“A school built amidst coconut palms” That’s how the story of St Stephen’s School begins. St Stephen’s School is one of six Christian Brothers’ Schools in Singapore. It’s a significant part of Singapore’s educational history.
Brother Stephen Barkley envisioned the school in the 1950s. He saw a need for a school in Singapore’s east. The area was filled with coconut trees and rubber estates. The school would serve the growing number of boys.
In 1953 Brother Lawrence Robles bought land. The land was bordered by Siglap View La Salle Street and Siglap Avenue. He planned a primary school and a feeder school for St Patrick’s School. Construction started in 1956 and finished the following year.
The new school was named St Stephen’s School. This honored Brother Stephen. St Stephen is the first Christian martyr. On May 7 1957 Archbishop Michael Olocomendy blessed St Stephen’s School. Mr Maclellan the Director of Education officially opened it. Mr Edward Reinford was the first principal.
Many Catholic boys from the East Coast attended St Stephen’s School. As enrollment grew the school’s buildings became too small. In 1998 the old building was demolished. A new building was constructed with modern facilities.
During the construction St Stephen’s School moved. It temporarily used the old Siglap Secondary School building. In 2001 students and staff moved into the new building at Siglap View. St Stephen’s School became a single-session school in 2003. BG George Yeo an alumnus opened it. The school’s motto is Credere Et Servire To Believe and To Serve.
St Stephen’s School has seen many changes. It started small. It grew into a large and successful school. Today St Stephen’s School continues to educate children. It serves the community of Siglap Marine Parade Chai Chee Bedok Tampines and Pasir Ris. The school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds. It stands as a testament to Brother Stephen’s vision.