ANZA Magazine January - February 2025

WHAT’S ON

TOURS

A U S T R A L I A N A N D N E W Z E A L A N D A S S O C I AT I O N

HOW TO $

SPORTS

OUT & ABOUT

CHECK OUT

YOUR STORIES

T H E AUST R A L I A N & N E W Z E A L A N D A SSO C I AT I O N Januar y/Februar y 2025 SINGAPORE

SAVE MONEY

And still live your best life!

IS DRY JANUARY REALLY WORTH IT? SCHOOL SPECIAL

LAUNCH A BUSINESS IN SINGAPORE

An expat's solo success story

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

BACK TO SCHOOL! What motivates students, lessons that spark joy, teachers who inspire & cool extra-curriculars

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ello, and Happy New Year!

For those of us who’ve been in Singapore a while, we know how much “newness” comes with the new year.

(Warning: It’s A LOT!). No sooner has the dust from the NYE fireworks settled, we’re bracing ourselves for Chinese New Year and, for families with children, a fresh school term. It’s a lot to juggle – no wonder many of us are ready for a breather by February!

But fear not – this magazine is here to help you ease into 2025 with our annual School Special. Our go-to guide is just the ticket for families navigating excitement, stress, and prep.

As always, we’ve packed the issue with insider insights and expert advice from a range of Singapore’s top schools. If your child is just starting their education here and you’re feeling overwhelmed by options, check out Beat School Choice Stress on p44 for some solid wisdom. If they’re heading into a new term, turn to p54 for our Settle Back Plan. Discover what gets kids learning (and loving it) in Keeping It Classy on p62, and for a sneak peek inside the minds of young students, Why School’s Cool! on p48 will reveal all you need to know. Note: it involves sea animals, building ukuleles, and dissecting squid. (“Fun and gross” apparently!)

In the rest of this issue, we’re sharing savvy ways to save money (there's no time like the new year to kick off smart habits) on p32, showcasing mouthwatering recipes for Valentine’s Day on p88, and investigating whether Dry January is worth the abstinence on p82.

Whether dry or damp, you won't want to miss the ANZA Black Tie Ball: A Night in the Tropics,

celebrating Singapore’s 60th birthday, on Friday, 23 May 2025.

As ANZA's signature event, it’s the hottest ticket in town, and there's already a midnight pie with your name on it!

Get booking today!

Jo Upcraft, Editor editor@anza.org.sg

Purchase your ticket for the ANZA Ball at anza.org.sg

GENERAL MANAGER AND SPONSORSHIP Kerry Low gm@anza.org.sg

THE ANZA TEAM AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION

SALES AND MARKETING Jolene Cornford marketing@anza.org.sg

ACCOUNTS AND OPERATIONS Ellie Mills accounts@anza.org.sg

EVENTS Melinda Kaur events@anza.org.sg

261A Beach Road, Singapore 199541 Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm +65 6291 6301 www.anza.org.sg facebook.com/anzasingapore @anzasingapore linkedin.com/groups/ANZA-Singapore

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DESIGN Christina Lim design@anza.org.sg

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Sarah Myers info@anza.org.sg

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HEY 2025!

JA N UA RY / F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 5

FEATURES

32 SAVVY WAYS TO SAVE Get your finances shipshape, and still have a great time!

38 SERVING UP SUCCESS Aussie expat Wynona Leach shares her solopreneur journey with ANZA

82 IS DRY JANUARY WORTH IT? How the body and mind is impacted by a booze-free month

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88 LOVE AT FIRST BITE Cheryl Miles-Nixon shares favourite homegrown recipes with a V-Day spin

43 SCHOOL SPECIAL 48 WHY SCHOOL'S COOL! Students reveal what they love about lessons, teachers, break time, the lot!

ANZA’s insider guide to getting school right in Singapore PHOTOGRAPHY

54 YOUR ESSENTIAL SETTLE BACK PLAN

59 THE WRITE STUFF Brilliant books for helping kids of all ages to feel confident about school

COVER: SHUTTERSTO CK. CHERYL MILES-NIXON: IVAN JOSHUA LOH, PIGS CAN FLY

Expert advice on preparing your child (and yourself!) for the new term

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62 KEEPING IT CLASSY SG's teachers talk about how they keep students engaged and motivated

70 PRESCHOOL, SORTED! Lovely places for really little ones!

74 BEYOND THE BELL Extra-curricular classes that keep the learning coming after school ends

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REGULARS 01 04 06 08 10 12 14 16

