History, vision and mission of Surp Hac High School

About Us

About Tibrevank

The roots of Surp Haç High School trace back to the educational tradition that began in 1678 in Üsküdar, under the auspices of the Surp Haç Church. In 1718, during the patriarchate of Patriarch Hovhannes IX Golod, the building was converted into classrooms. In the 1770s, it was expanded and transformed into a seminary, continuing its educational mission under the name “Tıbradun ve İskolya” until 1932.

In the 1950s, through the initiatives of Archbishop Karekin Haçaduryan, Armenian Patriarch of Turkey, the school was revived. The building was restored, a new school building was constructed, and in 1953 it reopened as a boarding school. In 1954, the school foundation was formally established. Over time, through changes in its administrative structure, educational model and legal status, Tıbrevank has continued its educational mission uninterrupted as a deeply rooted institution.

The history of Surp Haç High School is not merely the story of a building or an institution; it is the story of an enduring educational commitment, a collective memory and a legacy sustained across centuries.

Our Mission
Raising Strong Character, Highly Conscious Individuals

At Surp Hac High School, we are committed to preserving and enriching Armenian cultural heritage while educating individuals equipped with contemporary and universal values. By promoting academic excellence, critical thinking, creativity and freedom of expression, we guide our students to become individuals who contribute meaningfully to both society and the wider world. Our educational philosophy, grounded in science, the arts, culture and literature, places strong emphasis on ethical values and human sensitivity, enabling students to discover and develop their individual talents. Among our fundamental aims is to raise responsible individuals who can communicate confidently across different cultures and perspectives, and who uphold democratic principles. By sustaining the historical and cultural richness of our community, we provide an environment in which students are free to express their identities with confidence. With its deep-rooted heritage and strong educational vision, Surp Haç High School will continue to nurture generations who look towards the future with assurance and purpose.

Our Vision
A school that treats education as a value

At Surp Hac High School, we aim to cultivate globally minded leaders by harmonising the rich heritage of Armenian culture with contemporary educational approaches. We educate our students within a framework where knowledge and human values take precedence, enabling them to grow into individuals who are accomplished both academically and socially. Our vision is to provide an innovative and inclusive learning environment that supports every student in reaching their full potential. Our educational philosophy is concerned not only with academic success, but also with nurturing ethical values, a strong sense of responsibility, active social contribution and respect for cultural heritage. Surp Hac High School lays the foundations for visionary generations who will play a meaningful role in shaping the future, individuals equipped with a global perspective, strong critical thinking skills, social responsibility and leadership qualities. For us, education is not simply about imparting knowledge; it is about instilling in our students a lasting sense of responsibility to add value to people, society and the world at large.

The light of the past illuminates our future

Surp Hac High School is a well-established educational institution that brings together a centuries-old academic tradition with a contemporary outlook. In addition to academic rigour, it prepares its students for life by fostering cultural awareness, strong ethical values and a deep sense of social responsibility.

  • Educational legacy from 1678 to the present
  • Multilingual and multicultural education tradition
  • Academic discipline and ethical values