went straight on to Truro College where I studied Outdoor Education which was great fun. From there I worked in various jobs in Cornwall until I decided at the age of 20, that I wanted to go back to college to continue studying.

Where do you live now?

I still live locally in Cornwall where I have recently bought my first house.

Where do you work now and where is your employment based?

Now I work for Trinity House which is a charity that supports seafarers and the maritime community. It also has a statutory duty as the General Lighthouse Authority for England, Wales, the Channel Islands and Gibraltar. The offices are based at Lands End but I work all over the country which means lots of time away from home. There are also offices in Harwich, Swansea and the corporate HQ is in Tower Hill, London.

What does your current role entail?

My role is a Lighthouse Technician. I’m part of a small team that maintains 20 Lighthouses in Devon, Cornwall, Lundy Island, the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Islands.

I primarily carry out Electrical and Mechanical work, however, its a role that requires you to be a jack of all trades. From building work, to plumbing and from refuelling a helicopter to completing Dangerous Goods by Air documentation. It’s a very varied role which is always exciting and every day is different.

Is there anything that you are especially proud of relating to your life or career?

Going back to being an apprentice for the second time at the age of 27 wasn’t the easiest of decisions. I knew I had to take the risk if I wanted to move forward with my career. I am so glad and proud of myself that I did because it helped me get my dream job that I absolutely love.

Did you consider any other career?

Whilst working as a car mechanic, I was aiming to join the Royal Navy as a helicopter engineer. Then the opportunity came along to work on the Lighthouses. This was something that I couldn’t turn down.

Is there any advice you could offer anyone considering a similar life or career path?

Like anything in life, if it’s something you are interested in, go for it! Make the most of any opportunity presented to you because you never know what doors it may open in the future.

Most of all, concentrate on what makes you happy!

Please tell us a little about your family life

I live with my girlfriend Sarah who works as a Forensic Scientist in firearms and ballistics. We have two children, Elowen (6) and Freddie (3). Recently, we got a puppy named Otis who is keeping us all busy!

What are your hobbies or how is your leisure time spent?

My main passion is photography and aerial photography. I document my work on the Lighthouses through social media whilst constantly trying to improve my photography. I am also a keen cyclist and play golf whenever I can.

Are you still in touch with anyone from your time at Truro School?

I still stay in regular contact with one individual from School. We don’t live near each other anymore, however, we do occasionally meet up and go play a round of golf together.

Do you feel your time at School, or anything about your time here, helped you to progress in later life?

Most definitely. Although I probably didn’t realise until a later date. It definitely set me up with the key skills and the mindset to progress towards a career that I will hopefully do for the rest of my working life.

What are your immediate / long term plans for the future?

For now, to continue working on the Lighthouses and progressing my knowledge further. I am hoping in the not too distant future to start a degree in Engineering.

Read the interview in the latest Truronian.