Growing a Community of Leaders

Our People, Our Home

EspoirA publication of Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School Issue 2 2014

Celebrating Our Youths

Principal’s Message

Give thanks with a grateful heart

“For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

1 Corinthians 3:11

Mdm Teo Ching LingPrincipalKuo Chuan Presbyterian Primary School

This year, the school celebrates our 90th anniversary as an educational institution – growing men and women of godly character. We gave thanks to the Lord by organising a Founders’ Day walkathon in Semester 1, an event which saw our staff and students remembering different aspects of the KCPSS history from its very first days as Presbyterian Boys’ School and Kuo Chuan Girls’ School, right up to its amalgamation as Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School. We also celebrated this joyous milestone by organising a massively grand Anniversary Gala Dinner held at the Mandarin Orchard, hosting many notable alumni members, including our Guest-of-Honour, the First Lady of Singapore, Mrs. Mary Tan, former student of Kuo Chuan Girls’ School. During the dinner, we launched our 90th Anniversary Commemorative Book, which details the many significant contributions and well-wishes of alumni members, every individual an important member of the KCPSS history. We also launched a time capsule with the help of the First Lady, which held the 90th Anniversary Commemorative Book - an important artefact of the KCPS history.

However, we do not just remember the recent work and contributions vested into the lives of current KCPians. We want to remember its entirety. Indeed, it is an act of being grateful. ‘Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, it is the parent of all others’ – Cicero1. It is this heart of gratitude in which we remember how the KCPian spirit was forged 90 years ago. The KCPian spirit of a dogged pursuit for excellence which saw one of our founding Principals, Bernarr Atherthon, scouring for financial resources to build our very

first library and Science laboratories, so that our students can eke a future career in the Sciences; The KCPian spirit of a relentless desire to help others which saw Ms Margaret Dryburgh organising Fun Fairs so that students can be given milk for nourishment. And the KCPian spirit of death-defying resilience to ensure that all KCPians receive care, which saw Mrs Lee Choon Neo setting up a counselling service for students – in the 1970s, this would be an area of student well-being which most schools had not started offering. And Mrs. Lee did this, and more, in spite of her failing health.

It is with these painstaking efforts planted into our history that has allowed KCPSS to develop into an educational institution which offers sound programmes to grow every KCPian.

But what can we do with a heart of gratitude? How can we make our blessings count? It isn’t enough to just store our blessings in a time capsule, or to encapsulate our blessings

Espoir Issue 2 2014 |

Contents04

13

34

28

Principal’s Message ....................................03

Cover Stories ..............................................04Growing a Community of LeadersFounders’ Day Celebration— Wind Beneath Our Wings90th Anniversary Gala DinnerKCPSS Youth Day Carnival 2014— Celebrating Our YouthsOur People, Our Home - National Day 2014Homecoming Teachers’ Day CelebrationOverseas Teacher Attachment Programme

Interviews ....................................................24Founders Award - A closer look at Jeffrey Gwee and Galen SohAn Interview with Baden Powell Award Winner: Sarah Shen

Events .............................................................28Walking the Walk— Teachers’ VIA experienceWee Kim Wee Challenge 2014The New Phase of EspoirLearning Beyond the ClassroomWhat Makes A Teacher

Editorial .........................................................38Increase in Number of PE PeriodsMerchant of Venice

Partners of KCPSS ....................................42It takes a Village to Raise a Child

Publishing Team:Editors: Mrs Debbie Chua, Mrs Ravi, Mdm Fazliana Pairin, Mr Ambrose Goh, Ms Tessie Tan

Reporters and Contributing Editors: Derek Tan(3 Faith), Timothy Lopez (3 Faith) , Rhiannon Mei-Ling Jones (3 Truth) , Anica Onlg Li Teng (3 Love) , Wong Wen Ting , Amanda (3 Love) , Chong Hui-Qi Olivia (3 Joy), Lay Yock Sin (3 Faith) , Kuo Eugene (3 Faith), Leong Tzi An (2 Joy) , Raymond Lim Wei (2 Joy) , Joelle Tan ( 2 Faith) , Deng Xueqi (2 Faith) , Ong Zheng Ting (2 Faith) and Jacqueline Ng Jing Ning (2 Faith)

Photography: Mr V S Muthucumar and Photography Club

Design & print: The Print Lodge Pte Ltd

“We should certainly count our blessings, but we should alwaysmake our blessings count.”

in a book – these artefacts help us to remember, but it isn’t enough. We need to make our blessings count. We need to be the best we can be, to grow our talents so that one day, we can be useful citizens and contribute back to the school and society. We need to grow our character so that we can purposefully and righteously, direct and channel our talents to do good. And in growing in stature, we will not be tempted as our ‘inner compass’ will remind us to always be humble. We need to grow in leadership – leadership of self and others, so that we can make courageous decisions to lead others, to help others. As John F Kennedy in his 1963 Thanksgiving Day Proclamation said, ‘As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.’ We remember, so that we know how to live. And in knowing how to live, we will know how to give. Let us not allow the efforts vested in the past 90 years diminish and dwindle by being complacent. Let us forge the next 90 years with humility, gratitude and a desire to transcend beyond ourselves – to live out our God-given potential and apply ourselves meaningfully to better the lives of others.

1Marcus Tullius Cicero – Roman philosopher, statesman, lawyer, political theorist and Roman constitutionalist. Cicero is considered one of Rome’s greatest orators and prose stylists.

– Neal A. Maxwell.

GrowingCommunity of

Leadersa

Leadership was bestowed upon a man who was by nature a servant. It was something given, notassumed, that could be taken away. His servantnature was the real man, not bestowed, and not to be taken away. He was servant first.

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Servant Leaders in Uniformed Groups

(The Servant as Leader by Robert K Greenleaf)

Cover Stories

In keeping alive our founders’ passion to serve the needs of the less privileged, we KCPSS students are given several platforms to be groomed as resilient and responsible servant leaders. Traditional leaders exercise power, however, the servant-leader shares power, puts the needs of others first and helps people develop and achieve success. In KCP, we create, in partnership with the Ministry of Education a pervasive culture of Community and Youth Leadership, across the curriculum and especially in Co-curricular Activities. Student leaders serve as role models and mentors to peers within their CCA and through meaningful contributions to their community. Through leadership expedition camps, service learning and competitions we become aware of the needs of our community and are ready to make a difference by transforming ourselves as the catalyst for change. In this issue of Espoir, we have interviewed CCA leaders from some of the Uniformed Groups (UG) to get an insight of the brand of servant leadership in each of these CCAs.

Haniel Pang was just a “follower” during Boys Brigade activities. A chance to lead his juniors in the BB Leadership Development Course brought about a monumental change in his attitude. As a shy and timid Sec 1 student, Haniel was afraid to take up leadership roles. His inability to express himself coherently and fear of being ridiculed made him shy away from taking up leadership roles. “In BB, everyone has equal opportunity to grow and they always draw on your strengths to mould you to become a good leader. The officers and the teachers-in-charge saw my interest in sports and entrusted me to lead my batch mates in the games during the BB Camp. With the encouragement of the officers, I understood my responsibility and gave my best in planning and executing the games for my juniors. I learned that one should not lead for recognition but for the desire to serve others.”

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“Lead ourselves before we lead others”– Haniel Pang (3 Truth , Boys ‘ Brigade Company Sergeant Major)

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Cover Stories

In BB the Boys are groomed to be leaders of the company with the philosophy of Servant Leadership in mind. During the BB Blaze, Haniel learned to endure frustration, disappointment and pain to accomplish the goal. The BB Blaze is where Boys from different companies compete against each other in a physically and mentally challenging, but thoroughly fulfilling adventure race. It promotes characteristics of leadership, teamwork, endurance and sportsmanship. As a leader, Haniel pushed himself to the limits of his will and endured the pain of having to micro navigate through parks, kayak and also run to complete the race. “To encourage one another as the race got gruelling and work together to leverage the strengths of my team members was something I learned to do as a leader.” Eventually they beat 100 other teams across the nation and emerged as one of the top ten teams. The months before the race demanded many sacrifices, especially time. “I had to forgo my weekends out with friends and relaxing in front of the television to train hard for this event. Delayed gratification, the ability to keep our attention focused on the most important task in front of us is part of self-leadership. “Self-discipline is the quiet resolve or determination that a servant leader has to possess. There is virtually no goal that you cannot accomplish if you have that discipline and self-leadership.”

