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River Valley High School

The Humanities and Social Sciences Leaders Academy

Fostering creative and critical thinking in the humanities and social sciences

Last updated 11 August 2026
HSSLA text below a blue outlined human head profile with colorful interlocking gears labeled LIT, GEOG, HIST, ECONS.

Our Vision

To be "Thinkers, Leaders, Humanist".

HSSLA provides a vibrant platform dedicated to fostering creative and critical thinking in the humanities and social sciences.

Our signature programme - the Student-Led Academic Modules (SLAM) - is guided by mentors to encourage junior college members to explore personal interests, design modules, and share their knowledge. Humanities NOW! is our annual two-week, student-driven event which features a diverse range of interactive activities including educational talks and learning journeys. Each year's unique theme facilitates exploration of our complex, evolving society. Through our Overseas Experiential Learning Programme (OELP), these transformative journeys provide members with deep insights into historical events, connecting them to current global issues and enriching their understanding of the worldand their place in it.

Our Objective

We seek to deepen students' understanding of the humanities and social sciences, gaining insights into issues that are pertinent to the human condition.

A group of students in white and navy uniforms pose with two adults in an office setting.

HSSLA student participants in the Module "How AI is taking the art out of artificial"

Through various platforms, HSSLA students gain insights in the multi-faceted field of the humanities and learn about issues that are pertinent to the human condition. The academy runs both teacher-led and student-led interdisciplinary modules that explore topics from "What is a humanist?" to ethical considerations in science. Students may also propose to lead a module on a topic of their choice and hone their leadership skills.

Six female students in school uniforms sit around a table playing a colorful board game in a classroom.

HSSLA students participating in the board game module: "Hegemony: Lead your class to victory"

Students in school uniforms holding umbrellas stand in front of a large colorful Kampong Glam street mural.

HSSLA Now! 2025 Learning journey to Kampong Glam

In 2025, HSSLA brought a group of students to Germany for an Overseas Experential Learning Programme (OELP). Through such opportunities, HSSLA hopes to widen the perspectives and increase the cultural capital of our students so that they are ready for the challenges of the future.

A group of about 15 people posing in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin on a sunny day.

HSSLA students at Brandenburg Gate, Germany

A group of people pose on a balcony of a large stone castle with green spired towers under a clear blue sky.

Learning about the history of the Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany