to master to grow to serve
VOL 26/1 Mar 2015
Principal’s
Message
Philippians 2:13 tells us that God is always with us, to strengthen and help us do His will.
So it is that we have as our theme for 2015, “Empowered for His Glory.” We are assured
that we could always draw from Him the strength and energy to do our best. He enables
us to do His will and to shine in all that we do. Indeed, all our achievements come
essentially from our turning to God for His guidance and support.
This year, we celebrate SG50, fifty years of sovereignty and continuous progress. We
celebrate Home, the Singapore spirit and our dreams which are not restrained by space
or time. At MGS we take pride in reminiscing on how far we have come as a school and
as a nation; we readily affirm our shared values, our aspirations and our faithfulness in
nurturing a bright future.
The MGeSprit is an archive of all that we cherish about teaching and learning; it is a
testimony of what we have attained in sports, the performing arts, the uniformed groups,
and of course, the learning journeys to places beyond the classroom and our shores.
We hold dear, sportsmanship and competition, commitment and confidence. And we
look forward with optimism to another semester when our girls and their teachers and
coaches, instructors, trainers and the MG Community work as one to realise their dreams
in various fields and national events like the Singapore Youth Festival, the National School
Games and even at the 28th SEA Games which Singapore is hosting in June 2015.
We have a vision for tomorrow, and we can achieve!
To God be the Glory!
Ms Grace Ng
Principal
In & Around
Children’s Day
On Thursday 2 October 2014, MGS celebrated Children’s Day to honour the girls in
the Primary school, and to promote their rights to learn and grow, and realise their
full potential.
The teachers in the Primary school organized a concert to entertain and applaud
the girls for giving them the ‘joy of life …and the joy of work’. Ms Grace Ng and Mr
Desmond Yip were the Guests of Honour.
The concert was an exciting ensemble of international dances originating from
Africa, Bollywood, China and Malaysia; there were also skits and performances of
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s mesmerising and unforgettable music from the Phantom of
the Opera.
The climax was a special blessing from the teachers for their girls; the teachers sang
heartily, “I wish you Jesus”, and communicated a simple but profound message, that
when “I wish you Jesus, I’ve wished you everything!”
Sports Day 2014
Thursday 23 October 2014 was the annual
Sports Day for the students in Secondary
One to Secondary Three.
At the Bukit Gombak Stadium, from 7.30
am to noon, the girls competed in a variety
of track and field events, including the 80m
dash, the Shot Put, High Jump, Long Jump,
Frisbee and 8x50m relays. The girls competed
at various levels: inter-class, inter-house and
inter-CCA. The climax was the Benchball game
which engaged the staff and students in a
friendly inter-house competition.
Lee House was ranked first among the
Houses, followed by Blackmore, Jackson
and Olson, in that order.
MGeSprit • March 2015
3
In & Around
CANTABILE 2014!
Music Musing Magic
The MGS choir held its annual Cantabile
on Saturday 1 November at the School
of the Arts (SOTA) Concert Hall.
It was truly “an evening of magical
music treats”! The audience was
enraptured by a repertoire of inspiring
choral music ranging from the classical
to the contemporary. There was the
music of Orbán György and Franz
Biebl; there were lighthearted songs
from Disney movies and there were
some well-loved hymns too.
The concert which started at 7.30 in the
evening was all the more memorable with the contribution of the MGS Alumnae Choir, amplifying the shared memories at MGS
and the ‘bonds that last a lifetime”.
The Choir from St. Gabriel’s Secondary School also played a part in sharing their artistry at Cantabile 2014 and promoting
choral music.
P6 Post
Exam Activities 2014
As soon as the PSLE came to a close in early
October, the school launched a comprehensive
post-exam programme for the girls to extend
their learning experience; they were taken
beyond their classroom to acquire more
knowledge and sharpen their life skills.
From Tuesday 7 October to Friday 14
November, they cultivated their expertise
for rock climbing and team building. They
attended talks on bridging the gap between
Primary school and Secondary school, and
on Careers they could look forward to. They
reflected on the Growing Up years and were
groomed in the etiquette befitting women
of excellence. And they even had special
lessons in cooking and sewing.
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There were days when they went on learning
journeys to Little India, the Singapore Art
Museum and the Marina Barrage, to heighten
their sense of belonging to Singapore.
They also participated in a variety of
enrichment activities; there was a camp to
raise their awareness of Chinese culture and
there was a Poetry Slam to inspire the reading
and writing of poems. The girls also took time
to create, using the Movie Maker, a digital
scrapbook!
In that one month after the PSLE, the girls in
Primary Six were amazed by the wealth of
knowledge they could accumulate for a better
tomorrow.
MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Primary 6
Graduation Party
The parents of the girls in Primary Six 2014 formed a Graduation
Party Committee to help their girls celebrate the end of a
distinctive period in their schooling.
The Graduation Party was held on Wednesday, 11 November at
One ° 15 Marina Club , Sentosa. From about 11.00 in the morning
until 3.00 in the afternoon, the girls revelled in the company of
friends, schoolmates and teachers. They participated merrily in
a sing-a-long session, a quiz and games; they had photographs
taken at a photo booth and were delighted with the result! One
after the other, the classes took to the stage to entertain one
another and add to the memories shared.
Every pupil and every teacher also received a personalized
party souvenir.
Ms Grace Ng, the Principal, and Vice Principals, Ms Yap Foon
Lyn, Mr Desmond Yip, Mrs Diana Goh and Mrs Corinne Sim
were at the party to lend support to the girls as they moved
on to Secondary school.
Baccalaureate Service
The Class of 2014 enjoyed their last official day of school on
Thursday 13 November.
The Baccalaureate Service not only marked the end of a
milestone, but also the beginning of another chapter in life. We
were reminded to trace our memories in MGS and be grateful for
our own unique experiences. We were also assured that despite
our fear for the future, our heavenly Father knows the plans He
has for us, plans to prosper and not to harm us. The Class of 2014
had the opportunity to bid farewell to their classmates and thank
their teachers. It was indeed a great conclusion to our Secondary
school life.
