In a country steeped in heritage, few institutions stand as proud and enduring as St. George’s Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School, Chennai — the oldest continually functioning school in India, founded in 1715 by the British East India Company.
Now over 310 years old, the school is not just an academic institution but a living monument to the history of education in India. Nestled in the heart of the city, St. George’s has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of modern India, and the transformation of colonial Madras into bustling Chennai.
- Founded: 1715
- Founder: British East India Company
- Purpose: Originally established to educate children of British soldiers and East India Company employees
- Location: Poonamallee High Road, Chennai
- Current Affiliation: Tamil Nadu State Board of Education
- Type: Originally boys-only, now partially co-educational
St. George’s is known for its majestic colonial architecture, sprawling campus, and iconic red brick buildings that echo the school’s British origins. Despite the march of time, it continues to provide quality education, with alumni excelling in diverse fields—ranging from civil service and law to arts, science, and defense.
“St. George’s isn’t just a school, it’s a legacy. It has educated generations of students through centuries of change,” said the current principal during the school’s tercentenary celebrations.
From slates and ink to smart boards and Wi-Fi, the school has transformed in form but not in spirit. It stands today as a symbol of resilience and adaptation, offering a rich curriculum while preserving the traditions that make it unique.
As India builds its future, St. George’s remains a timeless beacon, reminding us of the enduring power of education to unite history, culture, and progress.
