Different …

DIFFERENT

I cannot believe what I’ve gotten myself into. SOTA is a world of difference from JYSS. How different? Why different? To begin with, I can’t even seem to take note of any similarity.The school, being an independent school that’s being run like an international school, has a totally different structure and system to JYSS. The staff are completely different. And all of them are such accomplished people in their fields.

And the students are from such a wide spectrum too. Not just academically but also in personality. And these are very talented kids who made it through a rigorous audition process that narrowed over 1000 kids to 240 of them.

And the timetable is so different. It’s the 2nd week of school next week and proper lessons will only start in the 4th week. So what are we doing for the next 2 weeks? It’s called Borderless Learning.

The whole idea is for the students to learn stuff that cannot be specifically narrowed to a single subject. That’s probably the biggest theme of SOTA; inter-disciplinary approach. Students are expected to get used to understand that whatever they learn in class has input from other subjects. That is supposed to give them greater meaning in their learning.

Ok I have to admit I’m beginning to love the students and my class. Hahaha. I feel very blessed to be the Class Mentor for R6. I guess every teacher will be biased towards their own class but I really think R6 is going to be a super cool class with students who know how to be responsible too.

This is a real challenge. SOTA is tall mountain to climb. Just 3 days of school and I’m already feeling the strain. For 3 nights consecutively, I came home with no more energy to do anything else.

Even though school only starts at 8am, I need to actually get up earlier since it takes longer for me to get to school. And I have to be in school early, before 7:30am to skip the jams and also to help set up for the school.

I’m loving it and yet feeling the effects of the challenge. And I totally salute all the heroes at SOTA for embarking on this journey. I believe only mad people would step out of their comfort zone and dive into the unknown. Then again, I learnt that MAD is not so bad after all cause it means Making A Difference!

The journey begins on Monday again! WHOOOSH!

Farewell …

FAREWELL

Sorry for not updating for such a long time. SO much has happened.I wasn’t sure if I should blog about the trip to Japan or about the farewell.

I guess Japan is really a cool place and it agrees with me since it’s place where you can have your personal space and the society has been programmed to be considerate. I miss having the right side of the escalators clear for people to climb them if they need to. Everytime I take an escalator in Singapore, I just do not see it happening.

The SC threw me a great party on the 22nd Dec. I mean it wasn’t the food or the activities but the people who made it so special. And finally the tears came.

I’m really going to miss Junyuan Student Council. The relationships you build with your kids, once established, are there forever. It’s like family.
Really appreciate them for all the gifts. Thanks to the Alumni who came back and made it even more special. Dee was in a jungle girl suit. Hahaha! Totally cool.

Said farewell to the teachers in the most special way by conducting a workshop for them. I do think that at least most of them have a renewed passion to make a difference in their students’ lives. I’m not sure about the takeaways from the workshop since I was trying to cramp so much knowledge into it.

I just hope that those things I’ve covered in the workshop will be a starting point. An impetus or catalyst for more self discovery. I still believe Junyuan has one of the best group of teachers around.

So it’s from the frying pan into the fire as I embark on a new journey with SOTA. It’s already so demanding that I can hardly breathe, not to mention the strong pungent smell of new paint in the new campus. Hahaha.

Can’t wait to see my class tomorrow. Hee.

Black

BLACKPerhaps it’s the winter season but the one common sight that greets me everyday in Tokyo are men in black coats or suits. These are the younger ones. The older men will be sporting brown, kaki or grey coats or suits.

And then you have the students in dark blue uniform. I mean their jacket or blazer is dark blue in colour and so are their pants and skirts. So in a sense winter is a time for dark colours.

Then again, the women are more fanciful. There are still a lot with black coats and jackets but you get to see the odd colours once in a while. I spotted a lady wearing a purple fur coat this morning.

Even at 10am, the subway was so packed! And for the 1st time since I’ve been here, I experienced a glitch in the metro system. My train stopped for almost 10min at a particular station.

