28.8 C
Singapore
Monday, November 25, 2024
Home Blog Page 30

Tour: Changi Chapel Museum | Saturday 24 February 2024

In this tour, to the Eastern side of the island, we will follow the historical events which lead to the fall of Singapore into the hands of the Japanese during WWII.

Many prisoners of war and civilian internees were imprisoned in Changi Prison, which at one point held over 10,000 prisoners. Our visit to the Changi Chapel and Museum, which replaced the old prison, will give us a chance to learn about the hardship of the prisoners and how they managed to keep up their spirits in order to survive. We will see artifacts, murals and hear personal stories.

After a short break we will drive to see the replicas of the Monster Gun at the Johor Battery before we head towards our last stop, the Changi Beach Massacre site where the ethnic cleansing known as Sook Ching took place.

Price includes: Changi Chapel Museum Entrance fee: $8 per person

Date: Saturday 24th February 2024

Time: 09:30am – 1:00pm

Meet: 09:20 Newton Hawker Centre

Cost: $75 ANZA Member, $85 Non-Member

Fitness Level: Medium – Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available

Loading…

Yip Yew Chong’s Street Art in Chinatown | Wednesday 31 January 2024

Join us for this informative tour combining the unique street art of Singaporean artist Yip Yew Chong and the history of Chinatown.

Our tour will begin with a visit to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, built in 1838 by Hokkien immigrants giving thanks to the goddess of the sea Mazu.

We will then follow the artist’s trail of murals spanning from 2016 until 2023, depicting customs and traditions as well as real people and family members (not to mention his cat). Our guide, Sarah Lev, will share with us the stories related to each mural. 

We will continue towards South Bridge Road to see more murals such as the Cantonese Opera and the Paper Mask Puppet Seller, before we continue through the narrow streets of Chinatown to see his Chinatown home mural and his recent Clog maker mural.

Yip Yew Chong was born and raised in this neighbourhood and worked as an accountant for many years while pursuing his artistic career as a street artist in his free time. 

Date: Wednesday 31st January 2024

Time: 10:00am – 12:30pm

Meet:  09:50am Telok Ayer Street, the nearest MRT station is Tanjong Pagar or Telok Ayer stations.

Cost: $40 ANZA Member, $45 Non-Member

Additional Notes:  Wear comfortable shoes, wear sunscreen and bring water and an umbrella just in case.

Fitness Level: High – Substantial walking/exertion required in the heat. Expect to be on your feet for most of this tour. Infrequent rest stops

Loading…

What makes a school stand out?

Tanglin Trust

Shining on: The new Tanglin Centenary Music Scholarship 

By Rob Hall, Director of Music

The new music scholarship is one of the many ways Tanglin Trust is celebrating its upcoming centenary in 2025. We look forward to welcoming our first music scholars to Tanglin at the start of the new school year. We hope it will enable young musicians to hone their talents along with financial support.
Our new music school, located over two floors of the Tanglin Centenary Building, is a central music hub where Seniors and Juniors can participate in lessons, and where ensembles and performances can happen. The exceptional new facilities inspire students to learn and achieve, and the scholarship is an embodiment of this. 

Student benefit: At Tanglin we believe in the importance of a holistic education and the new music scholarship is an example of students demonstrating excellence outside of the classroom. Potential scholars can showcase their passion for music inside and outside the studio and performance hall, and in doing so benefit the school as a whole.

Looking forward: Our impressive new Music Department and the introduction of the Centenary Music Scholarship demonstrate that Tanglin takes music very seriously, and reflects our aim to be recognised as the best school for music in Singapore and the wider region. 

 95 Portsdown Road, 139299

tts.edu.sg

Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM)

Shining on: Gymnastics

By Laura Prentice, Head of Prep PE and Games, Head of Gymnastics

Gymnastics is an upcoming sport at Marlborough College Malaysia, with a rapidly developing club programme, potential new fixtures, new equipment, and a variety of accessible opportunities on the horizon. We have been lucky to develop a programme from a few mats in the sports hall in 2020 to a gymnastics studio today.

Gymnastics is a huge passion of mine and has been part of my life for many years. I’ve been coaching since I was 15 years old and owe my knowledge to my home club in the UK. Aylesbury Gymnastics Academy is home to Olympic, World, and European medalists Jessica and Jennifer Gadirova, and World, European, and Commonwealth medalist Ondine Achampong.  

MCM’s gymnastics programme has grown to nearly 100 pupils participating every week in recreational, development and performance gymnastics. This year, we are entering the FOBISIA Gymnastics Championships for the first time and we’re excited to compete with the top schools in Asia.

Student benefit: Regardless of age or ability, gymnastics gives pupils the opportunity to increase strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination, which are all skills that complement the entire sports programme at MCM. Gymnasts learn to balance on various apparatus including the beam, improve power when vaulting, swing on bars, and develop floor based skills. It’s a great alternative to our major team sports.

Looking forward: We hope to expand our gymnastics facility and become one of the leading schools in Asia for gymnastics.

