Our History

HISTORY

Genesis: Lighting a Flame for God and Truth

In 1924, with the guidance of two devout Presbyterian ministers, Reverend Tay Sek Tin and Reverend Tan Leng Tian, Katong Girls’ School was established as a beacon of Christian faith in 1 Joo Chiat Terrace. The school was founded with the dual purpose of imparting the teachings of Christianity and nurturing young minds. By the end of the year, Katong Girls’ School grew from 11 to 300 students, as the school embraced co-education and diversity, offering a rich tapestry of quality education and spiritual nurturing to individuals from every background.

Relocation to Koon Seng Road

Because of divine providence, the Presbytery approved the construction of a new school building at 47 Koon Seng Road. In 1925, the school relocated and was renamed Choon Guan School in recognition of a generous donation given to the school building fund by Dr Lee Choon Guan’s son.

Miss Margaret Dryburgh arrived in Singapore as an educational missionary of the Presbyterian Church. She was first appointed as principal of Choon Guan School in 1934, and saw through its transformation into Choon Guan English School in 1936. When a separate girls’ school, Kuo Chuan Girls’ School was created in 1938, Miss Dryburgh became its first principal.

Mr John Rhys Richardson was first appointed the principal of Choon Guan English

School when the school became a government-aided school for boys in 1938. Mr Richardson was highly pivotal and influential during the early developing years of Choon Guan English School, which was eventually renamed Presbyterian Boys’ School.

Hopefulness in the Dark Days (War)

With the onset of war in 1942, Kuo Chuan Girls’ School was severely damaged by bombs and ceased operations during the Japanese Occupation (1942-1945). These times were probably the darkest days of the school’s history.

In a parallel tale of faithfulness, Choon Guan English School underwent transformation under the Japanese occupation, reopening later in 1950 as Presbyterian Boys’ School, a testament to the enduring work of God.

Two Paths, One Dream: Kuo Chuan Girls’ and Presbyterian Boys’ Schools (1946 - 1972)

In the divine narrative of Kuo Chuan Girls’ School, the passing of the torch from Miss Monica Sirkett to Mrs Lee Choon Neo in 1972 symbolised the continuation of God’s appointed stewardship. As the school expanded its reach from Primary One to Standard Nine, it echoed the parable of the mustard seed, growing from humble beginnings into a mighty tree, sheltering all who sought its shade.

Mr J.R. Richardson also emerged as a faithful steward entrusted with the task of restoration of Choon Guan English School after World War II. In 1949, when the first senior batch of students faced the Cambridge School Cambridge Certificate Examination, it was akin to seeds planted in fertile soil, nurtured by the divine hand of providence.

The renaming of the school as Presbyterian Boys’ School in 1950 symbolised a rebirth, a demonstration of God’s abundant grace and guidance in times of transition. In 1970, the introduction of a school anthem served as a hymn of gratitude, a celebration of God’s blessings and the collective identity forged among students and staff.

Evolution of a Legacy: Towards a Unified Identity (1972 - 1987)

Kuo Chuan Girls' School and Presbyterian Boys' School emerged as twin branches of a sturdy tree, each rooted in a rich legacy of education and a steadfast commitment to mission. In 1985, the two schools merged into a singular entity known as Kuo Chuan Presbyterian School. The school’s identity remained steadfast and unified, a beacon of Christian values and holistic education.

God’s Faithfulness through All Generations

In 1987, KCPS was reorganised into Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Primary and Secondary Schools, and continued to flourish under the guidance of dedicated school leaders and educators. With Living Praise Presbyterian Church and Adam Road Presbyterian Church serving as resident anchor churches, both schools continued to grow and evolve against a backdrop of significant educational initiatives. Strong connections were forged with the community, and efforts to improve school infrastructure and curriculum have resulted in sustainable and distinctive experiences for all students.

As KCPS celebrates her Centennial year in 2024, she remains Rooted in Faith, Enduring for Good (cf. Galatians 6:9). The revival of the House system across both schools as part of the celebrations will strengthen the bond between the schools, and provide momentum for efforts for KCPS to be a beacon of light in the community, and a testament to the abundance of God’s grace and enduring power to sustain and uplift.

To God be the glory!

Published in the KCPS Centennial Bible