It was founded by Chinese philanthropists and clan leaders, and was one of the earliest government-aided schools formed during the period of Singapore's self-governance.

Overtime, the school expanded with the addition of new facilities to the original building, to cater to the growing needs of the students.

[1] As the student intake increased progressively, a decision was made to relocate Hua Yi to bigger premises.

The big shift to the new building in Depot Road took place in March 1983, and was officially declared open by the Honourable Dr Koh Lam Son, Member of Parliament for Telok Blangah, on 26 April 1985.

Hua Yi's new premise was officially declared open on 29 June 2002 by Mr Lim Boon Heng, Member of Parliament for Jurong GRC.