Ellesmere College was founded in 1884 by Canon Nathaniel Woodard. It is part of the Woodard Corporation, a group of Church of England schools, and it draws strength from its foundation. Pupils of all faiths are welcome at the College, and all faiths are respected.

The aims of the Woodard Schools are to educate young people for responsibility, leadership and service; and to provide a broad well balanced curriculum and enlightened pastoral care; and to offer an experience of Anglican worship and an understanding of Christian faith and values in a caring community.

Ellesmere College is a school that values individuals. Ellesmere's aspirations for pupils have always been higher than simply passing examinations: however vital examination success is, it is not enough on its own to prepare young people to be successful adults.

An Ellesmere education is a preparation for living adult life successfully, considerately and with a sense of personal fulfilment.

Oswestry School is large enough to possess many first-class facilities, yet small enough for each pupil to be well known and make a really significant contribution. High quality teaching enables pupils to realise their academic potential and, equally significantly, acquire skills, confidence and leadership qualities through participating in a broad range of activities and taking on a variety of responsibilities.

As befits our status as one of the oldest non-denominational schools in the country, we cherish our distinctive ethos, developed and evolved over the centuries, which allows us to give much individual care and attention to our pupils and to monitor and motivate them as they make academic and personal progress.