Editor’s Note President’s Message Partners Page Post It New Zealand High Commission Australian High Commission What's On ANZA Tours January/February 2025

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Out & About ANZA Action Ask The Expert Tuckerbox ANZA Sports Spotlight on ANZA Adult Netball New Members 10 Minutes With …

the fine print ANZA will not be liable for any consequential loss or damage occasioned by the failure of any advertisement to appear due to any cause whatsoever, nor does it accept any liability for error in any advertisement published or its failure to appear on a specific date. ANZA does not endorse or promote any product, service, or view offered through any advertisement, community service notice, or club or group activity that may appear in the magazine, nor does it accept responsibility for any specific advice or opinions offered by contributors or writers, and any subsequent reliance on such advice or opinions by its readers. ANZA magazine permit number: MCI (P) 041/06/2024.

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I am a curious learner.

I care about having a positive impact in my community.

I believe in growing through new challenges.

“Dulwich College (Singapore) has shown me that hard work and curiosity can turn a difficult subject into something I genuinely enjoy. Chemistry was challenging for me at first, but school provided the support I needed to push through. It’s now my favourite subject. Dulwich has given me the confidence to push my own boundaries. I see a future where I can combine my passions by studying medicine at university; uniting my love for science, collaboration, and meaningful community impact into a career that makes a difference.”

This is my Dulwich story.

Learn more at singapore.dulwich.org

Dulwich College (Singapore) PEI Registration Number: 201027137D. Period of Registration: 09 January 2024 to 08 January 2028. School Location: 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966

P R E SI D E N T ’ S M E S S AG E

ANZA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

L

iving in Singapore, we don’t experience dramatic seasonal changes. Instead, the rhythm of our lives and changes around us are shaped by community celebrations, the school calendar, and the work schedule. With schools playing a key role in the pace of life here, and for many a January fresh year start, there is a natural tie-in with this schools-themed issue of ANZA magazine.

Within the Executive Committee, we closely monitor changes in Singapore that may affect us. One change that impacts many expatriate families is the evolving employment rules for “trailing spouses”. In the past, it was relatively easy to obtain permission to work in Singapore through a Letter of Consent. Now, not so much.

That’s why I love the story about Aussie expat solopreneur Wynona Leach on p38. Wynona, founder of local food business Lush Platters, shares her experience of launching a company in Singapore as a trailing spouse. Her passion and positive attitude are inspiring for those considering starting a solo company in 2025.

Of course, working in Singapore as an expat can take many forms, and involvement in our ANZA community or with our community service partners is a fulfilling way to contribute if you’re unable to secure full-time employment. On p31, the ANZA Action page makes its return with a spotlight on Aidha, an organisation that offers courses for domestic workers. Head here to discover how you can make a contribution.

As always with ANZA, the success of our subgroups depends on the dedicated efforts of the many volunteers who contribute each week, ensuring our association continues to serve the community. The ANZA AGM is coming up on 25 March, and we will have positions available. If you're interested in joining our Executive Committee, come and talk to us at ANZA’s next Chill Chat Connect event on 4 March about how your skills can make us stronger.

President Christopher Brown

Vice President Melanie Speet

Treasurer Tristan Perry

Secretary MaryScot Thom

Membership Secretary Julia Erakovic

Sports Coordinator Adam Martin

Committee Member Don Northey

Committee Member Joseph Keats

Committee Member Kylie Barry

Committee Member Megan Scott

Committee Member Nicola MifsudHoughton

Committee Member Shaun McEwan

Left and above: ANZA's AGM , 2024

CHRISTOPHER BROWN

Co-patrons Gabrielle Rush New Zealand High Commissioner to Singapore & Mr Allaster Cox Australian High Learn how you can get involved with Aidha on p31

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Commissioner to Singapore ANZA Ambassador PJ Roberts

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A N Z A PA RT N E R S

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ANZA PARTNERS, VALUED GREATLY FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE ASSOCIATION. PREMIER PARTNERS

PL ATINUM PARTNERS

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

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SUCCESS BEGINS WITH

G BELONGIN We create a nurturing environment where every student is inspired to thrive and become their best selves.

www.dovercourt.edu.sg +65 6775 7664 admissions@dovercourt.edu.sg Dover Court International School (Pte) Ltd is registered with the SkillsFuture Singapore Agency (SSG) PEI Registration No: 197100313E | Registration Period: 05/07/2023 to 04/07/2027

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BE INSPIRED Come and visit us!