Natasha Oh (4E 2014)
MGeSprit • March 2015
5
In & Around
Rainbow Connection
The Primary school staged a concert at the Kwa Geok
Choo Auditorium on Friday 14 November 2014 to raise
funds in aid of the Rainbow Centre Singapore which
serves infants, children and youth with a diverse range of
special developmental and learning needs.
The student leaders and their friends from nearly all
the Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) played their part in
contributing various items at the concert and working
backstage or front of the house; their teachers in charge
of the CCAs were also actively involved in ensuring the
success of the concert.
In the Finale for the evening show, the children from the
Rainbow Centre happily joined the MGS girls to sing
“Be My Friend”; and their teachers sang “Children of the
Rainbow”.
The Rainbow Connection did not only showcase and
acknowledge the talents of the different CCAs, but was
also a chance for the girls to give back to society. There
was, in addition, an auction of paintings – the work of the
girls from MGS and their friends at the Rainbow Centre. In
all, about 600 students contributed to the overwhelming
success of the event. Together they raised $24, 583.11 for
the Centre. And the good news is that every dollar raised
will be matched by the Government under the Care and
Share movement.
At morning Assembly on Friday 13 February Ms Grace
Ng, Principal of MGS presented a cheque to Ms Fauziah
Ahmad, Principal of the Rainbow Centre Singapore.
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MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Christmas
Service 2014
At their annual Christmas Service on Monday 10
November, the girls in the Primary school were
assured that God has plans for His beloved: “For I
know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans
to give you hope and a future.”[Jeremiah 29:11].
The girls watched a video on The Crippled Lamb,
Joshua, who felt left out because he could not run
and play like the other lambs; and they were truly
heartened to learn that God had a very special plan
for Joshua. The crippled lamb soon discovered
his true purpose and destiny – he was there at
the manger in Bethlehem to provide warmth and
comfort for the new born baby, Jesus.
At the end of the service, the Primary school
offered a love gift to the Singapore Christian
Home (SCH), a non-profit organization that
provides compassionate and holistic care to
the sick, frail and elderly, especially those
who are financially disadvantaged or without
home support.
The Secondary school had their Christmas
Service earlier, on Friday 24 October; and every
class happily left an envelope, filled with their
love and contributions, in the basket meant for
SCH.
On Friday 16 January 2015, Elder Kok Siew
Hoong, President of SCH was at MGS during
the morning Assembly where he presided at
the Devotions. On behalf of SCH, Elder Kok
received the Christmas Gift from the Principal,
Ms Grace Ng.
Scholars’ Induction
With nervousness and curiosity, we
trooped into MGS. It was the first time
we were at a school in Singapore, and we
were really glad that there were students
to show us around.
Before gathering in the Lecture Theatre
to listen to the Principal, we had a postChristmas celebration at breakfast with
our friends and some schoolmates. After
that, the Principal officially welcomed us
and introduced us to the MGS education;
we also met many of the teachers and
the Vice-Principals who told us all about
the curriculum and the Co-Curriculum
Activities. Later, we got to know the
MGeSprit • March 2015
school rules from the Head Prefect and
some other prefects.
We also had to enact our experiences in
the bridging course. I was a little worried
because we did not practise much for
the act. Fortunately, all went well, and we
were pleased with the applause. Before
we left the school, we went on a tour to
know more about MGS.
Although this was not officially the first
day at school, I learnt much from the
experience and enjoyed myself.
Hui Fanghao (Sec 3I)
7
In & Around
P1 Orientation for 2015
On Saturday morning 15 November 2014, MGS organized
an orientation exercise for the girls waiting to start school
in Primary One, 2015.
The little girls were taken on a tour of the school, especially
to discover the exact location of their classrooms for
Primary One. Meanwhile their parents attended a briefing
in the Kwa Geok Choo Auditorium, where they learnt more
about MGS from the Principal and the Vice-Principals.
Members of ParentLink, the school’s parent support group
were also present to welcome new parents to the MGS
family.
At the Bamboo Courtyard, the girls played some games to
allow them to make new friends, in preparation for a new
learning environment.
In about two hours, the girls learnt all that they needed to
take on the challenge of attending lessons in what many
considered a ‘big school’. Before they left for home, they
stopped by the bookshop to purchase textbooks and
uniforms in readiness for January 2015.
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MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Operation
Co-operation 2015
The Student Leaders in MGS took on the
responsibility of welcoming the girls to
Secondary One, and helping them to cultivate
a sense of belonging to the MGS family.
The newbies in MGS were engaged in a
variety of activities that showed them what
to expect at school, in the classroom and
for their CCAs. But the most exciting part of
the Orientation Programme – Operation Cooperation – was the Camp, a two-day event.
Natanya Ng (Sec 3I) was the Camp
Commandant and Beverly Low (Sec 3G), the
Co-Camp Commandant.
Jong Ee Joo (Sec 1D), in her reflections,
explained “As I was not from the Primary
school I had no idea what to expect of my
new Secondary school. …. I decided to
participate enthusiastically. I enjoyed the
games immensely, particularly the Night
games. The other activities were fun too, and
I made lots of new friends. Now, whenever
I am asked about my school, I proudly say
that I belong in MGS.”
Bryna Liang (Sec 3D), from the Administration
Committee, shared that as a leader she
had “to be able to think on [her] feet and
be flexible. …. the toilets were closed for
renovation and when parents and new
students asked where the toilets were, we
had to immediately locate one and direct
them….”
Honestly, it was great to see the students
so happy and yet so united at the campfire
on the final night. Just as we parted ways, I
saw so many girls in Secondary One hugging
the student facilitators, thanking them and
rejoicing. It was really heart-warming.
It was fitting that the theme of Operation
Co-operation was from 1 Corinthians 12:12 –
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts,
but all its many parts form one body, so it is
with Christ.”
Natanya Ng (Sec 3I)
MGeSprit • March 2015
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In & Around
P1
Tea Party 2015
On Saturday 31 January 2015, the girls in Primary One were at
school for a Tea Party, while their parents attended a briefing
on school matters. The picnic is an annual event organized by
MGS ParentLink. Parents and daughters alike were dressed
for the occasion – in a kaleidoscope of colours, each of which
identified the class the girls belonged to.
