Catholic Family Life (CFL) is undertaking a study funded by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS), titled “Building Strong Families in Singapore”. It aims to help social service providers better understand families’ journeys, the realities of families at different life stages, and the current resources available to support families.

At the end of this study, CFL aims to create resources that guide families to focus and build on their strengths. These family-based resources and videos may be distributed through Catholic schools, catering for different life stages and possible transitions. They will also aid in the delivery of programmes to develop stronger children, parents, families and communities.

The survey, which is in English, takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. Respondents sought must be at least 21 years old, Singaporean citizens or permanent residents, and may include dating or engaged couples, married couples, as well as single-again individuals.

Take the survey here.

For more information, visit www.familylife.sg/cflresearch or contact research@familylife.sg.

Ms Tay Hui Cheng of St Anthony’s Canossian Secondary School (SACSS) was one of eight recipients and Mr Kok Boon Siang of St Anthony’s Primary School (SAPS) was one of nine finalists for this year’s President’s Award for Teachers (PAT).

In her speech at the award ceremony in the Istana on Teacher’s Day, 1 September 2022, President Halimah Yacob said: “Our educators do more than teach subjects. Beyond the pursuit of excellence in academics, they also focus on the socio-emotional and mental resilience foundations for our students, and help to positively mould their habits, traits, and character. These will enable each and every student to grow holistically and achieve their fullest potential.

“The recipients of this year’s President’s Award for Teachers exemplify the qualities of what we mean when we say teaching is a calling, and the huge impact teachers can have in the lives of their students. I extend my heartiest congratulations to all the eight award winners, as well as the 4000-over nominees. All of you have been an inspiration to your fellow teachers.”

Ms Tay developed a mobile game and videos to assist her students in their Chinese lessons during the pandemic. She averred: “This honour is thanks to the support of my school leaders and colleagues who believe in me and work alongside me to turn ideas into viable teaching and learning innovations. I have been teaching for almost 18 years and I find my work rewarding and meaningful as I have the opportunity to impact young lives.”

Outstanding Educators

The Ministry of Education (MOE) states: “The President’s Award for Teachers was established in 1998 to recognise excellent educators for their role in moulding the future of our nation.”

“They constantly adopt innovative approaches in their lessons, and are lifelong learners and mentors to their peers. They reach out to their students, affirm their strengths and efforts, and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Through their words and deeds, these educators are an inspiration to their students and colleagues.”

MOE elaborated: “This year’s recipients were selected from 17 finalists who were judged by a panel chaired by Mr Patrick Tay, Chairperson of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Education. The panel included representatives from the Ministry of Education (MOE), as well as the Community and Parents in Support of Schools (COMPASS), a council established in December 1998 to advise MOE on strengthening and promoting school-home-community collaboration.

“This year’s award recipients will be able to participate in an overseas learning programme to further their professional development. Finalists will each receive a grant to attend conferences, seminars and courses, or to purchase resources for professional development.”

Ms Tay Hui Cheng is the Head of Department for Mother Tongue at SACSS and Mr Kok Boon Siang is the Year Head for Lower Primary in SAPS.

In recent weeks, various teachers and alumni from Catholic schools throughout Singapore have been recognised with national awards.

Ms Tan Shu Tian (HOD Education Technology) of St Anthony’s Primary School was one of six teachers who received the Outstanding Youth in Education Award (OYEA) 2022. MOE explains: “The OYEA is a national award that recognises and honours the achievements of young educators who have shown admirable passion for teaching, and commitment to inspiring and nurturing their students. Launched in 1999, it seeks to recognise excellent younger teachers for their youthful idealism, enthusiasm, energy and active involvement in the development of youth beyond the formal curriculum.”

CHIJ Katong Convent teachers who received National Day Awards included Mr Tan Tak Thye Nathanael (The Commendation Medal), Ms Wahidah Bte Ahamad (The Long Service Medal) and Ms Zakiah Binte Subahan (The Long Service Medal).

CHIJ Kellock National Day Award recipients included Mrs Hannah Yuen (Commendation Medal), Ms Jeannie Ho (Commendation Medal), Ms Daphne Wong (The Long Service Medal) and Mrs Khoo Kim Kiow (The Long Service Medal).

At St Joseph’s Institution, educators awarded on National Day were Mrs Anne Tan (Public Administration Medal (Bronze)), Mrs Nevina Ho (The Commendation Medal), and for the Long Service Medal: Ms Boon Yen Ping, Mrs Nevina Ho, Mr Jude Tan and Mr Wong Ting Hsin. In addition, Mr Tan Chorh Chuan (Class of 1975), chief health scientist at Ministry of Health (MOH), was one of three public service veterans who received the Distinguished Service Order for their contributions to the country over the years.

Montfort Junior awardees consisted of Level Head Ms Siti Nur Hajar (The Commendation Medal), and for the Long Service Medal: Teacher Mdm Poongodi d/o Chinniah, Lead Teacher Mr Soh Chee Yong Alvin and Year Head Mdm Loh Ai Ling Irene. Montfort Secondary awardees were Assistant Year Head Ms Yeo Su Lynn Jaime (The Commendation Medal), and for the Long Service Medal: Ms Lee Boy San (Laboratory Attendant), Ms Ang Guat Hong (Teacher), Mr Yu Yang Ming Ernest (HOD).

Catholic Junior College recipients of National Day Awards were comprised of Mr Philip Alvar (Public Administration Medal (Bronze)), Mdm Dorothy Chua (The Commendation Medal), Mr Bernard Yeong (The Commendation Medal), Mr Ivan Yeo (Public Administration Medal (Silver)), and for the Long Service Medal: Mr Conrad Lee, Mr Lester Low, Ms Yoong Lian Teen and Ms Chew Tyng Huey.

CJC Principal Mrs Phyllis Lim said, “We are grateful for the many years of dedicated service and contributions by our staff, members of the CJ School Management Committee (SMC) and CJ alumni and we thank God for their continued service to the college, community and the nation.”

Do you know of more educators, support staff or alumni from your school who were recognised on National Day? Let us know if you do!