Founded in 1823, Raffles Institution (RI) is the oldest and one of the most prestigious schools in Singapore. Named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore, RI has a long and distinguished history of nurturing generations of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. As a premier independent school, RI is known for its academic rigour, holistic development, and strong values-based education.
Today, RI offers a six-year Integrated Programme (IP) that leads to the GCE A-Level examinations, preparing students not just for university, but for meaningful, impactful lives.
A Rich Heritage
With a history spanning over 200 years, RI has played a key role in shaping Singapore’s intellectual, political, and social landscape. Many of the nation’s founding fathers, including Singapore’s first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, are RI alumni. The school’s strong tradition of excellence continues today, with students and alumni excelling in diverse fields—from government and law to science, entrepreneurship, and the arts.
The school’s motto, Auspicium Melioris Aevi (“Hope of a Better Age”), reflects its enduring commitment to preparing students to contribute positively to society.
Academic Excellence
RI is synonymous with academic achievement. The school’s Integrated Programme allows students to bypass the GCE O-Level examinations and proceed directly to A-Levels in Year 6. This structure provides the flexibility to explore subjects in depth and encourages interdisciplinary learning and inquiry.
Students benefit from a broad curriculum that includes sciences, humanities, mathematics, languages, and the arts. RI places a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and critical thinking—skills that are essential in the 21st century.
RI students consistently achieve top results in national and international assessments. Many gain admission to leading universities worldwide, including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, and top institutions in Asia and Australia.
Holistic Development
While academics are a cornerstone, RI’s education goes far beyond the classroom. The school promotes holistic development through a wide range of co-curricular activities (CCAs), leadership programs, and service learning.
Students can choose from a vast array of CCAs, including sports teams, performing arts groups, science clubs, debate, and uniformed groups. These experiences cultivate teamwork, resilience, creativity, and leadership.
The Raffles Leadership Programme empowers students to lead with integrity and empathy. Through school-wide initiatives, student councils, and mentorship opportunities, RI nurtures confident, socially responsible leaders.
Community and Service
RI is deeply committed to service and community engagement. Students are encouraged to be active citizens through meaningful service learning projects, both local and international. These projects foster compassion, civic responsibility, and cultural awareness.
From environmental sustainability efforts to volunteering with underserved communities, RI students learn to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.
A Culture of Excellence and Inclusion
RI’s vibrant and inclusive culture reflects Singapore’s multicultural identity. Students come from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared passion for learning and excellence. The school’s values—respect, integrity, responsibility, resilience, and excellence—are embedded in every aspect of school life.
RI also champions student voice, giving students platforms to express ideas, initiate change, and contribute to school policy and culture.
Conclusion
Raffles Institution is more than a school—it is a national institution that shapes minds, builds character, and inspires generations. With its strong heritage, forward-looking approach, and unwavering pursuit of excellence, RI remains a beacon of education in Singapore and beyond.