ENDEAVOURING FOR BRILLIANCE, BUILDING LEADERS
School Ethos
School Vision
A Leading International Baccalaureate World School that celebrates Asian Culture and Values
School Mission
Empowering our Learners with Character and Global Competency to be Individuals of Impact through a Value-add Education
School Culture
Collaborative Culture of Continuous Improvement with Sustainable Performance
School Motto
Continual Pursuit of Excellence 自强不息
Desired Outcomes of HCIS Learners
• Honourable in upholding ethics and acting with integrity – Principled, Risk-taker
• Empathetic to the well-being of others and appreciative of different cultures and perspectives – Caring, Open-Minded
• Accountable for own actions and decisions – Reflective, Balanced
• Respectful Communicator
• Tenacious Inquirer and Knowledgeable Thinker
School Values
Honour Empathy Accountability Respect Tenacity
Educational Philosophy
Education for All, According to Each 有教无类,因材施教
In 2005, the seeds for HCIS as a local international school were planted. Initially, the school started with a modest student population in the low hundreds. This period, marked by the establishment of the school within Hwa Chong Institution’s grounds, focused primarily on delivering the IGCSE and A-Level curricula. It provided a solid foundation for the students, emphasising academic rigour and preparing them for university pathways.
2009 marked a signifcant turning point for the school's leadership. Harbouring a vision for broader horizons, the school leaders recognised the need to adapt and expand to meet the evolving demands of a globalised world. This heralded the School’s visionary decision to pursue authorisation as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School.
The next two decades witnessed a remarkable transformation seen in the School's exponential growth in both student numbers and infrastructure. With the introductionof the IB curriculum, the School's teaching and learning philosophy underwent a profound evolution. It moved beyond rote learning to cultivating critical thinking, international mindedness, and a genuine love for learning. This shift attracted a diverse student body, further enriching the School's cultural landscape.
Recognising that a holistic education extends beyond the classroom, HCIS strategically invested in creating a learning environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and well-being. Well-equipped and modern science laboratories ignite student's curiosity and facilitate in-depth scientifc exploration. Dedicated drama studio provides a creative haven for budding performers, nurturing their artistic expression and confdence.
Furthermore, the incorporation of collaborative learning spaces encourages teamwork, communication, and the exchange of ideas that mirror the dynamic nature of the global landscape that students will navigate. Beyond academic facilities, the development of sporting arenas, recreational areas, and comfortable boarding facilities underscores the School's commitment to creating a supportive and enriching environment for students to thrive, both academically and personally.
The commitment to providing a future-oriented education for its diverse and growing student body is refected not only in the School's evolving pedagogical approaches but also in the signifcant expansion of its amenities and infrastructure.
From a modest seed planted in 2005, HCIS has blossomed into a renowned institution known for its holistic and value-add education that prepares learners for the international stage. Its journey, marked by courageous adaptation, strategic foresight, and an unwavering dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering global citizens, is not merely a story of growth; it is a powerful testament to the transformative power of vision, resilience, and an enduring belief in the potential of every student. Today, standing tall with a vibrant community and well-supported facilities, HCIS does not just educate; it empowers, inspires, and shapes the leaders of tomorrow, leaving an indelible mark on the world, one graduating class at a time.
自强不息！
Message by the Chairman, Board of HCIS
Dr Sia Nam Chie BOD CHAIRMAN
It is with immense pride and profound gratitude that I pen this message as we commemorate 20 years of excellence and innovation in Hwa Chong International School (HCIS). What began as the germination of a bold vision to create a leading International Baccalaureate world school that celebrates Asian culture and values while embracing global perspectives has blossomed into a thriving centre of learning and growth that has touched thousands of lives.
We are privileged to inherit the distinguished heritage and century-long legacy of the Hwa Chong family. Standing on the shoulders of giants, we have drawn inspiration and guidance from those who came before us. Our foundation rests on the same visionary belief that inspired our founders in 1919–that education paves the way for the betterment of the individual and society. Guided by our enduring motto ‘ 自强不息 ’, HCIS has dedicated itself to cultivating and empowering bright minds from Singapore and around the world into compassionate, culturally-fluent global citizens through a value-add education.