I obviously didn’t know what the driver was rambling about in Japanese but I figured it was some technical faults or such in front that caused the delay. Nothing is perfect yeah?

Oh and I’ve also noticed that there are some individuals who do not practice the civic consciousness I noted in my previous post. There were 2 passengers who quickly took a seat without even offering to give it up to an old lady who got in together with them.

And there was this guy who cut the queue on my way out of the station control. So I guess like in all societies, there will always be those who are more selfish and self centred.

Yet generally, Japan is quite a docile society where giving way and saying sorry is a common way of life. It’s really much more courteous than Singapore. This morning, there was some construction work just infront of my hotel. The workers, who were acting as ushers and traffic controllers were so polite and directing me to the hotel.

Hahaha. I just don’t see it happening in Singapore. Not to mention it wouldn’t be Singaporeans doing the work but Indian, Blangadeshi or Thai workers doing it.

Tokyo

TOKYOFor those anticipating to read my entries about Japan, I apologize for not blogging earlier. Haven’t have the time and the internet connection to blog about my trip so far.

This is Day 4 in Tokyo and I’ve already had so much fun. Hmmm, perhaps fun is a too vague and seriously, it’s not fun fun kind of fun. Geez, what am I saying?

The city is indeed an experience by itself. One thing that strikes me most is the subway culture. There are at least 8-12 priority seats for every carriage and the amazing thing is that you are not supposed to have your phones ringing near these priority seats.

I perceived the culture to be one of being civic conscious. My cousin, who happens to be working in Japan was lamenting how it was so different in Shanghai. To be honest, the trips are so quiet, you would actually suspect that Tokyo is a very sad city.

That’s where the contrast comes in. The service staff here are AMAZING and FABULOUS. You will feel like some royalty when you walked into the shops. So my conclusion is people here keep to themselves like most Asian conservative societies. Yet when they are approached, they are usually courteous(so far so good).

My friend, Felicia is taking very good care of me and another couple. She arranged for us to visit this factory outlets near Mount Fuji. I’ll say this, Mount Fuji is stunningly beautiful on a clear day. The tip of the mountain is just above the clouds and it gives you the sense of it being a place that transcends the bounds of mortal men.

Sigh this trip will burn such a big hole in my pocket. You wouldn’t believe the amount I’ve spent on just buying things for myself and gifts for others. What did I buy for myself? It’s all things I need for my job, sports apparel, shoes and such.

Things are definitely not cheap in Japan but there’s this 100yen or 99 yen chain of shops. It’s like Daiso but it’s cheaper cause 100 yen is about S$1.31 – $1.35 based on current exchange rate.

One of the highlights for this trip so far was the dinner at this restaurant at Roppongi. It’s called Gonpachi and a typical meal costs about $50 – $70 without alcohol. Yes it’s expensive but the money is all worth it.

The decoration inside is fantastic. It’s an authentic Japan Inn setup similar to the Chinese ‘KeZhan’. We were sitting on the 2nd floor and I really had the feeling of wanting to be Jacky Chan and do some stunts in that place.

But it wasn’t just the ambience and the decor that will shock you. The place sells charcoal grilled food among other Japanese cuisine like tempura and soba. Now you just imagine the typical BBQ food you have at chalets? Now imagine all those food cooked to PERFECTION where the outside is cooked to a delicious brown and the juices are locked inside the meat.

Every dish we ordered had that perfection. The tuna skewer was semi cooked with outside having the distinct taste of cooked tuna and the inside the sweet taste of raw tuna. It was divine! There was also this dish where they wrapped ham around asparagus and it was exquisite.

We couldn’t stop raving about each dish that came to our table. I would suggest for everyone coming to Tokyo to try it. The price you pay for the taste of perfection is nothing.

Here are some pics for you to enjoy.

