Established in 1630 as Dame Elizabeth Ellis School for Girls Isleworth and Syon School boasts a rich history. It was one of the oldest schools in the area. Initially a girls’ school it became known as The Blue School in the 18th century. The school expanded. Girls moved to a separate building in 1870. An upper school was added in 1883 for older boys. It even served as a model school for trainee teachers from Borough Road College a precursor to Brunel University’s education faculty.
The school became a state school in 1903 under Middlesex County Council’s control. It was renamed Isleworth County School. The North Street Girls’ School its female counterpart also existed. A separate infant school nearby fed into the boys’ school. This school known as The Blue School continues to operate today.
In 1939 the boys’ school then called Isleworth County School relocated to Ridgeway Road its current location. After the Education Act of 1944 it became a grammar school. It gained a stellar academic reputation during the 1950s and 60s. Headmasters Arthur Brierley and GJP ‘Toad’ Courtney led the school during this era.
Isleworth Grammar School merged with Syon School for Boys in 1979. The resulting school became Isleworth & Syon School. In 2003 it gained sports college status. It became an academy in 2012. The school is part of a consortium with other borough schools allowing sixth-form students to interact and share classes. It was even named UK sports college of the year in 2005.
Many notable alumni emerged from Isleworth and Syon School. Olympic champion Mo Farah attended. So did cricketer Owais Shah author Gautam Malkani and numerous footballers. The school’s history is one of academic excellence athletic achievement and community involvement. This impressive institution has shaped the lives of countless individuals. Its legacy continues to thrive in Isleworth.