NEWS - APSN

NEWSwww.apsn.org.sg

June 2014 MCI (P) 108/02/2014

Guest of Honour Minister of Education Heng Swee Keat enters auditorium flanked by Dr Francis C. Chen (L) & Mr Chan Chee Keong (R). More on pg 6

Official Opening of New Delta Senior School

Prefects’ Investiture

On 25 February 2014, Katong School had the official appointment of 30 Secondary and 12 Primary level prefects, with the school Principal Mdm Lim.

ASD teachers and PSS staff attending the 1 to 5 Piano training. More on pg 16

Swim Champs Again!

Katong School again emerged as the overall champions. More on pg 18

Tanglin School in Dragon Boat

Tanglin School students took part in Dragon boating to publicise students with special needs, in collaboration with Special Olympics Singapore. More on pg 13

CFA Client ArtworkMinister for Manpower Tan Chuan Jin with CFA Client Ang Ru Hui at ComChest Event. More on pg 4

Official Opening of New Delta Senior School

“1 to 5 Piano” Programme

Tanglin School in Dragon Boat

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEPresident Mr Chan Chee Keong, PBM

Vice-PresidentsDr Francis C. Chen, PBM, BBMMr Winston Wong

Hon SecretaryMr Seah Chang Kai Royce

Hon Treasurer Mr Gwee Sze Chuan

Assistant Hon TreasurerMrs Ruby Cheah

Committee MembersMr Bill BowmanMs Kristin Van BurmA/P Mohan MenonMs Soh Margaret (Mrs Margaret Goh)Dr Victor Tay Ms Angie NgMr Chinnu Palanivelu

Ex-officio Mr Kenneth Tham

Association for Persons with Special Needs900 New Upper Changi Road Singapore 467354Tel: 6479 6252Fax: 64796272

APSN Centre for Adults29 Jalan Tembusu, Singapore 438235Tel: 63462425Fax: 63467518

SCHOOLS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEEChairman / SupervisorMr Chan Chee Keong

Hon Treasurer Mr Gwee Sze Chuan

Secretary Mdm Lim Cheng Liew

Committee Members Ms Kristin Van Burm A/Prof Mohan Menon Mrs Margaret Goh Dr Victor Tay Mr Winston Wong Mr Royce Seah

Staff Members Mdm Aslinah Binte AhmadMrs Michelle Liau Mrs Liza Ow

MOE Representative Ms Teo Siew Khim


Committees & Officials

www.apsn.org.sgThe views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Association. Contributions are actively sought, but the editor reserves the right to amend and edit prior to publication.

©Copyright 2013 APSN

CFA MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Chairman Mr Winston Wong

Adviser Dr Francis C. Chen

Hon Treasurer Mrs Rose Ng

Staff MemberMr William Tng

Committee MembersMs Donna Canestra Mrs Janet Fong Mr Bill Bowman Mr Kwok Yan Hoe Mr Lee Chuan Bee Mrs Margaret Goh Mrs Annabel Claire Moore


EDITORIAL & PUBLICITY SUBCOMMITTEE Chairman / EditorDr Francis C. Chen

ReportersMs Kharul Bariyah Rashid Ms Shahleeni Devi Mr Wong Ying Kin Mr Winston WeeMs Nur Raihanah Bte RahmatMs Chang Wei Ling

PhotographersMs Karen Tan Mr Kelvin Yong

Secretary/PhotographerMr Koey Zi Qi

Ex-officioMr Kenneth Tham

APSN Delta Senior School3 Choa Chu Kang GroveSingapore 688237Tel: 6276 3818Fax: 6468 3608

APSN Tanglin School143 Alexandra RoadSingapore 159924Tel: 6475 1511Fax: 6472 0408

APSN Katong School900 New Upper Changi RoadSingapore 467354Tel: 6445 8027Fax: 6445 6313

APSN Chaoyang School18 Ang Mo Kio Ave 9Singapore 569767Tel: 6456 6922Fax: 6456 2030

When the Association for Educationally Subnormal Children was established in 1976, we only had one school, Katong Special School. We had no funding from any of the Government bodies, except that the Ministry of Education would provide us with reverted school buildings for our use and the secondment of one teacher for every 25 students on our register. Thus our founding President Dr Dixie Tan spent much time in speaking to service clubs to help raise funds for us, and to attract suitable people to join her in the management of the Association.

Dr Tan was a tireless advocate for the welfare of the intellectually disabled, as she was only too familiar with the problems faced by such people as both her sons suffered from this condition. She was a member of the Advisory Council on the Disabled in 1988 under Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam when the latter was the Education Minister. Her inputs had resulted in more progress being made for special education and the interests of the disabled.

At the Association for Persons with Special Needs (APSN, as the Association was subsequently renamed), we remember her fondly for her personal warmth and caring nature, to her colleagues on the Board, to the staff, parents and students of the schools. Although she retired from APSN some five years ago, she was very interested in APSN. She had intended to attend the official opening of the new premises of Delta Senior School by the Education Minister Mr Heng Swee Kiat on the 15th of this month, but informed us that she could not as she

APSN Tribute to Dr Dixie Tan

Appeared in Straits Times, 24 April 2014

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was “not feeling well”. She did not want to distress us by disclosing her medical condition, so this in a sense encapsulates the person Dr Dixie Tan was, always having consideration for others, and service before self.

My colleagues and I on the Board of APSN, and all the staff, parents and members of APSN, are saddened at Dr Tan’s passing. We are comforted however that her Christian faith had sustained her in times of adversity and made her the very fine person she was. Dr Francis C. Chen

(Post Script: On 29 April 2014, Dr Jacinta Tan presented APSN with a cheque of $9,119 from the wake collection.)

At the wake of Dr Dixie Tan at Grace Hall, Mount Vernon. Members of the Exco, staff and students of Tanglin School.

Mr Chan Chee Keong expressing condolences to Dr Jacinta Tan (Dr Dixie Tan’s younger daughter).

(L-R) Ms Moonlake Lee (niece of Dr Dixie Tan), Mrs Mei-Yew (former Treasurer of APSN), Ms Ruby Cheah, Mrs Margaret Goh and Dr Francis C. Chen

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Special Free Cone Day trucks were dispatched to all schools and centre to distribute ice cream to our students, clients, staff and caregivers on site.