First, the girls played games, supervised by the Student Leaders,
until about 4.30 pm when members of the MGS Worship
Moms led them in singing songs of praise and worship in the
amphitheatre. Then the party began at the Linkway where the
girls and parents came together for a picnic; there in baskets
and on picnic mats, was a mouth-watering spread of food
prepared by some of the parents.
It was a day full of fun and laughter for both the girls and their
parents who were more than happy to establish a network of
new friends with a common interest.
Basic Leadership
Programme 2015
At the start of the school year, the Primary school
administers a progressive leadership programme to
equip every child with the skills and values of a servant
leader.
A team of qualified trainers engage the girls in
cultivating Servant Leadership during curriculum hours;
the training involves two 1.5 hour sessions and a host
of activities to promote learning.
The girls in Primary One learn to listen carefully and
communicate effectively; those in Primary Two hone
their skills in listening and in being responsible for
themselves, while their friends in Primary Three are
coached to master the skills in effective thinking and
reflection.
In the Upper primary classes, the girls progressively
sharpen their skills in communication and conflict
management (Primary Four), in goal-setting and
envisioning (Primary Five) and in team building and
decision making (Primary Six).
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MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Visitors from Korea
On Thursday 22 January, a team of trainee teachers from Daegu National University of Education, Republic of Korea, visited
MGS to know more about the teaching and learning in the Primary school. The group observed the classes in action and
interacted with the teachers.
Lunch Box Day
Lunch Box Day was a great time to relax, especially since most
of us were about to be engulfed in the new school year.
At recess on Friday 23 January we made our way to the
quadrangle to savour a mini-feast with our classmates - as well
as take a million photos! It was a brilliant opportunity to just
enjoy being in one another’s company and get to make new
friends.
Fond memories were created as we prepared some of the food
and herded our classmates for a hastily-composed “candid”
photo. The Class spirit was fanned, in anticipation of the teamwork and collaboration for greater causes and the common good.
Many busy hands snapped countless pictures as the girls
excitedly chose their poses. Laughter and chatter echoed
through the quadrangle. And in circles of white and blue, the
girls sang merrily while munching on snacks. We returned to
class with full bellies and smiles of contentment, ready for the
challenges ahead.
“Food gathers people,” they say; and indeed, this could not
be truer. We shall always cherish Lunch Box Day 2015 for “the
friendships made and pleasures shared”.
Gladys Loo and Catherine Liew (Sec 3I)
MGeSprit • March 2015
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In & Around
Youth
Chapter 2015
The Class of 2014 had their last
gathering as a cohort on Saturday
24 January; this was the Epilogue to
our story set in MGS, and the start
of Youth Chapter 2015, intended
to reinforce the MGS Alumnae
Association.
In a variety of games, we strengthened
the ties that bind, and seized the
opportunity to catch up with one
another. Although many of us were
anxious about where we might be
for our post-Secondary education,
we were assured that we will flourish
wherever life takes us.
At the end of the event, in keeping
with the MGS tradition, we released
a festival of balloons and cheered
as they drifted far away, taking with
them our wishes carefully taped to
the strings.
Assured that MG is always our second
home, we are ready to face the next
chapter in life.
Natasha Oh (Class of 2014)
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MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Pink of
Health
The annual Pink of Health event, organised to bring
the Class of 2015 closer to the older generation in
the community, took place on Friday 6 February.
We planned and conducted the activities for the
elderly folks who came from Ghim Moh and Toa
Payoh to enjoy a get-together with friends and to
acquire a new skill or two.
Our Principal, Ms Grace Ng was there to welcome
our guests and encouraged them to participate in
the interactive activities.
We engaged the elderly folks in an exercise
involving the use of elastic bands and in learning
the art of making lanterns for the Lunar New Year;
and we applauded when they sang their hearts
out during the karaoke sessions.
It was certainly a fulfilling afternoon, not only for
the elderly folks, but also for us, the Befrienders
who accompanied them as they went from one
activity to another. It was really interesting chatting
with them and getting to know more about them.
Most importantly the Pink of Health event was a
fantastic platform for us to display our “values in
action” even as we packed goodie bags for our
guests to take away, and then sending them off
with what a friend described as “a royal wave”!
It was a tiring, but rewarding afternoon. We now
have a better understanding of the needs of our
society, especially that of the pioneer generation.
Wang Xin En (Sec 4O)
MGeSprit • March 2015
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In & Around
A
Walk in Chinatown
On Friday 13 February, three classes from Secondary Four spent the afternoon
accompanying the Primary school students from the Daybreak Student Care
Centre on a walk through busy Chinatown.
In the especially vibrant streets and stores decorated for the Chinese New Year,
the Daybreak students went on a treasure hunt to find goodies and ornaments
unique to the festive season. This was the first time some of them were in
Chinatown; but they braved the thick crowds and walked the length of notable
streets such as Pagoda Street and Sago Street. They were energetic in spotting
the items in the treasure hunt, and were almost unwilling to leave their new-found
friends and buddies when, armed with goodie bags, they had to leave for home.
In guiding the students of Daybreak Student Care Centre, we learnt that taking
care of children is not always easy. Apart from the perpetual fear of losing the
child in the masses in Chinatown, we realised that we had to be extremely patient
in order to satisfy the children’s inquisitiveness; their questions were endless.
While taking the time to explore the streets and study the area closely, we have
also learnt to better appreciate the rich heritage in Chinatown.
Alexis Goh (Sec 4E)
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MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Total Defence – Giving Strength to Our Nation
In the week leading to Total Defence Day (TDD) – 15 February
– we were challenged to reflect on how we could play a part in
Giving Strength to Our Nation.
In an instagram challenge, we were asked to post online,
pictures which reminded us of TDD; there was also the Total
Defence Quiz, a test of how much we know about the Five
Pillars of Defence: Military, Social, Economic, Psychological,
Civil. The highlight of the week’s activities however was the
celebrations in the M E LAU Hall on Tuesday 10 February.
My classmates and I cringed when told of the horrific torture
methods the Japanese had used in those dark days of the
Japanese Occupation in Singapore; we giggled at the witty
puns used by our friends in Secondary 4S, and we roared with
laughter at the hilarious antics of our very own “Ah Boys” at
MGS – Mr Lionel Chia, Mr Melvin Chong, Mr Dennis Auyang and
Mr Jay Cheong. Despite the light hearted mood of the event,
the message was clear. As we left the hall that afternoon, we
could feel a powerful attachment to Singapore, our homeland.