  Jalan Marlborough, Puteri Harbour, Johor

 marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org

United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)

Shining on: Innovation in education

By Gemma Dawson, IB Diploma Coordinator and Andrew McCarthy, High School Vice Principal and IB Diploma Coordinator 

We’re currently developing an innovative new course option for the IB, the first of its kind in South East Asia and second globally alongside UWC Atlantic. The course has been developed in collaboration with the International Baccalaureate (IB) and is called ‘Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change’. It will be project-based, equipping students for the challenges of an uncertain future on a climate-changed planet. A focus lies on students embracing a ‘changemaker mindset’, while developing skills in leadership, project management, systems and design thinking. The IB is conducting a review of its 16+ programmes. As a trusted partner, we were invited to pilot this new course option. It welcomes its first student cohort in August 2024. 

Student benefit: Students will have taught curriculum time which equips them with the skills and mindset needed to take the initiative, build community, and lead change. It’s exciting!

Looking forward: We’ll continue to innovate across all five elements of our holistic learning programme, developing students into agents for positive change.

 Dover Campus &  East Campus

uwcsea.edu.sg/learning

Dulwich College (Singapore)

Shining on: The first Forest School programme in a Singapore international school

By Alex Hall-Gray, Outdoor Learning Teacher, Forest School Learning Initiative (FSLI) Accredited Trainer and Assessor for Southeast Asia, Dulwich College (Singapore)

 For the past five years we have been – and still remain – the first Forest School programme in a Singapore international school. Accredited by the UK’s Forest School Learning Initiative (FSLI), we pioneer experiential learning and problem-solving opportunities in a natural environment. 

Forest School delivers an impactful and holistic programme, cultivating broad skill sets that incorporate personal and ethical responsibility, environmental stewardship, risk management and identification, personal wellbeing strategies, adaptable judgement skills, and knowledge application. 

While Dulwich is an academically rigorous school, Forest School offers the counterbalance, providing students with the time and space to develop soft skills required to care for their mental and physical wellbeing.

Student benefit: Beyond academics, Forest School develops the necessary skills for students to become future changemakers, as they recognise the sanctity of the lives of animals and the importance of environmental sustainability. These are the skills and values of future global citizens who are guided by their moral compass. Students become more capable thinkers and more responsible human beings. 

Looking forward: Research is in progress to incorporate the basics of the Compassionate Systems Framework (CSF) into the Forest School pedagogy. While Forest School focuses on the skills development, the CSF teaches our students to conduct themselves with compassion towards the environment and people, and to consider the impact of their choices and actions. If successful, this will be a first for a FSLI training centre in Southeast Asia. 

  71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966

singapore.dulwich.org

Blue House Kay Siang

Shining on: Our Community Park

By Rachel Khan, Senior English Educator

Blue House Kay Siang’s Community Park is an expansive and lush outdoor space that all children have access to. Also known as the “Atelier Under The Sky”, we believe that this environment is unique and distinctive in comparison to other preschools in Singapore. 

The Community Park has been part of the school campus since it was opened in 2021. We received specialised training to navigate the benefits and risks of working in this space with the children in 2023. A treasure waiting to be discovered, we spent valuable expertise and resources over 2023 to ensure the space acted as an “additional classroom” for the children – something that is hard to come by in our urban jungle.

Children visited the Community Park at least once a week with their educators. Over 12 months they steadily gained confidence as they treaded over protruding tree roots. In addition, the children have grown to appreciate the flora and fauna that the space has to offer.

Student benefit: We’ve seen children enhance their bilateral coordination, strength and balance when navigating the natural landscape. Using organic materials found in the park also offers interdisciplinary learning of concepts and skills across many developmental domains. The educators are planning alongside the children for indoor and outdoor learning and exploration, with the freedom to move between both spaces. 

Looking forward: This wonderful park will soon be extended to the children in other Blue House campuses in 2024.

Jalan Mutiara, Rambai & Kay Siang

bluehouseinternational.com

One World International School (OWIS) Nanyang Campus

Shining on: New initiatives in the University Counselling programme

By James Sweeney, Head of School

We consistently enhance our University Counselling programme based on feedback and evolving global trends. At the commencement of the current academic year, we incorporated a ‘Career and University’ lesson into our Grade 8 curriculum. During these lessons, students have the opportunity to interact directly with our experienced counsellors. These sessions are supplemented by a cutting-edge AI-driven platform which, based on students’ individual interests, aligns them with potential careers. 

Student benefit: Firstly, these lessons empower students to make informed choices regarding their future academic and career pursuits. Secondly, students gain a holistic understanding of potential pathways. By creating structured options and advice, we ensure our students move forward with clarity and confidence. 

Looking forward: We hope to build on this USP by consistently enhancing the ‘Career and University’ programme based on feedback and evolving global trends. 

21 Jurong West Street 81, 649075

 owis.org/sg

Canadian International School (CIS)

Shining on: Experiential learning

By Christa Craats, Experiential Learning Coordinator 

Experiential learning is a holistic approach that provides real world learning opportunities for students both on and off campus. Our Primary Years Open Minds Programme (PYP) connects classroom learning with people and places within Singapore. Students can participate in multi-day or overnight trips, enabling them to explore and learn in local, regional, or global settings. These experiences encourage them to connect with different cultures and environments while engaging in service for a broader world perspective. CIS has experiential learning spaces such as the Outdoor Discovery Center, student-led community rooftop garden, instructional lab, kitchen, black box, dance studio, and more. 