So what exactly is Free Cone Day? Since 1979, Ben & Jerry’s throws open the scoop shop doors annually and invites everyone and anyone in for a free cup or cone. This celebration is a way for the company to have some fun and say thank you for another year of support.

Woody, Ben & Jerry’s friendly cow mascot, made a special appearance at Katong school and Chaoyang school. While queuing for the ice cream, students were entertained with simple games and they had fun posing for photos with Woody the mascot.

It was an enjoyable experience for all and most were left in an ice cream coma for days after!

Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day8 April 2014 was a memorable day for students and clients at APSN as they got to enjoy free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream! For the first time ever, Ben & Jerry’s partnered with Children’s Charities Association (CCA) to deliver free ice cream to all charities under CCA.

Katong school students with Woody the mascot. Photobooth time for Chaoyang school students!

Happiness in a cup of ice cream!

APSN in Community Chest RoadshowOn 15 March 2014, APSN CFA Clients Mr Damien Heng Khoon Yong and Ms Germaine Ang Ru Hui were presented with certificates that recognized their participation in a community art contest to be curated at Changi Airport’s new landmark, Project Jewel. Damien’s artwork had been previously showcased at last year’s Asian Paraart in Tokyo, Japan.

The Guest-of-Honour for the Community Chest “Give-A-Hand” event held at Toa Payoh Hub was Minister for Manpower Mr Tan Chuan Jin, who also spent some time interacting with our clients to learn more on their efforts and experiences creating their artwork.APSN Beneficiary Mr Damien Heng with Minister Tan Chuan Jin

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Minister Tan also enjoyed a Zumba dance performance by the “Zumba Teenz”, a performing group from APSN Tanglin School which incorporates a fusion of hip-hop, samba, salasa, merengue and mambo movements to Latin music. These students have benefitted from the body-coordination and self-confidence enhancing values of learning and performing the dance.

The Community Chest showcase also echoes society’s increasing awareness of the artistic talents of people with disabilities, specifically those with mild

intellectual disability (MID). The government had also recently announced that $1.5 million dollars of funding, administered by the National Arts Council will be made available to VWOs keen to use arts in programmes for their beneficiaries.

All APSN schools and centres have actively made use of the arts in their programmes to develop the skills of its students. Beyond simply improving their skill level, art has enhanced the creativity of the students’ in their learning journey.

Tanglin School Zumba Teens display their dance talents

APSN in Channel News AsiaMr Chan Chee Keong, President of APSN was featured in the Channel News Asia current affairs program called “Singapore Tonight” on 7 May 2014. The CNA interviewers were Steve Chia and Dawn Tan.

Mr Chan was asked why it was that not every special needs child gets to attend a special school. Mr Chan replied that here are some 20 special schools in Singapore, catering to different disabilities. APSN runs four special schools for the mild intellectually disabled. Those who satisfy the admissions criteria of APSN are admitted, whilst those who were rejected are usually those who may fit in better in other special schools.

There are also children in mainstream schools who may have special needs, and here the Ministry of Education is aware of the problem and provides for specially trained teachers in special needs in these schools. With this additional support, some students can continue to cope in mainstream schools.Screen-grab of Mr Chan

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APSN has vacancies for students who qualify to be admitted. Some parents may choose private schools or

do home schooling. In general, those students who need special education can find a place in special schools.

Mr Chan giving his responses Singapore Tonight on Channel News Asia with presenters Stephen Chia and Dawn Tan.

Opening Of Delta Senior SchoolAfter years in the planning and construction of the new premises for Delta Senior School, the big day finally arrived when the Minister for Education Mr Heng Swee Kiat declared open the new school on 15 April 2014.

Also present apart from APSN Board Members and staff were the following VIPs:- Ms Sim Ann (Minister of State, MOE); Ms Low Yen Ling (Parliamentary Secretary, MFSD and MP for CCK); Mr Sim Gim Guan (CEO, NCSS); Ms Ku Geok Boon (CEO, SG Enable); Ms Denise Phua (MP & President, Autism Research Centre); Mrs Loke-Yeo (Director, MOE), and many other officials from the Ministries and other civic bodies.

Located at 3 Choa Chu Kang Grove, this new school is entirely funded by the Ministry of Education. This underscores the Ministry’s interest and intention of upgrading the vocational training for Delta Senior School students. Currently DSS runs a dual track, one for students up to age 18 and another for students up to age 21 who can follow the WSQ Certification track. In this connection, having industry partners who are the future

Minister unveiled the plaque to signify the Opening, and a deluge of confetti was released.

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employers of these students is extremely important. Thus many of these industry representatives were also present at the Opening:-Including Holiday Inn, Concorde Hotel, Rasa Sentosa, Hans F & B, Giant Supermarket, Prince Landscape, Zero Spot Laundry and Orchid Laundry, and many other sponsors as well.

The Minister in his speech also revealed that a further impetus would be provided for vocational training for the special needs community when SG Enable takes over the task of providing vocational training. The Ministry of Education is committed to its policy of “Every School is a Good School”.

Mr Chan Chee Keong giving his welcome speech

The Minister for Education giving his official speech

Ms Michelle Liau, Principal of Delta Senior School thanking the Minister and all the sponsors

A snapshot of D’ Amozon Rainforest – Horticulture Dept.

Food prepared by the F & B Dept F & B Trainees and Instructors

Mr Winston Wong in conversation with MOS Sim Ann in the Sensory Garden

Mr Heng Swee Kiat reading the Commemorative Cookbook

Front row VIPs Before the arrival of the GOH, President & Vice-Presidents, CEO and the Principal with 2 school prefects give the Thumbs UP !

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Canapes (finger foods) prepared by F & BMr Heng and other VIP guests witness F & B in action

Mr Heng and Dr Chen with some of the F & B trainees

Café Asia 2014 The Singapore Coffee Association and Singapore Bakery & Confectionery Trade Association held a 3 day trade expo at Marina Bay Sands Convention Hall from 6-8 March 2014. APSN was chosen to be its charity partner for this event.

During the 3 day trade show, they set up a CSR corner “Singapore Coffee and Bake friends Charity Drive” in which coffee and pastries were sold to the public and visitors. A total of 6 students from APSN Delta Senior School took turns to work shifts in the CSR corner. The public was encouraged to give a donation when they purchased any coffee and pastry. At the end of the event, a total sum of $10,000 was pledged and donated to APSN.

