It was one of the first secondary schools to be established in the area, which was then known as Pasir Ris.

Although the area is now part of Tampines, the school's name has remained unchanged.

Pasir Ris Secondary School was established in January 1985 at the premises of Chongzheng Primary School, while its own premises were under construction.

With 11 Secondary 1 classes and 16 teaching staff, it was the first secondary school to be established in Tampines New Town to serve the growing population there.

The school moved to its own new campus at Tampines Street 21 on 8 April 1985.