The upper part of the crest shows a creature with a lion head, eagle wings and a dragon body with claws, symbolizing the fact that the school was founded when Singapore was a British Colony, by the American Methodist Mission, and during the Manchu Dynasty in China.

Superimposed on them are the letters ACS in red, signifying life bridging earth and heaven.

It is shaped like a shield to uphold knightly virtues such as chivalry, honour, loyalty, valour and manliness.

The crest was designed in 1930 by the late Dr Yap Pheng Geck who was then a member of the staff.

The school motto, The Best Is Yet To Be, which was later introduced by the late Mr. T.W. Hinch (Principal,1929- 1947), was incorporated into the crest.