We understood that Total Defence is not just the responsibility
of the police, firemen, the army, the boys.
You ask, “What can you do, a little girl like you?”
Dear sir, it is not how much you can do
But that you do your little bit for the community
With love, care and a smile too.
Our friends in the Primary school enjoyed a series of activities
which celebrated SG50 and SAF50, and encouraged them to
help build the strength of the nation. On Tuesday 24 February
the girls in the Upper Primary classes learnt from Mrs Chan
Lai Har about the days leading to the fall of Singapore on
Sunday 15 February 1942. This was why there is need for
Total Defence.
Rachel Lim (Sec 3I)
MGeSprit • March 2015
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In & Around
Chinese New Year 2015
There was a buzz of festivity early in
the morning as the students, dressed in
colourful cheongsams or variations of the
ethnic costume, arrived in school. It was
Tuesday 17 February, just two days to the
Lunar New Year, and we were all at the
quadrangle for Assembly.
Then, with a dazzling hula-hoop performance
and a showcase of beautiful calligraphy and
songs, the celebrations began!
In the classroom, we were entertained with
an interactive Chinese quiz on significant traditions. Soon enough, we
came to the highlight of the day: the Chinese New Year concert in the
M E Lau Hall. Performances by our schoolmates – dances, skits and
the music of handbells, to name a few — drew round after round of
applause from the audience. A special Face-Changing performance
and an engaging game also raised the levels of enthusiasm. The
revelry ended with a lively sing-along and loud cheers from the
students to welcome the Lunar New Year.
In the Ellice Handy Hall, our friends at the Primary school were
thrilled to meet the Goat and even the Big Bad Wolf. They too were
entertained by schoolmates who danced and sang and acted to bring
to life, legends unique to the festive season.
Catherine Liew (Sec 3I)
Scholars’
Reunion Dinner
Away from home for the Lunar New Year celebrations, the
scholars at MGS had their reunion dinner with their teachers
and friends instead. On Friday 13 February we enjoyed the
delicious food and games and the warmth of the MGS family;
and we are indeed grateful to the Covenant Community
Methodist Church for providing the feast and the many prizes.
The Malaysian scholars staged a very entertaining skit to
remind us of the ‘Dos’ and ‘Don’ts’ during the New Year
festivities – no sweeping on Chinese New Year Day, otherwise
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you are sweeping the good luck away. The Indonesian
scholars performed a unique dance and serenaded us with
an invigorating song. A talented scholar from China gave
us music to remember from the gu zheng while her fellow
scholars dazzled us with a lively dance.
The evening was sparkling with laughter and small talk as we
got to know more about one another and our teachers.
Charis Koh (Sec 4I)
MGeSprit • March 2015
In & Around
Chingay Parade Preview
My friends and I, scholars from China and Malaysia, at first thought
that the Chingay Parade was just another street procession to
celebrate the Lunar New Year. However, when we reached the F1 pit
Building and saw the beautifully decorated entrance, the giant hot air
balloons in vibrant colours and thousands of students waiting in line
for the preview on Saturday 14 February, we were excited.
We were amazed that the decorations and costumes were all made
from recycled plastic bags and bottles. And the show was so well
choreographed, it literally brought us back in time and to the future.
The extraordinary performances, awesome floats, decorations, music,
fireworks, hot air balloons, the atmosphere gave us goosebumps. The
hospitality ambassadors, production crew, dancers, musicians and all
were friendly and cool; they made us feel comfortable, welcomed,
and satisfied. We are really grateful for the opportunity to participate
World
in this once in a lifetime event and learn, with our local
friends, more about the culture of Singapore. We shall
never forget the Chingay Parade 2015 and its place in
SG50, affirming, “We love SG”!
Lim Ze Li (Sec 3H)
Thinking Day
Every year since 1926, the Girl Guides have been celebrating
World Thinking Day on the 22nd of February. At MGS we
commemorated Thinking Day on Monday 23 February; on
that day we wore the Guide uniform to school to remind
us to think of other members of the Movement around the
world. Even though we have never met, and may never meet
them, we all belong to the same Guides family with common
MGeSprit • March 2015
aims and we celebrate this day as one. On Thinking Day
we remember our founders, Lord Baden-Powell and his wife
Lady Olave Baden-Powell, once the Chief Guide; and we
also ‘think’ about the less fortunate who need our support.
Caitlin Loh (Sec 3R)
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Academic
Crystal Growing
National
Competition 2014
On Saturday 27 September two teams of Secondary Three students
participated in the biennial Singapore Crystal Growing Competition,
orgnanised by the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, NUS.
It all started in early June when the teams made frequent visits to the
laboratory to grow their crystal; their objective was to grow the biggest
single crystal of potassium dihydrogen phosphate with a coloured core.
It was an opportunity for them to demonstrate their creativity, and Team
MGS was duly rewarded with the Merit prize at the competition. The prize
winners were Thinzar Htet and Tan Mi Siew (both from Sec 3G, 2014).
Graphing Calculator
Competition
In July 2014 Team MGS once again excelled at the
annual Designing with Graphing Calculator Competition
for Secondary schools and Junior Colleges. In the
competition organized by Texas Instruments Pte Ltd
Singapore, participants had to use the TI-84+ series
of graphing calculator to create a design based on the
theme, FIFA World Cup.
MGS submitted eleven entries, six of which were awarded
prizes in recognition of their originality, creativity, and level
of difficulty.
Tiffany Chong (Sec 4H) won the Gold award which came with $500 in cash. Bao Rong (Sec 3O) and Andrea Cher (Sec 4G)
won the Silver award and a TI-NSPIRE CX CAS calculator worth more than $180 each. Wang Yimei (Sec 2G), Amanda Alodia
Guito (Sec 3E) and Joyce Gao (Sec 4I) won the Bronze award and a TI-84 Plus Pocket SE graphing calculator each.
Team MGS was ranked 2nd in the schools category, and won S$1500 in cash and a TI gift voucher worth $700.
