CHIJ
NEWSLETTER 2016 EDITION
Year 2016 Issue 1 Term 1
Credits
Project Lead and Design: Isabelle Sidik (3B)
Design: Cassie Wong (3J)
Junior Editor: Adele Tay (2A)
Junior Editor: Sarah Woo (2A)
Project Manager & Creative Consultant:
Mr Edgar Seow
Featured this term
Blood Donation Drive
Secondary One Orientation
PSG Interviews
Total Defence Day
Flag Day
Mrs Pauline Wong, Principal
I enjoy being a part of this school. School life at St. Theresa’s is vibrant, and staff and students
alike are simple and spontaneous. The adults here work hard and they care a lot for the students
under their charge. The students, by and large, are active and pleasant, truly simple in virtue!
So as I have always said, I shall say this again – “May the Light on Kampong Bahru Hill
continue to shine brightly!”
To new members of the Theresian family, I extend to you my warmest welcome. The Theresian
community has a rich heritage. Our founder’s exhortation to pay attention to inner silence is
very compelling for me. Similarly, the simplicity of our
patron saint’s life also continues to inspire me in living
out the mission of this Infant Jesus school. It is my hope
that new staff members will feel included and will be
encouraged to live out the ideals of our founder Blessed
Nicolas Barre and our patron St. Therese of Lisieux.
People Our Gifts
On what makes her enjoy working at STC:
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The Wong family on a walk along the coast of Island
Bay in Wellington. Mrs Wong is third from the left.
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Magic
Magic
A Drop of
Mother Teresa once said, “Not all of
us can do great things. But we can do
small things with great love.” Likewise, the CHIJ St. Theresa’s Convent
student council set out to do their
small part in serving our community with great love. On 27 December 2015, we set out on a mission to
encourage the public to donate blood
and raise public awareness on the importance of blood donation.
The Red Cross Blood Donation
Drive, “A Drop of Magic”, is a joint
effort between the Singapore Red
Cross and our school. The student
council organised and participated in
this event. We spent one day of the
December holidays at the Westgate
Tower at Jurong East to actively recruit volunteers to support our cause.
At the end of the day, we were able to
recruit a significant number of blood
donors to donate blood.
delighted me to know that I contributed to this cause.
The experience was an eye-opener as it allowed us to work towards a common
goal – benefitting those who are in need of life-saving blood. It didn’t matter
that we spent the entire day standing around Jurong trying to approach people
who avoided us even before we spoke to them or that we were fully drenched
in perspiration from being under the hot sun speaking to as many as we could.
What we did definitely reminded us that we are the light on the hill and persons
for others.
Written by:
Nivetha d/o Senthil Kumar, Sec 4A
In addition, we also spent time interacting with people and sharing
with them about the difference they
can make. It amazed many to know
that one bag of blood can save three
lives. It was satisfying to see people
who had no intention to donate blood
enthusiastically come forth to do so
after hearing what we had shared.
Though I was rejected by many, it
Mrs Claire Cho, Vice-Principal
People Our Gifts
On one piece of advice she would like
to give to Theresians:
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“Words are powerful to edify, to build up, to heal.
Therefore, choose words that will bring life, hope
and healing.”
Mrs Cho admiring God’s wonderful creation in
Yehliu, Taiwan, in December 2015.
Secondary
O
ne
rientation
“Getting to know one another during ice-breakers!”
Secondary 1 Orientation was a funfilled three-day affair during which
we bonded as a class, with the help
of our friendly facilitators. Through
playing ice-breaker games and participating in cheer sessions on the first
day of orientation, we began to warm
up to each other instead of sticking to
people we already knew.
Secondary One classes visited CHIJMES during the Orientation programme as well. This learning jour-
ney helped us to appreciate the rich
history of the IJ schools, as CHIJMES was the site of the very first IJ
convent in Singapore. We listened to
our seniors explain how the IJ sisters
came to teach at CHIJMES, while admiring its beautiful architecture.
The third day was jam-packed with
rehearsals for performances we would
put up that evening. After much practice, we finally mastered all the dance
steps and memorised all the song lyr-
ics! That night, we went on the stage
to perform for our parents. When it
was time to sing the IJ song, we put
our hands around our new friends
and sang enthusiastically, feeling extremely proud and happy to be newlyminted Secondary One members of
the Theresian and the CHIJ family. It
was indeed a great finale to a meaningful Orientation programme.