Since our establishment in 2005 with the endorsement of Singapore’s Ministry of Education and Economic Development Board, we have embodied Singapore’s vision to diversify the educational landscape and strengthen connections with the region and the world. As a local international school with half our student population from Singapore and the remainder representing over 20 countries, we create a truly global learning community within our campus.
The story of HCIS is one of remarkable achievements and transformation. From our humble beginnings with just a handful of classrooms and dedicated educators, we have expanded our campus, enhanced our facilities and developed a world-class curriculum that interweaves the rigorous International Baccalaureate standards with the rich tapestry of Asian culture
and values. I must particularly highlight the extraordinary work of the Board of HCIS and the IT Task Force, whose efforts in transforming our digital infrastructure have prepared our students for the everchanging world.
I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to the past and present Board, faculty, staff, parents and all stakeholders for your unwavering support and partnership. Each of you has been a vital part of our school’s journey from seedling to full bloom.
This commemorative book captures moments and memories from our history, celebrating the people and events that have shaped HCIS. As you turn these pages, I hope you will feel the same pride in our shared accomplishments and the same excitement for the promising future ahead.
May we continue to pursue excellence in all that we do, 自强不息 .
华中国际学校董事部 董事长 谢南极博士致辞
值此华中国际学校创校二十周年之际，我怀着无比自豪与感恩之情 提笔致辞。当年热心的华中校友们种下了一颗种子和大胆的愿景，即创 建一所融汇亚洲文化价值观与全球视野的国际文凭课程顶尖学府。如 今，这颗种子已茁壮成长为枝繁叶茂的教育殿堂，滋养了数千学子的生 命成长。
我们有幸承袭华中大家庭逾百年的卓越传统和丰富历史。正所谓“ 前贤引路，薪火相传”，我们从先贤的智慧中汲取养分。我们坚信 1919年创校先辈们秉持的教育理念，即教育是个人、社会与国家进步 的基石。秉承“自强不息”
的校训，我校致力通过增值教育，培养来 自新加坡及世界各地的学子成为兼具文化底蕴、良好道德与全球视野的 仁爱公民。
自2005年获得新加坡教育部与经济发展局批准成立以来，我们始终 践行新加坡教育多元化的国家愿景，积极搭建与区域及全球的桥梁。作 为本土国际学校，本地生与来自二十余国的国际生各占半数，共同建立 了一个具备国际视野的学习社群。
我校发展的每一步，都呈现了令人振奋的辉煌成就与不断地转型。 从建校初期寥寥数间教室和数位教职员，转型至今天拥有完善的设施， 结合亚洲文化和传统价值观的世界级课程体系。特别值得一提的是校董 会与信息技术工作组的卓越贡献，为学校打造的数据化基础设施，为学 子迎接瞬息万变的未来世界奠定了坚实的基础。
在此，我谨向历届与现任校董、教职员、家长及所有合作伙伴们致以 最诚挚的祝贺与感谢。您们始终如一的鼎力支持，共同铸就了华中国际学 校从播种到绽放的成长传奇。
这本纪念册捕捉了我校创建历史的珍贵瞬间，承载着过程中我们的集 体记忆。当您翻阅每一页时，愿您与我们一样：为我校的成就感到骄傲， 对我校的未来充满希望。
愿我们继续在追求卓越的道路上，自强不息，永不止步。
Message by the Principal
Ms Linda Lee PRINCIPAL
Dear HCIS Community
With great pride and thankfulness, I share this special message as we mark a truly monumental milestone: the 20th anniversary of HCIS. Just two decades ago, we began as a tiny seed, planted with great hope and vision. Today, we have blossomed into an esteemed and well-sought-after institution, a vibrant testament to the collective dedication and passion of each and every one of you who have walked this journey with us.
