The centrality of education and ethical culture within Singapore’s pluralistic environment is a founding principle of the Jewish Community of Singapore that dates back to our earliest leaders, most notably our school’s benefactor - prominent philanthropist and businessman, Sir Manasseh Meyer (1846-1930). Sir Manasseh Meyer’s philanthropic efforts played a critical role in building Singapore’s elite education systems, including The National University of Singapore and SMMIS. To this day it is his generous trust that supports our school with the oversight of Singapore’s Jewish community leaders.

From its inception, The Jewish Community of Singapore has remained loyal and steadfast in its endeavour to cultivate curious minds and teach children to look beyond the horizon line so they understand ‘the world doesn’t end at Clifford Pier’. Our community believes in standing together with the rest of society. Collectively, we imagined a future where we could share the gift of Jewish values and culture, set against the backdrop of our cherished, peaceful, multicultural Singapore. In this way our school has always been driven by a clear vision and a moral purpose.

SMMIS is the only Jewish Primary and Secondary School in SouthEast Asia inclusive of a kindergarten and nursery, and the only International School in Singapore that began as an offshoot of grass roots community efforts.

In 1996 Mrs. Simcha Abergel launched the country’s first early childhood Jewish education programme in her home, leading to the establishment of the Ganenu (Our Garden) Learning Centre. Simcha planted deep, inclusive roots from the very start, in her living room, with the mission that a good school can support a child through anything, Simcha brought with her true courage to teach. To this day, as the Vice Principal and Head of Jewish Education at SMMIS, Simcha’s strong personal identity with its spiritual and emotional integrity cultivates wonder, excitement and enlightenment for all in her care.