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IDEAS

POST IT

KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE ANZA COMMUNITY EACH MONTH AT ANZA.ORG.SG

Gong Xi Fa Cai! Chinese New Year will be celebrated from 29 January - 30 January 2025. This marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year and is deeply rooted in traditions of family reunions, honouring ancestors, and wishing for prosperity.

Singapore will be filled with festivities, including lion dances, fireworks, and the giving of red envelopes (angbaos).

Let’s herald the Year of the Snake, symbolising wisdom, elegance, and transformation.

Celebrating Waitangi Day On behalf of everyone at ANZA, we wish all our Kiwi members a Happy Waitangi Day on Thursday, 6 February 2025. This day celebrates the rich history, unity, and cultural diversity of New Zealand, reminding us of the strength found in coming together, acknowledging the past, and embracing a harmonious future. May it be a day of joy, reflection, and deep appreciation for the unique blend of cultures that make New Zealand truly special.

Meet A Featured Partner

BATYA SHULMAN Partner at Select Investors selectinvestors.sg

Who are Select Investors and what is your role?

Select Investors is a Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place, a FTSE company and Europe’s largest wealth manager. As a Partner, I specialise in working closely with my clients, providing bespoke wealth, tax and succession planning.

How do Select Investors stand out from the competition in Singapore?

Clients benefit from access to specialist teams in wealth, tax, and investment management, ensuring personalised solutions. We emphasise a relationship-based service rather than a transactional approach, working with clients wherever the journey may take them.

What’s your partnership with ANZA? Select Investors has a strategic partnership with ANZA reflecting the firm’s focus on supporting the expat community. We are proud to sponsor ANZA’s new member events and offer services to ANZA members to help expats navigate the complexities of financial planning abroad.

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? Email us at info@anza.org.sg or comment on our Facebook page facebook.com/anzasingapore

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What’s it like working with our community?

Both rewarding and dynamic. It gives us the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of people who are navigating similar challenges, from relocation to managing finances across borders.

There’s a strong sense of community support, and events are filled with meaningful connections and conversations.

What are you up to when not at work?

As a mother to three boys (aged 9,11, and 13), life is certainly busy! But a few things are non-negotiable - exercise, coffee, and catching up with friends!

Please share one piece of financial advice ...

Start saving early and don’t forget about future tax planning and structuring. Many expats overlook how different jurisdictions’ tax systems interact, leading to unexpected liabilities when relocating or repatriating. Work with advisors who understand local and home-country regulations to structure your finances tax-efficiently and ensure a smooth transition when moving between countries.

STAY CONNECTED WITH ANZA facebook.com/anzasingapore @anzasingapore linkedin.com/groups/ANZA-Singapore

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We Are

Celebrating Our Past. Inspiring The Future Chatsworth International School is proud of our warm community built on diversity, compassion and respect for 30 years and counting. While we honour our past and achievements, we express our gratitude to all members of the Chatsworth community - staff, students and parents, past and present for their support and contributions to the school.

We remain committed to providing an exceptional international education that inspires, educates and enlightens minds. It has been an incredible journey and we look forward to a remarkable future.

Contact Admissions on becoming part of the Chatsworth community.

Chatsworth International School 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760 (65) 6463 3201

admissions.bt@chatsworth.com.sg www.chatsworth.com.sg

Chatsworth International School. SSG Registration No:199405288W Registration period: 30/06/23 - 29/06/27

NEW ZEAL A N D HIG H C OM M IS SION

Making 2025 Memorable As Singapore celebrates CNY and begins her 60th anniversary year, NZ High Commissioner Gabby Rush shares her gratitude and excitement for the months ahead.

Raf Dalmau

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anuary marks my two-year anniversary in Singapore and time has flown by. At the end of the month we will be celebrating the Lunar New Year, and I’m looking forward to enjoying some favourite things in the country I now call home.

While the Lion City is small, the diversity continues to amaze me. Every week, I head down to the Rail Corridor and savour time walking in nature, seeing the birds and other wildlife, and enjoying being among Singaporeans, young and old, who are all out making the most of this peaceful space.

Further afield, I love the beauty of MacRitchie Reservoir, the awesome scale of the Port at Tuas, the island's great museums, the performing arts, cultural centres, and amazing architecture.

And then there is the food, the people, the energy, innovation, and conversation!

Gabby, far right, at ANZA's AGM 2024

Enhanced partnership 2024 was a huge year for Singapore - New Zealand relations.

We welcomed Prime Minister Luxon and a business delegation here in April, where he and former PM Lee agreed to elevate the Enhanced Partnership between our two countries by the time of the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations in 2025.