Mr Lee Chee Wei, Level Head, Mathematics
Written by:
Ailsa Chan, Sec 1C
People Our Gifts
On why he chooses to teach: ‘‘Students desire to learn. My desire is to help them
academically, but more so, to make a positive impact
on their lives. That’s my passion.’’
Mr Lee with his wife and 7-year old son.
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PSG INTERVIEWS
Our Volunteers Our Treasure
An Interview with CHIJ STC PSG Chairperson, Mrs Adeline Binny
Interviewed by:
Claudia Anne Binny, Sec 4A
How long have you been part
of STC's Parent Support Group
(PSG)?
I started being part of STC’s PSG since
the day my twin girls were in the school.
2016 is my 4th year being a part of the
PSG here.
What do you enjoy most about
being in the PSG?
Joining the PSG has allowed me to
be part of the school. It enables me
to better support and guide my girls
throughout their learning journey. I
enjoy working closely with the school
and the teachers as well as being able
to share my past experiences with the
PSG. Exchanging ideas, and planning
programmes and activities for the
students with other parents have given
me the opportunity to build stronger
bonds with the school, parents and the
students. I have learnt some parenting
skills from other parents too.
What are some of the PSG activities you have organised?
Over the years, we have organised several activities, such as Small Group
Parents Dialogue Sessions, School Open House and Cook for Funds for
International Friendship Day and Racial Harmony Day. We raised funds to
assist the financial needy students. With these activities, we are able to build
strong relationships and create a network for learning support among us parents.
How do you juggle being actively involved in the PSG activities on
top of your career / personal time?
The PSG usually plans our meetings at most of the members’ convenience.
We meet once every term. I strongly believe that having work-life balance is
Ms Mak Wei Min, Teacher, Food &Consumer Education
On being an ex-Theresian returning to
teach at her alma mater:
“I’m on familiar ground again and sometimes I see
glimpses of myself in my students. I decided to teach
because of my passion for the subject and I enjoy
interacting with people.”
Ms Mak in her Teachers’ Day celebration outfit.
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People Our Gifts
..
important. Whether we are working
parents or homemakers, I believe
it is important to set aside time for
my family and for myself to do the
things I love. This is also helpful in
teaching my girls to have good time
management despite having busy
schedules.
well to situations, and humility, to
always be thankful. Apart from
these, I would like to emphasise the
importance of family bonding. This
to me, is very important in every
familial relationship.
What do you think is the most
important thing we can teach
our children?
The biggest concern for 21st century
parents would be their children’s
constant use of social media. Parents
should learn to educate their children
on cyber wellness and cyber awareness.
Parents should also work closely with
the school on this issue. Excessive social
media use harms children’s mental
health and also keeps them away from
family bonding.
As a parent, I think it is important
to teach our children the virtue of
respect. If you respect others, people
will in turn show you respect. Other
virtues include responsibility, in
making wise choices and responding
What is your biggest parenting
concern at the moment?
What is your favourite activity
with your children?
I love to bake with my children, watch
movies with them and we strongly
believe in eating together as a family.
What would be your advice to
parents who wish to join STC's
PSG?
I encourage parents to join the PSG
in STC. It is important to spend more
time with our teenage children and
not less. They still need our love and
attention. Show that you care and love
them by being involved in what they
do and learn in school. Walking with
them throughout their learning journey
in their secondary school days will
definitely bring them closer to you.
An Interview with CHIJ STC PSG Member, Mrs Anna Tay
Interviewed by:
Niki Ann Tay, Sec 3D
How long have you been part of STC’s Parent Support Group
(PSG)?
I have been part of the PSG since 2014.
What made you decide to join the PSG?
I strongly believe in the value of PSG because it is beneficial to both the parent
and child. The PSG also serves as a platform for parents to bond with likeminded parents who share similar concerns and challenges about their children’s growth and development in school. The PSG can also provide mutually
needed information and emotional support to reduce parents’ stress. It can be
both educational and therapeutic.
The PSG works closely with the school leaders to foster close relationships
between the school and parents. Being part of PSG also allows parents to voice
concerns and feedback to the school in the hope of influencing changes in programmes and services. Improvements and innovations can come from parent
advocates too.
Are there any special skills required to be part of the PSG?
No special skills are required as long as parents share a common goal of helping with our children’s development and growth in the school.