“Self-discipline is the quiet resolve ordetermination that a servant leader has to possess.”

Assistant Company Leader, Yuen Kei proudly showing off the Puan Aishah Award 2014

– Haniel Pang (3 Truth , Boys ‘ Brigade Company Sergeant Major)

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Cover Stories

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“My cadets don’t want to know how much I know but how much I care.” – Jolia Tan (3 Love, Company Leader)

As a servant leader we must take responsibility for the welfare of the team. Broken spirited or emotionally hurt team members can, and usually do, perform less well. As a servant leader, Jolia was intrinsically concerned about the welfare of her cadets and their personal growth. “My cadets don’t want to know how much I know but how much I care. The Girls’ Brigade Drill Competition 2014 allowed me to grow not only as a person but as a leader. Occasionally when my junior cadets did not cooperate during the practice sessions and questioned the purpose of having to train so hard, I was discouraged. However, I tried to understand why they were feeling this way and listened to their needs. They knew that I was genuinely there to help them cope and that we were all in it for a common goal.” Girls’ Brigade is where friendships and sisterhood are fostered. In KCPSS, GB strongly believes in the importance of strength in unity. The girls display tight-knit sisterhood and are up to any challenge, following their motto of “Seek, Serve and Follow”. They strive to achieve top-notch results in both academics and CCA, while having fun on the way to success! KCPSS GB Company prides itself in winning the Sustained Gold Award for 10 consecutive years, the Company Gold Award in 2013 and the Drill Competition Challenge Shield 2014. “GB would not have achieved its various accolades if the girls and teachers did not care for each other and value one another’s opinions. If you want your CCA members to respect you as a leader, you have to respect them first.”

In addition, the girls also strongly believe in giving back to the community. Hence, the Girls have been enthusiastically participating in activities organised by Girls’ Brigade Headquarters, such as GG Friendship Day, where our girls organised a carnival for the elderly and less privileged families. “We befriended the elderly and organised a fun-filled day for them where they could play games and watch performances by us. The carnival gave me a chance to step out of my comfort zone and to connect with the less privileged in the community who are otherwise marginalised. The hours we put in to prepare the booths and to practice the performances were all worth it when I saw the joy on the faces of the elderly.” This dedication to serve others through meaningful projects is characteristic of GB. In the course of their activities, the Girls develop greater social awareness and concern for others; an essential trait of a servant leader.

– Jolia Tan (3 Love, Company Leader)

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As stewards of the rich Kuo Chuan heritage, the National Police Cadet Corp cadets take great responsibility for their growth and play an active role in bettering the lives of others around them. Jin Fong, a leader in the National Police Cadet Corp demonstrates great determination in realising his goals. “What if I don’t live up to expectation? This is a nagging thought for leaders. My answer to that is, nothing is impossible, until you do it. It’s easy to always push the problem or situation aside once you think it is beyond your capability. But my solution to that is to just do it. It does not matter if you get it wrong, but instead use that as a learning point to see how you can do it better the next time. NPCC has taught me many skills and values and most importantly it has taught me to be a civic conscious citizen. We take Singapore’s low crime rate standing in the world for granted. Such complacency makes us vulnerable to being victims of crimes. As an NPCC cadet I work together with the people in the community to raise awareness of issues concerning safety and security. The school activities and our Values In Action programme help us to appreciate the efforts needed to build a community. I have confidence in Singapore and feel a strong sense of ownership going forward.”

– Jin Fong ( 3 Joy, Corporal)

National Police Cadet Corps Our UG leaders leading the school in the singing of the National Anthem.

By: Derek Tan and Timothy Lopez of 3 F aith

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Cover Stories

Wind Beneath Our Wings

Founders’ Day Celebration

One afternoon in late April, I am anxiously entering the General Office, approaching the Principal’s room, anticipating my ‘interview’ with alumni, Mr. Tan Sien Chuan. This is the first time that Mrs. Raja wanted me to conduct an ‘interview’ so that it could be published as one of the write-ups in our upcoming 90th anniversary booklet. I wasn’t sure if this was an interview initially, as I wasn’t allowed to bring in a list of questions, or to jot down any notes. Mrs. Raja had warned me that Mr. Tan was a very private person. It was even a mammoth task to secure a meeting with this very humble alumni. When Mrs. Raja managed to convince him to come to our school for a simple lunch, I was even more determined to make the setting comfortable, homey and the ‘interview’ as conversational as possible.

Mr. Tan Sien Chuan, an alumni of Presbyterian Boys’ School and an avid supporter of our school’s programmes, talks to Mrs. Debbie Chua about his life as a PBS boy, his values and his vision for KCPSS.

“The purpose of life is to be useful, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.

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As I entered Mrs. Raja’s office, there sat Mr. Tan, a simple man, decked in a plain, light pink shirt. There were no frills, no airs about him. I sat in between Mrs. Raja and Mr. Timothy Tan, and felt reassured that my school leaders were right here with me, couching my anxiety. After all, I couldn’t bring in my list of questions, the alternative was to have the list memorized so that I could put him at ease.

Hence began my ‘conversation’ with Mr. Tan, albeit a sincere quest of wanting to find out more about this person who studied in Presbyterian Boys’ School, in Singapore, in the swinging sixties. So I began by asking Mr. Tan what it was like studying in the sixties. He recounted his days, reflecting how simple life was. That the entertainment in the sixties revolved around playing in the fields, running around and swimming. There was no television or Internet to distract oneself with. In fact, Mr. Tan was an avid swimmer and would represent PBS in friendly matches up other schools. That was his CCA then. He fondly recalls his classmates, whom he still meets up frequently for gatherings. As he recounted the simplicity of those days, we listened earnestly, and ate silently, trying to glean as much from Mr. Tan’s life lessons. After studying in PBS, Mr. Tan would subsequently move on to Anglo-Chinese School and National University of Singapore, completing his education with a degree in Chemistry.

But Mr. Tan didn’t fawn on his academic success and candidly talked about his children – two daughters, to be precise. His daughters are actively engaged in community service. In other words, his raison d’etre - of helping others in need, has not only been embodied through his actions, but passed down to his children. His children’s generosity is indeed, a reflection of who he is, as a simple person, living simply.

Cover StoriesAs Mr. Tan recounts his days as an exuberant youth and onto adulthood, I would see that slight crinkle in his smile, his gaze, and I know that this is a simple man who would also have his fair share of tribulations. Yet, weathering his own storms did not make him a less giving man than he already is. I wanted to ‘extract’ his essence, and know why he showers so much onto others, without any misgivings.

At this opportune time, Mr. Tan shares with us three simple values that he embraces in life, which he hopes, passes on to others:

From the bible story of The Good Samaritan, one should learn to ‘pay it forward’. Help those who are down and out. And in turn, they will have the opportunity and ability to help others. In doing so, this ‘act of kindness’ will be multiplied.

From The Parable of the Talents, one should use your gifts and talents to help others. People should not hide their

proceeded to take a photograph with him for Espoir and the 90th anniversary booklet, Mr. Tan shared that he only has one wish for the school as she approaches her 90th birthday – to be a school that imparts character, not just focusing on academic success. As the camera flashes and snaps, Mr. Tan gingerly asks how many years I have been with KCPSS.

‘Seven years to be exact. This will be my eighth,’ I paused, serendipitously remembering why I choose to stay in the school till this day – simply because I too, wanted God to make use of my gifts to contribute to the school, and because this is a school that imparts character as well as developing students towards achieving academic excellence. I leaned towards Mr. Tan and confided with a smile, ‘And I have never thought of teaching anywhere else.’

talents away, but to work hard at developing their gifts. God blesses us with talents so we can use them to help others.

From The Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids, one should always be prepared, to hone his/her gifts. When the opportunity presents itself, make use of your talents to improve the lives of others.

Where did Mr. Tan learn all these values? ‘From our Christian school!’ he quips. Even though he graduated many years ago, he has never forgotten the important lessons taught through daily devotions and Chapel. Mr. Tan’s generosity extends beyond KCPSS. He donates generously to other organisations. And when he gives, he asks what KCPians need. And when he gives, he gives generously. As we

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This year, Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Primary and Secondary Schools came together to celebrate a grand affair – the schools’ 90th anniversary celebrations! Indeed, it was a time to remember the faithfulness of God and how He has blessed the two schools throughout its 90-year history. Both schools commemorated this spectacular year with two mammoth events – a Founders’ Day Walkathon (covered in Espoir Issue 1/ 2014) and a 90th Anniversary Gala Dinner.

Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Schools

90th Anniversary Gala Dinner

On 10 July 2014, the Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Schools celebrated our 90th Anniversary, a joyous milestone of 90 years of God’s faithfulness, with a massively grand Anniversary Gala Dinner hosted by the School Management Committee.

We were privileged to have Mrs Mary Tan, the First Lady of Singapore as our Guest-of-Honour. Mrs. Mary Tan, a former student at Kuo Chuan Girls’ School, fondly recalled her school days in the following words;

”Whether we were reciting poems under the majestic Flame of the Forest tree, acting in school concerts, helping in Fun Fairs or going on weekly visits to the Red Cross Home at Tanah Merah with Miss Sirkett, our minds were enriched, our souls were nourished! We learned and friendships blossomed. We received and we gave.”

The dinner was attended by a total of 900 guests including members of the Alumni – from Presbyterian Boys’ School, Kuo Chuan Girls’ School and Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Schools, former and present staff of the schools and former and present members of the school management committee. We were especially blessed by the presence of former Chairpersons of the Board of Governors, Dr Lee Soo Ann, Dr Lawrence Chia, Dr Han Boon Fong, Elder Kok Siew Hoong and Elder Philip Khoo. It was a huge reunion of generations who had contributed to the rich KCPS legacy!

During the dinner, we launched our 90th Anniversary Commemorative Book, which details the many

significant contributions and well-wishes of alumni members, every individual an important member of the KCPS story. There were 90 stories from 90 individuals who had been acquainted with the school in some way. This amazing collection of stories is a testament of God’s faithfulness and seeds of hope planted in the lives of these individuals who have grown from strength to strength, thanks to the Lord.

This 90th Anniversary Commemorative Book was also placed in a time capsule, as the book signified an important aspect of the KCPS’s history. Mrs. Mary Tan helped to launch the time capsule, an act that was assisted by the current principals of the KCPS.

The two schools also came together to put up a mesmerising chorale performance, entitled ‘Keeping the Flame Alive’. It was certainly a pleasurable sight seeing both the primary school and secondary school choirs coming together to deliver a song, specially written and arranged for this occasion by our SMC member Ms Lisa Theng!

Finally, we took pride in all our achievements via a school video which illustrated what it is like to be involved in a Kuo Chuan Presbyterian education, as a staff or student. KCPSS provides a Christian environment for staff and students to grow in – where we can truly grow to be men and women of godly character. KCPSS is also like a family – where staff and students treat each other like family members. Last but not least, KCPSS provides a nurturing environment for staff and students to achieve their dreams. And in all things, we give thanks to the Lord for His faithfulness for the past 90 years and the many more years to come!

By: Mrs Debbie Chua

Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Schools90th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Cover Stories

Celebrating Our YouthsKCPSS Youth Day Carnival 2014

“Wedges for $1’ ‘ Free ice-cream” If these phrases sound familiar to you, then you’re probably recalling the Youth Day Carnival 2014 which was held on July 4. On that day, all students from Secondary 1 to Secondary 3 were able to let their hair down, take charge of themselves and their peers, and take a break from lessons while showcasing the true spirit of student leadership. Although the Secondary 4 students still had lessons that morning, once the Youth Day Carnival began the whole school was in full swing.

The canteen was bustling with activity as everyone was strolling around to get the best prices for the snacks. The Sec 3 students set up food stalls with a diverse selection at affordable prices.For instance, 3 Faith sold ice cream and the ever popular KOI bubble tea, whereas 3 Joy sold finger food like nuggets, hotdogs and canned drinks such as root beer and ice lemon tea. In ad-dition, the Secondary 2 and 3 Express students had to set up a game stall. The canteen and concourse were filled with shouts of “You can do it!” and “Try harder!” as people at the various game stalls took a shot at Frisbee, throwing hoops and other games. As always, the student councillors set up a DJ booth, prize booth and ticket booth. For weeks the students planned for this, with minimal contribution and help from their form teachers. Everything – from the conceptualizing, to the pricing, to the marketing, and finally, the implementation on the day itself – was handled by the students themselves!

This year was also special as for the first time; the Parent Support Group (PSG) used the Learning and Aesthetics Centre (LAC) to set up a “Minute To Win It” booth and a photo booth.

What made it even more attractive was that there were many props such as wigs, hats and huge spectacles for students to use in their photographs. Students flocked there and had their photos with friends taken and printed, giving them a souvenir to take home to remember this day by.

However, despite all the fun everyone had, what exactly was the reason behind having this whole carnival? According to Mrs Mavis Low, the teacher-in-charge of planning the carnival, the main purpose of the carnival was to further develop the leadership potential of the student leaders as well as give the students a sense of what it is like to be an entrepreneur. Besides the two talks given by our visitors on how to give back to the community and develop our inner leadership skills,

Smiles all around!

Are you ready to challenge our game? Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 1514 |

1 F aith - Proud of their master piece. YDC Notice board decoration competition.

the planning and the preparation of the classes’ individual stalls were done by the students themselves. Through the planning of this carnival, the students were given the chance to take charge of themselves, manage the different duties and tasks necessary, and all only with a small amount of guidance and help from the teachers. Also, the Youth Day Carnival gave the newly appointed Secondary 3 Executive Committee mem-bers of the various student leader groups a feel on what it was like to plan such a large scale event. All the money raised from the event was donated to The Presbyterian Community Services.

All in all, the event was a complete success. Ian Ang from 3 Joy said, “To me, not only was the Youth Day Carnival extremely

meaningful, but the talks given that day also spoke to me.”

Youth Day is a day set aside for youths to take a well-deserved break from their studies to enjoy themselves and appreciate their time as teenagers. But the KCPSS Youth Day Carnival was some-thing more. Not only did it help a charitable cause but also let the students bond further with their class. One such example would be Bryan Chew of class 3Joy who said, “I had a lot of fun today during the carnival. Even though I was mostly at the class stall, I was happy to spend time with my classmates and in the process forge stronger bonds with them.” The Youth Day Carnival of 2014 was definitely a success and we’re all eagerly waiting for the return of the YDC next year.

We are young at heart and we dress the part.

Ice blended drinks can’t cool

down the passion and enthusiasm

of KCpians!

Student Councilors selling YDC coupons to students.Coupons selling like hot cakes!

By: Rhiannon Mei-Ling Jones (3 Truth) and Chong Hui-Qi Olovia (3 Joy)

Cover Stories

Our PeopleOur Home

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Amidst the sea of red and white worn by KCPians and teachers, the flag was marched slowly to the front. Barely contained whispers from the surrounding students could be heard. A snatched word here and there about the pristine uniform of the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC) student leader or the stern faced Boys’ Brigade (BB) flag Sergeant Major clutching the folded school flag. Step-by-step, they approached the middle of the contingents arrayed before them. Joining BB and NPCC contingents were the National Civil Defence Cadet Corps, Girls’ Brigade and Girl Guides contingents, also in attendance. The KCPSS Symphonic Band provided the music and the National Anthem. The National Education (NE) Ambassadors also reminded KCPians about our history and journey which has brought us where we are today. It was a solemn moment of remembrance which marked the start of our National Day celebrations on 8th August 2014.

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Hard work and Resilience

This year, the National Day theme is “Our People, Our Home”. According to Felicia Wang from 3Truth, “Our People” represents our forefathers. “We have to remember the days when our forefathers started from scratch to slowly build up a nation that is so successful for us to live in now.” During the Secondary One students’ learning journey to the Singapore River, they were reminded of this as they gazed upon the shophouses which contrasted with the cool shine of glass-windowed skyscrapers.

“We could almost picture the coolies and labourers who would have been loading and unloading goods from trade ships,”

said Yieo Ming Chuan from 1 Joy.

We should not forget the hard work and resilience which our forefathers demonstrated. Although most Singaporeans do not toil in the sun like their forefathers, hard work and resilience is still the key to build our future.