Demonstration of service etiquette by a Delta Senior School student.

Mr Chan Chee Keong receiving the donation of $10,000 from MP Lim Wee Kiak and members of the Singapore Coffee Association and Singapore Bakery & Confectionery Trade Association.

Mr Winston Wong, Ms Denise Phua, MOS Sim Ann and Mrs Loke-Yeo (MOE)

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Encouraging our clients to excel in the handicrafts and to praise them for work well done can achieve wonders. Here are some of our clients who despite their handicaps / problems have achieved personal growth in their endeavours:-

24 year old Ang Ru Hui has had serious astigmatism from young, but that did not stop her from becoming one of the best Batik artists in Centre for Adults. Through constant praise and encouragement by the staff at CFA, Ru Hui showed tremendous progress in her painting. Every bit of her paintings is achieved through sweat and tears. And her determination has paid off. It is important for our clients to not run away from their

COMMERCIAL HANDICRAFTS

Ru Hui Boon Chin Damien

“Project Jewel” jointly developed by the Changi Airport Group and CapitalMalls Asia opened its doors to talented individuals to play a part in shaping this mixed-use complex at Terminal 1. This initiative titled “Imagine”, is a platform for the public to submit their ideas in the form of paintings, drawings or photographs to share with the developers their vision and design for the complex.

Two clients from CFA also took part in this competition to exhibit their works. Ang Ru Hui and Damien Heng from Commercial Handicraft both submitted 3 pieces of paintings each for the competition.

Ru Hui made use of watercolour paints. Her paintings showed her interpretation of trees which represents life, providing hope and shelter. She loves trees and flowers, and seeing the beauty in them calms her.

Damien used acrylic paint for his paintings of colourful flowers in a garden. This gives him hope and joy. It also encourages him to dream big and to achieve.

Their participation was recognized when certificates were presented to them at the Community Chest “Give-A-Hand” event held at the Toa Payoh Hub on 15 and 16 March 2014, where their art pieces were on exhibit.

CHANGI JEWEL PROJECT

perceived weaknesses.

Both Lim Boon Chin (32 years old) and Damien Heng (33 years old) from Commercial Handicraft have shown great improvement in their drawing and painting skills through sheer determination. Well done guys!

Damien’s paintings: The Garden 1, 2 and 3

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Ru Hui’s paintings: The Tree, The Flowers and The Big Tree

Being the psychologist associate at CFA comes with a fair share of challenges, but it also comes with a lot of learning opportunities. A big challenge was interaction with the clients as it is the first time I interact with individuals with intellectual disabilities and I was worried about how I would do. But after a few days, I learnt that the clients are vastly different and special in their own way. They have a very simple outlook and approach to life, and are always able to find happiness in the simplest things while I tend to overlook the smaller things in life and take them for granted, not appreciating how important they are until they are gone.

Staff Reflection by Chang Wei Ling

Most counseling sessions with clients surprise me and exceed my expectations. Although they would challenge me occasionally and try to test limits, they understand

and try their best to put into practice what they learn from sessions. It also reminds me that every individual has their own strengths and emphasizing that strength leads to growth and empowerment while focusing on their weaknesses only causes distress. The clients would also offer some insight and solutions by themselves when prompted and through discussion, these solutions, albeit simple, turn out to be the best ones for them. They taught me that sometimes, the most simple explanation or solution is the best while over thinking and analyzing the issue complicates it unnecessarily.

In conclusion, although the job is filled with many challenges and occasional exasperation, I am glad that I have the opportunity to meet this group of individuals who bring joy and laughter to my day.

Parents in motion!Students and staff of Delta Senior School were treated to an impressive and engaging performance by their very own Parent Ambassadors on 11 February 2014. The highly energetic ambassadors comprised of Mr Goh Tock Suan, Mdm Ithniah Bte Ismail, Mdm Eng Soo Cheng, Mrs Lucy Siau and Mdm Constance Lee Leong Eng who made their first appearance for the year by performing during ‘Morning at Delta’ Programme.

They sang and danced to three Lunar New Year songs. Both students and staff enjoyed the performance as much as the performers themselves. Credit also went to Mrs Yvonne Chan, who was instrumental in the choreography of the performance, but was unable to attend the performance. Mr Goh giving out sweet treats to the students.

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Being the first performance for all the Parent ambassadors, they felt nervous and shy initially. However, with support and cheers from the students and staff, they were spurred on and put up a very enjoyable performance!

The Parent Ambassadors have always placed the students at the centre of all their activities.

Although the Chinese New Year performance was a first for the ambassadors, it surely will not be the last performance or activity planned for the students by the parents.

Our enthusiastic parent performers in action.

The Literacy Department focussed on two major areas: Developing listening and reading skills and the Literacy ES-WSQ modules: Develop Personal Effectiveness at Operation Level (PE) and Communicate and Relate Effectively at the Workplace (CRE). A video presentation of the mock Literacy ES-WSQ assessment was shown to give parents a better idea on the requirements and expectations of the ES-WSQ modules.

Some of the strategies shared to develop better readers and listeners include: • ‘Thinking aloud’ when attempting reading

questions• Following structured reading routines • Using word drills, role-plays, videos to develop

listening skills • Practising listening by visiting recommended

listening websites

The Numeracy Department introduced the 3 major courses offered by the numeracy department:

Workshop for ParentsThe Literacy and Numeracy workshop organized on 15 Feb 2014 showcased how Reading, Listening, Numeracy and ES-WSQ modules are taught in DSS and how parents could be involved in preparing their child/ward for WPLN Assessments and ES-WSQ Modules.

WPN (Workplace Numeracy), ICDL (MS Word and PPT) and SPMD (Solve Problem Make Decisions). More importantly, the numeracy teachers made it clear to parents how simple techniques coupled with creativity can help their children improve academically.

Feedback from parents indicated that the workshops were informative, relevant and served to further strengthen the school-home partnership. Parents expressed their interest to participate in future workshops to ensure the best learning experience for their children.

The computer based listening exercises. Ms Raihanah and Ms Nurin modelled thinking aloud to answer reading questions in a systematic manner.

Mr Dinesh presenting the Literacy & ES -WSQ modules.

Miss Gurvinder Kaur Gill, a Numeracy teacher, explaining the Numeracy progression plan.