Since our founding in 2005, each milestone has been meaningful. We started with a dream, a vision to create
a unique learning environment where every child could flourish. Today, that dream stands tall, manifested in the lively tapestry of our school. We celebrate not just the physical growth of our campus, but more importantly, the countless academic triumphs, sporting glories, artistic expressions, and character developments that have shaped past and present generations of HCIS learners. Our students consistently excel, not merely in examinations, but as well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute meaningfully to society and confidently navigate the challenges ahead. These achievements are a direct reflection of our shared commitment to the continual pursuit of excellence ' 自强不息 ’– a motto we don't just utter, but live by. Our philosophy of "Education for All, According to Each" ( 有 教无类 因材施教 ) continues to guide us as we value each student's unique journey.
Our success is rooted deeply in the extraordinary community we have built. To our dedicated teachers and staff, your tireless efforts, genuine care and innovative approaches have been the bedrock of our student's growth. To our parents, your trust, partnership, and unwavering support empower us beyond measure. To our alumni, your continual engagement and the remarkable paths you have forged inspire us, proving the enduring impact of your time here. This school, HCIS, has always strived to be more than just a place of learning. It is a caring, nurturing, and serving community, where compassion thrives, individuality is celebrated, and every member feels a sense of belonging. It is the value-add education and enriching
learning experiences that make us exceptional.
As we stand on the cusp of our next chapter, we look ahead confidently with aspiring hopes and bold dreams for the future. With the educational landscape ever-evolving, we are committed to staying at the forefront, embracing innovation and technology while holding fast to the foundational values that define us. We envision a future where our students continue to push boundaries, where creativity knows no limits, and where their potential is realised in ways we can only begin to imagine. We will continue to foster an environment that encourages critical thinking, adaptability, and global citizenship; ensuring our graduates are not just prepared for the world, but also equipped to shape it for the better. We are excited to expand our horizons and outreach, and continue to thrive as a beacon of learning and a nurturing community.
Thank you, each and every one of you, for being an integral part of our remarkable 20-year journey. We honour our shared history and look forward with optimism to the bright future that awaits us. Together, our collective spirit of excellence and care will continue to illuminate our path forward for many more decades to come, Endeavouring for Brilliance, Building Leaders.
Chairman, Hwa Chong Board of Directors
Mr Yeo Hee Lian (Chairman of Board of Directors and Board of Governors)
Lee Hee Long
Chairman, Board of Hwa Chong International School
Principals
Choon
Our People
In 2005, HCIS began humbly with just over eighty students, three classrooms within Hwa Chong Institution, and a temporary staff room. Daily fag raisings held at the grandstand, with the clock tower as our backdrop, echoed with the school song and HCI’s marching band as we greeted the morning sun. Our simple polo tee and khaki uniform marked our beginnings. Yet, those early days saw everyone contribute to forging the vibrant HCIS culture we know today. Having been a staff member for
those decades, I deeply appreciate how far we've come from those modest roots."
Mrs Michelle Koh Assistant Principal
(Integrated Programme & Academic Counselling)
I feel privileged to witness and be part of HCIS’s growth as an IB World School. When I joined the school in 2012, the IB graduating cohort numbered 35 students with only 4 in my History class. Over the next decade, HCIS has gone from strength to strength. Last year marked an important milestone for the school as we successfully completed the rigorous third IB programme evaluation. A clear thumbs-up from the IBO is a testament to our commitment to quality education and the school motto
Mr Chiang Ky
Assistant Principal (IB Programme & Professional Development) 自强不息'."
Refecting on my decade at HCIS flls me with pride for our transformation. From a fedgling IB school, we've become a shining example of a balanced institution excelling in academics and student growth. When I frst joined, the student culture was not particularly positive, and we had to take bold steps to address it. We now enjoy a thriving environment where students excel in various felds. Our dedicated staff's camaraderie creates a family-like workplace that fosters personal and professional growth. As I tell students, HCIS is a "land of opportunities" which is true for staff, too. Let's continue our pursuit of excellence together!"