Although not a curriculum itself, we’ve been using experiential learning over the last 15 years to enhance the students’ experience by activating senses and engaging the whole learner. 

Student benefit: Experiential learning is fun, challenging, and encourages students to be curious, collaborative, creative, and critical thinkers. It provides opportunities for them to drive their learning in a way that is personally meaningful and intrinsically motivating. Students are engaged, enlightened and empowered. This creates a school full of happy, dedicated and curious learners where creativity, innovation and authentic service happens. 

Looking forward: CIS continues to look for opportunities to connect learning to the real world. We strive to leverage experiential learning to develop global citizens who are driven to take responsible action. 

  7 Jurong West Street 41, 649414 

 cis.edu.sg

Westbourne College Singapore

Shining on: Our personalised learning approach

By Gavin Clark, Principal, English Teacher

Westbourne College is a unique educational setting providing IGCSE & IB pathways for students transitioning from secondary to tertiary education. We provide a boutique environment with our incredible staff-to-student ratio of 1:6, enabling students to get the best possible academic experience. 

Established in Singapore in August 2023, the school’s personalised learning approach empowers students to take control of their education for future success. Westbourne’s small classes have a global reach, thanks to our expanding international network of colleges. This fosters cross-collaboration and knowledge sharing, inspiring students to think on a larger scale. 

At Westbourne, our forward-looking perspective treats students as young professionals, offering opportunities in STEM and Business. We have a century-long history of sending graduates to top universities worldwide, including Oxbridge and the Australian Go8.

Student benefit: A personalised tutoring style approach and individualised attention. Students also have dedicated university admission specialists, industry visits and global exchange trips that offer excellent hands-on learning experiences. Being small is our strength, we get to know our students intimately.

Looking forward: Westbourne education transcends classrooms, allowing students to shape their distinct senior high school experience. We are excited about guiding future generations towards high achievement and success. 

  491 River Valley Road, #16/03, 248371

westbournecollege.com.sg

How UWCSEA innovate for change

  •  Sponsored Content 

Even with a crystal ball, it would be hard to predict the future. The only thing we know for sure is that with the intersection of technological, social, political, and climate changes, life ahead is going to be vastly different to the one we know today. 

When it comes to students, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) states, “Schools can prepare them for jobs that have not yet been created, for technologies that have not yet been invented, to solve problems that have not yet been anticipated. It will be a shared responsibility to seize opportunities and find solutions.”

Innovating for an uncertain future is a strategic focus at UWCSEA. One of many ways the College is embracing this is through the development of a new pilot course option for the International Baccalaureate (IBDP) titled, Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change. To understand more about this innovation, we spoke to Eivind Lodemel, UWCSEA teacher, IB course designer, and UWCSEA alumni. 

What are you working on with the IBDP?
The new IBDP pilot course, Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change launches at UWCSEA in August 2024 to support students in gaining essential skills for their future, and pursuing an IB Diploma with greater agency and adaptability. I’m working as one of two course designers, along with a wider steering committee.

How did you become part of the project team?
It’s an accumulation of many years with the UWC movement. I came to UWCSEA as a National Committee scholar from Norway in 1999 and graduated in 2001. In 2012, I returned as a teacher because of the sense of purpose that underpins all our work here. It is also this purpose that has led us to partner with the IB to create a new, exciting, and innovative course option. 

‘Systems Transformation’ sounds great, but what does it mean?
We considered the skill set students might need to learn that would be relevant 30 years from now and transferable to a range of professions. Following extensive research, discussion with universities, and consultation with industry experts, we arrived at five main areas of focus:

  •  Project Management
  •  Systems Thinking 
  •  Design Thinking 
  •  Leading for Positive Change
  •  Changemaker Mindset 

Positive change and idealism must be paired with pragmatic thinking and practical solutions. Our new course is framed by big and ambitious ideas about creating positive change in the world, but focuses attention towards the competencies and tools needed. Students graduate with skills that can be applied to any field, industry, or workplace. In turn, these can then be used to drive positive change, where and when required.

“We considered what a student might need as a relevant skill set 30 years from now”

What does this mean for the student experience?
The Project-Based Learning model for this course will allow students to learn through projects that are immersive, hands-on, and led by curiosity. Students interested in, for example, coding, sports, arts, history, biology or design, will be able to pursue projects aligned with their direction. The course will form part of a more bespoke, relevant, and flexible IB package that supports each student’s ambitions.

Why was UWCSEA chosen to pilot this? 
UWCSEA is a unique environment in the world of education. The IB recognises this, selecting UWCSEA and UWC Atlantic as partners in designing the pilot course as part of its wide-ranging, multi-year review of the diploma programme. With the potential to roll-out globally from 2030, this course will help shift the IB Diploma worldwide towards a more flexible model with more real-world learning and student agency. 