SPMD (Solve Problem Make Decision) module offered by the Numeracy Dept.

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Raising Awareness & Involvement The Horticulture Department (HR) collaborated with Prince’s Landscape to establish the DSS Sensory Garden.

The objectives of setting up the DSS Sensory Garden are manifold and are as follows:

1. To strengthen our collaboration with strategic partners such as Prince’s Landscape;

2. To raise the awareness of students on the diverse plant species in the environment. The plants and other design elements have been primarily selected with the intention to encourage students to interact with plants and to provide experience for seeing, smelling, hearing, touching and tasting;

3. To use the herbs for F&B Culinary classes; and 4. To encourage inter-departmental staff

involvement. For instance, each department in the school has ‘ownership’ of a plant species in the garden.

The garden is now a platform for teaching, socialising, resting, relaxing, and it has many therapeutic benefits. There are plans to make the garden more appealing by building an outdoor barbeque grill with space for food preparation, cooking and eating directly from the garden. There will also be a small pavilion for preparing herbal tea from the garden which adds a unique Asian cultural element to it.

Another collaboration effort is the HR department’s partnership with Amozonia Landscape Pte Ltd for Horticulture Science: Caring for Plants. It is strongly felt that Horticulture therapy and caring for plants is important to students in a variety of ways as it promotes environmental stewardship in students when they start getting hands-on with nature. Our students are able to practise their social skills by working and problem solving together. It also teaches them the value of patience as in gardening it takes time before one sees the fruit of their labour.

DSS students were shown the proper planting of mango tree by Prince’s staff

Prince’s staff uses soil irrigation machine to condition the soil

Students planting herbs side by side with the Prince’s staff

Selection of herbs by the DSS Parent Volunteers together with Prince’s staff

Amozonia Landscape Pte Ltd, Mr Selvam explaining to Mrs Liau, DSS Principal about the plants in the mini-rainforest.

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Row, Row, Row-for-a-Cause Eight students and three teachers, from Tanglin School, were part of a dragonboat contingent of twenty, including staff from Special Olympics Singapore and students from Gan Eng Seng School. Tanglin School, in collaboration with Special Olympics Singapore, was invited to participate in the Dragonboat “Row-for-a-Cause” event on 14 March 2014. As one of the programme highlights to commemorate Gan Eng Seng School’s 129th Founder’s Day, the event was aimed to raise public awareness about the profiles of athletes with special needs.

The dragonboat event, with the theme “Chance To Be Something More”, was an invaluable opportunity for athletes from Special Olympics Singapore and students of Tanglin School to explore activities beyond the school and to accomplish something that would remain with them for a long time.

A week before the actual event, the students and teachers were invited to attend an orientation rowing session to help them familiarize with the sport. Safety measures such as compulsory use of life jackets, presence of certified trainers, and having a safety boat on standby were enforced to ensure that the participants’ safety was not compromised.

The launching and ending point was at the Kallang Water Sports Centre, a popular venue for many water sports enthusiasts. The journey was a distance of 1.29 km around the scenic area of Kallang Basin and Tanjong Rhu Footbridge. Although the event took place under the scorching sun and blistering heat, it did not dampen the spirit of the students. They persevered and put in their best effort to finish the race. Row, row, row a dragon boat

Row-for-a-Cause Award Ceremony

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The carnival kicked off with a series of warm-up activities and mini-games. Students were actively engaged and enthusiastically put their skills to good use in the games. In the second half of the carnival, competitive games were played. Players sprinted, dodged, side-stepped and touched down with lots of gusto. Teamwork was evident as players passed often and worked together to score and defend. Teachers were surprised to see some usually mild-mannered students playing with a healthy dose of assertiveness.

After the final water-break, students were curious when they observed teachers warming-up while discussing animatedly. When Mr Malcolm (Head Coach) announced that a friendly match would start soon with teachers pitted against coaches, students erupted in cheers. This was to be the finale of the carnival. And a fitting finale it was. While the coaches played with finesse and displayed brilliant technical skills, our teachers (an all-ladies team) fearlessly combated with grit, fierce tackling and hard running. Wily female guile was also displayed when the

Tag Rugby Carnival @Tanglin School On the morning of 4 March 2014, coaches from Singapore Rugby Union (SRU) organised a Tag Rugby Carnival at Tanglin School. The Carnival was the highlight of a five weeks tag rugby introduction programme conducted by SRU coaches.

ladies used intelligent play to score. Throughout the game, students were cheering enthusiastically for both sides. The atmosphere was great!

Finally, certificates were presented to all students by the SRU coaches. The tag rugby programme was a success and Tanglin School looks forward to collaborate with SRU for future programmes and events.

Tag Rugby in action

An all-ladies Team against the big guys

TS Kidz Flea Market @SentosaFrom 15 to 17 March 2014, twelve students from the Secondary 2 and 3 classes participated in the Kidz Flea Market @Sentosa. The Kidz Flea Market is a yearly collaboration between Sentosa Leisure Group and Tanglin School and three years running. The collaboration has provided our students with learning opportunities and exposure to Retail Operation skills in an authentic environment. Students also learnt to contribute to society by donating a total of $549 to HCA Hospice Care, and this amount was what they have earned over the three days.

TS Kidz Team @Sentosa

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Two weeks before the event, on 1 March 2014, Sentosa Leisure Group launched a ‘Little Bosses’ Training Workshop to prepare students for the event. During the training workshop, students learnt to acquire knowledge and skills on product display, product pricing, product accounting and customer service. The training gave students confidence to set up and manage the stall on the actual day.

During the three days, all students were very enthusiastic

and were actively engaged in their respective roles with the job assigned to each of them. They demonstrated collaborative effort and responsibility manning the stall, interacting with the customers and peddling the ‘pre-loved items’.

The students had a wonderful and enriching learning experience. They made good use of the retail skills that they have learnt at school. We hope that this experience would ignite their interest to pursue a career in retail.

Peddling our products for a cause “Sir, Which one do you like?” Product display in action

Morning Coffee with ParentsOn Thursday 27 February 2014, the senior school staff met with Parent Support Group (PSG) members and parent volunteers for a Morning Coffee session.

The Principal of Katong School, Mdm Lim Cheng Liew, also took the opportunity to explain the APSN Pathway to parents so that they have a better understanding on their children’s education with us.