Mr Raymond Mak Assistant Principal (Student Development & School Experience)
In HCIS, it's the people that drive the organization. On my frst day, I immediately felt warmth and support from colleagues, as we collaboratively strive to enhance our students’ learning, especially those who might struggle elsewhere. In this everevolving school, we constantly aim for improvement not just for the students but also for colleagues where strong friendships formed are extended beyond school. Despite the school’s signifcant growth in these past 20 years, the vibrant community and the camaraderie built through shared challenges endures. Here’s to continued success for the next two decades of excellence."
Ms Koh Li Keng Assistant Principal (Student Learning & School Assessment)
As we celebrate the school’s 20th anniversary, I refect with pride and gratitude on this amazing journey. From a modest beginning with three classrooms to a thriving, dynamic learning community, I have witnessed generations of students grow into thoughtful and capable individuals. The transformation of the school mirrors our school motto 自強不息. I am very thankful for the friendship and shared mission with colleagues who have made every challenge worthwhile. I look forward to the future of the school with hope, knowing that we have established a strong foundation and the vision of our founders remains clear."
Mr Chin Yeow Chong Head of Middle Years
In two decades, HCIS has remarkably transformed from a school facing challenges to a sought-after institution for local and international students. Initially feeling like a neighbourhood school with an uncertain future, it now stands respected, boasting a strong academic culture and dedicated staff. This success stems from unwavering board and senior management support towards fostering a cohesive and progressive work culture. Colleagues now collaborate with a shared vision and this enables staff and students to thrive. Looking ahead, I hope HCIS continues to build on this foundation, nurture both academic excellence and character,
and inspire new staff to embrace this culture of growth.”
Mr Yong Jin Kiat Head of Experiential Learning
Our People
Fifteen years ago, I joined a school with a close-knit, family feel. The growth since—more students, new buildings, a vibrant atmosphere—has been immense. A highlight for me has been starting the CAS overseas trip. From 33 students, it’s now a signature HCIS experience. Though challenging, these trips push students, forge bonds, and offer unforgettable opportunities to give back. For teachers, it’s meaningful work beyond the classroom and we connect with students deeply. Moving forward, I hope every student and teacher stays true to the school’s motto of 自强不息, leads with compassion and embraces these shared experiences wholeheartedly.”
Ms Sharon Yee Head of Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
2014年，我怀着憧憬加入华中国际学校，如今已走过第十二个年 头。岁月流转, 我有幸亲历学校硬件设施的不断完善、学生人数 的持续增长，以及教职员工队伍的不断壮大，心中感慨良多。校 训“自强不息”始终激励着全体师生奋发图强，学校亦以华族文 化为根基，融合多元，积极推动与传播亚洲文化，培养具有国际 视野与文化自信的时代新人。在二十周年校庆之际, 衷心祝愿学校 赓续初心, 继往开来, 薪火相传, 昂首迈向更加辉煌的明天!”
Mr Huang Jian Head of Chinese (Integrated Programme) & Assistant Head of Boarding
A fond early memory for me is the Business Bazaar that was launched by the Business Faculty in 2013. It showcased students applying business lessons, from planning to pitching and running their stalls. This unique event that allowed all learners to contribute by selling diverse items from food to global trinkets, had truly tapped into their entrepreneurial spirit. The Bazaar’s success exemplifed the essence of being an IB learner, which is to embrace independence, take risks, and foster an international mindset. It was a vibrant display
Ms Narkar Mita Abhay Senior Teacher, Business Management of their learning in action.”
Twenty years on, HCIS as a school, rooted in Asian values and educating each according to their ability, remains the same, regardless of the many more students we have. I am very lucky to work with very dedicated colleagues who always place their students before anything else and give their all to ensure their success. The best memories I have are our school camps. When we pitch a tent, trek through a jungle and eat at a campsite—that spirit of HCIS of making the best out of whatever is truly remarkable. Today, many of our Alumni give back to the community in whatever capacity they can. The school's legacy just gets brighter and stronger."
Ms Alison Hack Kyeo Assistant Head of Middle Years
In my years with HCIS, I have witnessed the school’s growth —from the residence facility to the Main Building and the renovated Annex—that refects its commitment to progress. As a foreigner far from home, HCIS has become my family and home in Singapore, for which I’m forever grateful. We’ve grown together and celebrated with students and boarders when they achieved their educational goals. Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue contributing to the next generation’s success and witness even greater HCIS milestones. Together, we’ll keep building a future of possibilities and growth. This journey has been profoundly meaningful."
