VJC mulls 6-year programme
Principal looks at going it alone, if need be

By Santokh Singh
28 March 2009

ON its 25th anniversary celebrations, Victoria Junior College (VJC) principal Chan Poh Meng has one wish.

That the Victorian family would run a six-year full Integrated Programme (IP) within the next five years.

And he is still hoping that it would be achieved without splitting up VJC and older brother institution, Victoria School.

But if push comes to shove, he is willing to go it alone for the good of his pupils.

Speaking to The New Paper yesterday, Mr Chan said that having seen the first batch of his current four-year IP graduate, and having spent two years as principal of VJC, he is convinced that the six-year programme is the best for the pupils.

VJC now has a four-year IP which is co-educational and has been in place since 2005.

Students enrol at the college in Secondary 3, bypass the O-level examinations and take the A levels.

The college receives between 400 and 600 applicants each year for just 120 places in its IP. A portion of these students come over from VS.

Over the last four years, talks have been going on between VS and VJC on how best to introduce the six-year IP into the family.

But they have yet to reach a suitable compromise.

And Mr Chan fully appreciates the concerns of the stakeholders concerned.

He said: ‘My first and most preferred option would be for VS and VJC to merge into one institution.

‘But that would also mean introducing co-education into VS, and it is a very difficult issue to resolve. And we have engaged all the stakeholders and realised that some issues are hard to resolve.

‘I fully understand the concerns of VS stakeholders, especially the alumni, who have a 133-year history.

‘After all, VJC did come from VS; we have 25 years and VS has more than 130 years.’

The VS family, especially the Old Victorian Association (OVA) and parents of current pupils, have strongly objected to opening its doors to girls in the secondary school.

It is a 133-year-tradition they do not wish changed or tampered with.

Which, for Mr Chan, may mean that VJC may have to go on its own. Said Mr Chan: ‘I have discussed the options with my teachers and feel that my next option is to extend my IP downwards by two years.

‘The IP is still the best for both the academic and personal growth of the pupils and we cannot lose out on this.

‘So we may have to consider it seriously.’ Having said that, he was quick to point out that nothing has been finalised and no proposal has been submitted to anyone. But a shift in the principal’s stance, which was more conciliatory in the past, is certainly taking place.

Some two years ago, he was quite sure that VJC and VS would not split, nor compete with each other.

Back then he told The New Paper: ‘It is too preliminary to conclude that VJC will start its own co-ed six-year secondary school as the final proposal is yet to be submitted to MOE for approval.

‘VS and VJC’s affiliation remains and (we) will work together to offer the best possible education opportunities for our students.

‘VS and VJC believe the distinctive Victoria brand of education that has benefited students in the last 130 years would be further enhanced with the continuation of close ties between the schools.’

But after numerous dialogue session and forums, both physical and online, it was clear that the OVA would not shift from its stance of keeping the Victoria School name and its all-boys brand of education as its top priorities.

So the time may have come for VJC to move on.

Meanwhile, the OVA is in the process of getting feedback from members on the proposals via its website.

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/printfriendly/0,4139,197143,00.html

More In The News since the article above was published:

  1. The New Paper, 1st April 2009
  2. The New Paper, 5th April 2009
  3. The New Paper, 5th April 2009
  4. The New Paper, 9th April 2009
  5. The New Paper, 9th April 2009

65 Comments. Leave new

  • what sort of value are we inculcating the young ones???

    sad but can't help to feel this way: "mum, thanks for bringing me up… now i am independent and can go on to achieve much greater things… but you are old and rather too slow… sorry u have to stay put and take care of yourself while i continue my own journey to greater success."

  • Are we to discard 'EVERYTHING' for the sake of competing with others ???

  • Kelvin Seow
    1 April 2009 23:13

    I'm not for it. somehow 'old VS girl' just doesn't stick. we have kept a rich, proud and unique history that above all reasons, should simply be left unchanged. it is our identity.

  • Kim Seng Cheong
    3 April 2009 13:13

    The one pertinent question is, will the leadership be around to see this through? We're talking fundamental, sweeping changes that'll shape the next decade or two for both schools.

    Going by the recent record in senior leadership changes within both schools, it appears unlikely.

    Then again, both schools' staff are at the whims and mercy of the MOE with regards to allocation.

  • From The New Paper, 1st April 2009:

    Why should Victoria School have Integrated Programme?
    School can still give all-rounded education

    I REFER to the article 'VJC mulls 6-year programme' (The New Paper, 27 Mar).

    As an old boy of both Victoria School and Victoria Junior College (VJC), I would like to air my views.

    Firstly, I am dead against Victoria School going co-ed as it would result in the 133-year culture and heritage of the school going down the drain.

    We are the only government all-boy school left in Singapore and there is definitely no need to change this.

    I am also against VJC's six-year programme, as it is sure to harm the interests of Victoria School.

    In the first place, VJC was built for Victoria School boys. If the programme is implemented, chances of Victoria School boys making it into VJC would be lower.

    I feel it is not an honourable thing to do to the mother school.

    Secondly, it irks me to hear that many people regard the Integrated Programme as the only one that offers well-rounded development for students.

    This is because, having been through four years in Victoria School, I am sure that the school does a fantastic job not only in academic growth but also in character development.

    I am sure that VJC would still be able to do very well if it continues to take in Victoria School boys because they definitely have the potential to make the cut in all that they do.

    It is just a matter of unearthing their potential and inculcating the right attitudes in them.

    I am confident of Victoria School can continue to provide a good all-round education to present and future boys.

    FROM READER JONATHAN EDWARD D'CRUZ

    Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/printfriendly/0,4139…?

  • It's not only a dishonourable act…
    It's like,
    "I'm your Offshoot, but now I have to Shoot you Off!"

    thy SONS are WE

  • Victorian
    5 April 2009 13:01

    Full IP for VJC? Why does VJC want to be 3rd or 4th best IP JC when it can be the best non-IP JC? Look even if VJC goes full IP, it can never attract the quality PSLE folks who are RI and HCI material. In end, u r still getting 3rd/4th rung sec 1s. When VJC can be best normal JC!

  • steven ho
    6 April 2009 23:34

    I fear that the decision to go 6 yrs through train IP program for VJC has somewhat been finalised and confirmed. This view was after a recent discussion with a VJC teacher. He commented that if VJC Principal dares to make the statement publicly to the press, he must have been given the go-ahead by someone influential above.
    Unless, he can dispute otherwise, I think VS should concentrate on doing who's best for her. It's sad that the "son (VJC) do not think he needs the mother anymore. Maybe it's time we let him go with our blessings and get him to change his name!