As the year drew to a close, we had hosted twelve other New Zealand government ministers, helping to take forward our bilateral goals. As Singapore begins her 60th anniversary year, the New Zealand High Commission is working hard with High Commission our local stakeholders to ensure 2025 is a Singapore memorable and meaningful time for all.

One George Street, Level 21-04 Wishing you all a prosperous and happy Singapore 049145 Year of the Snake - Gong Xi Fa Cai!

The performing pavilion at MacRitchie Reservoir

Tel 6235 9966 Fax 6536 8180 nzhc.sin@mfat.govt.nz

STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ NewZealandinSingapore Register when travelling: safetravel.govt.nz Find out more: mfat.govt.nz/singapore

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Singapore's famous Emerald Hill

Lunar New Year at Chinatown

All images from Singapore Tourism Board

One of National Gallery Singapore's exhibits

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S NU JOI PEN O AT USE HO

An international preschool that nurtures the mind, body and heart.

Prepare your child for a thriving life at SJI International Preschool, where love and learning flourish.

Essential insights Character Development (The Virtues Project™).

Mix of structured and emergent curriculum for Early Years and Kindergarten (ages 3-6).

Play-based learning with guidance and peer collaboration.

Enquire/Visit/Apply @ www. sji-internationalpreschool.com.sg Address: 49A Holland Road, Singapore 258850 | Telephone: +65 6908 4520 St. Joseph’s Institution International Preschool Ltd. Co. Reg & GST No. 202301908N

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AU ST R A L IA N H IG H C OM M I S SIO N

Celebrating 60 years with Singapore!

In honour of the 60th anniversary of Singapore’s independence, the AHC reveal a special project highlighting the deep and long-running Australia-Singapore relationship.

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Coral Dixon lived in SG in the 90's

Australian High Commission Singapore 25 Napier Road Singapore, 258507 Tel 6836 4100 Fax 6737 5481

he year ahead not only marks the 60th anniversary of Singapore’s independence, but also Australia and Singapore’s diplomatic relationship. To highlight the strong bonds, the Australian High Commission in Singapore is marking this milestone with a yearlong celebration of activities and events.

Throughout 2025, our theme, “Celebrating 60 Years of Friendship,” will showcase the longrunning and deep relationship between our two nations – particularly the people-to-people links formed over six decades. This enduring friendship is underpinned by our strong educational ties.

In 2025, Australia and Singapore will renew our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. We’re working to make our education relationship – from early learning to tertiary education, research collaboration and lifelong skills development – a central part of the renewed partnership.

A central piece of work that will anchor our celebrations is our “60 for 60” project, which will highlight 60 people who’ve been pivotal to the fabric of the Australia-Singapore relationship. One is 85-year-old Coral Dixon AM, an international education pioneer and founding principal of the prestigious Australian International School (AIS). We spoke with Coral about her journey establishing the school in 1993, her life on the island, and her key tips for entrepreneurial success.

Q A

You moved to SG in the 90's. What was the most rewarding part of being here?

I lived in Singapore from 1993 – 2002. Life was rich, varied, safe, and gentle. I loved the complex cultural pattern of local and expatriate life and the many opportunities for travel that Singapore offered as an entry point to Southeast

STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ AustraliaInSingapore LinkedIn: linkedin.com/ company/ahc-sg X: @AusHCSG Instagram: @AustraliaInSG

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The opening of Australian International School in 1993

Asia. Truly a garden city, Singapore delighted its visitors with amazing culinary delights. A plate of chicken rice would go down well right now!

Q A

What’s your favourite memory from your career at AIS? Witnessing the school’s growth and being part of its success story. Starting as toddlers, I watched children grow in stature, knowledge, and understanding. I was also part of the growth in professional competence and excellence of a young teaching staff, many of whom have gone on to positions of leadership in the educational world. A continuing feature of the school is the very strong affection and loyalty that former teachers feel towards their time in Singapore, and the people they worked with.

Q A

Any advice for young, ambitious Australian entrepreneurs in Singapore?

Singapore is a vibrant, young country with opportunities to be seized, especially for middle managers and business leaders.

The underlying business structure is similarly adventurous, yet reliably sound and free from corruption. Strategically located, Singapore invites international expansion. It is hard not to succeed.

Great reflections from a champion of the Australia-Singapore relationship! For more stories celebrating 60 years of friendship, or information on other 60th anniversary initiatives and events, follow the Australian High Commission Singapore on social media.

Coral (centre) and students on the first day of school operations

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Unlock a world of opportunities for your child’s future with our Bilingual Programme.

Unlock a world of opportunities for your child’s future.

An SJI International Elementary School education ensures a holistic, values-driven and truly international experience for all our students.

Renowned for Character Development through The Virtues Project™, offering world-class curriculum to children from Prep 1 to Grade 6.

Enquire/Visit/Apply @ www.sji-international.com.sg

Address: 490 Thomson Road Singapore 298191 | Telephone: +65 6353 9383 St. Joseph’s Institution International Elementary School Ltd. PEI Registration Number: 201009321K (Period of Registration: 19/11/ 2022 to 18/08/2026) Edutrust Singapore Cert No: EDU-2-2134 (Validity: 18/09/2024 to 17/09/2028)

artweek.sg

WHAT’S ON

SG ART WEEK RETURNS!

Singapore Art Week (SAW) is making a come back for its 13th edition in January 2025. Slated to be the longest art week in the region, the 10-day programme will see the art community getting together to exchange ideas and collaborate.

Alongside international works at various venues, there will also be showcases, talks and more. Light to Night Singapore 2025 and Art After Dark at Gillman Barracks will also take place. Our recco? The group exhibition Shapeshifters by Australian gallery Sullivan+Strumpf where there’ll be a host of Aussie artists including Sydney-based ceramist Lynda Draper and Julia Gutman’s mixed media works on linen. Head to stand number BB10 at MBS. 17 - 27 January. Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956

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TRUE WONDER! The Singapore Tourism Board and Disney have come together to host Disney Garden Of Wonder. Happening at Floral Fantasy, the exhibition takes inspiration from the annual EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival by Walt Disney World where favourite characters from the Disney and Pixar realms are transformed into horticultural beings.

Eight topiary sets will be there to check out, including Mickey Mouse, Steamboat Willie, Winnie The Pooh, Snow White, Mike and Sully from ‘Monsters, Inc.’, Russell and Dug from ‘Up’, as well as Buzz Lightyear from ‘Toy Story’.

Now - 3 March 2025. Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, 018953

Clare Hawley/Asparay Photographics

gardensbythebay.com.sg

CRUEL SUMMER As part of the Singapore Fringe Festival, The End of Winter brings Oz to the Lion City in the form of a thought-provoking play this January. In collaboration with Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay Siren Theatre Co (Australia), the performance focuses on bushfire-prone Australia and the increasingly warmer and shorter winters, posing the question whether climate change will erase the season altogether, leaving it to exist only in fairy tales, paintings, and historical accounts. Taking place on 8 & 9 January 2025 only, don’t miss this show that garnered Winner of Best Actor at the Sydney Theatre Critics Award and Sustainability Award at the Adelaide Fringe 2024.

1 Esplanade Drive, 038981 singaporefringe.com

DISNEY ON ICE: FIND YOUR SKATING HERO is skating into the Singapore Indoor Stadium from 15 - 23 March 2025. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, et al, for a cool spectacle filled with heartwarming stories and performances.

Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691 ticketmaster.sg

PAUSE FOR THIS SCAPE is hosting a creative arts festival, Comma, throughout January. Bringing together young creatives to connect, collaborate and showcase their talents, highlights include installations, theatre, heritage workshops and performances.

Until 26 January 2025. 113, Somerset Road, 238165

scape.sg

ABBA-SOLUTELY FABULOUS! The world’s number one ABBA show, Björn Again, is coming to the red dot for three spectacular gigs on 4 & 5 July 2025. Performing all the classics, guests will be swinging their flares to Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, The Winner Takes It All, Fernando, and more. Suitable for all ages, the concert also features songs from the Mamma Mia movies (although Pierce Brosnan will not be in the house to perform them personally!). Tickets out now!

Sands Theatre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, B1-69/70 The Shoppes, Marina Bay Sands, 018971 marinabaysands.com

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ANZA TOURS

JANUARY/ FEBRUARY Celebrate the Year of the Snake, witness the unique Festival of Thaipusam, and head on a tour that marks the 83rd anniversary of the Fall of Singapore.

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Chinese New Year Walk & Lunch Celebrate Chinese New Year with our immersive walking tour, ushering in 2025, the Year of the Snake. Join expert guide Diana as she introduces you to the rich traditions of this vibrant festival. Discover the history behind the Chinese zodiac, customs, and taboos, while exploring charming streets brimming with cultural heritage.