How does it benefit students?
I’m familiar with the concerns students and families will have: How do I ensure I’m successful? How do I develop skills relevant to my future? How do I become recognised and valued? In his article ‘When Purpose Meets Performance’, UWCSEA Head of College, Nick Alchin, addresses some of these concerns and talks about the ‘synergy’ between a mission-aligned education and academic education. We believe that students who have taken part in independent, project-based learning with a greater purpose will be highly regarded as they move on in their life journey. 

UWC South East Asia
 Dover Campus: 1207 Dover Road, Singapore, 139654   |  East Campus: 1 Tampines Street 73, Singapore, 528704
www.uwcsea.edu.sg    |   admissions@uwcsea.edu.sg

Schools in Singapore: What the students say!

 

George Tang

Age: 6
Year: Kindergarten 2
School: House on the Hill Montessori

“I made my own glider at home and flew it in school”

How many lessons do you have at school each day?
Every day is different. In the morning, I have lessons in Phonics and Maths. I love working on the Montessori materials. My favourites are the Roman arch, water pouring over land forms and water forms, and pin-pushing on outlines activities. 

Sounds like some serious learning!
In the afternoon, all my activities are in Mandarin. I learn ancient poetry and rhymes, make crafts, listen to stories, do some painting, calligraphy, and much more. 

What happens at lunch?
Lunch is  yummy! I have two favourites: beef porridge, and Mediterranean Style Fish served with bread. Now that I’m older, I help out by serving the younger children their food. Me and my friends eat together, and then we tidy our classroom before the afternoon sessions start. 

What job would you like to do when you grow up?
I want to be a scientist. For Children’s Day this year, I dressed up as a scientist and worked on many different science experiments. I made my very own glider at home and flew it in school. I also did Oobleck play, and made artwork using food colouring, milk, and dish soap. 

Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …”
… it’s time to play! I love the playground, especially the swing and tunnels. I also love playing with Lego and magna-tiles.

 Mount Sophia,  Balmoral Crescent,  Pasir Panjang &   Hollandse Club
 houseonthehill.com.sg

 

Maisie Hiemstra

Age: 15
Year: 10
School: Dulwich College (Singapore)

“It was an eye-opener to be taught by a professional artist”

How does your average school day look?
We have six hour-long classes a day, with breaks between every two periods for snacks and lunch.

What’s your favourite lesson?
Art class. I love that Dulwich gives me an outlet to express my creativity. Recently, the IGCSE art students went to the Singapore National Gallery to study different artists and draw on-site, which was great.  

Please share a memorable assignment …
Last year, the award-winning artist Ian Murphy came to Dulwich and taught a workshop. Under his guidance, I produced one of my best pieces, a drawing from a photo I took in Laos. 

What did you most enjoy about it?
It was an eye-opener to be taught by a professional artist. It gave me time to develop a single art piece, while Ian shared techniques and methods to draw more realistic images and forms. It was one of the most beneficial, memorable, and fun days I’ve had at school.

How do you spend your lunch break?
Lunch breaks are fun. I mostly hang out with my friends and eat at the rooftop garden – a lush area where the school grows herbs. It has shelter and furniture which makes it a perfect spot to catch up.

 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, 658966
 singapore.dulwich.org 

 

Hana Yamauchi

Age: 16
Year: grade 11
School: North London Collegiate School (Singapore)

“My teacher is funny, so I really like being in his class”

What was your best lesson at school today?
I enjoyed geography. My teacher is very entertaining, so I really like being in his class. Sometimes the content is challenging, but I’m not afraid to ask questions as I know I will get help. Also, the students around me are very friendly. 

Is geography your favourite subject?
I love psychology because my teacher also has a great sense of humour, which makes the classes fun. It’s a new subject for me, and he gives us many practical examples to make us understand the different concepts.

Where do you hang out for lunch?
We have a Sixth Form common room for Grades 11 and 12, so I sometimes get food delivered. Today I had McDonald’s as a treat! This is something only Sixth Formers can do.

If you could introduce a new lesson at school, what would it be?
As a Sixth Former, I don’t have much time for leisure activities and exercising, so a whole lesson playing outside and running around, just like they have in Junior School, would be good. 

Dream job when you leave school?
I want to be a translator or interpreter. It would be great to work in a job that involves travelling because I love languages and know English, Japanese, Mandarin, and a little Korean. Travelling would help me to improve.

  130 Depot Road, 109708 nlcssingapore.com

 

Oliver Rogers

Age: 17
Year: grade 12
School: Australian International Achool (AIS)

“I’ve had the privilege of seeing my friends every day”

Which school subject do you most enjoy?
Spanish. Our class is a really dynamic group and our teacher también es alegre. Language acquisition stretches such a different part of your brain compared to other subjects, so I always find it a welcome change of pace during the week. 

What was your stand-out lesson at school today?
Chemistry. We learned about DNA sequencing and replication, which I found interesting. I have six lessons (periods) a day, each lasting just under an hour.

What’s been your favourite school assignment and why?
My Extended Essay. I wrote about America’s Temperance and Prohibition Movement(s). It’s the thing I put the most work into, and what I’ve been most personally engaged by in recent years. When I submitted the assignment, I was really proud of what I’d produced.

