Ellesmere College was founded in 1981, with a roll of 380 students, replacing
Southbridge District High School.
Significant events • 1980 – Ellesmere College was built in
Timaru and transported to the present site. One classroom was lost during transportation in the
Rakaia River. • 1981 – Ellesmere College opened in February with 380 students and 23 staff. • 1983 – The
gymnasium was completed. • 1984 – The official opening of Ellesmere College was declared by
Hon Merv Wellington. • 1985 – More classrooms were built. • 1986 – The gymnasium was enlarged and dedicated to
Riki Ellison. • 1987 – The
library was extended. • 1988 – The
playground was opened. • 1994 –
Ken Dawson was declared the new principal. • 1997 – The library was split to form a new classroom, L2l • 2000 – The Health Education Centre opened. • 2008 – The gym was extended and the Wilson room was opened. • 2008 – The last founding staff member retired. • 2009 – The new stage and seating areas were completed. • 2009 – Ken Dawson announced his resignation. • 2010 – Students, staff and guests welcomed
Gavin Kidd into the role as principal. • 2017 – Gavin Kidd announced his resignation. • 2018 – Ronan Bass appointed as Principal. • 2019 – $30M significant redevelopment of school announced by Prime Minister
Jacinda Ardern. • 2024 – Ronan Bass resigns as principal, and Antony French announced as acting principal. • 2024 – Work began on the new school buildings, on the green site of the current school grounds. • 2025 – Antony French was declared the new principal. == Enrolment ==