Ms Grace Ann Seguban Lead Residence Mentor
In my 11 years at HCIS, I’ve seen the school’s remarkable growth in its facilities and programmes, all of which have created a dynamic, well-equipped environment that strongly supports students academically and beyond. My initial impression of a beautiful and impressive campus still holds true today. More importantly, HCIS is truly defned by its deep sense of care for staff and students, all of which is evident in both daily interactions and when facing challenges. To newcomers, I encourage patience and commitment; the longer you stay, the more meaningful this journey will become. This is a place where you’ll truly feel supported.”
Ms Esther Zhang Head of Admissions & Student Services
Evolution of School Campus
Connecting Generations
CLASSES OF 2000s
CLASSES OF 2010s
CLASSES OF 2020s
Igniting Talents and Passions
Making A Difference
Forging Partnerships
HMUN
Embracing Global Citizenship
(L-R) Trip to Scotland, China and United States of America
(L-R) Trip to Germany, United Kingdom, Switzerland
(L-R) Trip to France, Italy, Denmark, South Korea
Preserving Our Timeless Heritage
Empowering Student Leaders
"It’s hard to believe it’s been 12 years since I left HCIS. I’m so glad I got to be a part of its history, especially seeing the steady rise in IB high-scorers and the amazing expansion of the school’s facilities. Witnessing that growth frsthand, watching HCIS transform from a small fsh in a big pond to a premier institution for students worldwide, was truly rewarding and exhilarating. Looking back to 2012 and 2013, I was deep in the trenches of my IB Diploma Programme. To all you juniors out there, know that your seniors from generations past totally get your struggle! I might not have made it without the student-centric approach of the teachers and mentors at HCIS. They instilled a huge amount of perseverance and resilience—values that have served me incredibly well throughout my further studies at UCL and my career as a teacher. Huge congratulations to HCIS on its 20th anniversary! I’ll always wear the school crest with pride and cherish those memories. I’m 100% sure that future generations of HCIS students and staff will experience the same joy I did.”
VINCE
YIP
Singapore Permanent Resident (CLASS OF 2013)
GRADUATED FROM UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON (UCL) WITH MSC IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY.
PROFESSION: EDUCATOR
"When I frst joined HCIS, I wasn’t exactly the most confdent student. I struggled with traditional academics, and honestly, I was just glad the uniform looked more like casual wear. But HCIS ended up being a real turning point for me. It gave me the space to grow at my own pace, to explore what I was interested in, and to learn in a way that worked for me. Being part of the Student Council was one of the biggest highlights—it taught me discipline, leadership, and how to work with different stakeholders and teammates. Slowly but surely, I started to gain confdence, not just myself but in my own academic ability. By the time I graduated, I had picked up scholarships, book prizes, and eventually made it through law school. More importantly, the relationships that I have built over the years at HCIS, be it with teachers or friends are some of the most pivotal in my life and I can only have HCIS to thank for. Back then, HCIS was still starting out and everything we did felt like we were making history, from organising inaugural events to designing school jackets, it was truly an experience that I would not have gotten anywhere else. Now, seeing how much it’s grown—bigger buildings, more students, and even more heart—makes me really proud to have been a part of HCIS’s journey as much as HCIS has been an integral part in mine. I hope HCIS continues to be a place where students can fgure themselves out, fall a little, grow a lot, and come out a whole lot stronger. Happy 20th HCIS! Here’s to many more!”