  • steven ho
    6 April 2009 23:38

    I agree with Kim Seng. Principals come and go and that's part fo their rotation by MOE. Therefore, the future of both VS and VJC MUST be undertaken by the major stakeholders ie students, parents, OVA and Council. They are likely not around to "Clean" up the mess. Ideally, both principals shld be old victorian. Then they will value the systems and things beyong the academics,

  • victorian
    6 April 2009 23:47

    I just cannot imagine a Victoria School Concert Band with girls. I cannot imagine VS taking part in C/B Div Girls event. We're Victoria.

    VS Unite against CO-ED!

  • victorian
    6 April 2009 23:56

    Firstly, I feel that VS and VJ should NOT go into merger. The school spirit is this strong because of the many batches of Victorian who have came and went. At Victoria, we're not schoolmates, we're brothers. One for all, all for one, we help each other. It's the brotherhood and the 'team-before-self' spirit that ignites this Victorian Spirit.

    Secondly, it's a 133-year of culture, heritage and success going down the drain. I just cannot imagine VS winning a C/B Division Event. I just cannot imagine VS having a Girl Guides CCA. It's just not possible. VS have came this far and will go further. We do not need our son (VJ) if it wants us to change and erase 133 years of hard earned work, all the labour that our 'seniors' have put in. One line of our cheers read: "We fight the sun and fight the rain. We fight to give our school a name." We'll be strong and go on ourselves alone.

  • Wong Soon Tat
    7 April 2009 01:13

    For whatever reasons (Personal? Professional?)that the current leadership of VJC have for going full IP, I would strongly urge them to change the name of VJC, as there is no longer any reason for using and keeping the Victoria name in this "new" JC that they are "creating".

    Frankly, I have my doubts about this statement: "The IP is still the best for both the academic and personal growth of the pupils and we cannot lose out on this". Lose out? Who is the "we" here?

    If there comes a day to compete for students, then please do the honourable thing and save Victoria her blushes.

  • Edmund Teo
    7 April 2009 15:58

    VJC, how can you create and influence the Victorian Spirit and Culture if not for the 100+ students from VS that’s being fed into your college? they are the ones that take on ledership roles and making sure “thy sons are we” continue. Giving an additional 2 points ($2) to your mother school is only a small token. I know this is a unwilling token. So, take your token points, and rename VJC to something else and try to create your own identity, Spirit and Culture. Good luck!

  • In the 1960s and before, I remember that the school song began with
    “Victoria School in Singapore.
    There are other schools we know.
    Victoria School is something more
    …..”

    It is found that there is a slight change to the song now shared by VJC. The song begins
    “Victoria in Singapore.
    There are other schools we know.
    Victoria is something more
    …..”

    When was this change effected?

    By the way, during the 1960s, the VS supporters’ slogan at sports meets, debates, and other celebratory occasions went like this:

    V-I-C-T-O-R-I-A (the letters were cheered on unison one by one)
    VICTORIA
    V for Victory
    Victory for VICTORIA

    Those were the days, my friends.

    Nil Sine Labore

  • From The New Paper, 5th April 2009:

    Victoria Junior College, Victoria School & full Integrated Programme

    Leave but don't take Victoria School's identity

    05 April 2009

    I REFER to the article 'VJC mulls 6-year programme' (The New Paper, 27 Mar).

    I have attended both Victoria School (VS) and Victoria Junior College (VJC) and I am rather disturbed that the issue of the latter's integrated programme and the former going co-educational has been reignited.

    Based on news reports over the last few years, it seems to be all about VJC benefiting if VS were to go co-ed and supply students for their integrated programme.

    As a member of the Victorian family, I would like to ask: Why is only VJC's interest considered? How about VS?

    Why is VS remaining a boys' school so distasteful to VJC? Are the boys in VS just not good enough?

    Do VS boys benefit by gaining an easier entry into VJC? I don't think so, and most of us are not hard up.

    I do believe that VS boys can make it to other better junior colleges, but they choose VJC because they are Victorians.

    Sad to say the feelings do not seem to be mutual.

    In short, VJC seems to look down on VS.

    So, I suggest to VS – have some self-respect, do not ask for favours from VJC.

    Principal Chan Poh Meng of VJC said in the article that he understood the difficulty of of VS turning co-ed.

    I say to Mr Chan: No, you don't.

    You don't know the pride we feel to be in this school with such a long tradition. You can say it but can you feel it? Were you a Victorian?

    Teachers in VS build character while maintaining academic excellence by adding value to those who choose to join us.

    As for VS, we have always prided ourselves as being the only government all-boys school, and if VJC expects anything else, it is more than welcome to disassociate itself from Victoria, and venture out on its own.

    Just return to us our name, motto, our logo and our song and we wish you all the best.

    Nil Sine Labore! (the school motto, 'nothing without labour' in Latin) Victoria, thy sons are we, thy triumphs we will continue to see and we will not forget!

    FROM READER SHI RONGHUA

    Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/printfriendly/0,4139…?

  • From The New Paper, 5th April 2009:

    Consider the interest of Victoria School students

    05 April 2009

    I AM writing about the letter from Mr Jonathan Edward D'Cruz 'School can still give all-rounded education' (The New Paper, 31 Mar).

    I applaud Mr D'Cruz's views about Victoria Junior College (VJC) implementing a six-year integrated programme, and as an old boy of both Victoria School (VS) and the JC, I feel that I am obliged to add to what he said.

    VS may not be the top school in the current ranking, but I am confident that if the ranking system includes character development and its all-rounded and enriching education, it would be in contention for the top spot.

    I dare not say that VJC was built for VS boys, but since we are family, VJC should consider the interest of students from its affiliated school.

    I understand that in this realistic world, VJC is hard-pressed to maintain its high academic standards, and would prefer students of (perceived) higher calibre from top schools.

    But where is the honour in that? Where is the pride in producing top students from top students?

    Do not get me wrong for I do not mean to discredit the good and honest work that the teaching staff have been doing at VJC. As a fruit of their labour, I have to say that without them, I would not be where I am today.

    All I am saying is that VJC should not implement an integrated system aimed at reducing the number of VS boys.

    If the Raffles, Anglo-Chinese and Saint Andrew's families can take care of their affiliates, I see no reason why VJC cannot do the same.

    FROM READER DANIEL LAW ZHEN YI

    Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/printfriendly/0,4139

  • Jerry Tan
    7 April 2009 15:48

    VS has always bend backwards in accomodating VJC. VJC will not be what they are today if not for the support given by VS and the OVA. If they intend on going on their own and competing in the Sec1-4 level, then let them go ahead. But don't use the Victoria name. Perhaps they shld name something like Marine Parade JC or East Coast JC or Chan JC. Show us you can attract the "top talent" or import talent without the Victoria name. I don't think VJC Principal understand, cos he was never a Victorian, Let's get old Victorian as Principals for both school. If Raffles can do so, why can Victoria.
    Mind you, I am not even discussing about co-ed here.