What are some of the PSG activities?
PSG activities include fundraising during International Friendship Day, which
is traditionally held annually. Parents and volunteers help prepare and sell
food. It is very enriching to see many
parents coming forward to offer their
time and support in this event. Another memorable annual event is the celebration of Teachers’ Day, where parents work hard for four to six weeks
to prepare appreciation cards and gift
packs. It is fun as it allows parents to
crack their heads for ideas!
What would be your advice to
parents who wish to join STC’s
PSG?
Each and every parent is welcomed
to join the PSG. It is highly encouraged as it is beneficial to the school,
parents and their daughters. Through
the PSG, the school can tap on parents’ contributions in various programmes and activities. For parents,
they are able to support the school’s
efforts in creating a conducive learning environment for their child. For
the child, she will know that parents
support and care for her development
and growth in the school. It is a winwin partnership.
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TOTAL DEFENCE DAY
Together as One for All
Total Defence Day is commemorated to remember the time when the British surrendered to the Japanese. The day of
surrender was 15 February 1942, which marks the defeat of Singapore’s defence. Annually, STC sets aside 15 February
as Total Defence Day, to help us remember the importance of defence for Singapore.
In addition, it serves to remind us about the suffering and hardship our forefathers went through when Singapore was
renamed ‘Syonan-to’ during the Japanese Occupation. Many of them had to endure harsh conditions every day while
constantly hoping that the war would end soon. In order to highlight the importance of everyone’s role in contributing
to the defence of Singapore, our school organized activities such as quizzes on the history and heritage of Singapore.
These enabled us to understand why Total Defence is so important to our country.
Total Defence Day certainly taught me values of persistence and resilience, as whenever we face obstacles as a nation,
we should have the positive mindset to be able to overcome them together. When everyone plays an active role upon
learning about the five aspects of Total Defence, we will be able to strengthen our nation as well as ourselves.
Written by:
Shayna Lee Yi Xuan, Sec 2D
“Together we play a part.”
“Working as one!”
Mdm Phevian Jong Corporate Support Officer
People Our Gifts
On what makes her enjoy working at STC:
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“In the blink of an eye, I have been in STC for 3 years.
My job is at times challenging but I have grown a lot
as I learn something new every day. I’m glad to have
a group of very wonderful colleagues who provide
me with much support and encouragement so I can
face all the challenges.”
Mdm Jong and her adorable 4-year old daughter.
Mr Tan Check Kum, School Security Guard
People Our Gifts
On working at STC: ‘‘I have worked here for 3 years. The students are
generally very well behaved except for a few naughty
ones. It is a nice place to work.’’
Mr Tan and his lovely wife.
Flag
Day
2016
Taking to the Streets for a Good Cause
Written by:
Talisha, Sec 1D
Students from CHIJ St. Theresa’s Convent took to the streets of Singapore on
Saturday, 27 February, for a good cause – to collect donations for the Caregiving Welfare Association (CWA).
The school decided to collaborate with this organisation as research indicates
that 10% of Singaporeans are above the age of 65. By the year 2030, this number will increase. The general population, particularly the younger generation,
are often unaware of these statistics or do not give thought to such matters.
The perception is that issues related to the aged can easily be addressed by the
government - through the establishment of nursing homes or subsidising the
engagement of specialised caregivers for the elderly.
“Meeting our accompanying seniors.”
The school hopes that by exposing these young girls to issues related to the
elderly, they will better appreciate the problems that the nation will face in
years to come.
CWA aims to be a leading institution in caregiving for the elderly through
specialised service that enables more elderly to maintain their independence.
CWA is able to make eldercare accessible through community partnerships
and trusts. Each donation helps fund the following 3 main programmes: (a)
the Elderly Healthcare Assistance which is aimed at improving the physical,
mental and emotional well-being of the elderly; (b) Welfare and social support to assist the elderly and caregivers to cope with difficult situations; and
(c) Education and Awareness to assist the elderly and caregivers to cope with
difficult situations.
With these programmes in place, CWA has managed to serve over 26,000 beneficiaries over the past years.
“Setting off from the school hall.”
“Approaching members of the public for
donations.”
We had a great time helping those in need on that Saturday! Although at the
beginning, there were not many people who wanted to donate, as time passed,
we managed to all fill our cans. We learned we can make a difference too.
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