Highlights include a visit to a temple to explore the religious significance of the new year, a stroll down a beautifully preserved conservation street, and stops at a festive gift shop and bakery offering seasonal treats. Wrap up your adventure with lunch at a traditional Chinatown restaurant, featuring symbolic dishes such as Lo Hei (Prosperity Salad) for a lucky start to 2025. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Chinese New Year in an unforgettable way with ANZA! DATE: Tuesday, 14 January GUIDE: Diana Chua TIME: 9.30am - 1.30pm MEET: 9.15am, Outram Park MRT Station, Exit 5 COST: Member, $110. Non-member, $125

Unique Shophouses at Blair Plain

Creation of Jewel at Changi

This walking tour explores the charming neighbourhood of Blair Plain, once home to many wealthy Chinese merchants who commissioned top architects to design their residences. In this conservation area, you'll discover the finest examples of Chinese houses still standing, showcasing a mixture of architectural styles known as the “Eclectic Style.” Our guide, Sarah Lev, will share the origins of shophouses and styles such as Rococo, Baroque, Jubilee, and Art Deco.

You'll check out the ornate terrace houses along Blair Road, with a focus on windows, doors, imported tiles, and other special features. As you stroll along Neil Road, you'll also stop to admire the beautiful Peranakan “Baba House” built in 1895.

Did you know that Changi Airport was named after a heritage tree? Since opening in 1981, it has won numerous awards, including being named the world’s best airport, and is now the fifth busiest airport globally, serving over 100 airlines. In October 2019, Jewel Changi Airport officially opened, offering attractions to passengers and the general public.

On this tour, our guide, Sarah Lev, will share how an open-air carpark in front of Terminal 1 was transformed into Jewel - a retail complex spanning five levels above ground and five below, combining commercial ventures with nature, and integrating attractions and facilities with greenery. You'll learn about the history of Changi Airport, the creation of Jewel, its functions, challenges, and awards, as well as the architect behind the project, Mr Moshe Safdie.

As you stroll through the building, you'll make your way up to the rooftop to see the Rain Vortex, the teamLab Resonating Shiseido Forest Valley, and the Canopy Park where you can experience the Discovery Slides, Foggy Bowls, Petal Garden, and Topiary Walk. You can choose to stay after the tour to enjoy lunch (at your own cost).

DATE: Monday, 20 January GUIDE: Sarah Lev TIME: 10am – 12.30pm MEET: 9.45am, Outram MRT, Exit 5 (outside, near the Police HQ) COST: Member, $75. Non-member, $85

DATE: Tuesday, 4 February GUIDE: Sarah Lev TIME: 10am - 12pm MEET: 9.45am, Changi Terminal 3 Departure Hall, near Starbucks. Take the MRT East West Line to Changi Airport, T3 departure Hall L2 near Starbucks COST: Member, $75. Non-member, $85

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The Unique Festival of Thaipusam Thaipusam is one of the most fascinating Hindu festivals, and ANZA Tours is offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this cultural and religious experience. Join us to witness participants as they carry richly decorated ‘kavadis’ from a temple on Serangoon Road, walking 4km to another Hindu temple. See how devotees enter a trance-like state, some with their bodies pierced by metal spikes, as they take part in this colourful procession. During this tour, your guide, Charlotte Chu, will explain the legends and rituals of Thaipusam.

As you observe the procession, you’ll experience the atmosphere, music, chanting, and clapping. A bus will take you to the end of the procession, where you can witness devotees removing their spikes with no visible blood.

DATE: Tuesday, 11 February GUIDE: Charlotte Chu TIME: 4pm - 7pm MEET: 3.45pm in front of Newton Hawker Centre COST: Member, $50. Non-member, $60

WWII Southern Front - Bukit Chandu and Fort Siloso This tour marks the 83rd anniversary of the Fall of Singapore and covers the historical events leading to the red dot's surrender on 15 February 1942.

You'll begin at the newly renovated museum, Reflections at Bukit Chandu, a restored colonial bungalow that focuses on the southern sector, which was defended by the Malay Regiment and the Straits Settlements Volunteer Force until the very end. In the gallery, you'll see maps, videos, rifles, personal objects, and then continue to the second level to learn about the opium factory’s operations.

Next you'll head to Labrador Park, where Fort Pasir Panjang was constructed as one of 11 coastal artillery forts built by the British to protect Keppel Harbour. After a short refreshment break, you'll cross to Sentosa Island and walk along the Skywalk Trail from Siloso Point, 11 storeys above ground, offering stunning views of Keppel Harbour and the surrounding islands.