  • The slogan should read:

    V-I-C-T-O-R-I-A
    VICTORIA
    V for Victory
    Victory for Victoria School

  • It’s heartwarming to see the rally of Victorians across all ages for a common cause!!!

    — TO KEEP HER FLAG UNFURL —

  • BTW pls remember to send your views for official consolidation via email to: voices@ova.org.sg

    The following link for your reference:
    https://www.ova.org.sg/2009/02/public-consultation-on-the-future-of-vs-and-vjc/

    Appreciate if you can also state you are a male or female so that OVA can get a consensus of the ladies alumni.

  • Steven Ho
    8 April 2009 17:06

    Rather than ding donging via mail, can I proposed we call for an informal gathering in VS for all interested to share their view? Someone can then take a recording or minute all the views and suggestions. Make this a VS affair. We shld be concern about the fate of VS since Chan Poh Meng has made his preference known. True Victorian, let’s band together. A weekday evening or Sat afternoon will be ideal. What say the Victorian community?

  • Nur Iskandar
    8 April 2009 13:10

    Good day my fellow Victorians.

    I have been following the debate. However, I have been reluctant to add any 2-cents worth. But I do have some bleeding questions, and I hope joo Peng can help shed some light on this: Why is VS so quiet till now? Particularly, why hasn't VS' Principal, Low Eng Teong, commented on the issue, particularly in response to Chan Poh Meng's statements. He is one key player who has remained very quiet so far.

    Joo Peng, anyone, can we prod some response from him. I REALLY want to know what is VS' stand on the matter. We, the alumni, can talk, type and bleed for all that is worth, but the real players on the field are not playing ball.

  • Victorian parent
    9 April 2009 19:24

    I fully support a NON CO-ED VS! My bro was a Victorian that’s y my son is a Victorian now! My little P4 nephew wants 2 b a proud Victorian 2. Why? Because it’s a 133 yr-old all boys school who groom gentlemen! Mr Chan Poh Meng pls leave VS alone! If it’s ur dreams 2 change, go somewhere else! As 4 Mr Low ET, he always stress tat Mr Chan PM is his counterpart n they work hand in hand! I wonder which hand is holding which???? NO GIRLS IN VICTORIA SCHOOL PLEEEEAAASSSSEEEEEE!!!!!!

  • I was in VS and was also the pioneer batch of VJ students. As with all the old boys who have posted their views here, I was and am still extremely proud to be a Victorian. VS and VJ were the best years of my growing up years. We made friends for life and are bonded by the Victoria Spirit. Almost all of the top VS students in my batch went to VJ, including 38 of 41 from my class 3S1. Why? So that we could build up VJ on the Victorian spirit, character and values from day one.

    When I first heard of the discussion of VS going co-ed, I was equally aghast that the idea was even considered, But after cooling down and reflecting on the issue, I feel that we should not dismiss the idea without greater and broader engagement with all the stakeholders.

    If we truly love our school, the first principle is to do what is best for her and her stakeholders. The stakeholders are not just the old VS boys but also the VJ alumni and future VS/VJ boys and girls. Second, if the Victoria spirit and values have also served VJ well, and that include the VJ girls, then we can be more generous and extend the same opportunity to more girls by going coed from Sec 1 onwards. Why limit our values and influence to boys only?

    Constraining VS to boys only is not a Law of the Nature and traditions do change for the better.

    I hope the Victorian community could come together and discuss this in a deeper and broader manner. In the end, the outcome may still be that VS remains a boy school and VJ goes 6-year IP. But at least, we can agree to disagree and work together on the many common areas that both VJ and VS share.

  • Victorian parent
    11 April 2009 01:25

    Cheer on Old Proud Victorian!!! U r a true Victorian!!! VS has no lack of boys waiting at her gate each year! So, leave the girls 2 Cedar, St Nick, SCGS, etc. For those who support co-ed n calling it Law of Nature, i supposed ur next generation do not have boys but girls huh????

  • Old Proud Victorian
    10 April 2009 23:37

    The crux of the matter here is that VJ has lost its supply of girls from feeder Dunman and as such wants VS to go coed..It is my opinion that it also doesnt want to start all-girls sec as 'quality' will be affected by numbers ( the same 'principle' operates with accepting VS as all boys) So, the 'principle' of doing good for VS simply doesnt exist in the first place as this move does good for one party i.e. VJ getting best of girls and best of boys, Get it?
    Also, it will advesrely affect girls schools like Cedar, TKGS etc as IP carrot can lure them to VJ. So, it is rightfully perceived as wanting only the 'best and brightest' at others (VS,especially) expense. Hence the question of honour( or lack of it)arises.
    One who truly loves VS and what she has done for him will honour her mission of producing sportsmen, professionals and Gentlemen and preserve her identity, history etc. As somebody wrote about The Nobel Pize award ( which has become an insitution) in an article: "The history, spirit and soul of this noble instituion is far, far richer than the mere quest for glory."
    'The Law of Nature'as stated will come into play naturally when demand for places in VS among boys out there keeps falling and to artificially retain the identity or name (as happened to Beatty, Gan Eng Seng etc)the authorities will have to bring in girls. There are hundreds queueing every year to appeal (mind you, APPEAL!) to come to VS. Get it? 'Law of Nature' ???? Oh Please!
    More importantly the heart of the matter is about feeling proud for one's alma mater which is doing well ( all round),having faith in its mission and vision, and about showing faith/confidence in our boys. The lyrics of our school schong cry out to us to always remember this!! Sing it to yourself (if you remember) and you will understand why!!

  • From The New Paper, 9th April 2009:

    Who will be principal in 5 years?

    AS A concerned alumnus of both Victorian Schools, I read with interest the article 'VJC mulls 6-year programme' (The New Paper, 27 Mar).

    The plan for both schools to have an integrated programme (IP) will result in fundamental, sweeping changes that'll shape the next decade or two for both schools.

    However, going by the recent record of senior leadership changes within both schools, it appears unlikely that a stable, dedicated and passionate team will be installed to carry out the integration, which is likely to be a five to 10-year project.

    Both schools are public, and staff are allocated by the Ministry of Education, who has the final say.

    The Victoria Junior College principal Mr Chan Poh Meng wishes that the Victorian family will run a six-year full IP within the next five years.