Gold Award: Tiffany Chong
Silver Award: Bao Rong
Silver Award: Andrea Cher Wenyi
Bronze Award: Amanda Alodia Guito Bronze Award: Joyce Gao Wenjing
Bronze Award: Wang Yimei
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MGeSprit • March 2015
Academic
Future Problem-Solving Competition 2014
The annual Future Problem-Solving Competition “stimulates
critical and creative thinking skills, and encourages students
to develop a vision for the future”; it is also a significant
platform for preparing students to take on leadership roles.
3I) and Laura Chia (Sec 3G) represented MGS in Team MT
20; their friends in Team MT 21 included Nicole Teo (Sec
3S), Wong E-Shuen (Sec 3E), Odele Tan (Sec 3E) and Ouisa
Wiranto (Sec 3H).
After eight months of extensive preparation and intensive
training, two teams from MGS earned the right to participate
in the National Finals held at Raffles Girls’ School in November
2014.
In the Scenario Writing Competition, Amelia Leow (Sec3T)
was ranked 8th, Ashley Chin (Sec 3G) was ranked 9th, and
Yasmine Kanagalingam (Sec 3S), 10th.
In the Team Global Issues Problem Solving segment, Isabelle
Cheah (Sec 3G), Joelle Heng (Sec 3M), Chen Shubing (Sec
Amelia was in the team – comprising members from various
schools – which earned the position of 1st Runner-up in the
Onsite Scenario Writing Competition.
Well Done
MGS!
On Friday 21 November 2014 when the PSLE results were released, the girls were jumping for joy. On Monday 12 January it
was the turn of their schoolmates in the Secondary school to scream with elation and excitement at yet another set of brilliant
GCE O Level results.
The achievements of the Class of 2014 are a testament to their incredible determination to succeed, their hard work and talent.
And they excelled at the national examinations even as they were making a mark in their Co-curricular Activities.
All this would not have been possible without the support of the many parents who prayed tirelessly for the girls, and contributed
so generously to keep the girls optimistic for the PSLE, and to Project Care for the Secondary Four students. The staff too
played a crucial role with their expertise and absolute commitment to nurturing the mind and the spirit of every girl in the Class
of 2014.
MGeSprit • March 2015
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Academic
Panasonic
Eco Ideas Challenge 2014
In 2014, Emma Toh, Sarah Ang and Zheng Xianghan (all from Sec 4G) took part in the
Panasonic ‘eco ideas’ Challenge (EIC), and won the Merit award.
The Challenge, organised by Panasonic in collaboration with the National Environment Agency
(NEA), encouraged students to develop and implement environment-outreach projects within
and beyond their schools. Team MGS – aka the Tooth Fairies – was highly commended for
their organic toothpaste which was biodegradable and friendly to the environment, and made
simply from baking soda and tea.
The Tooth Fairies shared that “After learning that commercial toothpaste brings about much
harm to the environment and the human body, we decided to do something about it.” They
reached out to friends and schoolmates to “spread the message” about the harmful effects of
the common toothpaste. They intend “to implement our project in other schools and use the
extra funds for environment-friendly activities”.
During the prize presentation ceremony held on Monday 3 November at Panasonic Singapore,
the Tooth Fairies received an award of $500 to be used by the school for environment activities.
North West
Awards
CDC
On Sunday 1 March, at the Singapore
Polytechnic Convention Centre, the
North West Community Development
Council (CDC) presented awards
to their volunteers and partners for
their invaluable contribution to the
community.
Mdm S Zanariah, on behalf of the Primary school, received the School Partners Award (Silver) from the Mayor, Dr Teo Ho Pin.
At the event, the North West CDC also acknowledged the achievements of students from schools in the North West District.
Chloe Ang Si-En (Sec 4G) received the Outstanding All-Rounder Student (OARS) Award in recognition for her achievements in
the academic field, in her CCA, Community service and leadership roles. This is an award given to a student for her achievements
as a role model at the community level.
At the school level, the recipients of the OARs Award included Gabrielle Lee Kurniawan (P6.6), Eliza Khoo Hui Shuen (P6.6), Lea
Yeo Jen Wen (P6.4), Gwyneth Kong (Sec 4E) and Ashiley Annushri Thenpandiyan (Sec 4T).
20
MGeSprit • March 2015
Academic
CB Paul Science Quiz
On
Wednesday
28
January,
Team MGS participated in the
International CB Paul Science Quiz
2015 organised by Anglo-Chinese
Junior College, and eight of the
sixteen girls who made it to the final
round, won Honourable Mentions
for their achievements. Team MGS
earned two Gold, three Silver, and
three Bronze medals.
Liu Jiahui (Sec 4T), Sonia Keloth
(Sec 4E) and Gwyneth Kong (Sec
4E) received Bronze medals, while
Nicole Mak (Sec 4T), Bao Rong (Sec
4O) and Liu Chang (Sec 4O) won
the Silver award. Chen Yanbing (Sec
4T) and Vu Hue Minh (Sec 4O) were
Gold medalists.
ACJC
Orator’s Trophy 2015
Speaking in public is not easy. Even the best orators, they
tell you, are paralysed by ten thousand pairs of eyes fixed
intensely on them. A novice at public speaking is for sure, a
lamb led to the slaughter!
compose a little message to captivate the audience? I tell
you, it is a nerve-wracking ordeal. And to add to the stress,
I was the youngest of the 54 contestants, who were all from
the top schools in Singapore.
It was with trepidation that I agreed to participate in the
challenge for the ACJC Orator’s Trophy 2015. I spent most
of my free time at school training with Mrs Chitra, teacher
and coach. I had to discipline myself not to eat anything
cold so as not to hurt my voice. I actually went without ice
cream for a period of time!
Fortunately, it is not talent alone that defines how well you
speak. It is all about determination, discipline and simply,
courage! And yes, I had enough courage that day, Saturday
7 February at ACJC to make a bid for the Orator’s Trophy.
I must confess that it is not easy to address an audience
of bored-looking adults, especially when you only have five
minutes to prepare a three-minute speech. How does one
MGeSprit • March 2015
I was delighted the adjudicators – all adults – affirmed that I
was the Champion for the Under-14 category, and also the
over-all Champion of the competition.