LIM CHU YECH
Malaysian (Class of 2014)
PRESIDENT OF STUDENT COUNCIL (2013-2014)
GRADUATED FROM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE WITH BACHELOR OF LAWS (HONOURS)
PROFESSION: DISPUTE RESOLUTION SENIOR LEGAL ASSOCIATE LEGAL TECH & POLICY INTEGRATION LEAD
"Serving as Student Council President became my defning experience. Leading my peers taught me that true leadership means serving others—a lesson that continues to guide my university and workplace endeavours. Through organising school events and advocating for student welfare, I learned the power of empathy and teamwork. Today, I still draw on these lessons to approach professional challenges with compassion and collaboration. One of my proudest memories was witnessing HCIS’s remarkable campus expansion. As part of the frst few batches to beneft from the new block, I experienced its state-of-the-art Cultural Centre Theatre and laboratories frsthand. This expansion represented more than just new buildings. It embodied HCIS’s commitment to world-class facilities that matched its academic ambitions, creating spaces where dreams could take fight. HCIS instilled grit in me through relentless academics and leadership trials. Juggling IB exams while spearheading student initiatives taught me to persevere when overwhelmed. The school’s 自强不息 ethos transformed my fear of failure into fuel—equipping me to tackle career challenges with the same resilient mindset. As HCIS enters its next 20 years, I hope it retains its culture of fostering well-rounded leaders. May it continue championing kindness alongside academic rigour, empowering students to create meaningful societal impact. The HCIS spirit—grit, compassion, and an unwavering hunger for growth—is the legacy I hope future generations inherit.”
YAP PUI MIN Malaysian (CLASS OF 2015)
PRESIDENT OF STUDENT COUNCIL (2014-2015)
VALEDICTORIAN (2015)
GRADUATED FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG WITH A BACHELOR OF MEDICINE AND BACHELOR OF SURGERY (MBBS)
PROFESSION: MEDICAL DOCTOR
"HCIS transformed my path by meeting me where I was. Coming from another country’s school system, I encountered steep academic and cultural challenges. Yet, every day, I was supported by teachers and staff who saw me as I was and worked to help me thrive in the IB’s rigour. The school also recognised my interest in writing and speaking, and prioritised my extracurricular development alongside academic progress. This way, while HCIS equipped me with skills and perspective that I continue to apply professionally, what truly mattered was how it gave me the guidance, opportunity, and space to grow into my best self. To present and future students: take courage, especially when small steps seem overwhelming – 自强不息."
YEAP YEE SING Singaporean (CLASS OF 2016)
GRADUATED FROM UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD WITH BACHELOR OF ARTS IN JURISPRUDENCE
PROFESSION: LEGAL ASSOCIATE
Empowering Student Leaders
"My time at HCIS as an international student in the boarding school was a pivotal chapter in my life. Living away from home, I learned how to be independent, manage my daily responsibilities, and stay committed not only to my academic tasks but also to building meaningful relationships with friends. With the guidance of dedicated teachers and teaching assistants, I developed discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of community. One of my proudest experiences was participating in various school activity performances. Being on stage and presenting in front of an audience helped me overcome my fears and build the confdence to speak up, a skill that has continued to support me in both personal and professional settings. HCIS’s emphasis on holistic, future-oriented education instilled in me values like adaptability, courage, and responsibility. Looking ahead to the next 20 years, I hope HCIS continues to uphold its high standards and provide students with diverse experiences that help them grow into confdent and capable global citizens.”
CHO JAEBUM Korean (CLASS OF 2020)
PURSUING BACHELOR OF PHARMACY AT NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE
"My journey at HCIS has profoundly shaped my leadership aspirations. The pivotal moment that set my future in motion was an invitation to take up the role of an Orientation Group Leader, laying the leadership path that I embarked on and one that I never looked back. Serving as the President of the 15th and 16th Student Council was a defning chapter for me. I spearheaded the unifying of fve student councils into one compelling and cohesive team and together with the student leaders, we brought colours and pride to signature school events, flling the community with joy and unity. I am thankful to my mentor whose insight that leadership is not given or taught but discovered within oneself, has been my driving force to this day. I am grateful to receive the inaugural HCIS Gratitude Award which affrms for me that real education extends beyond the classroom to equipping students with the tools to embrace lifelong learning. The leadership opportunities instilled in me invaluable soft skills from confdence in public speaking, critical thinking, to entrepreneurial spirit, and these have given me an edge in my university education and beyond. Looking ahead, I hope HCIS continues to nurture not only competent learners but also leaders of tomorrow who embody the school’s motto of resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence."