    The question is, will he be principal in five years' time?

    FROM READER CHEONG KIM SENG

    Source: http://tnp.sg/printfriendly/0,4139,198324,00.html?

  • From The New Paper, 9th April 2009:

    VJC should open girls’ school

    BY SANTOKH SINGH

    THE Victoria School-Victoria Junior College problem may have a simple win-win solution.

    My proposal: Let VS remain the all-boys secondary school it has been for more than a century. And let VJC start an all-girls secondary school that would complement VS.

    Both the boys and girls schools can then merge into VJC as part of a six-year Integrated Programme (IP).

    The proposal will allow VS to continue its more than 133-year-old tradition of providing a quality all-round education for boys in a government school, as requested by its alumni and parents.

    VJC, which has also said publicly that it is ready to start a secondary school to boost the quality of its students, should have no problems running an all-girls school – call it Victoria Girls School.

    The model will be no different from the proven models of the Raffles and Hwa Chong families – with a slight twist.

    In these models, the boys schools are part of the junior college with the girls coming from sister schools, namely Raffles Girls and Nanyang Girls.

    In the proposed Victorian model, the boys would come from a kilometre down the road to join the family for the A levels in the IP.

    Just like the Raffles and Hwa Chong families, the educational programmes can be centrally planned with the involvement of all parties.

    It is a win-win proposal for all, including Singapore’s education system.

    The Victorians will get a shot at the IP, which is accepted by most parents to provide their children a better chance at success – especially the brighter ones – and it will provide yet another model.

    It will free two more good schools of the O-level trappings and give students exposure to a holistic all-round education, with equal emphasis on co-curricular activities, service learning and character and leadership development.

    These are students that deserve such opportunities, VS boys included.

    Boost

    The proposal will boost the academic quality of pupils applying to VJC (girls) and VS (boys) – what the college has been longing for.

    And there will be plenty of good will should VJC help boost the quality of the boys applying to the school by including VS in its IP programme.

    Having taught there for eight years, I feel that VS deserves it.

    It has been one of the best all-boys schools in Singapore, providing quality all-round education for Singaporeans who may not be able to afford the high fees charged by independent schools.

    For less than $30 a month, compared to the more than $300 charged elsewhere, it is still beating some of these independent schools in the O levels.

    It is the only all-boys school, consistently maintaining its Band 1 status in the MOE’s annual banding and ranking exercise for academic performance.

    And looking at its CCA achievements, especially in the sports field, it can actually teach other schools in the independent category how to run their programmes.

    It is one of probably three all-boys schools still flying the soccer flag, making the final of the nationals in at least one division in the last two years. This year, both its teams are in the Zone finals, having qualified for the nationals.

    It finished second in the nationals for cricket, floorball and tennis, as well as clinched the C division title for cross-country, as well the runner-up spot for the B boys.

    It finished third in B boys hockey. And for the first time in more than two decades, the school made the national semi-finals for volleyball, in not one but both divisions.

    I dare say that not many all-boys schools in Singapore, independent or mission, can boast such an illustrious sports record.

    Similarly, the school’s uniformed groups and cultural organisations, especially its choir, Chinese orchestra and English concert band, have been traditionally among the best in Singapore – all achievements it can exploit to boost its status as a premier JC.

    There is no doubt that the school has done extremely well to be one of the best in Singapore in just 25 years.

    The question is: Does it have the confidence to start an all-girls school that will attract some of the best and the brightest? And in the process, further boost the performance of VS via the competition?

    I have no doubt.

    More importantly, it will be hailed for its role in keeping the Victorian family – and its honour – intact.

    Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/printfriendly/0,4139,198326,00.html?

  • TRIPLE GOOD NEWS!!!

      1. Floorball

    VS “C” Div Floorball team had emerged victorious as National Champion, beating Raffles Institution 2-0 in the final on 24/April/2009. It was a hard fought and thoroughly deserved victory. This is the school 2nd National title for the year.

      2. Track & Field

    VS “C” team had performed extremely well in the face of stiff competition from Sports School and the traditional TnF powerhouse Chinese High School. Besides giving Chinese High a run for their money by reducing their winning margin to only 18 pts, Prince Lau took over the sprint mantle from Sports School in the sprints, claiming Gold for both 100m and 200m.

    VJC “A” Div Boys team came even closer to clinching the elusive 1st ever A Div boys title in the college history losing to RJC by only 3 pts (167 to 164) while the “A” Div Girls team is team overall 3rd. Congratulations to all the athletes for the great achievement.

    C Div
    Prince Leleon Lau 100 Metres Gold
    200 Metres Gold
    Leonard Tay Jia Hao High Jump Gold
    Pua Zhao Chen Javelin Gold
    Quek Jun Jie Calvin 400 Metres Silver
    400 Metres Hurdles Silver
    Team 4 X 400 Metres Relay Silver
    Marcus Ng Yu Pei 3000 Metres Bronze
    Timothy Tay Zhi Wei 100 Metres Bronze
    200 Metres Bronze

    B Div
    Toh Renjie Sean 100 Metres Hurdles Gold
    Rodrigo Eugene Cyril 2000 Metres Steeplechase Silver
    3000 Metres Silver

    A Div – Boys
    Loo Yi Hao 100 Metres Gold
    200 Metres Silver
    Timothy Tan 400 Metres Hurdles Gold
    400 Metres Silver
    Muhd Shamin Sng Triple Jump Gold
    Koh Thong En Javelin Gold
    Team 4 X 100 Metres Relay Gold
    Team 4 X 400 Metres Relay Gold
    Yang Jieyu 100 Metres Silver
    Ang Guo Jun Pole Vault Silver
    Lok Xinda Long Jump Bronze
    Ryan Boey 400 Metres Hurdles Bronze
    Samuel Tan Pole Vault Bronze
    Steven Lim 110 Metres Hurdles Bronze

      3. Soccer

    VS B Div Soccer Team has emerged as East Zone Soccer Champion. At National level (group stage), the team has gone on to draw 2-2 with Sports School on 24/Apr leading on 2 occasions, a remarkable achievement and progresses to the National quarter final. The quarter final will be held in June (actual date to be advised). Below is the breakdown of

    VS v Sports School
    Half Time 1-0
    Full Time 2-2

  • a 1960s VS student
    11 April 2009 16:21

    The NP article on 9 April “VJC should open girls’ school is an interesting one. By the way, way back in the old days (don’t know whether this is still on today), VS used to have a “sister school”, I think, viz TKGS. There used to be activities undertaken by students jointly by the two schools. Also a good number of TKGS students enrolled in Pre-U classes in VS after completing their School Certificate. One of the most well known names of a joint VS and TKGS alumna is perhaps Dr Kanwaljit Soin, the well known medical specialist, humanist and ex-NMP. Given that TKGS is as established and good academically as any other girls’ school in Spore, perhaps TKGS should be approached to consider the idea of going the IP way together with VS. The two schools can remain as they are now and students can go on to VJC for the final two years of their IP programme. For what it is worth. Thanks.

