Riverside Secondary School, a place of learning, stands before us. Established in 1987, Riverside Secondary School has a rich history of academic and holistic development. The school started at the site of Fuchun Secondary School. Mrs. Ngiam Geak Kim led a team of nine teachers and two non-academic staff members. In December 1987, Riverside Secondary School moved to its current location at 3 Woodlands Street 81.
Mr. Oliver J. Balasingam was the pioneer principal. He played a key role in shaping the school’s identity. He helped create the school motto and designed the crest and uniform. Balasingam also raised funds and co-wrote the school song, “My Best and More.” The school was officially inaugurated on July 14, 1990. Mr. Lee Yiok Seng, a Member of Parliament, officiated the event.
Lu Kheng Lui became the second Principal on December 16, 1996. In April 1997, Hoon Tien Ghun became the first Vice-Principal. Lu wrote the school’s first vision statement. She also led the school in piloting the Interdisciplinary Project Work and the IT Master Plan Phase 2A. Stella Tan-Wee Bee Lian became principal in December 2000.
Riverside Secondary School underwent upgrading from 2002 to 2004. This was part of the Programme for Rebuilding and Improving Existing Schools. A new school crest and uniform were designed during this time. In December 2005, Serene Pang became principal. The school partnered with polytechnics and a school in Chennai.
Hilda Thong, Head of the English Department, was appointed Vice-Principal in December 2006. In 2006, the school received awards for Character Development and National Education. On May 15, 2007, Sng Siew Hong became the fifth Principal. Riverside Secondary School received the Lee Kuan Yew National Education Award in October 2007.
Tan Kong Yin Yee became the sixth Principal on December 16, 2013. In December 2015, Shanti Devi became the seventh principal. Tham Yoke Chun assumed the role of the eighth principal in December 2020.
Riverside Secondary School offers a wide range of co-curricular activities. These include sports, performing arts, and uniformed groups. Students can participate in badminton, basketball, and netball. Other options include football, softball, Boys’ Brigade, and Girls’ Brigade. There is also the National Police Cadet Corps and National Cadet Corps. Students can also join the National Civil Defence Cadet Corps.
For those interested in the arts, Riverside Secondary School has a choir and modern dance. Chinese, Indian, and Malay dance groups are also available. Students can also explore English drama and the concert band. The school also offers clubs focused on art and crafts, audio-visual aids, and robotics. Students can also engage in environmental science and infocomm technology.
Riverside Secondary School has produced notable alumni. Bonnie Loo, a singer and actress, is one of them. The school is also known for its Applied Learning Programme in Humanities. This program focuses on Global Citizenship Education through Critical Social Inquiry. The Learning for Life Programme emphasizes Music and Performing Arts.
Riverside Secondary School stands as a testament to Singapore’s commitment to education. From its humble beginnings to its present-day achievements, the school continues to nurture well-rounded individuals.