CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh) and CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) are set to undergo a significant rebranding, reverting to their original names effective January 1, 2027. The institutions will be renamed Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (Primary) and Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (Secondary), officially dropping the Toa Payoh geographic identifier.
This decision, confirmed in a media statement on May 26, has received formal approval from the schools’ founders, the management board, and the Ministry of Education. The move marks a return to the naming conventions that honor the history of the schools, which represent the oldest Catholic girls’ school in Singapore.
A Legacy of Education
The Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus was established in 1854 by four Catholic nuns who arrived in Singapore with a mission dedicated to the education and formation of girls and young women. At a time when female education was largely inaccessible globally, the Sisters opened their doors to students from all financial backgrounds, including orphans.
The schools remained at their original Victoria Street location for over a century before being separated into distinct primary and secondary entities in 1964. They later relocated to Lorong 1 Toa Payoh in December 1983, adopting the Toa Payoh suffix. By 1992, the Infant Jesus Board of Management introduced the “CHIJ” prefix across all 11 schools in the network to foster a unified identity.
Significance and Future Outlook
Sister Elizabeth Moey, provincial at the Infant Jesus Sisters Singapore, expressed that the board is “deeply grateful and heartened” by the reinstatement of these names. She noted that the change is intended to carry the rich heritage and mission entrusted to the Sisters since their arrival in Singapore.
Looking ahead, the reinstatement of these historical names could serve as a symbolic anchor for the school community. It is likely that the board hopes this renewed recognition of their shared history will continue to inspire future generations to live with courage, integrity, and a spirit of love for others. While the name change is administrative, it may influence the institutional culture by further emphasizing the founding principles established in the 19th century.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the name change take effect?
The schools will revert to their original names starting January 1, 2027.
Who approved the name change?
The change was approved by the schools’ founders, the management board, and the Ministry of Education.
Why is the school removing “Toa Payoh” from its name?
The change is a nod to the schools’ historical identity and heritage, aiming to reinstate the names of the mother schools and honor the mission established in 1854.
How do you believe restoring historical institutional names impacts the identity of current students?
