One of the distinctive trademarks of the Anglo-Chinese School is its very special brand of teachers. Known for their commitment and dedication, many of these teachers are remembered for going the extra mile to shape the lives of generations of ACSians, some even making personal sacrifices along the way.  

The contributions of these teachers have not gone unnoticed. In appreciation of their loyalty and dedication, the ACS OBA has set up a Teachers’ and Staff Welfare Fund to look into the financial needs of some of the retired teachers, who are now in their twilight years. Besides donations from old boys, funds are also raised through special events such as the recent ACS OBA Golf Classic 2004 held at the Sentosa Golf and Country Club on 30 April 2004.

Since it was started three years ago, the Fund has helped a number of retired teachers. Among the recipients is Mr V. R. Navaratnam, who served ACS from 1953 to 1982. A keen cricketer, Mr Navaratnam taught general science and was the man responsible for steering ACS to be among the top schools in cricket in the 50’s and 60’s.

We had a delightful time chatting with Mr Navaratnam (now 81) when we caught up with him in his home recently. As he recalled fond memories of his teaching career in ACS, we were amazed by his feisty sense of humour and vivid memory of events that happened about fifty years ago.

Mr V. R Navaratnam

(circa 1976)

It is caring and dedicated teachers like Mr Navaratnam, who make ACS such a great school. These highly respected teachers are well remembered by appreciative students and old boys, who pay tribute to them at every opportunity – be it on Teachers’ Day, at class reunions, or at special lunches or dinners held in their honour. And with the Welfare Fund, there is now have another option to express our gratitude to the teachers who shaped our lives. If you wish to make a donation to the Welfare Fund, please contact: Mr Timothy Chew (Tel:6287 7155 or E-mail: peltfly@pacific.net.sg).