The walk will lead you to Fort Siloso, the only preserved coastal fort in Singapore, where you’ll explore the battery with two six-inch guns, the command post, and an underground tunnel leading to the fire director tower.

DATE: Sunday, 16 February TIME: 9.30am - 1.30pm MEET: 9.15am, Newton Hawker Centre COST: Member, $120. Non-member, $140

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Harmony in Feng Shui Why did China choose to launch their Olympic Games on 8 August 2008? Why did Singapore run out of maternity beds and primary schools?

They all have something to do with Feng Shui!

Originating in China more than 3,000 years ago, the ancient art of Feng Shui is concerned with studying and understanding the relationship between man and his environment.

On this tour, find out how Feng Shui has an impact on these and many other aspects of life in Singapore, as your guide, Diana Chua, takes you for a stroll around Orchard Road, pointing out iconic buildings that are Feng Shui-oriented.

The tour includes a visit to a famous Feng Shui Master’s office. If you’re curious about what Feng Shui in the Year of the Snake will bring, come along! We promise you won't see the Lion City in the same light again.

DATE: Thursday, 27 February GUIDE: Diana Chua TIME: 9.15am - 1.15 pm MEET: 9am, Newton Food Centre COST: Member, $75. Non-member, $85

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LEARN. INSPIRE. SERVE.

Our SJI International education ensures a holistic, values-driven and truly international experience for all our students.

Renowned for Character Development through Service, offering world-class curriculum to local and international students from Grades 7 to 12.

Enquire/Visit/Apply @ www.sji-international.com.sg

Address: 490 Thomson Road Singapore 298191 Telephone +65 6353 9383 St. Joseph’s Institution International Ltd.: Co. Reg & GST No. 200607833C

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PROUDLY PRESENTED BY AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

THE ANNUAL ANZA BLACK TIE BALL 2025

Celebrating Singapore’s 60 th Birthday Date: Friday, 23 May, 7pm – 12:30am Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Tickets: Members $295, non-members $330 In support of Children’s Aid Society Step into an enchanted tropical paradise for a night of delectable dining and live entertainment. Experience the camaraderie of the community as we raise a toast to Singapore!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! anza.org.sg

PRESENTING SPONSOR

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ON THE NIGHT Where timeless elegance meets tropical bliss, join us for an evening of charm and grandeur at ANZA’s Night in the Tropics

Step up for a Pic at the Media Wall

Stop for a photo op with our professional photographer as A Night in the Tropics commences

A Sparkling Reception

Enjoy chilled flutes of Petersons NV Sparkling Cuvee, Sparkling Pink Blush, and award-winning local brews by Brewlander, all set to the backdrop of smooth jazz tunes performed by the AIS Senior Jazz Quartet

Opening Act

Your journey into A Night in the Tropics begins with an opening performance to raise the roof!

Lucky Prize Draw

Indulge in our free-to-enter Prize Draws and you could win amazing prizes from our partners, Global Financial Consultants, Art Works Advisory, Odin Mortgage, and CM Relocation!

Charity Prize Draw

Win fantastic vacation stay prizes worth over $10,000 in our Charity Prize Draw.

100% of funds raised will be donated to Children’s Aid Society

Pose in Paradise!

Capture the moment and keep the happy memories alive at the fabulous Art Works Advisory photo booth. Props provided!

Galabid Silent Online Auction

Bid on an array of items, from coveted sports memorabilia to luxury getaways, at our Galabid Silent auction

Tasting Bars

Cellarbration’s tasting bar offers the chance to experience innovative flavours from Singapore and beyond. From local delights like sour plum to classic favourites from Scotland, we’ve got something to suit all

Sweet Treats

Save room for a selection of petit fours by PS.Cafe at 10pm. These bite-sized confections offer a perfect blend of indulgence and elegance

The Countdown Band

Hit the dancefloor with Singapore’s legendary 9-piece showband, guaranteed to get you out of your seat!

Eastern Carpets Auctions

The Eastern Carpets Silent Auction starts in the foyer at 8pm, showcasing exquisite artefacts. At 11pm, they’ll take it up a notch with the live auction

Midnight Snacks

Refuel with tasty hot pies, the perfect way to replenish energy after all that fun!

SILVER SPONSORS

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PHOTOGRAPHY SPONSOR

WINE SPONSOR

BEER SPONSOR

SWEET TREATS SPONSOR

LOGISTICS SPONSOR

17/12/2024 10:28:28 am

OUT AND ABOUT

ANZA SPORTS: FULL OF HOLIDAY SPIRIT!