Ms Phyllis Lim (Coordinator for Family Matters @ School) shared with the parents on the training programmes and family bonding activities that were planned. She strongly encouraged parents to support the programmes and urged parents to encourage others to join as well.

In line with one of the objectives of the PSG meeting to enhance the knowledge of our parents and help them gain different perspectives about children with special needs, there were sharings on an inspiring video and a book. Ms Sharmala, Coordinator-PSG, shared on the

video, “Surfers Healing” about how the parent of a child with autism used the sport to reach out to children with autism and enrich their lives. Mrs Lynette Yeo, HOD-EL, shared on a book, “The Reason I Jump”.

The Morning Coffee session has served as a great platform for school and parents to get together to support and learn from one another. The school will meet with the parents in the next Morning Coffee session in June.

Mrs Lynette Yeo sharing on autism

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Barrinuevo Raimond Lasao, Occupational Therapist at Katong School, explains the:-

“1 to 5 Piano” Pilot ProgrammeOn 26 February 2014, Katong School commenced the “1 to 5 Piano” Pilot Programme in collaboration with the Institute of 1 to 5 Piano based in Bangkok. All 15 students in the ASD classes were selected to participate in the programme. The objective of the pilot programme is to study the therapeutic effect of the programme on ASD students in terms of their attention, concentration, on-seat behaviour, regulation, bilateral integration skills and social-communication skills.

music) notes. Effectively, each musical note is translated into a number from one to five, for either the right hand or left hand. It is so simple that any person who has the ability to count from one to five can learn the technique in a very short time. The numerical music notes represent the five fingers of the left and right hands [1 - for thumb, 2 - for index finger, 3 - for middle finger, 4 for ring finger, and 5 for little finger]. The simple, but extremely powerful technique of using only the numbers from one to five, perfectly replaces complex traditional musical notes. This makes it easy to follow, and enables everyone (even those with learning disabilities and psychological impairments) to learn to play the piano - quickly, effectively and enjoyably.During the pre-planning phase of the programme, the trainers taught the teachers and professional support staff to play the piano using the technique. Trainers also gave some pointers and strategies on how to implement the programme with the students. The programme will be conducted by the teachers 3 times a week for 30 minutes per session lasting 10 weeks. The trainers will come once a month to monitor the programme. The 1 to 5 Piano Technique was developed by Mr Ajarn Trirat Uptampohtiwat of Bangkok, Thailand. He has more than 35 years’ experience of teaching piano. Mr Ajarn Trirat believed for many years that the 1 to 5 Piano Technique can be used as an effective Musical Therapy, and is now pursuing his dream of improving the lives of millions of people -- including the very young, the elderly, the mentally and physically disabled, and simply those who are stressed and are seeking an effective form of relaxation.

The “1 to 5” method of musical therapy is classified by psychologists and psychiatrists as a form of Visual Auditory Motor Mapping Training. The theory is that it will likely engage and possibly strengthen a multi-sensory front parietal network of regions and pathways in the brain that respond to visual, auditory and motor representations of the same action, and sensory motor feedback.

When one plays with the “1 to 5” Piano technique, both hands are used. This has the effect of balancing the left and right brains, thus enabling the brain to continually change and effectively rewire itself. During this Active Meditation process, when the fingers are moved on the piano keyboard, together with using concentration, feeling, and instinct to move the fingers decisively to the required notes, would invoke the Visual Motor and Auditory Mapping processes.

In addition to these benefits in dealing with other disorders, there are also the additional benefits of the pleasure of creating music for oneself, the self-satisfaction of quickly and easily being able to play the piano, plus the soothing nature of music itself which evokes an overall sense of well-being in the individual. This helps to make the technique a very compelling and engaging form of therapy.

The 1 to 5 Piano technique uses easy to follow numerical musical (rather than complex, hard to learn traditional

Mr Ajarn Trirat, the creator of 1 to 5 Piano doing a demo

KS student on the keyboard

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Handwriting Without TearsFor two periods a week, students work on handwriting skills such as correct grip and appropriate pressure, making number and letter strokes in the correct order and staying on the line when writing. They also have to maintain consistent appropriate handwriting size and appropriate spacing between words. Along with daily reinforcement in other classes of various subjects, these make up the Handwriting Without Tears (HWT) curriculum.

The HWT curriculum was introduced to all students in the five classes under the ASD Structured Programme. Through the curriculum, teachers use multisensory tools and strategies to teach handwriting techniques to our students.

Handwriting is taught explicitly in developmental sequence, i.e., students will learn the easiest skills first and then build on skills that they have acquired.

At the beginning of the year, the Occupational Therapist conducted an assessment on the handwriting development of each student. Based on the baseline assessments, the students are placed into two groups - the Kindergarten Developmental Handwriting Stage (K) and the Primary

Developmental Handwriting Stage (P), so that effective interventions can be carried out.

The multi-sensory approach (visual, auditory, tactile and kinesthetic) caters to the various learning styles of our students and makes handwriting fun and engaging. Our students will also learn to use posture and balance, control and movement, perception and memory, and coordination correctly, to develop good handwriting habits from the very beginning. They have the opportunities to work on handwriting activities using different platforms such as HWT Online Digital Tools on the SmartBoard and iPad, “Wet-Dry-Try” experiences on the chalkboards, wood pieces on foam mats, written worksheets and different kinds of tactile resources.

Building capital E with wood pieces on the foam mat

Wet-Dry-Try Activity on the chalkboard Practice using HWT Online Digital Tool on the SmartBoard.

Katong-Joan Bowen PartnershipJoan Bowen, The Special Culinary Centre that seeks to make a difference in the lives of the youth with special needs through offering the youth work opportunities which enable them to learn soft skills such as communication skills, teamwork, decision making and problem solving. Katong School has signed a memorandum of understanding with Joan Bowen Cafe to create work experience opportunities for our youth. Twice a week and for a period of three months, five of our students are experiencing work at Joan Bowen Café where they learn and apply their skills in preparing for service, customer serving, food preparation and janitorial. Beren of Katong School making the perfect gravy for a

buffet dinner function.

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The partnership between Katong School and Joan Bowen Cafe has resulted in a collaborative project whereby a multi-media video that complements teaching and

learning in school is being produced. Katong School is truly appreciative of the opportunities offered by the Joan Bowen Café.

