Urban design meets education in innovative campus transformations.
Three junior colleges (JCs) in Singapore—Temasek JC (TJC), Anderson Serangoon JC (ASRJC), and Jurong Pioneer JC (JPJC)—are set to redefine education with high-rise campuses opening in January 2028. As part of the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) JC Rejuvenation Programme, these schools aim to balance modernity, space efficiency, and a conducive learning environment.
The new campuses, with buildings up to 12 storeys, will maximize available land while offering expanded gross floor areas. TJC, for example, will feature specialized facilities such as a music hub, indoor sports hall, shooting range, and auditorium, all designed by CPG Consultants. Likewise, ASRJC and JPJC will adopt similar innovative designs, integrating teaching and recreational spaces within smaller land footprints.
While some land from the old campuses will be repurposed for state use, these modern school designs have sparked discussions on urban educational planning. Experts suggest converting the returned land into green spaces for community and student use. Dr. Woo Jun Jie, a senior lecturer, emphasized the role of thoughtful design in ensuring high-rise campuses remain attractive and functional for students.
Eunoia JC, Singapore’s first high-rise campus, has already set the stage for this transition. Former students describe their experience as largely positive, adjusting well to the vertical layout despite occasional lift congestion. These changes reflect Singapore’s adaptability in managing land scarcity while fostering progressive education.
As Singapore reshapes its education landscape, these high-rise campuses symbolize a forward-thinking approach, blending modern architecture with sustainable urban living.