In school, Secondary Four students were learning about the same values, but in a different way, through their inter-class Sports competitions. The spirit of the sports competition which highlighted endurance in the face of adversity, perseverance in spite of difficulties, team work, and support and encouragement for one another, is definitely in line with the values of resilience and hard work that we need in order for Singapore to continue thriving in the face of uncertainty and difficulty.

Our People

Singapore for many other nations has become the role model in how people from different backgrounds, cultures and beliefs come together as one nation to work towards a common goal. Secondary Two students like Leong Tzi Ann from 2Joy and his classmates were tasked to complete puzzles which culminated into a big collage representing Singapore. Students then worked together as a class to draw various cultural representations of Singapore.

Tzi Ann said, “We understood that no matter where we are from or what our religions are, we must stick together so that we can have a better future.”

Preparing their mascots

Cover StoriesLeadership and Creativity

“Our People” are no longer the same labourers and coolies who worked on the quays. Focus on mathematical, scientific and analytical skills have come to include soft skills of leadership, motivation and creativity as a means of upgrading our workforce.

In our new economy, creativity and resourcefulness are important so that we are always at our best and are prepared to face future and unknown challenges. The Secondary Three students were organised to create attractive models and class mascots for their national day activity. Each class was given random items they could use to complete their task. These items could be traded with other classes for more useful materials. Throughout the activity, the students showed creativity and resourcefulness to make full use of the items given to them. This taught students that as a nation, we have to use whatever limited resources we have to create success.

In KCPSS, our focus has always been on strong moral values and character development. Part of this has included leadership skills that we believe all KCPians can come to exemplify through our behaviourand actions have an impact on others. Servant leadership is something that all KCPians can show through self-management, in terms of discipline in time management and conscientiousness in work attitude, and being a role model to others.

One cannot discuss leadership without mentioning one of our illustrious leaders from the past, Margaret Dryburgh. Margaret Dryburgh was Principal of Choon Guan School, one of the schools which later became KCPSS, in 1934. She spent time helping the local community by organising charity events and concerts. This showed the spirit of service to the community that KCPians should have to help the less fortunate. Dryburgh was later captured after the fall of Singapore to the Japanese. She died a prisoner in 1945 after planning and organising activities for fellow inmates to keep spirits high and give hope.

Like her, KCPians should keep our optimism in difficult situations so that we can be inspiration to our peers and community.

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During this National Day celebration, it is hoped that we can review our past, both KCPSS’ and Singapore’s, and remember the lessons that can be learnt which were applicable then, in the building of success stories of KCPSS and Singapore. KCPians should learn these lessons so that they can become better servant leaders who have strong character and moral values.

Through the celebrations, KCPians will understand the value of thankfulness which is important in appreciating all that we have as Singaporeans.

The parade

“I would think of National Day as a day where I would see Singaporeans being united when I see the red and white that we all wear. It tells me how proud we are to call ourselves Singaporeans. I’m thankful to be born in Singapore and will appreciate Singapore for what it has given to me!”

said Felicia.

By Mr Ambrose Goh

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Cover Stories

AppreciatingWhat We Have

Homecoming Teachers’ Day Celebration

It’s finally that time of the year, the time when we show appreciation for some of the most important people in our lives – Teachers’ Day. Although in our everyday interactions we may not really show our appreciation for what our teachers do for us, this is the day when we remind ourselves that teachers focus on the big picture and the long-term plan in grooming us to be servant leaders who embody the GRACE values. This Teachers’ Day, we hear from some former KCPians who want to show their appreciation for their teachers whom they still remember for their support and care.

James Goh (4 Patience, 2012) sees his teachers as his pillars of support through his years in KCPSS and they have taught him many life lessons that were significant in his growth as a person. He especially remembers Mrs Ravi and Mrs Yap Lie Sorng, his form teachers, for their fiery perseverance in ensuring that the class learnt and applied the right moral values.

The Student Council also played an important part in his development. As such, James thanks Mrs Mavis Low, Mr Liang Kok Ann,

Mr Serwin Leong, Miss Elaine Tan and Miss Jasline Pan. The Student Council was an excellent platform for him to learn leadership skills which shaped him to become a more confident and selfless person.

Theophilus Tan (4 Patience, 2013) remembers Mrs Gan Hooi Leng and Mdm Fazliana, his form teachers for their constant encouragement to him when he experienced difficulty or failures. Another teacher who made a huge impact on him was Mr Khairy who taught Theophilus Chemistry, the subject he was struggling the most with. He remembers how Mr Khairy would never cease in his encouragement to practice more questions and also his affirmation when he did better in his tests. All these served to push him on to greater goals and achievements.

James Goh

Mr Yam Kai Chow (4E2, 1997) still remembers how his teachers tried their best to push and motivate him and his classmates to achieve more during his GCE ‘O’ Level examination year. Even though some of his classmates did not seem to appreciate their efforts, teachers like Mrs Tay Oi Lin, Mrs Lee Thean Hoe and Mrs Chow Mei Chee continued to encourage them. These efforts showed the teachers’ determination in moulding KCPians with good school values. He thanks his wonderful teachers, who were not only concerned about their academic results, but also took care of their well-being and character development. Without these teachers, Mr Yam feels that he would not be who he is today. “Their conscientious efforts in making sure we understand our work, at the same time ensuring we keep our moral values in check played a big part in shaping many of our lives.” Inspired by the efforts of his teachers, Mr Yam still comes back to school every Saturday as an adult volunteer with the 5th Singapore Boys’ Brigade Company to help shape tomorrow’s student leaders.

As you can see, our teachers are amazing. They encourage us and cheer us on when we are down. They affirm us and congratulate us when we have done well. They are like friends but closer, because they truly embody the value of agape. They love and care for us without any conditions.

We should appreciate our teachers. Let’s not wait until we leave KCPSS when we truly understand how much our teachers have helped us and regret not being able to appreciate them for their efforts while we are here. Perhaps we can start with the little ways of showing appreciation like submitting our homework on time, helping our teachers with their lesson materials or simply greeting them when we see them. A simple “Good morning” would definitely brighten their day and yours.

By Leong Tzi An and Raymond Lim Wei (2 Joy)

Mr Yam Kai Chow with Mrs Lee Thean Hoe and Mrs Tay Oi Lin

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 21

Ms Wendy Chia with some of her old students who have graduated.

22 |

Cover Stories

Overseas Teacher Attachment Programme“Great teachers help nurture great students”

“In KCPSS the student is the core and the reason for all programmes and innovation. We aim to connect with and motivate the child through skilful teaching. We believe that a caring teacher is also a skilful teacher who masters her content, and is able to engage students through thoughtful planning and skilful execution of the lesson. Hence I was indeed privileged to have an opportunity to learn from my peers overseas. My 3- week learning expedition to Arizona Phoenix, United States of America, was a meaningful and highly engaging experience. I went to Arizona State University to learn from some of the best educators in the field,”

says Mrs Tang Guat Peng

We congratulate Mrs Tang Guat Peng for being selected for the Overseas Attachment Programme (OTAP) in Science 2014. An honour indeed to be selected for this prestigious programme as due to the stringent criteria, only outstanding and enthusiastic Science teachers are given this opportunity. OTAP aims to expose and equip teachers with the latest developments, research and innovative approaches in the teaching of Science.

An inspiring and informed teacher is the most important factor in influencing student achievement.

Mrs Tan the pilot.

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 23

“I learned ‘The Modeling Method’ to teach Physics. Unlike the traditional lecture-demonstration method where students wade through an endless stream of seemingly unrelated topics, the Modeling Method organizes the course around a small number of scientific models. Students are engaged in simple scenarios to model real world problems in the physical world. The teacher prompts each student to reflect on and examine his or her current knowledge. When one of the students comes up with the relevant concept, the teacher seizes upon it, and encourages them to explore the topic further. The course was explicitly designed to develop scientific reasoning skills and to provide practice in relating scientific concepts, representations, and models to real world phenomena.”

This is a monumental shift in the way we learn Science as we begin to explore HOW WE LEARN and not just WHAT WE LEARN. As students, we memorise information for a test and quickly forget it after the test and then simply look up what we need to know on the Internet when we actually need it. When we do not see the relevance of what we learn we lack the motivation to learn. Purposeful classroom conversations and collaborative learning will become essential strategies to make the learning come alive.

