Our Leadership Heritage: Principals Through the Years

Mr Lim Yam Meng (1986-1995): The Founding Years

Yishun Town Secondary School was formally established in January 1986 under the leadership of founding Principal Mr Lim Yam Meng. Starting with just 9 classes and 13 pioneer teachers, the school initially shared premises with Yishun Secondary School. On 31 March 1988, YTSS moved to its permanent campus at Yishun Street 21, with the Official Opening Ceremony held on 29 July 1988, graced by Dr Koh Lip Lin, Member of Parliament for Nee Soon.

Mr Lim's belief that "our school must provide the most conducive environment for teachers to teach and students to learn" laid the foundation for excellence, culminating in YTSS being recognised as one of the Top 20 Value-Added Schools in 1995.

Mr Ooi Cheng Hock (1995-1999): Building a Pastoral School

Mr Ooi Cheng Hock's tenure saw significant infrastructural developments. His belief that "everyone can be a successful individual" drove major improvements, including the extension of the Bougainvillea Block in 1997 to accommodate more classrooms. This expansion facilitated YTSS's successful transition to a single-session school in 1998. The period was also marked by cultural achievements, including the production of 'A Dream Realised', a musical drama in 1998.

Mr Tan Teck Hock (1999-2005): Towards Holistic Development

Mr Tan's belief in "providing an all-rounded education: heart, body, mind and soul" manifested in numerous campus enhancements. He implemented various architectural improvements to create a more conducive learning environment, including the Pondok Yidao, BBQ pits, eco-pond, Orchid study area, Fern Lounge, and water fountain.

The school also unveiled a new logo in 2000 and the iconic Y21 Sculpture, designed by YTSS art teacher Mr Phua Koon Tong, symbolising the school's holistic approach to education.

Mr Tan Yee Kan (2005-2010): An Outstanding Premier Heartland School

Under Mr Tan's leadership and his motto "dare to dream and dare to try," YTSS underwent significant transformation. The school temporarily relocated to Sembawang while the Yishun campus underwent reconstruction under MOE's PRIME initiative.

Upon returning to the upgraded campus in December 2007, YTSS boasted new facilities including an indoor sports hall, an air-conditioned multi-purpose hall, and two lecture theatres. The school achieved several milestones, including the Best Practice Award for Teaching & Learning and Singapore Quality Class in 2009, culminating in the attainment of Autonomous Status in 2010.

Mrs Tan Chuen-Yin (2010-2014): A School of Distinction

Mrs Tan led with "the sincerity to ask difficult questions." Under her leadership, YTSS attained the Best Practice Award for Staff Well-Being in 2011, reinforcing the school's commitment to both student and staff development.

Ms Sharon Yeo Eu-Lin (2014-2020): Leading YTSS to Greater Heights

Ms Yeo's belief that her "calling as an educator is to guide students to realise their potential so that they will live great lives" led to numerous achievements.

During her tenure, YTSS's autonomous status was reaffirmed, and the school secured four Best Practice Awards in Student All-Round Development, Character & Citizenship Education, Teaching & Learning, and Staff Well-Being & Development. The school was also conferred the prestigious School Distinction Award. Her period saw the celebration of the 30th Anniversary Homecoming Dinner and notable successes in competitions including RoboCup World Championship and Basketball Championship.

Mr Ng Teo Heng (2020-2025): Into the Future

Mr Ng believes that "teaching our next generation well is the greatest service to our country." Under his leadership, YTSS embraces the values of being Kindful, Grateful, and Mindful while strengthening the founding spirit of YTSS. The school continues to explore innovations in and outside the classroom, developing all-rounded individuals who excel in various domains.