Jessica Sandhya (Sec 2D)
21
Co-Curricular Activities
SiTF Best Student Project
On 29 August 2014, it was announced that three girls from Primary Six won Gold for Best Student Project (Primary) in a
competition for awards from the Singapore infocomm Technology Federation (SiTF). The team of Esther Ong, Shu Shayne
and Shannon Tan (all from P6.6) also won the Award for Best Presenter.
The judges included luminaries of the Infocomm Media (ICM), venture capitalists, investors and distinguished individuals in
academia. The annual SiTF Awards serve as “a bedrock for local innovations” and promote “innovation and interest in the
area of Infocomm Media”.
Team MGS capitalized on the skills they had cultivated through their Media Literacy Programme at school, to help a social
enterprise meet its needs. They worked with The Smoothie Stall (TSS) at MGS to ensure that the enterprise is viable in the
long term; TSS provides meaningful employment to youths with special needs.
Team MGS evaluated and assessed the business and applied a creative 6-step problem solving process to help strengthen
the sustainability of TSS. They also involved the girls in Primary 4 and 5 in taking advantage of ICM to actively promote the
work of the social enterprise.
On Thursday 9 October, Team MGS was invited to the Infocomm Communication Media Gala Dinner at Resorts World
Sentosa to receive their award.
In the Business Times on Tuesday 14 October 2014, Team MGS was duly acknowledged for their achievements in the field
of Infocomm Technology.
Singapore
Games Creation
On Friday 17 October, Team MGS received the top award for the
Singapore Games Creation Competition 2014. The annual competition,
organized by the School of Interactive and Digital Media (SIDM) at
Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP), and supported by the Central Narcotics
Bureau (CNB), was an opportunity for the participants to learn about
digital media development and games creation.
In June, 191 teams with four members each, attended a two-day
workshop where they were challenged to create a game. Subsequently,
30 teams were shortlisted for a five-day workshop where they focused
on vying for the Champion’s title. The teams had to work in accordance
with the theme: “Life does not rewind. Say no to drugs”.
Team MGS, using the pseudonym CHIMMICHANGA, created the game
Valour which won the support of schoolmates and friends, and the
acclaim as Champion of the competition. This was the second year running that Team MGS has secured the first prize in the
annual NYP Singapore Games Creation Competition.
Team MGS included Alexis Goh (Sec 3E), Caitlyn Gn (Sec 3M), Clarice Teh (Sec 3T), and Elaine Koh (Sec 3T).
22
MGeSprit • March 2015
Co-Curricular Activities
6th
ASEAN Schools Games 2014
Three students from MGS represented Singapore Schools at the ASEAN Schools Games
2014 which took place from Saturday 29 November to Sunday 7 December in Marikina
City, Philippines.
Joanne Koh (Sec 4H) was in the Tennis team, Callista Chen Wan Qing (Sec 4S) , the Golf
team and Chan Zi Yi (Sec 1M), Swimming .
Zi Yi won the Bronze award for the 50m Freestyle event.
The
Halep Experience
It was Friday 17 October 2014; Team MGS
was training as usual at PESEB (Physical and
Sports Education Branch) at Evans Road. And
what a surprise we had! Simona Halep, the
tennis sensation from Romania and currently
3rd in the WTA’s (Women Tennis Association)
ranking, was with us at the tennis courts,
to inspire us to be the best we could. She
reminded us that, with determination and
perseverance, we could reach our goals.
In a Q&A session, we learnt about Simona
Halep’s life as a world class tennis player;
tennis is her passion, and she has been playing
tennis since she was about 4 years old. During
her free time she reads, listens to music, and
dances. Much to our delight, we had the rare
opportunity to do the MGS victory dance with
her. She also gave us her autograph on an
Adidas cap and a postcard, which we shall
always cherish.
She urged us to keep our dreams alive, to
hone our skills and to aim for greater heights.
Abigail Woon (Sec 2G)
Sports Psychology for Team MGS
The parents of an athlete in Team MGS proposed
one day that all athletes should undergo a
psychology session to enhance their talents and
skills; and they generously donated to the cause.
On Thursday 29 January, Dr Jay-Lee Nair, a
renowned sports psychologist, was engaged to
run a workshop for all athletes in MGS. For one
hour in the afternoon, the girls responded openly
to the hands-on session and the many questions
thrown at them by Dr Nair, to strengthen their
attitude and behavior, especially when they are
under duress in a competition.
The athletes found the workshop not just useful,
but also timely for the competitions ahead. They
appreciate that sports psychology helps them to
cope with the pressure of competition, to enjoy
sports and to enhance self-confidence. They were quick to affirm the significance of the Principles of Mental Skills, and they
look forward to many more sessions with a sports psychologist.
MGeSprit • March 2015
23
Co-Curricular Activities
Girl Guides Camp 2014
Our annual Guide camp was held in school. Our theme was
anchored on “Ties that Bind”, and on Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to
me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty
things, which you know not.”
During the camp, from Monday 17 November to Wednesday 19
November, we acquired survival skills, including the pitching
of tents for sleeping, building baggage and shoe racks and
outdoor cooking. We were especially proud of the outdoor
kitchen shelter that we learnt to pitch from scratch! We also
participated in many games that enforced our team spirit, and
helped us solve problems. We cultivated a stronger sense of
discipline and responsibility during the camp.
We heightened our passion for the
Guides movement and the commitment
to do our best for God, country and
others. Throughout the camp, we all kept
an open mind, stepped out of our comfort
zones to overcome many difficulties, and
most importantly, we had fun!
Joey Ee (4T), and Meena Ganesh (4T)
Brownies Camp 2014
In late November, the Brownies from Primary Three to
Primary Six attended a camp at school, to foster friendship
among members of the pack. They were urged to Lend
a Hand where possible, and to start with helping one
another at camp. They readily took responsibility for their
own well-being and participated enthusiastically in making
decisions, taking on complementary leadership roles and
simply enjoying the outdoor activities.
The Brownies seized the opportunity to earn some
Proficiency Badges, including the Road Safety (Interest)
Badge, for which they had to travel to the East Coast Road
Safety Park to secure. There was also the Entertainer Skills
Badge which called for a song and dance act to entertain
their audience; and there was the First Aider Skills Badge
for which they were well prepared by a parent volunteer
who provided the training in basic First Aid practices.
