It was founded in 1704, when Henry Strode bequeathed £6,000 to set up a free school in his native parish of Egham.

In the twentieth century, Strode's became a boys' grammar school, before being designated a sixth form college in 1975.

[2] The college also provides a range of day and evening Adult Education courses.

Under further changes introduced following the Education Act 1944, the school was granted Voluntary Controlled status as a boys' grammar school and the composition of its governing body set to include four Foundation Trustees, one of whom, at least, was to be a representative of the company.

The company continues to provide funds administered by the Foundation Trustees for the benefit of the college.