VERRELL EVAN CHANDRAN Indonesian (CLASS OF 2021)
PRESIDENT OF THE 15TH AND 16TH STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT (2019-2021)
VALEDICTORIAN (2021)
PURSUING DOUBLE DEGREE PROGRAMME (DDP) IN BACHELOR OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING, B. ENG. (CHE) WITH HONORS AND BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, BBA (MANAGEMENT) WITH HONORS AT NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE
"9 years ago, I joined HCIS not knowing that the school experience would become one of the most meaningful part of my life. Looking back, I realise that beyond the textbooks and assessments, it was the friendships I made that left the deepest impact on me. The friends I’ve made over the years at HCIS made me appreciate our diverse culture and realised just how big the world really is. They taught me so much, not just in class, but also in life. Meeting them cracked my heart open, and now it is forever changed and because of that, I will carry a part of them wherever I go. As HCIS celebrates its 20th anniversary, I am proud to have been a part of the school story. Over the next 20 years, I hope every student who joins HCIS feels the same level of happiness I felt, the simple and honest joy of fnding real friends from all over the world. Friendships that make you laugh, make you grow, and stay with you long after you leave. I hope that spirit never fades. I hope it lives on in every corridor, every classroom, and every heart that passes through.”
CHONGTON LIMTHANAKHOM
Thai (CLASS OF 2022)
PURSUING DEGREE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING AT KING MONGKUT’S UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY THONBURI.
"As HCIS celebrates its 20th anniversary, it is apt for me to refect on my time as the President of the 19th Student Council. The school’s open and inclusive culture has led to a rapid expansion of student leaders to the point that about a quarter of the student cohort takes up various leading roles across seven leadership bodies each year. It has enabled the student leadership to engage with a variety of interests concerning the student body—from mental wellbeing, environmental protection to student welfare. There are more inter-cohort interactions and mentorships by senior students, which are all integral to the growth and support in the school community. One memorable innovation we kickstarted was the inaugural Aspirare, which was organised as a post-exam signature event comprising career talks, workshops and a fea market—all organised and executed by junior student leaders. Looking back, I am proud to have played a part in providing these valuable opportunities for the juniors to learn and grow through hands-on experiences. It is my fervent hope that HCIS will continue to encourage students to experiment with new ideas and pioneer initiatives that truly refect the school’s motto of the relentless pursuit of excellence.”
ETHAN
LEE YI CHEN Singaporean (CLASS OF 2024)
PRESIDENT OF THE 19TH STUDENT COUNCIL (2023-2024)
VALEDICTORIAN (2024)
SERVING NATIONAL SERVICE
Home Away From Home
HCIS Journey: Two Decades of Cultivating Excellence
As HCIS proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary, we refect on two decades of unwavering dedication to nurturing exceptional individuals. This milestone is not just a mark of time; it is a testament to our relentless commitment to selfimprovement and resilience, consistently striving to provide a truly value-add experience for every student who walks through our doors.
Over these twenty years, the torch of knowledge has burned ever brighter, guiding our students to remarkable academic achievements. A clear indicator of this success is the steady increase in our average International Baccalaureate (IB) scores. What began as a journey of gradual improvement has now blossomed into a period of stabilised excellence, with our students consistently achieving results that stand proudly amongst the best. This is not merely about numbers; it refects the deep understanding, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity we instill.
Beyond the classroom, our commitment to cultivating wellrounded, capable individuals is evident in where our graduates choose to continue their educational journey. We take immense pride in the admission of our students to various prestigious universities across the globe. From Ivy League institutions to leading universities in the UK, Asia, and beyond, our alumni
are making their mark, a direct result of the strong academic foundation and personal development they received at HCIS.
The burgeoning reputation of our school speaks volumes. We have witnessed a greater demand in terms of admissions, with each passing year seeing more aspiring students eager to join our vibrant community. This burgeoning interest is not just local; our school has become a top choice amongst international parents, who recognise HCIS as a beacon of academic rigour and holistic development. This widespread desire to be part of our story is a powerful validation of our approach and what we stand for.