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MGeSprit • March 2015
Co-Curricular Activities
GB Annual Camp 2014
The 1st Singapore Girls’ Brigade Company held its annual camp from
Thursday 20 to Saturday 22 November; the theme for 2014 was focused
on “Jesus, the Greatest Friend of All”, and the highlight of the camp was
the Christmas play.
At Camp, we enjoyed the friendly interaction and took delight in
strengthening the team spirit. We toured the Botanic Gardens and had little
picnics with our squads. Unfortunately, a heavy downpour prevented us
from living it up in the Amazing Race, planned by the Fellowship Committee.
The next day, we continued to play and compete in various activities that
put our creativity to the test. Then the rehearsal for the Christmas play
began in earnest. In the evening, family members gathered at the Kwa
Geok Choo Auditorium to lend support to the Girls’ Brigade (GB); we
had a worship session before the girls in the Primary school put up two
enchanting performances to the music of Rain and Pour, and This Little
Light of Mine, and warmed the audience up for the long awaited Christmas
play.
The annual GB camp, gave us the opportunity to reinforce our ties with
our squad members and to make new friends. The Christmas play was an
enriching experience for everyone and many of us have learnt new skills;
the devotions and quiet-time sessions during the camp helped us to grow
closer to God.
Elizabeth Cheong (Sec 2S), Vanessa Chan (Sec 3E), Faith Soong (Sec 3E)
Fellowship Camp 2015
The 1st Company Girls’ Brigade welcomed our new members
at a Fellowship Camp on the last two days of January.
While playing games, we forged new friendships and
strengthened the ties that bind. We watched a recording of
our own Christmas play, held at last year’s annual camp!
Then we had our all-time favourite night games! The girls who
graduated in 2014 returned to help fabricate a complex story
about a murder case, riddled with mysteries and scandals;
and our night games were expertly woven into the plot. At the
end of the games, each squad had to act out their theory of
what happened to the murder victim, Mr Black. It was indeed
hilarious as each squad presented their theory with animated
actions and explanations worthy of the applause that every
world-renowned comedian secures.
The next day was just as exciting. The morning began with
worship and devotions, and then an intense drill session! The
recruits were taught the basics of drill, while the other girls
were given practice based on their drill stage rankings. Of
course, the day would not have been complete without the
games; we used crayons to draw on the faces of our senior
members, and took piggy-back rides through an obstacle
course!
Although this camp was over in two days, it was definitely
one of the most meaningful for those involved. The smiles
were extraordinary, and the Fellowship Camp was nothing
less than a total success!
Sarah Joy Tan (Sec 4M)
MGeSprit • March 2015
25
Borderless Learning
P5 ROCs in
Malacca
From 17 to 19 November, the pupils in Primary 5 went
on a learning journey to Malacca to delve deeper into the
rich diversity of cultures, including the Peranakan and
Nyonya culture.
Enroute to Malacca, we made some pit stops and visited
oil palm and coconut plantations where we observed the
process of making Gula Melaka; we were really excited
to learn about farm activities and pastimes, first-hand.
Our trip to Malacca took learning beyond the textbooks
as we participated in many traditional activities such as
batik painting, playing congkak and even spinning tops.
Of course, everyone brought home a souvenir after a
visit to Jonker Street and Pahlawan Mall.
It was indeed fulfilling to strengthen our ties with one
another, and we enjoyed the independence we had on
our first overseas trip away from our parents. We were
homesick the first night, but when it was time to leave for
home, we were somewhat reluctant to move.
We are grateful for all that we have learnt about the
cultures and traditions of Malacca, the Historic State –
not the biggest city in Malaysia, but rich with heritage,
ancient landmarks and colonial influence.
Gabrielle Lee (P6.6) and Eliza Khoo (P6.6)
26
MGeSprit • March 2015
Borderless Learning
Taiwan ROCs
For a week, from Wednesday 5 November,
we were on a learning journey in Taiwan.
customs. Taiwanese hospitality is certainly
amazing.
We had many hands-on learning experiences
– working with ceramics at Yingge, confronting
an earthquake (a simulation actually) at 921
Earthquake Museum, harvesting tea leaves at
a plantation, attending a DIY Biscuit-Making
session at Yilan Biscuit Invention Factory,
and helping out at Le Shan, a shelter for the
disabled.
I must say that the highlight of our cultural
experience in Taiwan was going to the night
markets and to ‘Lao Jie’ at Shifen, where
we released heavenly lanterns into the sky.
We also visited different places to further
appreciate Taiwan’s history and geography;
we were at the Yeliu Geological Park, the
Taoyuan Guanyin Wind Farm, and Tamsui
Old Street.
At Wesley Girls’ High School, we learned a
dance of the aborigines, drew and painted on
iPads and acquired the skills in brewing tea.
A home stay hosted by our Wesley buddies
introduced us to the Taiwanese way of life and
The ROCs trip to Taiwan is of course an
unforgettable experience!
Abigail Wong Weiling (Sec 3R)
P5 Immersed in Taiwan’s Culture
For a week in November, 35 of us from Primary 5 went on
a learning journey to Taiwan to immerse ourselves in the
rich culture of Taiwan. Four of our teachers were with us.
We spent the first two days at the Toucheng Leisure
Farm where we enjoyed activities such as planting
rice; we were quickly absorbed in the life on the farm.
Soon however, we were reunited with city life as
we continued on our journey in Taipei. We visited
places of interest like Ximending, a well-known
commercial district, The National Palace Museum,
Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines, as well
as the Pineapple Cake factory where we tried making
pineapple tarts. We were even given the opportunity to
visit Ri Xing Type Foundry, home to a rare collection of
the traditional Chinese character matrix, one of the few
remaining in the world.
Our learning experience included two days at Tamsui
Elementary School where we were really touched by the
warmth and hospitality of the teachers and students.
On the eighth day of our learning journey – Wednesday
12 November – we returned to Singapore. We are grateful
for the chance to build our knowledge, especially that
related to the rich culture and history of Taiwan.
Gabrielle Lee (P6.6)
Eliza Khoo (P6.6)
MGeSprit • March 2015
27
Borderless Learning
India ROCs
In the early hours on Wednesday 5 November
we were at Changi Airport; lugging DIY
bookshelves and boxes of clothes and books
we were bound for India to accomplish three
tasks, unfamiliar but not really intimidating.