Mrs Tang plans to share her learning with her Science teachers in the department . We can look forward to many exciting Science lessons coming our way.

“We are active creators of our own knowledge.”

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is to not stop questioning.”

- Albert Einstein

The helicopter, the pilot and me.

By Mrs Ravi

An Interview with...

Being a Sec 4 student, how did you cope with both CCA and studies at the same time?

My friends have always acted as pillars of support for me. Besides them, my family and teachers have also provided me with the much needed guidance in undertaking my various responsibilities. Whenever I felt like succumbing to the pressure, or when I was suffering from a sense of disquietude with juggling my studies, CCA and personal life at the same time, I could always turn to them for help that they would so unconditionally give, or even just to be a listening ear for me, allowing me to regain confidence in myself that I was up to the task. Of course, being a CCA leader on top of preparing for the imminent ‘O’ Levels meant that I needed to sacrifice a lot of my leisure time in order to carry out my obligations, both as a student and as a CCA leader. However, having to multitask and handle so many things at once was not necessarily a bad thing. I learnt to be resilient and to organise and prioritise my current tasks so that those which needed my immediate attention were taken care of first. Not to mention, I learnt to uphold a mindset of excellence and put in my best effort in all the assignments I was given so that I could complete the task once and for all and not have to redo it over and over, allowing me ample time to focus on other pressing matters.

An Interview with GalenFounders Award

This year, two of the school’s graduating Boys Brigade boys attained the Founders Award, the highest award a BB Boy can achieve in their CCA. Jeffrey Gwee and Galen Soh of class 4 Faith both have not only been outstanding students but have also been participating actively in the Boys Brigade as well.

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 2524 |

In your 4 years in the BB, what various activities have groomed you into becoming a better leader and helped you in bettering yourself as a person?

During my 4 years in BB, I had a myriad of opportunities to be a leader instead of just a follower. I was responsible in ensuring my juniors attend CCA regularly. I was also expected to be a good role model for them in terms of discipline which, over time, trained me to be conscious of the way I present myself to others. I also learnt to be more accepting and empathic towards people with disabilities through the various programmes BB had organised. During these programmes, I had the opportunity to interact with elderly folk and people with special needs. I learnt to empathise with them, and love as equals, despite our initial differences. For example, during Character Quest and BB Blaze, it had fallen upon me to lead and lend a helping hand to my team members. Through leading my team members, I realised the importance of camaraderie and learning to work with others, our different backgrounds notwithstanding, so as to achieve our common goal. I also became more vociferous and less afraid to voice out my opinions, as there were many a times when I was required to contribute ideas for planning of events, such as adventure camps.

What are the most memorable awards you have attained while in the BB?

When I was in Secondary 2, I was tasked by my BB band instructor to lead our company’s bagpipe band during the annual pipes and drums competition. Initially I was afraid that I would not do a good job as I believed I would mess up during the competition and not be able to win anything for our company. It definitely came as a pleasant surprise to me when we clinched the first runner-up position! The next year we did not do as well, but we nonetheless secured a second-runner up victory. Moreover, earlier this year, two of my CCA friends, Nicolas and Jeffrey, together with myself, received the Founder’s award, the highest award attainable by a BB boy. It came as an unexpected surprise, as only a select few displaying admirable charecteristics and achievements among the hundreds of applicants all over Singapore would be chosen to receive this award. It would not have been possible for us to have the honour of obtaining the award if not for the constant succour by our friends, family, teachers, and our BB officers.

How do you think BB has encouraged you to contribute back to KCPSS/ the society?

The Boys’ Brigade has allowed me to contribute back to society through various platforms, for example by organising events like BB Cares and BB Share-a-Gift, where the participants are presented with opportunities to interact with elderly folk or pack food bags and even having the chance to personally deliver the food bags to the needy beneficiaries in Singapore. In addition, we are also given opportunities to step out of our comfort zone and undertake overseas projects to places like Phnom Penh in Cambodia, where we can interact and build houses for the villagers there, as well as learn how to appreciate and value how lucky we are to be able to live in a first-world country peacefully and safely, leading comfortable lives, unlike the situation in many other third-world countries. All in all, BB has truly been a good experience in my Secondary school life and imparted upon me many useful life skills and developed in me a sense of duty to give back to society. I wish to return after my ‘O’ levels to serve BB as a primer and lend a hand in planning and executing events for BB, and also to tutor my juniors in multifarious activities like drill and outdoor survival skills, so that they can share the same wonderful experience I went through in my 4 years of BB, inspiring them to continue upholding the legacy of the Boy’s Brigade and perhaps even bring it to greater heights.

By Rhiannon Mei-Ling Jones of 3 Truth

An Interview with...

An Interview with Baden Powell Award Winner

Sarah ShenThe Baden Powell Award is the second highest guide award a secondary school Girl Guide can achieve. Regarded as a highly

prestigious award, the awardee is tested on her general and guiding knowledge in two rounds of tests. The first round requires the Girl Guide to plan a 6 weeks long programme to engage and motivate her company. She will also need to take into consideration any logistics matters such as potential clashes with the Guide and school calendar. This round tests the guide on her ability to look at the big picture and organise her ideas accordingly. In the

second round, the Guide will have to put into action whatever she had planned in another company outside of her

school. This round can be extremely challenging as the Guide will not be familiar with the company that she has to implement the plan for. She will be expected to be resilient and adaptable in the process. This year, one of our Secondary 3 guiders, Sarah Shen of class 3 Truth,

has atttained this highly acclaimed award. Ms Hasna Alsagoff, one of the teachers in charge of Girl Guides at KCPSS told us that Sarah is a very responsible and self-motivated girl with a passion for guiding. All these, she added, played a part in helping Sarah

clinch this award. In this issue, Espoir interviewed Sarah on how she feels about getting the

award.

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 27

How did you manage to juggle both your CCA and studies?

It is actually not that difficult to juggle my studies and CCA as we only meet once a week on Fridays. While Guide meetings can be rather long, I usually just sacrifice the time that I will otherwise spend resting at home after the tiring week at school. But I don’t really mind that since I enjoy my CCA meetings. There were times when I felt overwhelmed as there were many things that needed to be done and taken care of and there was pressure on me to do a good job.

Where did you get your motivation from?

My friends, family and teachers have been very helpful and loving. They are all willing to lend me a listening ear or helping hand whenever I face problems. Their support and unconditional love has

really helped me through these past few years.

How did your CCA train you for this award?

My CCA has great guiders and teachers in-charge who are well informed of the requirements needed by a guider to attain this award so they knew what I need to do and learn.

How would you contribute back to your school upon getting this award?

I would tell my juniors about this award and how it is an honour to get it and encourage them to aim to go for it as well. I believe it would be a good learning experience

for them and would aid them in the long run.

“Sarah is able to rise up to challenges and that is what had enabled her to win the BP Award,”

said Ms Alsagoff.

Events

At the Soup Kitchen, teachers and school staff tried their hand at preparing meals for the needy. Most of the beneficiaries are the poor and needy who may not get regular meals to sustain themselves. On Youth Day, speakers, Nicholas Fheng and Lewin Loh, shared with us that despite the shiny

exterior of Singapore that we see around us, there is a significant number of families who are living on less than $1,500 a month. These families sometimes do not get to have proper meals because of their financial situation. Groups like the Soup Kitchen are just one of the organisations that are committed to helping the less fortunate. We hear from Mrs Lam Hui Xiu who shared with us how she can use her experiences in the Soup Kitchen to teach her students.

“I felt that this experience has broadened my perspective, allowing me to empathise and understand the needs of others better. As a teacher, we may occasionally not practise empathy in our classroom teaching and learning practices. For example, there are times when we cannot understand why

As KCPians, we would go for at least one Values-in-Action (VIA) community service project every year. The name “Values-in-Action” would suggest that we are applying the values we learn in class in a real life situation. Whether they are servant leadership or our school’s GRACE values, only by applying them do we fully comprehend what they mean. In order for teachers to teach values to KCPians, they committed themselves to help less fortunate members of society by participating in two VIA activities during the June holidays.