Relationship with the horse is therapeutic! The art of cleaning to ensure quality standard

This is the fourth consecutive year that Katong School has won the Overall Champion Award, against eight other special schools at the 5th National Special Schools Swimming Championships held on 7 March 2014 at the Singapore Sports School.

KATONG — SWIM CHAMPIONS !

With 15 strong swimmers, both from the Primary and Secondary Swimming CCA, our primary level girls also bagged the Best Performing School for the Junior Girls Division. Katong School also attained first place in the boys 4 x 50m relay.

The relay team consisted of: Sim Yong Meng, Muhammad Nuh Ismail, Muhammad Haziq and Soh Wei Lun for the

Senior Boys Division. Aside from the two silver medals awarded to Sunandi Gurung for 50M Breaststroke and Muhammad Nuh Ismail for 50M Butterfly, Aiman Nuri and Siti Ameera also won Bronze for 25M freestyle for the Junior Boys & Girls Division.

Congratulations to all the swimmers !

Our Primary AthletesFrom left to right: Aiman Nuri ,Nur Siti Ameerah and Wen Qi

4 x 50m Relay Senior Boys DivisionBoys: from left to right: Yong Meng, Wei Lun, Ismail & Haziq

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Total Defence Day at the National Museum It was a change from the usual school-based learning about Total Defence, the secondary pupils visited the National Museum’s interactive exhibition on Total Defence on 18 February 2014.

On the 30th anniversary of Total Defence, the important roles that Singaporeans play in keeping Singapore strong were reinforced. Some of the exhibition booths representing the SAF, Civil Defence, S’pore Police Force and POSB, to name a few, had interactive games for our students to participate to win themselves some tokens. At one of the galleries, pupils played traditional games like ‘five stones’ and ‘capteh’ with their teachers. It was indeed a good bonding session for them.

At the end of the exhibition, the staff and students alike reflected on their takeaways from the exhibition. From

the pupils’ reflections, it was evident that they had not only enjoyed themselves, but also learnt that

they should not take the safety and peace which they have enjoyed in Singapore for granted.

Painted faces KS student looking smart in a Navy uniform

Celebrating CNY differently This year, Katong School celebrated Chinese New Year with a difference. In line with our school vision, “Every member aspires to achieve, ready to give” and to inculcate the value of compassion, the school held a food drive from 20th January 2014 to 24th January 2014.

Staff and pupils brought dried and canned food items that were to be donated to the Lion’s Home for the Elders. The pupils not only sorted the food items they brought into boxes, but also wrapped them into hampers.

During the CNY celebration, the secondary level pupils were engaged in getting the food hampers ready while the primary level pupils took part in the longest fire-cracker making competition. The highlight of the day was a lion-dance performance which captivated the pupils’ attention. The school expresses her heartfelt gratitude to ANZ Bank for generously contributing to the event.

To groom our students to maintain a professional image required of the F&B industry, a set of new attire comprising the chef cap and apron was introduced in 2014 to the secondary students. Students are

exhilarated adorning the new attire. One student commented, “I look like Master Chef!” Another added, “I look smart” while the younger ones cheered, “I look pretty and handsome”. It is heart-warming to

see that the new uniform brings them so much pride and joy. Our students understand that being well groomed is important to be selected for work experience. Consequently, they are motivated to learn and work hard.

Winners of the longest fire- cracker making competition

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Shakir of KS Sec 1/1: Maintaining A Professional ImageEveryone chips in to get the hampers ready

Proudly displaying their crafted hampers

The first Sandpit session was held on 18 February 2014, with a focus on the use of iPads in the classroom, beginning with a sharing on iPad classroom management. The session went on to a demonstration and hands-on “play” of Literacy, Numeracy and Life Skills apps, which have been carefully evaluated and selected by the ICT

Teachers as Learners – Sandpit Session Chaoyang School started a new staff training initiative this year in the form of a series of Sandpit sessions, scheduled about twice a term. The whole idea came from wanting to provide time and space for play and discovery, so that teachers can comfortably and confidently use technology and innovative approaches in their lessons. These sessions are also meant to allow for professional discussions and potential for collaboration and peer support when teachers want to try out something new in their lessons.

champions and other members of the ICT committee. As teachers become engaged in exploring the various apps, they would gain more knowledge and are able to choose the appropriate apps which are suitable tools for students’ learning, to be used alongside other teaching pedagogies.

Hands on session with support by ICT Committee members ‘Play time’ of apps

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Primary 1 and 2 pupils were brought to the Explorer Kids at Pasir Ris. Pupils were prepared for the outing prior to the Enrichment Day, through talks and visuals of the activities/ stations that they would experience, such as the Mega Maze and Ball “O” City. Primary 3 pupils attended the “Doughworkz” programme at Pastamania, where they had the opportunity to make their own pizzas. The programme was fun and engaging for the 9-year-olds, and at the same time, allowed them to pick up some basic knowledge with regards to food hygiene and preparation. Primary 4 pupils prepared food with their family members for a picnic at East Coast Park. It was a rare opportunity for the pupils to have fun and show care to the environment and for others by sharing food, playing games, and cleaning the beach together. The theme for P5 pupils was “Healthy Eating “. They started with an organised walk to the nearby market to buy ingredients and materials. This was followed by the food preparation back in school, with the teacher ensuring that each pupil was involved through the steps in making the food item. Finally, students helped themselves to the buffet in an orderly manner. It was very encouraging to see the students tucking into the healthy food prepared, with the vegetable soup being their favourite. The Primary 6 pupils went to the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery and Kindness Gallery. They had a picnic at Fort Canning Park, followed by an experience of what a civil defence officer does through the interactive features displayed at Civil Defence Heritage Gallery. Then, pupils enjoyed storytelling and hands-on activities related to public transport behaviour at the Kindness Gallery.

Level Enrichment Day In its ongoing endeavour to provide for a holistic education, CYS had its first of its enrichment days on the 24 February 2014. Students were given opportunities to learn in different settings, on a chosen theme. This year, the focus was on values of respect, care, as well as PE skills.

Enrichment Day 1 - Pupils enjoying themselves at Explorer Kids

Enrichment Day 2 - Pupils making their own pizzas Through all the activities, there were a lot of social interactions, teamwork and definitely much learning. It was certainly an enriching day for all Chaoyang pupils!