At Mount Carmel School in Dwarka, Delhi
where we accomplished our tasks, our buddies
and their teachers were encouraging, warm
and always cheerful. It was heartening that
friends from the Singapore High Commission
in Delhi were equally exuberant.
We spent a day with the children at Shiksha
Kendra, the after-school care centre; some of
us engaged the children in some art and craft
activities, and captured a bunch of selfies to
take home. A group meanwhile worked in the
basement, sticking bottle cap after bottle cap
to the walls, and another, painted the library
until they were covered in paint. In the end,
we had three Amazing bottle cap murals in the
vibrant colours of bottle caps, and a mural of
Noah’s Ark.
A group of girls undertook the responsibility
of travelling to Anand Niketan, another branch
of Mount Carmel School to put together and
beautify the bookshelves for the library.
In India we shuttled around ancient treasures,
and
bustling
marketplaces,
towering
monuments and palaces, while the monkeys
leapt between buildings, and the cows
shuffled between cars on the busy streets.
We took selfies at the Taj Mahal and filled our
28
suitcases with ethnic Indian clothes. But if
you were to ask anyone on the trip, you know
that ROCs3 was not about sight-seeing or
shopping or feasting on local delicacies.
ROCs in India was a service-learning trip – and
I don’t think any of us would have had it any
other way!
Gillian Goh (Sec 4G)
MGeSprit • March 2015
Borderless Learning
Old,
New
Something
Something
– Xi’an ROCs
For about eight days in November, 37 girls from
Secondary Three experienced learning unlike
anything they had ever encountered.
In Xi’an, on Wednesday 5 November, we were
amazed by the reality outside our classrooms.
Miles away from home, we quickly learnt to
think on our feet and adjust to situations we
had never grappled with before.
This was not just a whirlwind tour around
the best sights in Xi’an, including the famed
Terracotta Warriors. The modern but culturally
grounded city offered us the opportunity
to expand our world-view, even as we
experimented with traditional activities such as
paper cutting or Wu-shu; at the same time we
refined an appreciation for a culture with which
we were not exactly familiar.
We interacted with one another and with many
children at an orphanage we visited; and we
relished a taste of attending lessons at Gao
Xin No. 1 High School. In the process, we
deepened our understanding of others and
their world.
Independence,
responsibility
and
selfawareness were important outcomes of our
learning journey, and we really treasure the
MGeSprit • March 2015
friendships made, pleasures shared, and
lessons learned apace. Xi’an was truly
an unforgettable adventure. Xi’an ROCs!
Lee Wen-yi (Sec 4G)
29
Borderless Learning
Snorkelling with Stingrays
On Wednesday 5 November,
my friends and I (70 girls from
Secondary
Three)
embarked
on an adventure to Melbourne,
Australia; we were accompanied
by seven teachers. Upon arrival
in Melbourne, we immediately
hopped onto a bus to Philip Island
where we spent the next three days
learning all about conservation and
the passionate rangers who gave us
a new perspective on the problems
we read about in our textbooks.
Every day was a unique experience
- from snorkelling with stingrays,
to kayaking in the open sea, and
marvelling at the magnificent view of
the ocean. The experiences left us
awed by God’s wondrous creations
such as adorable penguins, koalas,
wallabies and even a poisonous
snake!
All too soon it was time to head
back to Melbourne. There we
learned to appreciate the rich
history of Australia and its strong
sports culture; we participated at a
lacrosse workshop, and in abseiling
and caving at Yarra Junction where
we found the courage to face our
fears and overcome them. We
went on guided tours of the sports
museums; and at the Botanic
30
Gardens we experienced
aborigines culture.
the
At the Howqua Campus of the
Lauriston Girls’ School, we were
utterly impressed by the different
education landscape in Australia
and their unique outdoor lifestyle.
The girls introduced us to their
school life which consisted of a
year without access to IT, but made
exciting with weekly 15 km runs
around the mountains, monthly
expeditions into the wilderness
and juggling responsibilities such
as chores and homework. Their
independent and rugged lifestyle is
surely a stark contrast to that of the
typical Singapore school.
All in all, this trip was an
unforgettable experience where
memories were made, pleasures
shared and lessons learned
apace……
Celeste Tan Min (Sec 4T)
MGeSprit • March 2015
Borderless Learning
Work Experience
At the end of the school year, a group of girls in
Secondary 3 went on an adventure to explore
career opportunities and aquire the skills in
preparation for the world of work. But first, they
had to learn, from the experts, all about work
ethics, etiquette, expectations!
Then, from Wednesday 5 November to Tuesday
18 November – ten working days in all – they
worked from nine to five at an established
orgaisation/company, within their field of
interest. They chose to learn on the job, whether
in the Arts & Media, or in Education, Law, Sales
& Marketing, Healthcare, or Finance.
The Work Experience offered opportunities
for the girls to hone their 21st Century
competencies, and boost their soft skills in
social interaction, team work, in building selfconfidence, resilience, and creativity. For many,
it was a rewarding experience especially where
they made new friends and established a
network for future purposes.
MGeSprit • March 2015
31
World
Thinking Day Campfire
Mrs Joy Balakrishnan, President of Girl Guides
Singapore (GGS), and more than 3,500 Girl
Guides and Brownies in Singapore met at MGS
on Saturday 28 February to commemorate
World Thinking Day for the Guides Movement.
The theme for the event was: Celebrating
SG50; Commemorating Our Roots.
This was also an opportunity for GGS to
play their part for SG50 which celebrates
Singapore, the Singapore spirit and
Singapore’s dreams for the future.
On Saturday, at the tea reception and a grand
campfire, Girl Guides Singapore paid tribute
to several Pioneer Guides; present at the
celebrations were Puan Noor Aishah, wife
of Singapore’s First President Yusof Ishak,
and Mrs Wee Kim Wee, wife of the Fourth
President of Singapore who served from 1985
to 1993. Also present were Dr Eileen Aw, a
former Chief Commissioner of GGS and Mrs
Anna Tham, former principal of MGS.
Methodist Girls’ School
11 Blackmore Drive Singapore 599986 • Tel: (65) 6469 4800 • Fax: (65) 6469 8717 / (65) 6462 4166 • www.mgs.sch.edu.sg