Ultimately, the true measure of our success lies in the voices of those we serve. We are incredibly fortunate to have received worthy testimonials from parents, who consistently express their appreciation for the transformative impact the school has had on their children. These heartfelt endorsements, sharing stories of growth, confdence, and achievement, are the most cherished affrmations of our enduring legacy.
As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to continuing this journey of excellence, empowering the next generation to illuminate their own remarkable paths.
When we returned to Singapore after living overseas for several years, we decided to put Ryeson in HCIS so that he may receive a holistic education. This proves to be one of our best decisions ever. Ryeson scored 39 points in the 2015 IB exams, and over the course of his 4 years with HCIS, he was given many opportunities to develop himself as a leader. I would like to thank the teachers and all in HCIS for believing in Ryeson's potential and helping to develop him to be the best that he can be.
Mr Patrick Tan
Parent of Ryeson Tan Wen Jun Class of 2015
Enrolling Kao Hui and her elder brother in HCIS was possibly one of the best decisions I made. HCIS has provided her with numerous platforms to develop her intellectual and spiritual well-being, enabling her to develop into a well-rounded individual. She has managed to forge life-long friendships and meet with people of different cultural backgrounds, giving her the confdence to embark on her future endeavours."
Ms Chen Chih An Parent of Mean Kao Hui Class of 2018
回顾吕正杰过去六年在华中国际学校的学习生活，孩子在各方面 都取得了丰硕的成果。在学业上，学校提供了优质的师资和教育 条件。优秀的老师们能科学系统地将各个学科的知识，技能与思 维传授给学生，使孩子在不同阶段和方式的学习中都受益匪浅， 最终在学业上取得了优异的成绩并为今后的学习奠定了坚实的基 础。其次，学校十分注重孩子全方面发展。丰富的课外活动能培 养孩子的兴趣爱好，多样的学生组织也为锻炼孩子们的组织领导 能力提供了宝贵的机会。我们非常高兴与欣慰孩子在华中国际成 长为了扎根中华文化，拥抱世界格局的有志青年。作为家长，我 们选择华中国际学校是非常正确的，在此也祝福学校蒸蒸日上。"
Mr Lyu Yong and Ms Zheng Yan Parents of Lyu Zhengjie Class of 2022
When we were searching for a JC for our daughter, we found HCIS unique on several fronts. The small student to teacher ratio, multinational students, motivational teachers, and conducive learning environment in and out of classrooms appealed to us. HCIS also allowed Pragya to offer her mother tongue, Hindi, a frst for the school. It has been a transformative educational experience for Pragya which we are sure prepared her well for the next phase of her academic journey."
Mr & Mrs Suraj Singh Verma
Parents of Pragya Verma Class of 2016
We felt HCIS has a deep cultural background which helped our son to maintain his heritage values while broadening his perspective. During his 6 years of studying in HCIS, the teachers are always open to discuss whatever issues he might still have. Together, the teachers and his friends have created a very conducive well-rounded learning environment. Looking back after his graduation, I would say that we have made the right choice in choosing HCIS."
Ms Ludiawati Gunawan
Parent of James Pai Gunawan Class of 2020
Carol had a wonderful and enriching IB journey with HCIS. The school provided a nurturing environment to challenge students to better themselves academically, regardless of their starting point. Carol had many opportunities to work with schoolmates from across Asia and Southeast Asia; the mutual learning from diverse backgrounds and cultures was invaluable. Teachers are supportive of a wide range of pursuits, while also keeping students on track for the IB exams."
Ms Rachel Tan
Parent of Carol Rachel Lui Class of 2024
Acknowledgement
This HCIS 20th Anniversary publication is a vibrant celebration, brought to life by the incredible journey of shared memories from our entire school community. Our profound gratitude goes to all who contributed: staff, alumni and parents who helped shape this cherished testament of two decades of growth and enduring legacy.
The Publication Commitee
Gillian Tan
Goh Wei Kheng
Gerilynne Lee
Katharine Ho