Walking the Walk Teachers’ VIA experience

Ms Lam Hui Xiu and Ms Mardiana cracking up at the fact that they were able to shell more than 100 eggs at the Soup Kitchen. Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 2928 |

homework cannot be submitted on time, or why is a particular task not completed to our expectations. I have come to realise that in the classroom, we need to understand the students’ challenges which sometimes may impede their ability to complete their tasks to the best of their abilities. We need to manage our expectations and also find out how we can help these students better so that they can continue to learn.”

In the meantime, at Lee Ah Mooi Old Age Home, teachers and school staff visited the elderly residents. They brought with them cake and their warm hearts. The Lee Ah Mooi Old Age Home caters mainly to lower income families who need to have elderly members taken care of because of various reasons and difficulties. At the Home, teachers and school staff helped to feed senior citizens and also kept them company by talking to them. The nurses and care personnel were very happy to have us with them. Mr Goh Weiqi Ambrose was one of KCPSS’ representatives to the Home. He shares his experiences from the visit.

“It was not very easy engaging with some of the elderly folk. I learnt that to really understand and empathise with

a person is really tough as we are all

individuals with different histories, likes, physical

conditions and thought processes. That is why, it is such

an achievement when we can really know how to care for people after we work towards understanding them. Hats off to the staff of the Home.”

Mrs Lam says, “Servant leadership is when one wants to serve, and he or she makes a conscious choice to lead and inspire others. A servant leader focuses primarily on the growth and well-being of the communities to which they belong, where he thinks of the needs of others before self.” She hopes that in leading by example when teachers and staff participate in such VIA activities, KCPians will go forth to work harder for the community and help the less fortunate.

In turn, we represent KCPians in thanking KCPSS’ teachers and school staff in leading by example and showing us that VIA is not just for students. Even when we graduate, we should still spend time helping the less fortunate.

By Raymond Lim Wei and Leong Tzi Ann of 2 Joy

Mr Ambrose Goh interacting with the elderly.

Ms Cheryl Yeo and Ms Wong Shin Yee ensuring that the vegetables are rinsed thoroughly for the food preparation.

Ms Felicia Lee helping the elderly with motor skills.

Events

Wee Kim Wee

‘Be Prepared’. That is the motto that our Girl Guides have to live by, every single day of their life and on 4 January 2014, they had the chance to show just how they were able to fulfil that motto through the Wee Kim Wee Challenge. Not only did they have to be mentally and emotionally prepared to face against so many worthy adversaries in this competition, they also had to brace themselves for the obstacles that they would be facing.

The late Mr Wee Kim Wee was the fourth president of Singapore and the Wee Kim Wee Challenge Shield was presented to Girl Guides Singapore at the end of his term as President of Republic of Singapore. His wife, Wee Eng Hwa, also known as Mrs Wee is known to be a very good cook. She published a cookbook called “Cooking For The President” in 2010 where participants would have to take recipes from to cook their dishes.The Challenge Shield was donated by the late Mr Wee Kim Wee himself and the judges are his own daughters.

The Guides went through stringent rounds of preparation to present their cooked dishes on the competition day itself. This year, a total of 53 teams competed. During the preliminary challenge, teams competed with other teams in the same division. After which, two teams from each division were chosen to advance to the final rounds. The final winner of the Challenge would definitely bring glory to their school as their school’s name would be engraved onto the Challenge Shield itself.

It was a very strenuous time for our girls as they had to undergo rigorous training. They had indeed put in a lot of effort. Their main challenge was to learn more about cultural heritage as well as learn to cook international cuisine that highlighted the 21st Century Competencies of global awareness and the importance of acquiring cross-cultural skills.

With all the hard work by the girls, they managed to clear the preliminary rounds with excellent productions and proceeded on to the grand finals. On 1st March 2014, the day of the grand finals, our girls arrived at Camp Christine to battle it out against

Challenge 2014

Have I put the salt in?

We are so ready for battle!

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 3130 |

Girl Guides units from other schools. Our girls whipped up healthy and delicious food which consisted of a local dish, Malay herbal rice and an international dish, American baked prawns. Overall, they were tested on their cooking abilities, their presentation and recipe of dish, and their table layout and decoration.

The presenters then presented the dishes to a team of judges in a creative way and had to come up with posters or any other presentation ideas when presenting their dish to the judges. As they were provided with a laptop and a printer, the girls must do all their printing, cutting and typing on the competition day itself. Not only did they have to explain how different their international dish was from the local dish, they also had to explain how the main ingredient was used differently in Singapore and in the country the international dish is from. What’s more, they must show good knowledge of the ingredients used during the “cook-off.”

To our delight, our girls did the school proud by clinching the Wee Kim Wee Shield Challenge! It was a truly amazing feat as they defeated the other 52 teams to emerge as Champion.

Through this event, our girls learned the importance of teamwork, time management, hard work and that practice makes perfect. During their training, they had to remain focused and practise every day to perfect their skills. The Challenge was also a good opportunity for our Girl Guides to show their unconditional love for the co-curricular activity and to be committed to the movement which links to our school values of resilience and conscientiousness. It was indeed a very memorable and significant

event for the girls as well as the school. Koe Yu Bei from 3 Truth who had participated in this event said, “I learned that it was very important to work well as a team and to complete our tasks successfully and on time. This is something that may seem normal to many but people often procrastinate. Indeed, this competition has taught me the importance of having good time management and being efficient.”

Indeed, our Girl Guides have proven to us that with hard work and dedication, any dream is attainable. We wish them luck in all their endeavours and hope that they will continue to achieve much success in the future and do the school proud.

By Anica Ong Li Teng andWong Wen Ting,Amanda of 3 Love

We are a team! We can do it!

The layout has to be perfect!

OK, I need to make sure the pieces are all the same size and shape..Precision is key!

Events

The first issue of the year proclaimed itself as the ‘Freshmen Issue’, signifying a new beginning, the start of change, just as we have shown in the preceding issue through the brand new formatting and content. The cover of Espoir has definitely evolved as well. Starting from a compilation of several impactful photos showing students learning and enjoying themselves, it has changed time and time again to encapsulate the school spirit and fervour for learning. With the student photographers on board with us in the committee, every photo has become a brilliant imagery of what KCPSS truly represents.

The magazine co-written by the Sec 1 students in the first semester is helmed entirely

Every story that is written matters to the person living it, and a writer’s responsibility is to weave these stories into universal stories that everyone can connect with. As writers of Espoir, we bring success stories of KCPians and give an insight into the KCP culture and heritage. As Espoir writers, we are like castle builders who hope to fly the KCP flag so high and grand hoping to attract and connect with people with the same dreams.

“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” by Andy Warhol

This year Espoir has undergone a significant metamorphosis in terms of news presentation and the processes of news generation. In today’s world, in order to succeed we need the ability to understand competing viewpoints and exercise critical thinking to solve real world problems. This shift in the education paradigm has led to a shift in the way we perceive information, process news and communicate it for our readers. Hence we have shifted away from presenting hard news and moved to sharing feature stories, interviews and editorials. The biannual publication will feature key school events and innovative teaching practices. These are presented through the lens of students and how we respond to these pedagogical innovations and creative instructional practices.

The New Phase of Espoir

Students having a go at writing a script

Ace student writers with award-winning

playwright Ms F aith Ng

Acting out the script helps to understand the characters Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 3332 |

by the ACE (Achievers in English) student writers in semester 2. The ACE students are a special team who are hand-picked from each class for their outstanding language ability and passion for the English Language. These students experience a customized enrichment programme where they are exposed to different types of writing skills such as journalistic writing and creative writing. As ACE writers we get to write poems, factual and creative prose and even plays. ACE workshops are an opportunity for us to pursue our interests as well as learn and work together with like-minded peers. As writers and editors of Espoir we have grown to understand the writers’ responsibility to the community and the impact the written word has on the well-being of others.

As ACE students, we have had the privilege of going to an array of workshops and programs arranged and planned for us. Over the course of the year, we have attended several workshops run by experts such as an award winning playwright, a newspaper editor and a novelist. We learned to express our thoughts and ideas through prose and poetry and how to gather our thoughts regarding a certain topic.

Editor of “Today” newspaper, Mr Suresh Nair prompted us multiple times to read the newspaper and be well- informed of all the diverse happenings around the world, as this will expand one’s general knowledge. Apart from that, reading the newspaper can also inspire and teach us some invaluable morals.