SOTA …

SOTA

So it’s been confirmed. I signed the contract for my new school on Wednesday and yesterday, I faxed my resignation to MOE. It’s a major move and it’s really a new chapter in life. Somehow it’s feeling like a breath of fresh air.I really do not wish to see Mrs Oh. Because I know she’s been feeling very sad. It’s not just me. Several teachers are leaving Junyuan for their own reasons. And no, it’s not because of her. And she is feeling sad because she knows she’s losing good teachers.

What’s more, she will need to make sure that all the teaching posts will be filled up for next year’s classes. Tough job but she’s always been a strong lady so I know she will survive.

Went Sentosa to recce for next year’s Sec 1 HIA Camp. The place has really changed since I was there 2-3 years back. I guess it would really be a fun time for the Sec 1s next year.

It was so hot and after about 5 hours of walking around, we are understandably tired and exhausted. But it was a fun and hilarious time with Pam, Jas and Siti Afiqah. What can I say? The girls are just giggly.

When I was back in school, I had a surprise from Sabri, Fatin and Suhaimi. They gave me this M&M and jelly beans but the things that touched my heart most were the words they wrote in the card. The best line? ‘Believe it or not, you make us (heart=love) Junyuan’

That sentence spoke volume to me. Sigh. I had to steel my heart and not be swayed by the choking emotions. Sab, Fatin and Suhaimi, thanks. I truly appreciate the chance given to me by 3 of you to be a part of your lives. I’ve always believed in you and your potential which probably explains you being in the Student Council.

Sab, Fatin & Suhaimi, thanks for giving your time and energy to the Council too. It’s really been a great joy working with you 3 and seeing you grow up since sec 1.

Goodbyes are the worst and I don’t like it at all. Sigh.

WIGU …

WIGU I was involved in a children’s musical on Sunday. WIGU stands for When I Grow Up. It was a fabulous experience and the performance was a great success. People kept asking why there was only one show and not more.

Yours truly wrote the script and directed a little. But I must say that the kids really rose to the occasion. The children involved in the musical ranges from 3-12 years old. Yes. 3 years old! No kidding.

Most of us were a little afraid that they might crumble in the presence of the audience but when the curtain drew and the music started, everyone was in their element! Everyone of them actually did so much better than what they did during the rehearsal. It was simply amazing.

Working with the bunch of 23 young actors was an enriching experience. I never had so much fun before. Yes there were times when I was frustrated and angry with their lack of focus but I love them to bits! I mean to do so well with only one month of preparation is simply amazing.

Most of them had no background or acting training but they shone nevertheless on Sunday at the Victoria Theatre.

The story was about a shy girl who doubted her abilities but went on a journey in a magical Dream Land to discover her inner strength and belief. Vevien Ong, who sang the song on my blog, played the character and she did so well.

Doing this gave the children the chance to live their dreams on stage, singing, dancing, acting and performing. But it made me believe in my dreams again. That’s rare.

Japan …

JAPAN

Pauline, I’m not going to Japan anymore but yes I’m still leaving Junyuan. Things are happening so fast I barely have the chance to catch my breath. Anyway I’ll be visiting Japan on holidays come the 8th December. Looking forward to a good break.Everyday I edge closer to facing the truth that I’ll be leaving my second home for the past 3 and half years. Actually I think I spent more time in school than at home. I meant waking hours of course.

My tears were welling up when I was in Mrs Oh office yesterday. And once again I pushed it down. This will not be easy.

I’m excited at a new chapter in my life. I do not think it will be easier. In fact, I will have my work cut out for me in the new school. There will be more to do, more to accomplish and more stress.

Yet I’m aware that to grow, I need to get out of my comfort zone and go with my heart. For a long time, I’ve not felt such a strong pull from and passion for something. And every step of the way, I’ve seen His hand in this.

For everyone in Junyuan, I’m sorry that I have to go. So many people are coming up to persuade me to stay and say how much I’ll be missed. Sigh.

Anyway my time has not come yet. Here are some photos I promised. I especially love the last one! Hahaha. Farewell Junyuan Class’07!

