This paper will examine the interplay of equity and excellence in Singapore’s secondary schools. It uses Fraser’s (2008) three forms of justice: redistributive, recognitive and representational. It explores Singapore’s ‘bridges and ladders’ model of differentiated schooling. Case studies of a madrasah, a specialised school, and an elite school demonstrate the tensions between equity and excellence in the system. We argue that the ‘bridges and ladders’ model, through its differentiated schooling experiences, paradoxically increases equity and excellence while simultaneously exacerbating inequity. Finally, we reflect on the implications of this research on the pursuit of equity in Hong Kong’s education system.