Enrichment Day 3 - Pupils playing frisbee together at East Coast Park

Enrichment Day 4 - Pupils shopping for ingredients to make fruit salad

Enrichment Day 5 - Hands on activities related to public transport behaviour

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There was a good turn-out of about 80 parents, which is a strong indication of the support CYS parents give towards educating their children. During the hands-on workshop, parents were given first-hand experience as they went through each station of PBA on scheduling and measurement components. The parents were engaged and motivated by the station

Maths workshop for Parents Performance-Based Assessment (PBA) was introduced to pupils who are placed in Numeracy module 1 and module 2 since 2013. This is our second year of implementing PBA to our pupils for selected components of the semestral assessment. To allow parents in reinforcing the concepts taught in school at the home environment, we held a workshop for parents on PBA on one of the Saturdays (1st March).

activities, which allowed them to gain the insight of what their child goes through during PBA. They were also impressed by the resources that teachers have developed, and the approaches that teachers use to teach the maths concepts which may be abstract to the pupils. The teachers thus received affirmation of their passion for their work.

Maths workshop 1 - Maths HOD briefing the parents Maths workshop 2 - Parents’ hands on experience

Maths workshop 3 - Parents’ hands-on experience

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Chinese New YearI celebrated Chinese New Year in school. I wore Chinese traditional costume on Chinese New Year. My school teacher and I wore red shirts on Chinese New Year. I watched lion dance concert in the school hall. I did the activities. I received some red packets and oranges from the teachers. All of the activities, my friends and I cleaned the school canteen tables. Then, my friends and I wented home.

We so happy to went home.

STUDENTS’ CONTRIBUTIONS(unedited)

Seah Yi Xuan Clarence11 years old

Chaoyang School

Our picnicLast Friday we go to the beach we eat together we play together with our friends.

We play beach ball with my friends. We dance together with my friends. We had fun at the beach.

Muhazzab Bin Mohsein 10 years old

Chaoyang School

First Day At SchoolToday is my first day at school. I woke up early because mother is sending me to school. Wenn I reached school, I felt so scared. When the bell rang, went to our classroom. Mother was at the canteen. The teacher asked us to introduced ourself. I introduced myself to the teacher and classmates. My teacher and classmates were very friendly and helpful. I made a lot of friends and sat a front row. School hour finished. I was delighted and wave to my classmates.

Muhammad Ikhwan Fikry 11 years old

Chaoyang School

At The BeachIt is a sunny day. I can see children playing kites. There are seagulls up in the air. I can build sandcastles. I cannot swim alone.

Ng Yi Gui9 years old

Chaoyang School

Students’ Writings(Picture Composition)One fine Sunday morning, Tom and his mother were at home. Tom asked his mother what she was doing. His mother said that she was sewing the buttons on the clothes. Suddenly the phone rang, so Tom’s mother went to answer it.

Tom picked up a button as he thought it was a sweet and he swallowed it. Tom started to choke. Tom’s mother felt terrified and she quickly called the ambulance. They took him to the emergency room.

The doctor did an x-ray to check if there was something wrong. The doctor found a button in his troat. The doctor removed the button from his troat. The doctor asked his mother to keep dangerous thing away from a young child.

Tom mother promised to be more responsible. Tom promised he would be more careful of what he puts in his mouth.

Sunandi GurungSec 3/1

Katong School

My Trip to the Singapore Polo ClubI rode on a brown pony.I talked to the volunteers.I touched the horses.I ate French fries and chicken.We also ate ice-cream.I drank juice.

Then we went back to Katong School.

Wu Wen QiPri 6/1

Katong School

My Camp in Johor BahruWe went to Johor Bahru on 27 and 28 February 2014. We went with Mrs Choo and other teachers. We went to JARO and Kiwanis. We had a lot of fun. My favourite part is visiting JARO. But I think the most important part is that we learn about the different types of jobs so that we can go out and work in the future.

Rakhesh S/O MathivananSec 4 PatienceTanglin School

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My Sec 4 Camp We went Johor Bahru on 27 and 28 February 2014. We went with Siti Nurain, Rahmat and David Tan. We had curry chicken and spaghetti for dinner. We did shopping and we did a tour at the hotel. We went to JARO. My favourite part is the Talent Night.

David Loh Boon YoungSec 4 Perseverance

Tanglin School

Total Defence Day Learning Journey On 21 February 2014, Friday, I went to National Museum for Total Defence Day. I went for a tour around the museum. The volunteers showed us the five different type of Defence e.g. (Social Defence). Karen, Nurul, Rozana and myself took a photo standing beside the Civil Defence Motorcycle. My other classmates, Alphonsus, Jia Cheng, Daniel and Muslim went into the firefighter tent and took a photo after putting on their firefighter helmet. All my female classmates took a photo in our Navy uniform. The most memorable part of the trip to the National Museum was when we put on the Navy Uniform. All of us felt awkward wearing the uniform and laughed at ourselves. I have learnt that Total Defence Day is made of 5 different type of Defence such as Social Defence, Civil Defence.

Jane Lee Ming Hui Year 1

Delta Senior School

Chinese New Year Celebrations:Home and SchoolThe first day of Chinese New Year was on 31st January 2014. On this day, I went visiting and visited my grandmother at Tiong Bahru. I collected Ang Pow at every house I visited, first my mother’s family then my father’s family too. I ate many New Year goodies like Pineapple Tarts, Love Letters, ‘Bak Kwa’. I also drank orange juice. I enjoyed myself very much. My school also celebrated Chinese New Year. We sang Chinese New Year songs. We also had a quiz time in the school hall. We had to answer questions about Chinese New Year. We watched the Lion Dance and the Hip Hop dance. The lion dance was super number 1. The lions surprised us with two red scrolls with Chinese words on them. They gave the scrolls to my Principal and Vice-Principal using their mouths. That was meaningful to me. I enjoyed celebrating Chinese New Year with all my friends, Malays and Indians too

I learnt about the Monster Nian. He threatened to harm the Chinese people. The Chinese were scared of him. They put up red banners and fire crackers to scare Nian away. I look forward to celebrate next year’s Chinese New Year “Xin Nian Kuai Le!”