  • Roshaizan Bin Sapan
    12 April 2009 00:54

    Old Proud Victorian…
    Salute!!!

  • I am against the changes being proposed to VS due to the following experiential lessons.

    I was in VS from 1991-1994 and VJ from 1995-1996. In VS I was a student, hockey captain, and prefect. While in VJ i was a student, hockey captain and faculty captain. My time in VS taught me valuable lessons of hard work, leadership and other character building traits. In VJ i learnt that academic excellence was what defined you. It was openly emphasized that all other pursuits should not be at the expense of academic performance. Such was the culture of the two schools i attended. I recall distinctively when i was late in VS i was given double the punishment meted out to a student to remind me of punctuality and the responsibilities of taking office. In VJ when i was late, i was made to visit the principal’s office who would spend the next few minutes discussing the deficiencies in my common test and mid term grades and how remedial action should be put in place to arrest this. In VS we were celebrated as school players and felt the weight of the school on our shoulders to do well for it. In VJ we were an unofficial ECA as it was deemed to be a breeding ground for troublemakers. Fortunately, for one expat teacher who took it upon himself to go against the management, he took care of our administrative issues, while the senior players played coaches to both the boys and girls teams. In VS when finished National 2nd, the management cheered for us and encouraged us to train harder to get the gold the next year. In VJ when we finished 2nd the principal openly refused to give out the medals on stage passing on the responsibility to a subject head.

    Such was the culture of the two schools i attended. I learnt much from both schools, in the former under the right guidance and atmosphere, and in the latter because i refused to conform. The reasons for VJ considering the 6 year prog and its message to move ahead with it, with or without VS, clearly indicate to me that the culture has not changed very much since. Looking back now, I would still choose the education model that emphasizes the balance between academic excellence and character building. I do not think that VS will be VS anymore if it were under the establishment of VJ or if changes were made to its culture,spirit and traditions. Let VS remain the excellent value add school that it was and is. I think it is time for VJ to now conform.

  • Ah Meng 1991
    6 May 2009 01:26

    Excellent post by Gurdev … Sure brings back the memories …

    VS has never been about academic excellence, its more of a all rounded education, with emphasize on sports and character moulding…

    And yes to to the previous postings, let ex VS boys be principals, only then they will appreciate the meaning of a VS boy …

  • Tham Kong Wai
    14 May 2009 00:02

    I just thought of a crappy idea, and I will send it to OVA in a separate email(once i can get it drafted so that it don’t sound that crappy); what we need now is not to thump our chests like apes but to look at how we can strategize. More creative ideas please.

  • Alvin Poon
    13 May 2009 22:58

    Really rubbish from the current principal…..we don't see RI having to open its doors to co-ed route, do they? If he can't appreciate the values of the Victorian family, prefering to focus on having a decorated CV after he leaves his current role….let him move on on his on.

  • Tham Kong Wai
    14 May 2009 00:36

    Hi OVA,

    Kong wai here from class of 4G, graduated from VS in 1993;class of 94S36 graduated from VJC in 1995. I have been thinking of this issue since I attended the call to meet that was chaired by MP Teo Ser Luck 2 years ago.

    Since that time we can see that VJC Principal "Chan Poh Meng has one wish : That the Victorian family would run a six-year full Integrated Programme (IP) within the next five years."

    "But if push comes to shove, he is willing to go it alone for the good of his pupils."

    "He said: ‘My first and most preferred option would be for VS and VJC to merge into one institution.‘But that would also mean introducing co-education into VS, and it is a very difficult issue to resolve…'."

    And the article ended with "So the time may have come for VJC to move on."

    My question to you my fellow Victorians, why are we being led by this person? Why do we have to merge when he prefer us to merge, why do we have to think of co-education in VS when he say so?

    Why do we let he claim that "VS and VJC’s affiliation remains and (we) will work together to offer the best possible education opportunities for our students" when clearly he does not intend it to be so?

    I am going to ask you to weigh a very simple question: How important is our affliation to VJC as compared to our tradition and the Victorian Spirit?

    As we can see, we can't have 1 without letting go of the other, so my suggestion is to let go. I hereby propose that we suggest VJC change its name into Victorious Junior College and VS is no longer strongly affiliated with VJC. VJC can maintain their existing school crest and school song if they choose to, or they have the right to do a total(not partial) redesign.

    It will come as no loss to VJC since the junior college has always view itself as VJC rather than VICTORIA junior college. Once their name is dissociated with VICTORIA, they are welcome to set up VJC Secondary School(VJCSS) to conduct their IP programme and they do not need to suffer from us trying to shaft the Victorian Spirit down their throats.

    They can create their alumni called OVJCA and OVA can sit in their board. OVA can finally concentrate on supporting the school that it deserves its undivided attention.

    VJC has ride on the prestige of Victoria School since it's very beginning and within a short span of 25 years, it has matured into an excellent educational institution and I believe it's time we let go and give it our blessings.

    Regards,
    Tham Kong Wai

  • Tan Hoe Teck
    14 May 2009 15:26

    VS(1985-88) and VJC(1989-90)

    Just an observation:
    In RJC, it carries the badge of the RI
    When RJC merges with RI, it is called RI(JC) ie JC in brackets

    In ACJC, it carries the badge of ACS, and so does ACS(I), ACS(J), ACS(Barker), ACS(P), ACS(International)

    In Hwa Chong, it carries the flame of the CHINESE HIGH SCHOOL, not the five arrows of HCJC.
    Furthermore, Hwa Chong is a mandarin translation of THE CHINESE HIGH SCHOOL.

    In St Andrew, they have the Saint Andrews Village.

    Can we learn anything from these schools?

  • Reply to Joo Peng:

    > In the first place, VJC was built for Victoria School
    > boys. If the programme is implemented, chances of
    > Victoria School boys making it into VJC would be lower.
    > FROM READER JONATHAN EDWARD D’CRUZ

    As a matter of fact, after VJC implemented its 4-year Integrated Programme, the chances of VS boys entering VJC HAS already been lowered.
    With the 6-year programme, it will shutdown the entrance TOTALLY for VS boys.

