Remember those old black and white photos? They whisper stories of Anglo-Chinese School’s humble beginnings. Founded on March 1 1886 by Bishop William Fitzjames Oldham, Anglo-Chinese School started in a shophouse at 70 Amoy Street. Can you imagine just 13 pupils learning in that small space?
Anglo-Chinese School quickly grew. Lessons were taught in Chinese in the morning and English in the afternoon. This bilingual approach gave the school its name. By the next year, enrollment jumped to 104. Anglo-Chinese School needed more space. It moved to Coleman Street.
Reverend J. S. Nagle shaped Anglo-Chinese School between 1914 and 1920. He introduced chapel services. He also started physical education classes. Nagle even created afternoon classes for struggling students. He encouraged former students to become teachers. This ensured continuity and loyalty. The Anglo-Chinese School Old Boys’ Association formed. It helped alumni stay connected.
In 1925, Reverend P. L. Peach started the Anglo-Chinese Continuation School. This was for boys who had to leave due to age limits. Anglo-Chinese School was briefly renamed Oldham Methodist School. A secondary school opened in Cairnhill Road.
World War II disrupted everything. Lessons stopped between 1942 and 1945. Anglo-Chinese School reopened in 1946. Buildings at Cairnhill and Coleman Street had to be repaired. T. W. Hinch returned as principal. He created “X” and “Y” classes. These helped students catch up after the occupation. In 1950, the secondary school moved to Barker Road.
The Anglo-Chinese School system expanded over the years. Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) separated from the secondary classes in 1928. In 1951, a branch school opened at Barker Road. Anglo-Chinese School (Junior) was established in 1951 too. Anglo-Chinese School obtained independent status in 1988. It was renamed Anglo-Chinese School (Independent). In 1993, it moved to Dover Road. The Barker Road site became another secondary school: Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road).
Anglo-Chinese School (International) opened in 2005. It welcomes both local and international students. Anglo-Chinese Junior College opened in 1977. ACS Jakarta began in 1996.
Anglo-Chinese School has a rich history. It is known for producing leaders. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the 9th President of Singapore, is an alumnus. Dr. Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Defence, also attended Anglo-Chinese School. Joseph Schooling, the Olympic gold medalist swimmer, is another famous ACSian.
The school’s anthem fosters unity. The school crest designed in 1930 symbolizes its values. Anglo-Chinese School instills discipline. It emphasizes academic excellence and character development. Service based on Christian values is also vital.
Anglo-Chinese School has many facilities. These include Wi-Fi, labs, and sports areas. The ACS (Independent) Boarding School houses many international students. The Shaw Library and Resource Centre holds many resources.
Anglo-Chinese School has excelled in sports. It has won many national championships. These include swimming, rugby, and water polo. The school also has many uniformed groups. These groups have won many awards.
Anglo-Chinese School is more than just a school. It is a family. Its spirit bonds ACSians together. The school continues to uphold its founder’s vision. It provides a holistic education. It grounds students in Christian values. Anglo-Chinese School prepares young people to lead and serve. The best is yet to be.