How did you spend lunch break today?
I hung out at the parent café with my friends. We discussed our plans for muck-up day (when uniforms are messed up and decorated, and pranks are carried out at the end of the school year). We’ve
got some good stuff planned!

Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …”
… I arrive each morning and see all my friends. I’ve been lucky to have had the privilege of seeing my friends every day for the past 14 years, and I’m going to miss them once we all move away. For now, I cherish the time we have together.

  1 Lorong Chuan, 556818
 ais.com.sg

 

Charlotte Patterson

Age: 9
Year: G3
School: United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)

“I’d like to be a geologist, marine biologist or horseriding instructor”

What was your best lesson at school today?
Maths, because whilst it’s hard for me, I know I’m getting better. I’m learning about word problems and I’m answering more questions correctly each day. It  feels good.

Tell me about your lunch break …
On Tuesday lunchtimes I go to Junior Singers. Otherwise, my friends and I play rock tag. In rock tag, someone can only tag you if you’re off a rock. If you’re touching a rock, they can’t tag you! 

What’s been your favourite school assignment so far?
My friend and I made a hat out of cardboard and felt, plus all the accessories. We learned how to come up with an idea and plan it out, design different shapes, and experiment with how they connected together. We had to connect pieces without using tape or glue, so using slots and tabs for example, and this made the design more sustainable. Last year my friends and I made a huge claw machine out of recycled material. 

What job would you like to do when you leave school?
I’d like to be a geologist, marine biologist, or horseriding instructor. 

If you could introduce a new lesson, what would it be?
Bring your pet to class! 

Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …”
… we have celebration days like the UN Food Festival and UN Day. We get to wear cultural dress and celebrate everyone’s country, culture, and food. I love Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian, and Greek food. Oh, and Australian lamingtons, because my mum would be upset if I didn’t like them!

  Dover Campus &   East Campus
 uwcsea.edu.sg

 

Nils Carballeira

Age: 16
Year: 11
School: Chatsworth International School

“I wrote about my own migration from Norway to Singapore”

What’s your favourite lesson?
From a very young age, I’ve looked forward to every PE class, as it allows me to forget the stress of assessments and homework. I play football in and outside of school and love doing any type of physical activity. 

What did you most enjoy at school today?
I particularly enjoyed maths as we got to finish our probability carnival game project. After that we had students, teachers, and parents walk around the school playing different games. I enjoyed hosting my own game and showing players what I’d made. The collected data will be used to finish my report on probability. 

What’s been your best school assignment so far?
I liked working on a creative task about migration in my Individuals and Societies (IS) lesson in collaboration with the English department. This specific task allowed me to write about my own migration from Norway to Singapore, which happened a little over a year ago. 

If you could introduce a new lesson at your school, what would it be?
My school doesn’t offer IT lessons about computers and how to use them. Occasionally, there will be an hour dedicated to preventing cyberbullying, but in a world dominated by the use of electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops, it would be helpful to have some guidance. 

  72 Bukit Tinggi Road, 289760
 chatsworth.com.sg

 

Leanne Leong

Age: 12
Year: Grade 7
School: St Joseph’s Institution International (SJI INTERNATIONAL)

“We designed an ideal country, including its location, history, and laws”

Tell us about your school day …
We typically have six lessons each day, starting at 8am with a 20-minute recess at 10am. Lunch is from 12:10pm to 1pm, and the day ends at 3pm.

What’s been your favourite school assignment so far?
Our Adaptability Exit Point in the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). We designed an ideal country, determining its location, flag, buildings, history, and laws. It made me think deeply about addressing global challenges through creative solutions.

If you could introduce a new school subject, what would it be?
I’d like to go out of school every week for an expedition! Field trips make learning a much more exciting and memorable experience, so students can have fun while discovering how the things they learn in school affect them in their daily lives.

Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …”
… we come together as a school to compete in House Competitions. I love how enthusiastic everyone is when competing or cheering on their teammates. The different Houses are competitive, but only in a friendly way.

What job would you like post-school?
I want to become a journalist due to my passion for reading and writing. I aim to inform and engage readers with accurate and compelling news stories, features, and articles in newspapers and magazines. 

490 Thomson Road, 2981991  sji-international.com.sg

Prep for winter sports season

  •  Sponsored Content 

As Europe and Japan’s winter sports season fast approaches, it’s time to get yourself into shape for the unique physical and mental challenges that skiing and snowboarding bring. There are many ways you can ensure your body and mind are at their best so you can enjoy your holiday in the snow with minimal risk of injury. Read on.

How can I get in shape?

Ideally, start upping your fitness no less than six weeks before your trip. There are several key areas to work on to ensure peak performance on the slopes:

  • Cardio for overall fitness and endurance
  • Core strength for balance and coordination
  • Quads, glutes and hamstring strength for control

If you work on these areas, not only will you feel fitter, stronger, and enjoy your skiing and snowboarding sessions more, but they’ll all work together to reduce your risk of injury.

