What if I told you this school started in some shophouses? That’s Gan Eng Seng School. It stands as a testament to Singapore’s educational heritage. Founded in 1885 by Gan Eng Seng. the school is the first one established by the overseas Chinese community in Singapore. It is one of the oldest schools in the country.
Gan Eng Seng School began its journey at Telok Ayer Street. Gan Eng Seng was a philanthropist with a vision. Born into a poor family, he understood the value of education. He wanted to help those less fortunate. He emphasized bilingualism in English and Chinese.
The school quickly became successful. By 1890, enrolment reached 167 students. In 1888, the school became an aided school. This meant government recognition. In 1889, the British colonial government offered a site at No. 106 Telok Ayer Street. Gan Eng Seng financed the construction of a building for 300 students.
Tan Keong Saik a prominent businessman, supported the school. Before Gan Eng Seng died in 1899, he made provisions for the school’s maintenance in his will. A board of trustees managed the school. Members included Tan Keong Saik. They dedicated themselves to the school.
In 1923, the school was renamed Gan Eng Seng School to honor its founder. That same year, the 8th Singapore Troop now the Gan Eng Seng Dragon Scout Group was founded.
Under the colonial system, Gan Eng Seng School was a feeder school to Raffles Institution. Students had to pass an entrance exam to continue their education there.
The 1930s brought economic challenges. Community funding dwindled. The school building deteriorated. In 1938, Gan Eng Seng School became a government school. Plans for a new building at Anson Road were proposed.
During the Japanese occupation, the school closed. It reopened on 13 May 1946 at Outram School. Percival Frank Aroozoo was the headmaster. In 1947, the school moved to the former Japanese National School building at Waterloo Street.
In 1950, Gan Eng Seng School formed Singapore’s first parent-teacher association. Aroozoo believed parents and teachers both shaped a child’s development. Construction of a new school building at Anson Road began that year.
A new chapter began in 1951. The school opened its new premises at Anson Road. It became a secondary school. Governor Sir Franklin Gimson believed the school would achieve academic and athletic distinction. The building could accommodate 800 students.
Singapore gained independence in 1965. In 1970, Gan Eng Seng School became a center for technical training and pre-university education.
In 1985, the school celebrated its centenary. In 1986, Gan Eng Seng School moved to Raeburn Park. It became co-educational in 1987.
In December 2000, the school moved to its current site at No. 1 Henderson Road. Many alumni contributed to the new building’s design.
Gan Eng Seng School’s crest features red and green. These colors came from the Scout Troop’s scarves. The dragon symbolizes good luck and courage. The junk represents the school’s progress. The motto is onward.
The campus design reflects the school’s crest. It includes the Arena, Heritage Gallery, and Alumni Room. Gan Eng Seng School offers express and normal academic streams.
Gan Eng Seng School has achieved recognition for its uniformed groups. The school has a rich history. It has produced notable alumni. The Gan Eng Seng School Old Students’ Association strengthens bonds between alumni and the school.
Gan Eng Seng School stands as a beacon of education. It is a testament to the vision of its founder. It continues to inspire generations of students to move onward.