Tanglin Secondary School

Tanglin Secondary School. A place where history whispers from the walls and echoes in the laughter of students. Right here at 301 West Coast Road, Tanglin Secondary School has stood as a testament to Singapore’s ever-evolving educational landscape. Tanglin Secondary School first opened its doors in 1964 as Tanglin Integrated Secondary Technical School in Queenstown. It holds a significant place in Singaporean history as the nation’s first Chinese-medium technical school, and remarkably, the first to welcome girls into technical courses. This pioneering spirit set the stage for Tanglin Secondary School’s future. The school’s original motto, “Berusaha Untok Berjaya” (Malay for “Strive for Success”), encapsulates the school’s enduring commitment to achievement, which continues with its current English motto of “Strive for Success”. In 1969, the school was renamed Tanglin Technical Secondary School. A significant shift occurred in 1993 when Tanglin Secondary School transitioned to offering Chinese-medium pre-university classes. It relocated to its present location on West Coast Road and adopted its current name, Tanglin Secondary School. The story of Tanglin Secondary School is also one of mergers, reflecting the changing demographics and educational needs of Singapore. In 2016, it merged with Clementi Woods Secondary School, further enriching its legacy and expanding its community. More recently, in 2023, Tanglin Secondary School merged with New Town Secondary School, consolidating resources and expertise to provide an even more robust educational experience for students. Even though Tanglin Secondary School no longer exists as a separate entity, its contributions to Singaporean education resonate. The site of the former school will become the location of the West Coast MRT station, a fitting symbol of how Tanglin Secondary School continues to play a role in Singapore’s progress, even in its absence. Tanglin Secondary School’s alumni have made remarkable contributions to various fields, from politics and entrepreneurship to entertainment. Cedric Foo and Zainudin Nordin served as Members of Parliament, while Mark Phooi excelled as an entrepreneur, and actress Jayley Woo graced Mediacorp screens. These individuals, among many others, exemplify the diverse talents nurtured within Tanglin Secondary School’s walls. The story of Tanglin Secondary School is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a story of pioneering spirit, adaptation, and a commitment to nurturing future generations. It’s a story woven into the fabric of Singapore’s educational journey.