If you’ve hurt yourself and are returning to sports, your physiotherapist can confirm that you’re ready to get back at it by carrying out an objective assessment. They can also share advice on specific things you can do to minimise further injury when returning to sport.

Other pre-sport prep prior to your winter holiday include warming up, skiing on piste and to your ability, not skiing or snowboarding when you’re tired, and avoiding the consumption of alcohol during skiing as it can cause dehydration and affect your coordination.

Minimise harm

Of course, occasionally we do injure ourselves on the slopes. Musculoskeletal (muscle, ligament, tendon, bone and joint) issues are the most common during winter sports. The injury profile changes depending on your level of experience, whether you’ve had lessons from a professional instructor, and your overall fitness.

Beginners are at the highest risk of injury (no matter what age you are), therefore a snow sports-specific pre-holiday fitness programme, professional snow sport instruction, learning ski lift safety, and getting properly educated about high-risk areas on the slopes is essential to minimise potential harm.

Fortunately, with improving equipment and in particular ski boot bindings, the overall rates of injury have decreased over the last 20 years.

Knees are the most commonly injured joint, accounting for almost 30% of all injuries. Shoulder and wrist damage is also prevalent. Snowboarders experience more hip, trunk, and head accidents, while skiers commonly injure their knees and shoulders. This is due to the different equipment, position and twisting forces experienced when you fall.

Knee ligaments are often harmed due to the twisting nature of many ski accidents, especially the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL). Meniscus damage can also be encountered in association with these ligament injuries.

What if I hurt myself?

Fortunately, most injuries are minor and can be managed with a few days of rest, ice, and simple painkillers. If the injury is more severe, you struggle to bear weight or move the joint, then please seek medical support.

Many ski resorts have clinics where you can have an initial assessment and get good advice for staying safe. If you’re having ongoing injury issues upon returning home, book an assessment with an experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon who can care for you and help you to recover fully.

Dr Gavin O’Neill is an Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in hip and knee conditions. He trained in the UK and Australia. If you’re having issues with hip or knee pain contact us at Altius Clinic, Sports and Orthopaedic Surgeons for an appointment.  altiusclinic.sg

 

Altius Clinic Sports and Orthopaedic Surgeons

 290 Orchard Road, #09-11/12 Paragon, 238859
 contact@altiusclinic.sg
 +65 8500 3961   +65 6970 1518

 

Hotspots: Pael.et Bar

With so many new and exciting food and beverage establishments opening in Singapore, it pays to keep your finger on the pulse. Missing a goodie can be easy and Pael.et, the latest addition to Chinatown’s Keong Saik Road, is not one to miss.

First, let’s get the tricky pronunciation sorted. “Pael.et, pronounced ‘pallet’, is the phonetic spelling of pallet, palate, and palette,” the team tell us. “We combine these at Pael.et by blending global elements of taste, art and design together, but the focus is always on good times.”

With that out the way, Pael.et is a true gem of a den. The intrigue begins before you step inside the venue. We arrive in the 5pm daylight and heavy drapes at the doorway conceal what’s inside. You’re soon transported into a small but perfectly formed room, sultry in surroundings, hip but homely in style, and super-cool in character.

Abstract ingredients

Learning that Pael.et is owned and operated by a raft of familiar names from Singapore’s F&B industry, it all starts to make sense. Partner Joe Haywood, SJS Group, the Papi’s Tacos team, and a front-of-house team led by Russel Cardoza, of Employees Only and Skinny’s Lounge fame, have each come together here.

The warm and sunny staff take us through the cocktail menu with a particular fervour. It’s immediately clear that Haywood has curated a banger, creating drinks to harmonise flavours, highlight abstract ingredients, and encapsulate unique tastes. Numbers like The Seoul Searcher ($24), offer a Korean twist on the classic margarita, featuring Codigo Blanco Tequila, gochujang agave, and “Orange” orange wine. Istumi Martini ($21), incorporates the essence of pasta water from the SJS Group’s Pasta Bar, Nikka Coffey Gin, Beefeater gin, kombu, and spirulina. Given my sweet tooth and penchant for creamy concoctions, my recommendation is Speech Impediments, featuring Evan Williams Bourbon, peach, white tea, lemon, egg white, and bitters.

Scallop Ceviche and Speech Impediments

Artist collaborations

Complementing the cocktails is a food menu crafted by Head Chef Ash, formerly of Burnt Ends. We tried the Classic Sourdough with black garlic, and the refreshing Scallop Ceviche, complete with dashi, mango, pink peppercorn and samphire. For our main course we had the Half Chicken, seasoned with agave, rocket, papaya and peanut. Other options include Rendang Beef with corn tortillas, and Bread Gnocci with lemon and asparagus, followed by desserts such as Rambutan and Beetroot Sorbet with salted white chocolate foam, and Peach Tart. “Growing up I was enamoured by the food and flavours of other cultures, so it makes sense to have a place where the exploration is complemented with feeling at home,” Haywood says.

Aside from the F&B, Pael.et also comes with great music and art; every corner tells a story of the local community through handcrafted pieces and artists’ collaborations. Rush, a talented music artist, has devised some eclectic playlists alongside an Atlanta-based music producer to create the vibrant feel of the place.