The crime novelist showed us methods of brainstorming without a mind-map. She taught us how unimportant it was to finalize the ending of the story before starting on other parts of the story and how stories could twist and turn unexpectedly. Her workshop was interactive and was filled with many pleasant surprises. It was immensely intriguing to hear how she interacts with other authors and can very efficiently conjure a character in one’s head. We managed to learn much from

the playwright, Ms Faith Ng. Expressing feelings with inanimate objects was no easy task, but through much effort and encouragement, she was able to teach us how to construct a play. The workshop allows one to have confidence in writing and constantly prods one to expand his vocabulary. The entire experience of writing poems and factual and creative essays are invaluable, as such items are extremely relevant during our school years and perhaps even in the future.

Writing in Espoir has been immensely honorable and liberating. What we have to say is seldom heard in the classroom or home, especially if there are many others wanting to squeeze in a word of their own. Ultimately, these workshops have helped to shape us individually as writers, by teaching us many ways of expressing ourselves through writing. It has also helped us to work on ourselves and become better people.Through writing in the newsletter, we hope to connect with our fellow schoolmates and keep them informed about major events in school. Join us, as we dive into the new era of our beloved school’s newspaper. We hope to have your continued support and step into the whole new experience of the new phase of Espoir.

By Kim Deng XueQi and Joelle Tan from 2 Faith

Learning Beyondthe Class Room

Events

Flower in bloom

Inquisitive , curious and thoughtful KCPians.

Enjoying colorful nature

Welcome to paradise.

We got to see many different types of flora and fauna when we toured the plantation area. Through that, we learnt the functions of different types of plants

found in the area. During the cooking session, I had a lot of fun cooking and marinating the tempura veggie and the pumpkin salad. Even though there were some minor injuries, my classmates and I enjoyed our time together during this activity. The snack time, which consisted of banana cake and tea, was delicious. I

definitely want the next batch of students to go for this learning journey.

Audrey Lee Lin from 1 Peace

My classmates and I went to Bollywood Veggies to experience the different plants Asia has to offer. We learnt how to make salad with

pumpkins and lettuce and managed to learn to differentiate the genders of papaya trees. We were taught the medicinal uses of plants

and along the way, we even got to taste cocoa beans. Although we were all coated in perspiration because of the sweltering heat, that did

not stop us from learning about the different types of vegetables.

Sarah Lau from 1 Joy

Secondary Ones: Bollywood Veggies

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 3534 |

Marvellous hairpiece.

Be the art and you will feel the art.

The museum is your classroom.

Although it was a bit dry and rushed at the start, gradually we managed to slow down and the teachers had time to explain the art work. I felt very intrigued by the stories behind the art

work, despite the fact that it only looked like an object to most of us. I was astonished by the messages left behind by the

artist and purposes of the art work.

Ryanne Ow from 2 Faith

I found the Singapore Art Museum very fascinating. It contained a variety of art. Students got to learn about the diverse forms in which art could take. Starting from a simple painting, rendition to a sculpture. Personally, I liked the sculpture of the two stomachs made just out of rattan (a type of palm whose shoots are used to make into baskets, furniture and floorboards.) The message of the sculpture was to bring hope

to the people and I found it amazing that people could gain optimism from a piece of art. The sculpture was hung on the ceiling and a single light source threw a stunning shadow on the wall.

Austin Hwang from 2 Faith

Secondary Twos: Singapore Arts Museum

What Makes A TeacherDead Poets’ Society, a movie starring the late Robin Williams was about an English teacher, Mr Keating, who earned the love and respect of his students, and inspired them to love poetry. We also remembered Michelle Pfeiffer in another movie, Dangerous Minds, who gained the respect of her students by coming in to class on the first day of school in a leather jacket, handing out candy bars and teaching her students poetry through rap lyrics. We ask ourselves: what makes a good teacher? This year, as we celebrate Teachers’ Day, it is apt that we take a look at some of the answers to this question. We interviewed Rocketeer, a rock band made up of 4 Secondary 2 students who auditioned to be part of the Teachers’ Day celebration this year.

Students don’t care what teachers know until they know that teachers care.

Mr Keating from Dead Poets’ Society is well loved by his students because he makes an effort to get to know them as individuals. He laughed with them, celebrated their successes, and acknowledged their efforts. Nur Adli and Keefe Chew from 2 Praise, the vocalists and drummer of Rocketeer, found their equivalent of a Mr Keating in their form teacher, Mr Tan Kok Lum. Adli shared that when he first joined the school in Secondary One, he thought Mr Tan to be a strict and fearsome figure. But he was pleasantly surprised to learn when Mr Tan took the effort to get to know them as individuals, to appreciate and understand what made them tick. Keefe also told us that in any conflicts that involved the class, Mr Tan would make sure to hear their side of the story, to understand the situation clearly before taking actions, instead of jumping to conclusions and disciplining them immediately.

Teachers do not teach a subject. They teach students.

Events

More often than not, we identify our teachers based on the subjects they teach. But all of us acknowledge that the influence of a teacher goes beyond that of the content knowledge they bestow. Outside of our home, the school is where we spend most of our time at. Just like how our parents shaped our value systems and behaviour, our teachers, too, play a huge role in influencing and inspiring us. Jean Soh from 2 Joy, Rocketeer’s bassist, named his Science teacher, Mr Desmond Tan, as his favourite teacher, not because of the subject he teaches, but because of everything that he was. “There’s no specific incident I can give,” Jean said when asked why Mr Tan was his favourite teacher. “He just has everything I appreciate about a teacher. He sources for videos to make his lessons engaging and interesting, he isn’t monotonous, and we know that he really cares about us.”

Teachers know how to have fun too.

36 |

By Ms Tessie Tan

Teachers need students and students need teachers.

At the end of the Drama Club performance, the cast came together and, in resounding unison, proclaimed that teachers need students and students need teachers. How true is that? According to Rocketeer, this is indeed so. Lucas Bureau from 2 Grace, the guitarist and a vocalist in Rocketeer told us about how this band would never have come together if not for the efforts of their Music teacher, Miss Carmen Chan as they were from different classes and different backgrounds. The band shared that it was Miss Chan who recognised and acknowledged their individual talents and brought them together. Now, the band have their own Youtube channel (search for “Rocketeer” on Youtube and you will find them!) and even arrange their own mash-ups, such as the one that they performed at the Teachers’ Day concert. The band also appreciated the trust that Miss Chan had shown them by loaning them her instruments for their jamming sessions. Most of them do not have the instruments at home and they would not have been able to perform and practise if not for Miss Chan’s efforts.

As we come to the end of the school year, let’s take a moment each day to give thanks to the teachers who have made a difference this year in all their little ways and who continue to do so for the years to come.

We have our own special celebration in class.

Espoir Issue 2 2014 | 37

Teachers need studentsand students need teachers.

Editorial

active people who feel the urge to move themselves once in a while. However, is increasing the number of periods of PE lessons really such a good idea?

PE brings joy to the students, and as a student, I do enjoy the PE lessons very much. Often, after PE, I can see that students are more energized, pumped up and ready for studies. When we are working out our bodies during PE, more blood is being pumped all around our body to give us energy to complete these activities. As a result, we would definitely feel more alert and awake after PE lessons. Furthermore, very frequently, we have long stretches of lessons which may last two hours or more. In this long stretch of time, our minds get tired after the mental workout and we start to feel physically tired. A change of environment and a different way of working ourselves would be a

good solution. Hence, I feel that we need to have more PE lessons.

In our modern lifestyles, with our mobile gadgets and high-tech computers around us, students often derive entertainment from

electronic games or online social media. Not many of us would enjoy

the feel of the wind in our hair as we race through Bishan Park or

kick around ball with our friends. As such, most of us would not enjoy sports or physical workouts that can have many physical and mental benefits. PE lessons are the best way of introducing to

us the importance of cultivating

Increase in Number of PE Periods

My classmates love Physical Education (PE) classes. I can see how they enjoy it from their laughing, jumping around and sometimes even rolling around. I often hear my classmates complain that PE lessons are just too short. We have four periods of PE every week, which means about 2 hours of physical activity to punctuate the long periods behind our desks every week. I know that most of our students are

Flying in for the point.