  • I see it differently. I think the larger Old Victorian community are still ignorant of what is happening. How many come to this website? And not every one read The New Paper. And majority are quiet about the whole affair. I would rather Old Victorians come out in great numbers to voice their concerns, like the way the Thai Red Shirts have done in support of Thaksin (minus the violence of cos).

    I urge every one here to send this link to their schoolmates so that they can voice their opinions.

    I hope the OVA is doing enough as I see that most are more concerned with football events. I hope I am wrong.

    And what is the VAC/VEC doing? Don't they have the jurisdiction over the directions of the 2 schools? Howcome the VJC principal has so much say in the whole event?

    > It’s heartwarming to see the rally of Victorians across > all ages for a common cause!!!

  • Reply to "By a 1960s VS student":
    I heard that MOE has asked VS not to disturb any of the girls' school (be it TKGS, Cedar or Crescent) to become VS sister school for the IP Programme. So this is unlikely to work out.
    > Given that TKGS is as established and good academically
    > as any other girls’ school in Spore, perhaps TKGS
    > should be approached to consider the idea of going the
    > IP way together with VS. The two schools can remain as
    > they are now and students can go on to VJC for the
    > final two years of their IP programme.

  • Reply to "Tan Hoe Teck"

    > In RJC, it carries the badge of the RI
    > When RJC merges with RI, it is called RI(JC) ie JC in
    > brackets
    > In ACJC, it carries the badge of ACS, and so does ACS
    >(I), ACS(J), ACS(Barker), ACS(P), ACS(International)
    > In Hwa Chong, it carries the flame of the CHINESE HIGH
    > SCHOOL, not the five arrows of HCJC.
    > Furthermore, Hwa Chong is a mandarin translation of THE
    > CHINESE HIGH SCHOOL.
    > In St Andrew, they have the Saint Andrews Village.
    > Can we learn anything from these schools?

    Good points that you have made there!
    Remember, it does not matter much to Chinese High whether their name is change to Hwa Chong Institution or some other name, because it was a Chinese School. What matter to them is the Chinese version of the name does not change, ie Hua Qiao Zhong Xue 华侨中学. I am sure their present and old boys will be fuming too if the Chinese name is changed.

    The Raffles model is the most suitable for us:
    – Raffles Institution for secondary (boys)
    – Raffles Girls' School for secondary (girls)
    – Raffles Institution (JC) for pre-university
    with the IP school being called Raffles Institution.

    So the Victoria equivalent will be:
    – Victoria School for secondary (boys)
    – Victoria Girls' School for secondary (girls)
    – Victoria School (JC) for pre-university
    with the IP school being called Victoria School.

    The name – 'Victoria School' – must be kept!

  • Do people still remember how MOE has shut her doors on VS when VS apply for independent status? I always believe MOE has an agenda – their focus is on RI and ACS. These 2 schools get independent status, and a few other schools lucky to hop on at the same period.
    When VS apply for independent status (the last one to do so), MOE closed her doors and did not allow any other school to go independent anymore. VS was late!
    Sometimes, Lianhe Zaobao categorized VS as a neighbourhood school, because once the school is not independent or SAP, the paper categorized it as 'neighbourhood'.
    Although VS has always prided itself as one of the best, if not the best, non-independent school in terms of all-round education, the difference is actually quite great.
    Before ACS and SJI went independent, their standards were dropping drastically. Based on the Straits Times ranking for sec schools – they were outside the top 20 positions.
    And RI and Chinese High went further ahead of VS after they become independent.
    We need to be careful this time round as MOE may back the idea of the VJC principal. MOE does not give that much priority to VS.
    And most of all, we cannot be late again. We should take the initiative and end the issue once and for all, whether a girls' school be set-up or stay as it is now forever.

  • Steven Ho
    21 May 2009 14:25

    Incidentally (on 2nd thought, I think it's deliberately), VJC now has her own "VJC Alumni". Are they sidelining OVA in their parallel move to pursue her own agenda?

    OVA, Vernon Sir, can you comment and clear the air?

  • Reply to Steven Ho:

    I am only afraid that the VJC principal may take this opporuntiy (VJC alumni) to alienate VJC further from VS and OVA.

    I am sure OVA and Mr Vernon Teo stand is clear on this, ie "Victoria School" name remain and it shall stay as a boys' school.

  • I think what will happen next is that the VJC principal will increase the intake for IP (Sec 3) in VJC. If this happen, more VS students will be deprived of places in VJC in JC1.

    If VAC/VEC go ahead with VGS proposal, MOE may ask one of the girls' school to join the VIP programme as it is more cost-effective. TKGS will be the likely choice as it is in the East Zone, compared to Crescent or Cedar.

  • 1971 Old Boy
    8 June 2009 13:25

    After all the forum, emails "feedback" re future of VS, do we have an update? What's happening or is it status quo?

  • Reply to 1971 Old Boy:
    I think OVA has made its stand clear, ie VS retain its name AND does not go co-ed. OVA has no control over VJC. The body that has control over VJC is the VAC/VEC.

  • Wonder if the VJC principal will make any surprise statement on VJC "breaking away" again at the coming VJC 25th anniversary dinner this weekend.

  • How are we going to stop this?
    VEC/VAC still keeping quiet?
    If this happen, I rather VJC break away totally.
    Don’t use the ‘Victoria’ name!

  • 维初申请扩展直通车 校友不满与维中分家

    (2009-08-13)

    早报导读

    ● 邓莉蓉

    维多利亚初级学院决定扩展直通车计划,从四年延至六年并独立招收男女中一新生,引起一些校友不满,因为这意味着维初和维多利亚中学这对兄弟学校或将分道扬镳。

      有校友在热门社交网站Facebook辟讨论区,短短一个多星期已有1400多人参加。

      维初在2005年就开办四年的直通车课程,目前从中三开始招生。其实,维初有意开办六年直通车计划已讨论多时,维初和维中三年多前就开始探讨学校未来的发展方向及合作模式,但双方在一些问题上意见分歧而迟迟未达成共识。

      随着直通车计划越来越普遍,多所知名学府近年也纷纷赶搭上这趟列车,包括华侨中学、莱佛士书院、德明政府中学及立化中学等。国家初级学院也在今年初将原有的四年直通车扩展至六年,成为第一所开办完整中学部的初级学院。

      在这个大趋势下,如何吸引小六会考表现优异的学生,提升学校的竞争力,成为维初和维中共同面对的挑战。

      两校无法合并的一个主要矛盾在于,维初倾向男女混合教育,争取从中一开始招收成绩优异的女生;但维中却坚持应保留纯男校的传统而不愿接受男女同校。维中几年前也曾讨论是否转为男女混合学校,最终因校友强烈抗议而作罢。

