Christ Church Secondary School National Police Cadet Corps ...

Christ Church Secondary School National Police Cadet Corps Reflections

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September 2016

Christ Church Secondary School NPCC Unit took part in a meaningful rice distribution project earlier this year. We were tasked to distribute rice and oatmeal to the residents living in the blocks located near our secondary school. We were briefed on how we should introduce ourselves to the person we were addressing and to explain that we were distributing rice and oat-meal to the families living there. There was an advance notice placed on the bulletin board near the elevators, informing the residents that we would be giving them a pack of rice and a

We were allowed to form our own groups and mine consisted of students from different races, including Chinese, Malays and Indians. With the multilingual group, we were able to communicate to residents who were not able to speak or understand English. Our first task was to bring the sacks of rice and oatmeal to the top floor. The use of trolleys made it very convenient for us to move from one place to the other without carrying the rice packs. We worked together as a team, hand-in-hand to stack the rice packs, before moving out to our specific locations within the block. We planned to start at the ends of the corridor so we could eventually meet back at the elevators. When we got to the first door, we could not agree on who should knock on the door. There was certainly a sense of nervousness amongst us. It was definitely not easy! However, we encouraged one another that we can do this as a team and mustered the courage to knock on the door. A friendly resident answered and one of our group-mate was fluent in the language spoken by the resident. My fellow group member then explained to resident of the rice distribution project that we are involved in. After handing over the rice and oat-meal to the resident, we thanked them and repeated this over for the next few doors. Each of us took turns to knock while others helped to pass rice and oatmeal to the resident. We then assembled at the void deck where we had first received our briefing. We were supposed to deliver to at least eighty units, but we accomplished that really quickly. I learnt to cooperate with one another so we could accomplish things an individual cannot do alone. Most importantly, through this meaningful programme, I learnt the importance of giving back to our community. I am looking forward to more community involvement programmes in the future!

Written by: Cpl (NPCC) Julian Timothy Franco Sincioco Edited by: H/INSP (NPCC) Stephen Lim & SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram

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September 2016

Having the ‘SPIRIT’ as a team is what makes us J16. As part of the 90th batch of the Cadet Inspector Basic Training Course, I am grateful to have completed this course knowing that I strived to possess the desired qualities of a Cadet Inspector during my time in CIBTC. My squad instructor always reminded us that we should “Do something today that you will thank yourself for later.” This quote was set as a reminder that we should never lose any opportunity to learn and improve ourselves before we step out to our units and impact the lives of the cadets. Hence, in the course itself we were constantly reminded that it was okay to make mistakes and as long as we learnt from them, we would grow to be better leaders for our juniors. The course expectations were set straight before we started modular course. Whenever they asked for volunteers I would quietly stand at the back and wait for people from other units who were braver to volunteer themselves. In my mind all I could ever think of was, “What would they need volunteers for?” or “I might just make a mistake and get scolded for it, might as well save the trouble and let those who are better to do the job.” This self-centered thought was something I knew I had to overcome soon to step out of my comfort zone and brave the challenges that came along my way. The Modular Courses (MC) were conducted on a weekly basis. We had to go back every Saturday for various lectures. Despite being mentally and physically tiring, with many lessons in a day itself, we persevered through to complete the tasks. On our first MC debrief, the Camp coordinator told us to come up with a batch and squad goal. It was not necessary but he hinted that it would be better to have an ultimate goal as ONE instead of specific squads like, Alpha, Bravo and Charlie. They constantly reminded us to take initiative in our own learning, helping others and growing by learning from our mistakes. It was then I first took up the initiative to collate all 72 phone numbers in order to create a batch group chat to come up with the goal. We decided that we must possess the desired qualities of ‘SPIRIT’ and to successfully graduate from this course.

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September 2016

The residential Course (RC) was when we stayed-in at the Home Team Academy for 5 days and 4 nights. It tested our resilience, teamwork and passion towards NPCC. One of the most impactful moments was during our special program where we had to do as many ‘Buddha claps’ as possible at our own pace but unanimously as a squad. Next, we had to do push-ups, jumping jack and crunches. Each time we lost count or when we were uncoordinated, we had to restart. It was tiring, but we constantly motivated one another with cheers to keep going. This showed that together as a squad, by motivating one another, it can surely positively affect our performance. This experience truly reminded us our passion we had when we first entered and how far we have come. This was the most motivational period I ever had with Bravo and a personal learning journey that I will never forget. Last but not least, the Adventure Training Course was our performing stage where everything that was taught during MC and RC had to be applied. After going through hardships together with my batch, I managed to step out of my comfort zone to voice out and help my batch-mates. I helped the entire batch adjust the timetable when we exceeded the time expected by negotiating with everyone about our decisions. Through this experience, I learnt self-mastery, as I became more confident in what I was doing and was less afraid in accepting different opinions from others. As my CIBTC journey has come to an end, it was not just an experience but it was also an enriching growth for me as a person. I strive to build on the characteristics of Self-mastery, Initiative, Passion, Resilience, Integrity and Teamwork, forming my SPIRIT as a Cadet Inspector. Even though I have to balance my school workload with NPCC, the essential time management skills would certainly help me not only in my NPCC journey, but also in my daily life as a student. Moreover, I am thankful towards my unit, family and friends who have supported me along the way, constantly encouraging me to persevere and brave through the many challenges that I had and will come across.