In 2010, The Ministry of Education (MOE) announced a new framework to enhance the development of 21st century compe-tencies in our students. This would underpin the holistic education that our schools provide to better prepare our students to thrive in a fast-changing and highly-connected world. As part of this framework, MOE would strengthen the quality of Physi-cal, Art and Music education. These subjects enable students to develop physical robustness, enhance their creative and expres-sive capacities, as well as shape their personal, cultural and social identity. Hence, MOE has increased PE curriculum time for secondary school students from 1 hour to 2 hours.

Ong Zheng Ting (2Faith) and Jacqueline Ng (2Love) feel that more time could be allocated to PE because of related benefits to students, but also understand that a balance must be struck so that holistic learning is not compromised.

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a healthy lifestyle. PE teachers would encourage us and push us to greater physical achievements. This not only allows us to feel confident about ourselves and boost our self-esteem, it also allows us to learn about resilience, which is one of the KCPSS GRACE values, in physical activities. The resilience that we learn from these activities definitely can be translated into other areas of our lives, making us more well-balanced individuals. Therefore, we should have more PE lessons to learn about the joys of physical activity and stretch ourselves this way.

Stress is something that all students experience because of the high expectations that have been placed on our slim shoulders. We are expected to do well in our studies and in our Core-curricular activities. We are also supposed to be servant leaders and role models for our peers and juniors. With so many demands, it’s no wonder that we feel stress. However, sometimes we do not stop complaining and think about why so much has been placed on us. Our teachers and parents belief that we will learn to cope with the stress and become well-adjusted men and women in future. One of the ways we can cope with stress is through physical activity. Students can have lots of fun through these activities. I often hear laughing during PE lessons. Laughing is a natural mood adjuster that helps relax our minds. More PE would mean more laughter and less stress. From the PE lessons, we can also learn about different types of physical recreations that help us to relax our minds

or vent our frustrations. That is why I feel that we should increase the number of PE periods per week.

Unfortunately, we also have to understand that we cannot have it all. We want to have fun from learning new sports and games, and at the same time we want to work hard and learn in school. Time constrains the school’s wish for us to have the all the benefits that come from PE lessons. Currently, we already feel that our school time table is packed to the brim with many other things to learn about. After all, it is difficult to say that PE is most important subject that we have to learn because students have different interests and inclinations. Some might even say that PE should come last, after Art, Science and Math. As such, it might prove challenging to have more PE periods which would mean reduction in the time spent learning other things.

Given the benefits of PE lessons, I feel that having more PE lessons would be a good thing to have. However, time is also a critical factor that limits our wish to have more of it. Perhaps the only thing that we can do to enhance the benefits of having PE lessons to make the most of what we have by listening to the PE teacher’s instructions carefully and moving quickly from classroom to the hall or concourse before PE. More efficient us of our time means that we can have fruitful and stress-busting PE sessions.

By: Ong Zheng Ting (2 F aith), Jacqueline Ng (2 Love)

KCPians in a Tchoukball match.

Editorial

On 23 May 2014, a group comprising our Secondary Three and Four Literature students, together with the Achievers in English (ACE) and Drama students, watched the renowned Shakepearean play ‘The Merchant of Venice’. This performance was the much anticipated annual event better known to many art lovers as ‘Shakespeare in the Park’. The venue of this annual event, Fort Canning Park, is really the unique feature that

sets it apart from many plays held throughout the year in Singapore. The open field was a perfect setting for the event which drew hundreds of people; the turnout for this event has always been astounding and this year was no different.

Although the play was only starting at 7.30pm, many came as early as 6 pm to choose a spot that would give them the best view of the stage. The crowd was an interesting

mix of families, young couples and students. Many had settled down comfortably on their picnic mats and while waiting, munched on their snacks and tidbits. The whole place was buzzing with excited chatter and the suspense was almost killing us. We could not wait for the play to start as, for many of us, it was our first time attending a play that was held outdoors.

The moment the play started, it was obvious that the audience was in for a fun-filled night.

Merchant of Venice“Drama is life with the dull parts left out.” - Alfred Hitchcock

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The colourful set and backdrop, with its blinking lights gave a modern twist to an otherwise archaic setting. The opening scene of young women and men strutting across the stage in sharp-looking business suits showed an interesting depiction of a fast-paced world dominated by power and money. Even if one had not read the play, the opening scene was enough to intrigue the audience to want to know more.

The acting did not disappoint! The actors were obviously seasoned performers who were used to performing live in front of a large crowd. They were so convincing in their roles that at times we forgot that we were watching actors and not ‘real’ individuals. At times, the actors did their improvisation of the script when some lines were deliberately read with the Singaporean accent to add humour.

As the performance progressed, it suddenly got obvious to us why the plays written by Shakespeare are still popular and read by many till today. His themes of love, friendship, greed and power are universal themes that are relevant to us, even in today’s modern context. Although the language used might seem foreign to us and some of us

struggled to comprehend the words and expressions used, we found ourselves able to relate to the dilemmas and predicaments faced by the different characters.

For example, when Antonio suggested to Bassanio to secure the loan from one of the city’s moneylenders and named Antonio as the loan’s guarantor, it showed how two friends could have so much trust in one another. We also saw how love was a motivating factor which would drive certain characters to go out of their way to save their loved ones. This was shown in the instance where Portia

was willing to disguise herself as a man just so that she could defend her husband, Bassanio, in the court of law. The value of empathy was also explored when Shylock lamented about

how he was treated unfairly due to the fact that he was a Jew. That example highlighted the importance of how people should not be biased towards others and that we should build relationships despite our differences.

In short, it was a rich learning experience. Not only did we get to enjoy the play in a unique outdoor setting, the experience also allowed us to have a deeper appreciation of Literature and the Arts.

Source of images:

www.todayonline.com, www.janiqueel.com, luxesocietyasia. com, www.thesmartlocal.com

By Anica Ong Li Teng and Wong Wan Ting, Amanda of 3 Love

Partners of KCPSS

Having to raise four kids is not an easy task. It is made even tougher as a parent is trusted with the responsibility of instilling positive and proper values in each and every one of them. This is what Mrs Bellido, a PSG member of Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School, has been doing on a daily basis since her kids were young. Over the years, Mrs Bellido has enrolled all her four children, Melody Elizabeth, Matthew Eli, Marc Elisha and Micah Emmanuel in KCPSS. A staunch Christian, the school values of GRACE: God-Fearing, Resilience, Agape, Conscientiousness and Empathy, are in line with her ideals and beliefs. This has definitely made it easier for her to inculcate these Christian values in her children. When they fail, they are reminded that they have to be resilient or “get back on the horse” so to speak and press on. She believes that learning is an on-going process and that none of her children, including herself, has arrived at the “summit” of education.

Mrs Bellido admitted that when she sent her first child, Melody, to KCPSS, it was due more to practicality than anything else. It was a Christian-based school which was close to their home. As time went on, she began to realise that the school had more to offer than merely bringing convenience due to its close proximity. She soon saw KCPSS as the school of choice for the rest of her children too. In her opinion, not only are KCPians provided with an all-rounded education,

It Takes a Village to Raise a Child

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it is a progressive school that constantly keeps up with the times in various aspects, but especially so in the academic arena. “The teachers are always discovering new ways and strategies to make their lessons modern and interesting. On top of that, they will always bear in mind to tailor their resources and modes of assessment according to the students’ different needs and abilities. In this way, all types of learners will benefit fully from their experience in KCPSS,” she added.

She is also impressed by how KCPSS also educates the students through their various enrichment activities and programmes such as Values-In-Action (VIA) and Overseas Student Exchange Programmes. These programmes not only instill the value of independence in her children but also make them realise the importance of reaching out to others in need. As quoted by Mrs. Bellido, “So far three of them have either served or are still serving in the school leadership programme. I do believe because of this, they have learned how to confidently lead

themselves in their personal, social and school life.” Mrs Bellido strongly feels that with the help and contribution of Kuo Chuan, she is able to make strong and capable individuals out of her children.

Being a part of KCPSS for the past decade or so, Mrs. Bellido now views Kuo Chuan Presbyterian as not only a school of choice for her children, but as an integral part of her family and a second home to her children. She appreciates all the help given by the teachers and staff at KCPSS who are always more than willing to lend a helping hand at any given time. It is an undeniable fact that she feels truly blessed to have KCPSS in her life.

By Eugene Kuo and Lay Yock Sin of 3 Faith

Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School10 Bishan Street 13 Singapore 579795