Right: The Pael.et team waiting to welcome you!

Our favourite part of all? The absolutely lovely vibe. The intimate size means that Pael.et fills up fast, with punters perched at the bar watching the drinks come to life, and groups huddled at tables, caught up with fast chat and fabulous flavours.

Just remember to call it “pallet”. It’s essential to get this right when spreading the word about just how good it is.

VERDICT: Pael.et is where artistry in food, drink, and music collide in a happy space where you feel like family. Everyone is welcome, and the later the night lingers, the more this spot lights up.

Pael.et Bar
 55 Keong Saik Road #01-02, 089158
 paeletbar.sg

How kids enjoy nature’s wisdom at Singapore American School

  •  Sponsored Content 

Want a cheap and easy way to improve your kids’ chances of health and success? At Singapore American School (SAS), they make sure they spend time playing outdoors! For parents who stick to Singapore’s air-conditioned indoor spaces, the idea of venturing outside with young children can be intimidating. But there are plenty of reasons to weave outdoor play into your children’s free time. The fresh air, change of scene, and space to explore will do them good – and you’ll probably enjoy it too!

Kids are built to move

How many kids can sit for hours at a desk labouring over lessons and homework? Even though it may seem counterintuitive at first, longer time on a task doesn’t make for better results. On the contrary, it only leads to faster and greater burnout.

If you give children time for unstructured, outdoor play, you hit the reset button – an amazing tool to re-stimulate those brain cells to focus. This downtime helps to break days into shorter sessions, allowing kids to take the pressure off and thrive in an environment where the mind-body connection can flourish.

“Physical activity is cognitive candy,” says developmental molecular biologist Dr. John Medina. Exercise boosts brain power. Play is also linked to improvements in academic skills, classroom behaviour, healthy emotional attitudes and better adjustment to school life. The case for children doing something physical every day is growing. Jenny Seham of the National Dance Institute in New York City says she has observed for years the measurable academic and social results of school children who study dance. She notes the positive changes in self-discipline, grades, and sense of purpose in life that her students demonstrate.

Why play outdoors?

Outdoor settings inspire kids to move, explore, and imagine, just as they have for centuries. And research confirms that time spent outside is great for children’s health and wellbeing. The American Medical Association concluded that “Children will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier, when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play in the outdoors.” Why?

  • Running, climbing, observing, and expressing themselves outdoors helps kids develop gross and fine motor skills
  • Unstructured playtime improves kids’ cooperation, focus, and goal-setting; allows them to take risks and develop resilience; and encourages creativity and self-confidence
  • Children engage all their senses when exploring nature, as there’s always something new to see, hear, touch, smell, and even taste
  • Encouraging a love of nature when kids are young helps them to develop lifelong healthy hobbies like hiking, gardening, birdwatching, mountain biking, and photography
  • Just a few minutes of daily “green exercise” has proven biological benefits, including muscle and heart health, production of vitamin D (benefiting immune systems, bones, and sleep), preventing myopia and obesity, and reducing levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol
  • Nature enhances kids’ mental and spiritual wellbeing through inspiring curiosity and wonder, promoting calmness and happiness, and reducing hyperactivity

When should we play?

If your family doesn’t usually spend time outdoors, start small. Build a little time into each day to get out – visit a nearby park or playground, walk to the corner store, take a quick scooter or bike ride, or stroll through the neighbourhood. The key is to make the outdoor routine easy and rewarding. Little by little you’ll find what works for you and your family.

Where should we play?

Singapore has all sorts of kid-friendly outdoor options. If you’re at a playground or park, give the kids space while observing them discreetly. If activities like hiking need some spice, create a simple scavenger hunt or a goal of finding a certain number of animals or plants. And consider bringing the outdoors inside with a “nature nook” for outdoor collectiblesor potted plants to nurture.

Singapore American School
40 Woodlands St 41, Singapore, 738547
Email: sasinfo@sas.edu.sg
Phone: +65 6363 3403

 facebook.com/singaporeamericanschool
@samericanschool
 @SAmericanSchool
 linkedin.com/school/singapore-american-school

Where to find the best Indian restaurants in Singapore

Indian food is easy to find on foodie-packed Singapore where we have an array of curries, naans, chaats and creative takes on Indian cuisine. If you want to go regal with your rogan josh there are plenty of eateries that put on a fancy show. Prefer your poppadoms more authentic and old-skool? Little India has the pick of the bunch, but there are also many secret stalwarts for a spot of spice elsewhere on the island. Here’s our round-up of where to find the best Indian eateries and curry houses in town.

Taste, colour, and heaps of style here!

Ms. Maria & Mr. Singh

The extraordinary degustation menu offered at Ms. Maria & Mr Singh is an ANZA fave. Relive the romance with all-time favourites like Chef Gaggan’s Crab Curry, one of his signature dishes since 2016, a coconut and coriander-based curry dish with juicy chunky crab meat. New mainstays include in the eight-course dinner menu such as Scallop Tostada with Romesco, Salsa Macha and Basil Aioli and hearty Pork Vindaloo Tacos, inspired by a curry dish in Goa. An absolute pleasure!