Judith Teo Swee Lee Year 2

Delta Senior School

E-learning Day On E-learning day, I did the Literacy, Numeracy, Fitness & Health and Hospitality Services homework online. The subjects I enjoyed doing were Fitness & Health and Hospitality Services. I learnt about first aid and how to stop nose bleeding correctly. Instead of leaning the head backward, we must lean it forward. I also leant that we must drink enough water to prevent heat-stroke under the hot sun.

Going through the MC online homework, at first I found it difficult to understand the questions but repeated reading made me understand the questions. The experience of doing the assignments online helped me to learn a lot of knowledge through the question and answer format. I could also repeat the video as many times to get the correct answers.

Grace Chan Year 3

Delta Senior School

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Year 1 OBSI went to OBS Camp on 28 February 2014, Friday. It was held at Outward Bound Singapore East Coast Campus. There were many activities arranged for us. I participated in activities such as Rock Climbing, High Element, and Dark Tunnel. The most fun activity for me is the ‘Dark tunnel’ because to do well in this activity, we need to believe in ourselves. I kept on saying ‘I can, I want and I will’ when doing the activities especially the High Element activity. The most Challenging activity for me was the High Element. During OBS, I learnt to stand on the high element and balance myself. I also found out that I have the strength and courage to walk the different stages of the high element.

Nurul Aznizah Binte Azni Year 1

Delta Senior School

Year 1 OBSOn the 28th February 2014, I participated in the one day Outward Bound Programme. It was held at East Coast Campus. I participated in activities such as High Elements and the Tunnel. I enjoyed the tunnel activity most because the Tunnel was very dark. It was also challenging because I cannot see in the dark. In this OBS experience, I have learnt to co-operate with my team mates and learn about teamwork.

Gabriel Yap Boon Ching Year 1

Delta Senior School

I Love ArtI love doing art because can make a lot of design. Can make a photo frame, coaster keychain bookmark handphone pouch magnet, bank saving box. Doing all this well can sell. I’m choose art and craft can see alot of design of the art work.

i’m willing to help the old people when i saw both of them. They happy i also feel happy when i doing the volunteer work people say me i’m doing very good job.

Chong Shuat Ting30 years old

Commercial Handicraft, CFAWhen i first start in 2013 I was scare and nervous. But my form teacher Miss Sim and Miss Sharon tell me when i worked hard enough I can be like them to become a instructor. But a few day later I went to transfer program. The program is commercial handicraft for 3 to 4 days and I was transfer back to hospitality for more training because I like the class and I can learn how to wash the toilet, classroom cleaning, office cleaning.

Lee Li Hong KrystalHospitality, CFA

21 years old

My 10 New Year Resolutions 1) more outing.2) not waste money.3) good to my friend and family.4) let my parents go out.5) loss weight.6) not eat too much.7) control my temper.8) tear less label when doing my work.9) Get more money in Stabilo pens and egg tray.10) listen instructor’s instructions.

Paragi Chetan ParikhCentre For Adults

Contract Work 1Age: 27

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ACTIVITY

CONNECT THE DOTS!

Submit your entries to your school / Centre Offi ce by the 31 July 2014 to win a prize. This contest is only open to students and trainees from APSN Schools and Centre.

Name:

Class:

School / Centre:

CROSSWORD

Across2. The month at the end of summer.3. The book is ____ the table.7. The time when you don’t go to school.8. How’s the weather in summer?11. A big fruit you eat in summer.

Down1. What do you make at the beach?4. You go to the ____ in summer.5. What do you do at the beach?6. The month at the beginning of summer.9. A machine that makes you cool?10. I ____ swimming.

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New Staff WELCOME ABOARD

Mr Tan Zhow Yeow RogerSenior Community Project

Executive HQ01.03.2014

Ms Huang WeiWeiTeacher

DSS01.03.2014

Ms Ong Yean PengTeacher KS10.03.2014

Ms Lynnett Lai Siying Instructor TS11.03.2014

Ms Tan Wei MinAccounts Executive

DSS12.03.2014

Ms Gayatri d/o MnomokanJob Coach

DSS17.03.2014

Mr Marnie Marco M. Ortilla

Trainer DSS24.03.2014

Ms Wong Irnina Binte Mohd ShafieeSocial Work

Associate KS01.04.2014

Ms Soo Poh GeokTrainer DSS01.04.2014

Ms Khalijah Shakireen Binte AbdullahTrainer DSS01.04.2014

Mr Koushik GhoshSenior Speech &

Language Therapist CYS

07.04.2014

Mr Quek Swee ChyeTeacher Aide (1 year

Contract) CYS07.04.2014

Ms Jerene Yeo An-ChingTeacher Aide TS1

0.04.2014

Ms Siti Radiah Binte Mohamed Hussien

Teacher Aide (1 year Contract) KS14.04.2014

Mr Wee YijieTrainer DSS22.04.2014

Ms Nirmawati Binte Md Noor

Teacher Aide DSS 02.05.2014

Ms Ong JieHuiFitness Instructor

DSS06.05.2014

Mr Guttarlapalle UdayakiranSenior

Speech & Language Therapist KS/TS

06.05.2014

Art GalleryFrom Our Schools’ Students

Singing in Harmony (Poster colour and Colour Pencil drawing)

Esther Teo Si En12 years old

APSN Chaoyang School Let the music play (crayon)Natasha Bte Zaini

11 years oldAPSN Chaoyang School

Handprints (Poster Colour)Tay Jin Yang

9 years oldAPSN Chaoyang School Blooming in flowers (Crayon)

Samantha See Kai Yi11 years old

APSN Chaoyang School

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Art GalleryFrom Our Schools’ Students

Blooming in flowers (Crayon)Vanette Lim Li Ying

12 years oldAPSN Chaoyang School

Zunitah Binte RohaniPortrait (Drawing & Painting)

9 years oldKatong School

NurFaizah bte Norhisian

Cactus (Chinese Brush Painting)

14 years oldKatong School

Tok Hui TongSplashing ! (Chinese

Brush Painting)14 years old

Katong School

Copper ToolingCharmaine Tan Shimin

RO2-T2Delta Senior School

Team Collaboration - Copper Tooling done by the Creative Arts CCA

Delta Senior School

Team Collaboration - Tin Foil Mixed Media done by

the Creative Arts CCADelta Senior School

36 CatsKenny Lam34 years old

APSN Centre for Adults

The TurtlesAng Rui Hui26 years old


The FruitsDamien Heng35 years old


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NEWS - APSN

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