Since 1976, ELC Chester has been welcoming students from around the world, earning an international reputation for excellence in English language teaching.

The school marked its 50th anniversary with a special celebration last week, bringing together current and former staff, students and friends of ELC Chester. Guests included former owner Richard Day, Chester MP Samantha Dixon, ELC Schools CEO Phil Hopkins, Centre Manager Rachel Connabeer, along with current and former staff, and friends of the school.

Gabi Maraver, Marketing Manager at ELC Schools, reflected on the milestone and said:

“The evening was a chance to reflect on our journey, remember the contribution of Richard Day, and celebrate the school’s continued success as part of the ELC Schools Group since 2019.

Most importantly, it was an opportunity to say thank you to our incredible staff, our dedicated homestay hosts, and our loyal agents and group leaders, many of whom have been part of the ELC Chester family for decades.

A school is more than its buildings, it’s the people who bring it to life. Thank you to everyone who has been part of our first 50 years. Here’s to the next chapter!”

Originally established as the sister school of the Stratford-upon-Avon School of English Studies, the school became an independent company in 1985 and has remained at its Georgian home in Stanley Place ever since.

Over the decades, ELC Chester has continually evolved, introducing summer courses for teenagers, business professionals and mature learners, offering a dedicated centre for students aged 30+, and continuing to lead the 50+ course market, first introduced by the school more than 30 years ago.

Today, ELC Chester remains the city’s only year-round language school, welcoming students from more than 50 countries to experience high-quality English language learning in the historic Roman city of Chester.

IALC warmly congratulates ELC Chester on this remarkable milestone and wishes the school continued success as it begins its next chapter.