      维多利亚校友会发言人受访时说,维初自立中学部等于“分家”,与维中成为竞争对手。他指出,维中有133年悠久历史,向来提倡包括学生人格培养的全面教育,不只是专注于学业成绩,校方不应为扩大收生来源而改变传统。

      他说:“我们并不反对维初和维中合并开办直通车,结合两校资源为学生提供更全面的教育,但不应改变维中多年纯男校的传统。至于要如何吸引好学生可从其他方面探讨,不应该完全成绩至上。”

      另外,校友会也质疑学校的咨询委员会决定扩展直通车的过程不够透明,之前未广泛征询家长和校友意见。校友会上周已把请愿书寄交给教育部长黄永宏,希望当局考虑校友会的立场。

    维初副校长:扩充计划
    是为了强化直通车课程

      维初副校长冯耀华受访时说,维初决定将现有的直通车计划延长至六年是为了强化直通车课程,让学生在不受干扰的情况下广泛学习,获得全面发展,对学生有益。过去几年,维初也和维中积极联系,并与主要相关人士进行讨论,其中也包括与维中合并的可能性。

      至于校友会提出的一些意见,维初没有作出回应。

      冯耀华说:“不论申请的结果如何,维初将继续和维中保持密切合作关系,延续维多利亚的顽强精神。”

      另一方面,维中校长刘荣忠受访时也没有针对维初的直通车计划可能对维中学生造成的影响给予回应。他只说双方这些年与相关人士讨论学校的发展方向,也很有默契地表达了和维初相同的立场,即保持密切联系,延续维多利亚精神。

      维初于1984年成立,当初是由已故国会议员兼校友翁执中建议把维中的高中部改成初院,两校因此有很深的历史渊源。维初校长曾宝明早前曾表示希望在今年内完成沟通工作,向教育部提出申请书。他当时说,如果一切顺利,相信可以在两年时间正式招收中一学生。

      教育部受询时证实日前已收到维初的申请书,目前正在进行评估。

    一些校友:将导致维中难吸收优秀生

      不少维多利亚校友在社交网站上对维初的做法表示失望,认为这么做无疑将损害维中的利益,导致维中难以吸引优秀的学生。但也有一些人理性看待问题,觉得维初的直通车计划其实对维中影响不大。

    维初副校长:扩充计划
    是为了强化直通车课程

      维初副校长冯耀华受访时说,维初决定将现有的直通车计划延长至六年是为了强化直通车课程,让学生在不受干扰的情况下广泛学习,获得全面发展,对学生有益。过去几年,维初也和维中积极联系,并与主要相关人士进行讨论,其中也包括与维中合并的可能性。

      至于校友会提出的一些意见,维初没有作出回应。

      冯耀华说:“不论申请的结果如何,维初将继续和维中保持密切合作关系,延续维多利亚的顽强精神。”

      另一方面,维中校长刘荣忠受访时也没有针对维初的直通车计划可能对维中学生造成的影响给予回应。他只说双方这些年与相关人士讨论学校的发展方向,也很有默契地表达了和维初相同的立场,即保持密切联系,延续维多利亚精神。

      维初于1984年成立,当初是由已故国会议员兼校友翁执中建议把维中的高中部改成初院,两校因此有很深的历史渊源。维初校长曾宝明早前曾表示希望在今年内完成沟通工作,向教育部提出申请书。他当时说,如果一切顺利,相信可以在两年时间正式招收中一学生。

      教育部受询时证实日前已收到维初的申请书,目前正在进行评估。

    一些校友:将导致维中难吸收优秀生

      不少维多利亚校友在社交网站上对维初的做法表示失望,认为这么做无疑将损害维中的利益,导致维中难以吸引优秀的学生。但也有一些人理性看待问题,觉得维初的直通车计划其实对维中影响不大。

  • How are we going to stop this?
    VEC/VAC still keeping quiet?
    If this happen, I rather VJC break away totally.
    Don't use the 'Victoria' name!

  • VS will become like ACS (Barker Road), a Band 8 school, and the poor cousin of ACS(I).

  • last part of Zaobao news:

    一名校友指出,目前已有多所学府提供直通车课程,有兴趣参与这个计划的学生其实已有很多选择。即使维初开办六年直通车,也不一定会削弱维中的竞争力和素质。更重要的是,维中应思考如何提升本身的教学内容,培养出全方位的优秀学生。
      毕业自维中和维初的周成远(27岁,公务员)受访时说,维初招收中一新生将削弱两校的附属关系,身为校友自然为此感到难过,但只要维初日后还继续接受中四毕业的维中学生,他就比较能接受。  

      他说:“如果维初让维中的毕业生同其他学生公平竞争,成绩优异的学生日后还能进入维初,我觉得没有问题。”

      另外一些校友却认为,维初既然要与维中“切割”关系,就不应继续延用维多利亚的“品牌”。

      同样开办六年直通车课程的华侨中学与莱佛士书院,当初与各自的兄弟学校(华侨和莱佛士中学部)合并时则没有这方面的问题。主要是因为它们同姐妹学校合作即南洋女中和莱佛士女中,吸纳优秀女生加入直通车计划,但维初却没有这方面的资源。

  • Please join discussion at: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=11683824650

    Good day Sirs, Ma’ams & fellow Sons of Victoria 🙂

    Victorians, we must RISE & UNITE.

    Please be patient and read through. 🙂

    It is with deep regret that I am informing you of the recent rumors that Victoria JC has concrete plans to establish a “6 Year Programme” on their own – disregarding Mother Victoria School. This move has the potential of ‘hurting' and 'bleeding’ VS. I am sure you are aware of this.

    As true blue Victorians, it must definitely be saddening to hear about this unbelievable probability. This would be detrimental to VJC's partner in all-round education, Victoria School.

    25 years ago, VJC was set up in the interests of Victoria School boys to cater a holistic and continuous JC education. VJC was established for the continuity of the VS Family. However, 25 years later, the same institution, VJC, is disregarding the origin of VJC by splitting apart and establishing their “6 Year Programme”. Ironically, VJC has always promised a United Victorian Family.

    Over the years, it is very clear that VJC looks down on VS.

    What’s wrong with our all-rounded, holistic education that has thrived in the last 133 years? Why does VJC have such little faith in VS? Why take the easy route or 'better safe than sorry' route?

    VJC only wants top PSLE boys and girls. They feel that taking in VS boys involves some risks for them. But isn’t that a challenge? VS boys, if inspired by this show of faith, will rise to the occasion. Victoria School has always been producing many bright and all-rounded students every single year without fail.

    You may be wondering how VS will be affected by this.