43 Craig Road, 089691. mariaandsingh.sg

Expect super-unique flavours at Burma Social

Burma Social

The new Burma Social’s menu (Feast of Six Kingdoms) offers a melting pot of its neighbouring countries: Laos, Thailand, China, and India. Start your meal with a Laphet Thoke, a fermented tea leaf salad then move on to mains such as the Curry Piezo – Indian infused curry with garden greens. Finish it off with the A-thi, a dessert of burnt mango with black jaggery sorbet and coconut crisps.

34 Tras St, 079026. burmasocial.com 

Firangi Superstar serve exquisite Indian fare with a Wes Anderson backdrop

Firangi Superstar

Firangi Superstar’s new 2.5 hour Saturday brunch, Champagne Superstar, is a banger: delicious  morsels such as caviar puri, masala donuts and pepper fry croissant presented in a kooky wooden box,  a main course with options like prata waffle with madras fried chicken, fish & chips, and baked eggs with keema pav. If you have any room left, desserts are mega-generous and comprise masala chai éclair, carrot cake and red velvet peanut cake. Wash it all down with Firangi’s fabulous Bloody Mary – the perfect pick-up of vodka, smoked tomato chutney, tamarind, and sliced pineapple and chilli on the side.

20 Craig Rd, #01-03, 089692. firangisuperstar.com

Enjoy a proper taste of local at The Curry Club

The Curry Club Signature

Indian tradition meets modern contemporary dining at The Curry Club Signature. The small plates and sharing platters of this casual-fine dining outpost repackage tradition in fresh fashionable flair while still honouring authentic flavours and recipes. The Curry Club Signature proudly stands as the first and only casual fine dining restaurant to be run by a local Indian family in Singapore.

11 Mohamed Sultan Road, 239010. thecurryclub.sg

Komla Vilas has been serving up curry since the 1940s

Komala Vilas

This Little India lovely serving no-frills hearty Indian cuisine hardly needs an introduction. Komala Vilas offers simple yet authentic vegetarian fare that’s remained unchanged since its beginnings in 1947. With over 20 different types of dosai (lentil and rice flour pancakes) on the menu, parata (flatbread), sambar stews and chutney, thosai, vadai, biryani and idly, there’s plenty to please everyone. What sets Komala Vilas apart is the fact that it only hires trained, skilled cooks from India, so you get the real deal. 

Komala Vilas, 76 Serangoon Road, 217981

Yantra is Tanglin Mall’s best hidden gem!

Yantra

Haven’t noticed this hotspot when you hotfoot it to Little Farms? Sitting pretty in Tanglin Mall, Yantra has recently had a facelift, making it an intoxicating mix of elegant and sultry and serving Indian recipes passed down through generations alongside royalty-approved dishes. Dine on Sutta Gosht, best known as sleepy sota mutton; Hyderabadi Chicken dum Biryani, a classic chicken biryani from Hyderabad; Haleem Rashmi, where jackfruit is the meat substitute; and hot pillowy naan straight out of the tandoor. The new swanky interior takes you on a journey through India where there are five distinct designed spaces, with dining rooms inspired from parts of India like Rajasthan. The Corbett Bar with a captivating touch of old-world charm. Cladded in safari prints, the space is inspired by India’s oldest national park.

163 Tanglin Road, #01-129/130/131, 247933. yantra.com.sg

Authentic Indian dining in Singapore doesn’t get any better

Samy’s Curry

If you are new to Singapore then you may not be familiar with Samy’s. This eaterie in Dempsey Hill is a true Singapore stalwart, having been serving up spectacular home-cooked Indian fare since the 1950s. Be prepared for an authentic experience where your food is placed not on a plate, but a banana leaf, and you have the option of scooping the fare up with your hand. Nestled amid greenery, it’s utterly charming and uber tasty.  The main draw is the fish head curry, of course, but we also like to play it safe with a simple and satisfying korma. 

25 Dempsey Road, 249670. samyscurry.com

Tiffin Room at Raffles Hotel Singapore has an updated menu

Tiffin Room, Raffles Hotel Singapore

Celebrate Indian flavours and aromas amidst the grandeur of Raffles Hotel Singapore’s historic Tiffin Room, one of Singapore’s oldest Indian restaurants since 1892. Earlier this year, award-winning Chef de Cuisine Kuldeep Negi, who’s been helming Tiffin Room’s kitchen for over a decade, re-vamped parts of the menu with dishes influenced by his travels through various regions of North India. Enjoy a diverse range of chaats, appetisers and mains, a favourite being a customisable Mera Dabba (my box in Hindhi) Experience presented in a four-tiered custom-made copper tiffin box. The set meal is complemented with delicately flavoured rice, tandoori bread, chutneys and pickles.

1 Beach Rd, 189673. raffles.com/singapore/dining/tiffin-room

 

 

ANZA Magazine January – February 2024 is out now!

 

1...293031...259Page 30 of 259
© Copyright 2017-2024 - ANZA