“Care, Honesty, Service” echoes through the halls of Catholic High School. This motto reflects the values instilled here since 1935. Catholic High School stands as a beacon of bilingualism and biculturalism. It is a Special Assistance Plan or SAP school.
Founded by Reverend Father Edward Becheras, a French missionary, Catholic High School started as Sino-English Catholic School. The school began as an extension of the Church of St. Peter and Paul. Father Becheras envisioned a school emphasizing both English and Chinese instruction. This policy continues to shape the school today. He also emphasized science, a rarity then.
Initially located at 222 Queen Street, beside the Church of St. Peter and Paul, the school expanded rapidly. By 1939, it had reached maximum capacity. A science room stood out as the first in any Catholic school in Malaya. Singapore was then part of Malaya.
After World War II, the school adopted the name Catholic High School. Increased enrollment led to a new wing on Waterloo Street. This wing included an auditorium and audio-visual equipped tutorial rooms. Limited space meant using church grounds for physical education.
In 1950, the Marist Brothers assumed administration. A primary section opened in 1951. A boarding house was also built for Catholic High School students. The Marist Brothers also helped Maris Stella High School. It eased overwhelming applications to Catholic High School.
Catholic High School took a firm stance against political activities. In 1954, it expelled seventy students involved in National Service riots. This action demonstrated the school’s commitment to learning.
Pre-university classes were offered from 1952 to 1975. Several graduates attained the President’s Scholarship. In 1974, administration returned to the Catholic diocese. Catholic High School was the only Chinese-medium high school offering both Chinese and English medium examinations before 1975.
In 1979, Catholic High School gained Special Assistance Plan status. This allowed it to offer top students both English and Chinese as first languages. Pre-primary classes also began that year. Enrollment increases led to satellite sites. Lower primary classes were at Gentle Road. Upper primary classes were at Norfolk Road. Structural cracks at Queen Street in 1987 prompted relocation. The high school section moved to Guangyang Secondary School in Bishan. In 1992, both primary and secondary sections moved to the current Bishan campus.
Catholic High School partners with CHIJ Saint Nicholas Girls’ School and Singapore Chinese Girls’ School in the Integrated Programme. Students proceed to Eunoia Junior College.
Today, Catholic High School continues to uphold its traditions. It fosters leaders and bilingual scholars. The school’s rich history and commitment to excellence shape its students. They leave ready to serve and lead. Remember the values learned here. Care for others. Be honest in all dealings. Offer service to the community.