BMW …

BMW Actually the title is the theme of this year’s Junyuan Prom Nite. It was black and white. I was thinking that it would be quite dull since there would only be black and white.

But lo and behold, the students came dressed with such class and finesse that the whole event was really glamourous. I think black and white is such a classy combination.

Marina Mandarin is a better place than Intercontinental because of the decor. But the ballroom was smaller and the whole place was quite dim.

As usual, took lot of pictures with different ones. If you were at the prom and you are reading this, can you send me those pictures?

I’ll try to post a few soon.

Overall, I thought the event turned out pretty well. Mrs Macgrath did a fantastic job with the emceeing with Sham. Sleeq was there and they are really good singers with good showmanship. The girls were going gaga over them. Daniel and the dancers was fantastic as usual and Yuyao with Shafiq will always be a crowd pleaser with their beatboxing feat.

The people were crazy too and they really brought the house down at several junctures of the events. It was overall a good evening of looking fabulous and taking pictures with the people who have been with you for the past 4-5 years.

I refuse to go to that ‘place’ knowing that it will be my last Junyuan Prom Nite. It was as if I was trying to keep myself busy and smiling for the cameras so that I would not feel the waves of sadness washing me.

I was strong. The breakwaters in my soul did their job and halted the sea of tears that might have erupted. I just had to constantly tell myself to not go ‘there’.

But I wonder how long I can hold the journey. I will reach ‘there’ soon. And when I do, I just hope that I wouldn’t be too much of a mess.

Outing

OUTINGWent to Vivocity with the SC Exco on Wednesday and it was such a wonderful trip. Oh well, I wished there was more time for us for lunch so we could go to some place wonderful but they were late so it was Burger King for us.

We went to catch The Game Plan after gobbling down our burgers. It was a funny ride. We were really laughing out loud throughout the movie. And I teared a few times too. I hope the councillors didn’t notice. Hahaha. ‘Stupid’ is a mean word.

After that the fun really begins. We went to the playground situated at level 2 and some company was having these stuffed animals where you can actually ride them? And they are mobile. We initially thought they were only intended for kids under 12 or something?

So we sent out our favourite jockey Shuhada! Hahaha she took a giraffe and started on her journey! Hahaha! It was quite hilarious and no, actually adults can ride the big ones too.

Anyway Shuhada was also racing with some of the kids and the rest of the Exco were outside the barricade, cheering and laughing out loud. We felt like we were in the zoo. Hahaha.

After which, we saw the fountains next to the playground. We got our ‘infamous’ President to sit just above the jet of water and it really looked as if he was extremely ‘powerful’. Go figure it out and imagine. I’m still waiting for the pic.

It was really a fun session. After which the whole gang went to Daiso to shop. I think we spent almost close to an hour in that place. I love them Excos!

For those who read my previous entry and think I’m in love or in a relationship, nah, it’s not. At least it’s over. Don’t wish to talk too much about it.

I’m really at a crossroad. I do not know what the future holds. Sometimes I catch a glimpse of a bright light, other times I see the pitch darkness attempting to swallow me and most times it’s myraid of different shades of grey.

*whispers* light.

Art …

ART I was doing O level invigilation earlier this week and it happened to be the Art Paper. I’m always fascinated by the subject because it’s so subjective and it never fail to amaze me how the same impetus can results in so many different interpretation.

And I must say that the students I saw were really very good. Their ability to create the 3D image from a flat painting was awesome. Some looked so good I wouldn’t think twice about spending money on them.

It obviously help when they’ve got a great teacher. I could see her care, her concern and her relationship with the kids. And I saw how each of them apply the technique taught by the teacher in using the pastel crayons. I think.

And the their prep work was fantastic too. Each of them are supposed to submit 5 pieces of prep work that document their journey to end up with the exam piece. And some of them really put in a lot of hardwork.

I totally enjoyed that session even though it was a 3 hours paper.

Loving someone is really not easy. I cannot help but feel the tidal waves again. Maybe an early alert will prevent too much damage this time round.