Written by: P/CI (NPCC) Chan Shu Hui Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram

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The long awaited wait was finally over! Christ Church Secondary School (CHR) NPCC unit went for our unit hike to Coney Island on the 26th of August this year. Also known as Pulau Serangoon, this hike gave us to chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The peace and serene environment coupled with the wide variety of flora and fauna in Coney Island is something not to be missed. Not only did this opportunity give us the chance to bond with one another, we also learnt the importance of treasuring our clean and green environment here in Singapore by maintaining it for all to enjoy. During the morning of our hike, our Deputy Officer in Charge conducted a safety briefing in CHR prior to boarding the bus to our destination. It was important that we drank lots of water during our hike to keep ourselves hydrated, amidst the warm and humid weather. We were informed that there could be some small obstacles along the way, such as twigs and rocks, so we had to be aware of our surroundings, in order to avoid tripping onto them. Moreover, it is essential that we constantly keep a look out for our buddies and unit-mates at all times as we moved from one place to the other. To avoid disturbing the wildlife and being mindful to other visitors to the island, we need to keep our volumes to a minimum. Keeping our environment clean for others to enjoy was also emphasised to us. After that, we were split into groups consisting of Secondary Three Cadet Leaders and our juniors consisting of the secondary one and two cadets. The group leaders then briefed their respective groups on the specific tasks that their team had to do upon reaching Coney Island. Once we reached our destination, the importance of safety and environmental awareness was reminded to us again. Thereafter, each group leader was given a slip of paper with some clues. The objective of each group was to take photos of what they see in the island based on the clues. We encouraged our juniors to share their thoughts, as we journeyed through the island taking various photographs along the way with our Officers. We spotted many interesting varieties of flora and fauna ranging from the casuarina tree, mangroves, to the hanging nests, amongst many others. After our activity, we gathered together to take a Unit photograph before leaving Coney Island. I felt that the hike was one of the most meaningful and enjoyable experience that I have had. This hike gave us the opportunity to interact with one another, by sharing our strategies, ideas and thoughts through the activities. In addition to this, it is important that we treasure our environment for generations to come. In conclusion, as the meaningful and popular saying by Chief Seattle goes, “Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints”.

Written by: Cpl (NPCC) Hazel Chay Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram

CI (NPCC) Jazprith Kaur

CI (NPCC) Kwek Gin Khang

September 2016

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September 2016

On 15 July 2016, my squadmates and I went to Pulau Ubin for our Survival Training Camp (STC). The camp lasted for 3 days and 2 nights. We went there with the Secondary 2 cadets who were there for their Adventure Training Camp (ATC). It took us around 30 minutes from our school to Changi Jetty where we had to take a boat in order to reach Pulau Ubin. It was a fun and relaxing ten minute ride. Once we reached the jetty of Pulau Ubin, we took a van to access the campsite. We were all very excited and could not wait for the camp to start. While waiting for the other units to arrive, we interacted with our friends from the various units. Once the other units arrived, we were instructed to pitch tents at the field. Upon completion, we gathered back at the foyer in our respective units. They then assigned us to our respective groups. Since it was the month of Hari Raya, the group names were named in relation to it. For example, some of the group names were satay, rendang and lontong. I was placed in the group Lepat. We started the camp by playing ice­breaking games. After dinner, it was time for our group to have a shower. After which, all the groups had a debrief from the Camp­coordinator (CC). Thereafter, they split us into our respective sleeping groups. I dozed off as soon as I entered my tent because we were all so tired! On the second day, we had our morning physical training (PT). It was led by our very own CI Gin Khang Sir. As soon as it ended, everyone ate their breakfast and went to do the first activity of the day which was double flying fox. I partnered with Faiz for the double flying fox. Faiz and I were the last ones to do it. Our legs were trembling when we climbed up the stairs. The flying fox was around six storeys high. I was at afraid at first to go up but I fought my fear and did it anyway! Off we went! It was a very nice sight. Next up was the dangle duo. We were supposed to climb up the logs and every time we went up one of the logs, the next one would be higher and more challenging. I partnered with Faiz again and we managed to overcome that obstacle. During the activity, I led by example through the sharing of encouragements to other cadets there. Next up, we learnt how to build a basha tent using only the materials around us. It was quite a challenging and incredible experience. Although out basha tent did not turn out well, it was a good bonding activity. After lunch, we learnt how to make a fire out of dry leaves. It was a useful learning experience for me. We were then instructed to come up with a cheer or skit for the campfire. My group did both. After dinner, we showered and enjoyed a 15 minute break. It was then time for the campfire! Everyone was really excited. In this year’s STC/ATC, a fireball was used to start the campfire. It was pretty cool! A few groups performed their cheers and skits. A few minutes later, the instructors asked us to move indoors, as the clouds were getting darker. It was a very sad moment for everyone. Despite the campfire being held indoors, the spirit of everyone was still high. It was a campfire to remember. It started to rain cats and dogs a few minutes after the campfire ended. Luckily, we had brought in the groundsheets before it started to rain. After our debrief session, it was time for us to have a good night’s sleep. The next morning after PT, we had breakfast and proceeded to start with our area cleaning. My group was assigned to clean the tents. Our group CI gave us two 1.5 litres bottles of coke! My good friend Rong Jun received the most oustanding camper award! Soon, it was time to go and I waved good bye to my groupmates and my other friends. I had learnt a lot from this 3 days and surely STC was one exciting camp to remember! Written by: Sgt (NPCC) Abdul Hadi Bin Anwar Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram

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The trip to the Traffic Police station was an educational and

informative one for me. While the safety messages were serious

in nature, the policemen would always lend a humorous touch

to entertain all of us.

I found that the time-capsule at the Traffic Police station

particularly interesting compared to the many other exhibits

because it was the first time-capsule I ever saw. I am curious to

know what was inside the time capsule and hope to be around

to see the contents when they finally open it many years later.

It would bring back many pleasant memories.

Written by: Lcp (NPCC) Caleb Peh Qixuan

September 2016

My experience in the road safety trip was interesting as my

squad mates and I got to learn outside of a classroom. Although

we did not manage to go to the East Coast Road Safety Park

because of the mosquito infestation there, the trip to the Police

Headquarters was just as interesting because we got to learn

new things such as traffic police safety warnings.

My squad mates and I also got to bond with each other during

this activity, making it an enjoyable one. I look forward to such

activities from NPCC in the future.

Written by: Lcp (NPCC) Maria Filipina Camero Amparo

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September 2016

I had the great opportunity to participate in the Harmony Camp this year. On the first day, I woke up early and met a friend to go to the National Community Leadership Institute (NACLI) Campus. Though the holidays had just started and I had to wake up early to get to camp, this experience was totally worth it!

We started off with some ice breaker games to get to know our group mates much better. After the ice breakers, it was time for the challenge rope course. The sky seemed to be getting dark, so unfortunately we were not able to take part in the rope course. However, we took part in the wet weather activity which was to complete 6 events as fast as the team could.

I enjoyed all the meals with my group, as it gave us the opportunity to chat and to know more about one another. We stayed in the tree huts during our time in the camp. The huts were clean, they prevented mosquitoes from entering and was very well ventilated. The hut was so big that everyone in my group had more than enough space to sleep comfortably.

After lunch, it was time for the CPR-AED activity. We learnt about how to remain calm in an event someone is unconscious. It was enjoyable and I learnt a lot from the course. We were also given a talk on why it was important to be vigilant at all times and learnt about the past acts of terrorism around the world.

The next day, we geared up for our next activity, which was the harmony trail. My group was tasked to explore the history of perenakans and babas. We learnt how to make dumplings and got to taste really delicious kuihs. The final activity for the group was to prepare a skit/talk about what we learnt from the camp. My group did a skit on CPR. It was fun planning and making the skit as I got to be a dumpling master and made fake dumplings. After that was completed, the camp came to an end and it was time for us to go home.

This camp was very enriching, and it was great to be given the opportunity to get to know more people from other units. Besides that, I learnt how to speak up and to be more open. Making friends is like receiving a gift, because it brings a whole new world of experience. If given the chance, I would love to go for a similar camp.

Written by: Sgt (NPCC) Rong Jun

Edited by:

SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram

CI (NPCC) Jazprith Kaur

* Deepest appreciation to Jeslyn for the photographs. All photographs are used with permission.