    Most importantly, the quality of VS will essentially drop. Many primary school students and their parents will certainly opt for a school in the East that offers a “Through-Train Programme”. Such an act would simply starve Victoria school of a certain calibre of male students. This will be the ultimate betrayal of Sister on Brother.

    Secondly, VJC is neglecting the interests of VS students. It is known to everybody that VJC was established to provide further education to VS boys. If this happens, VJC transforms itself from a sister school, into one that is in direct competition to VS. VS boys will be deprived of an affiliation to VJC. This will be hurting to many VS boys who dream of pursing their JC education in the Victorian Path.

    Lastly, VJC is being ungrateful to VS. For all the excellence VS has offered, is this how VJC repays us back? It makes no sense to share the same name, motto, song and logo with an institution that is set to provide direction competition to Victoria School.

    Right now, we have to stand united and make our voices heard. Join us in our common cause and belief, as many generations of VS unite as ONE Victoria! 🙂

    Sons of Victoria, let the true Victorian Spirit ROAR!

  • Appeal to all Victorians,
    Very soon, Victoria School will become ACS (Barker Rd), the poor and forgotten cousin (not even a brother) of ACSI, and a Band 8 school. There is no doubt that is going to happen, and very soon too, unless we do something. I can already hear the last nail being hammered into the VS coffin.
    VS faces the biggest fight in her 133-yr history.
    There are 2 things that we can do:
    1. Old Victorians Association (OVA) has written to the Education Minister to reject VJC's proposal. You can do your part too by writing in your own capacity to the Education Minister (ng_eng_hen@moe.gov.sg) or even to the PM (lee_hsien_loong@pmo.gov.sg).
    2. Start an online petition. Gather 10000 or more signatures within a month. If Thais can get 5 million signatures for Thaksin, a fugitive in the eyes of the present Thai govt, so can Victorians! The signatures need not be Victorians, but family members and friends too.
    There is no time to lose!
    Save your alma mater! This is our last hope!

  • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Victorians that would be the people you want to contact to put a stop to this faggotry vjc is attempting.

    no amount of petitioning can help without this people being informed.

  • 1971 Old Boy
    14 August 2009 12:53

    Victorians, it's confirmed, the Principal of VJC has shown his true colour. The Straits Times today has reported that VJC Pincipal has submitted proposal to MOE to start admitting pupils from Secondary 1..

    It's very disappointing as he was in the panel (held in VS auditorium) about 1-2 years ago assuring the VOAs that he will NOT DO anything without consulting and affecting VS! The same guy now is back tracking. Can we trust him?

    Let's stand up and do something. Anybody has any idea of an effective "blockage"? Why should we allow him to use the Vistoria name for his advantage at our expense?

  • A petition is still impt. Looking for someone who can create one, but not those on general petition sites.

  • dear Old Boy, when you comment that "Victoria School has always been producing many bright and all-rounded students every single year without fail." why then do you worry about the falling calibre of new students each year? by saying that VJC will now be in direct competition with VS for good students, isn't that an explicit statement that VS wants the top students too? then it wouldn't be fair to criticize VJC that "VJC only wants top PSLE boys and girls. They feel that taking in VS boys involves some risks for them. "

    Old Boy, are you part of the VJC management? can you say for certain that VJC definitely have negative views towards VS students? if it is true that VS boys pose a risk to their standard, the ones who should be refelecting on what they've been doing is VS. The promise to produce "many bright and all-rounded students every single year without fail" is purely an unsubstantiated claim.

    true, VS does produce high quality students, there's no doubt about that. these students manage to do well, and they go into VJC. BUT, if VJC was intended to be a JC specially for VS students, why then aren't there more VS students in VJ than compared to other schools? even with the benefits of the affiliation, VS students aren't doing well enough to prove themselves to be better than students of other missionary boys schools or mainstream sec schools. VJC is a fine institution, not only because of the students itself, but because of the entire learning culture and its unique and vibrant school spirit too. of course, it is highly sought after by students not just from VS. its a meritocratic education system out there, students who do better have the chance to enter a better institution. By giving VS boys a confirmed entry ("VJC was established to provide further education to VS boys"), we need to consider if the incentive to work hard to get good o-level grades will be diminished or not.

    the rationale of providing a 6 year programme is that it'd be thoroughly beneficial for its students, not just in terms of education, but also equipping them with important and necessary life skills as well. yes, there will be competition should VJC set up an entirely different school, but it is not fair to criticize VJ as being ungrateful to VS. both schools want glory, true. both schools want the best students, true. but however, it is NOT TRUE that VJ owes VS anything more than being an "offspring" of the parent school. VJC has carved out a niche for themselves, the culture is fairly different from that of VS. VJ's origin has to be respected, but to ask for a compromise of its full capability of developing and nurturing outstanding students for the sake of this supposed debt if selfish on VS's part. Would you rather deprive students with the potential to excel under a 6 year program the chance to achieve greater heights and bring the name of victoria, not VS or VJC, but victoria, to unprecedented levels of glory just because of your snobbish and introspected ways of viewing healthy competition?

  • Reply to "old boy 2"
    I really doubt you are an old boy.

  • Honestly, I would not have gone to VS if VJ had the through-train program at sec 1 last time. And I would've missed out the best times of my life.

  • just wondering what the late Dr Ong CC, the "founder" of VJC, would be thinking in light of current furore over VJC's proposal to go IP all the way. as a tribute to OCC, it would be good for both VJC and VS to have a win-win situation. btw, OCC was Chairman of the Victoria Executive Committee, and the majority of the present board consists of old VS boys. i am sure that they have the full interest of the two institutions at heart. Nil Sine Labore!

  • those who wish to have an in-depth discussion should go to this site: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=11683824650

  • current student
    15 August 2009 16:52

    [QUOTE]By Old Boy, August 15, 2009 @ 07:19

    Reply to “old boy 2″
    I really doubt you are an old boy.[End Quote]

    That's the problem with you old boys. All your opinions are too skewed. I rather agree with what "old boy 2" has said; at least his views make more sense that most of the things that have been written on this page.

  • Anonymous
    24 June 2024 12:04

    Reading through this as a current VJC student (proud VS graduate), I’m relieved that VJC did not end up establishing a competitor school to VS. Personally, I don’t like VJC’s culture. I loved my time at VS. The atmosphere, culture and values that we lived by made my secondary school life a joy to reminisce about. It was the dynamic of silly boys having fun who knew when to stop, reprimanded by teachers who laughed along with us at our silly antics. Now, it’s up to the students to “study hard, play hard” by ourselves while we are tasked to watch pre-recorded lectures online. If anyone still checks this site, Greetings. How are you today?

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