ANZA NIPPERS

ANZA SOCCER Nice old Santa took time out from his busy December schedule to stop by ANZA Soccer. While he didn't join in on the pitch, he did spread good cheer to all of our players before they headed into a mid-season break.

The man in the red suit was also spotted on Sentosa, slightly overdressed, but joyfully giving out pressies to our water babies who showcased epic surf skills in 2024.

ANZA NETBALL Netball wrapped up an incredible 2024 season with a special Christmasthemed finals day. Everyone loved the chance to add some (very snazzy!) festive touches to their usual sports uniforms! A huge thank you continues into the new year to all of our parent volunteers for making our netball community so wonderful.

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LADIES NIGHT AT BAIA Singapore's glittering Marina Bay and city skyline was the backdrop for ANZA's last ladies night for 2024 at Baia Rooftop Bar. Drinks and snacks were enjoyed, friendships were formed, and the conversation sparkled. Don't miss our first ANZA Ladies Night of 2025 at Neon Pigeon on 22 January.

MAHJONG CHRISTMAS SESSIONS Our cheerful mahjong group kept the Christmas vibes going with several festive sessions throughout December, with and without the mahjong boards!

Apparently, jaunty headgear makes your brain work harder ...

CASUAL COFFEE Bringing the kindness to Christmas, our casual coffee group gathered together as usual, but with pictorial reminders of those who couldn't make the date.

This gang may love a cappuccino and chat, but it's the strong connections made with others that keeps our community thriving.

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curious, confident, kind Exceptional Education, Inspired Futures

At Brighton College (Singapore), we uphold the finest traditions of British Independent School education, nurturing each pupil to reach their full potential and become the best version of themselves. Our culture of kindness and inclusivity fosters a supportive community where pupils can thrive personally, academically, and emotionally.

Book a tour today to experience what makes Brighton College (Singapore) such a special place for your child to grow and flourish.

Brighton College (Singapore) Pte Ltd | PEI Registration Number 201904884D | Period of Registration: 14 October 2023 to 13 October 2027.

ANZA TENNIS ANZA Tennis took advantage of the holiday period with two celebrations, and enjoyed every minute of being served food and drinks away from the court. In fact, we're unsure if tennis even featured in their December schedule ...?

KILL-O-METRES Seeing as the end of the year saw Singapore awash with twinkling lights and merriment, it made sense for ANZA Kill-OMetres to make the most of the pretty landscape. This superactive walking group got out and about as much as possible, traversing the city, parks, heartlands, and wetlands. It's unclear whether it was the vibrant surroundings, or the promise of festive nibbles when they returned home, but they clocked up some impressive miles!

ANZA GOLF SCOUTS Chocolate cakes and biscuits were on the menu for ANZA Scouts who learnt important kitchen safety rules, and experienced the joy of baking. With their new skills, we're hoping they'll cook our Xmas dinner for 2025.

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Our golfers added splashes of red to the green as they took their festive "A" game to Mandai Golf Course. There was putting, presents, and a lot of smiles from this fun bunch of players.

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PICKLEBALL ANZA Pickleball ended the year with more members than ever and a lot of skills up their sleeves. This friendly group, which hosts Social Drop-in Pickleball and Pickleball Beginner’s Sessions, went from strength to strength throughout 2024. Check out anza.org.sg to bag a spot.

PETERSONS WINE Several bottles of sparkling, whites and reds from the Hunter Valley and beyond were on the menu at ANZA's exclusive vino-tasting event with Petersons Wines.

A top night of sipping, sampling and insights!

ANZA TOURS Members tried their hands at creating Christmas wreaths, snuck behind the scenes at Singapore’s Parliament House, explored Singapore’s Jewish heritage, toured Orchard Road in a double decker bus, and uncovered backstreets and sweet treats in Kampong Gelam. ANZA Tours has never had such a variety of adventures on offer! Turn to p16 to for more.

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ANZA CHRISTMAS IN THE GARDEN ANZA members came together to celebrate the festive season at Christmas in the Garden, hosted in the beautiful grounds of the Australian High Commissioner’s Residence. Set under a canopy of twinkling stars (and fairy lights), the event was a wonderful evening of merriment, holiday cheer, and fantastic company in this exclusive setting.

Guests were treated to a stunning gourmet grazing table

by Lush Platters, which was indeed lush and overflowing with gourmet cheeses, artisanal cured meats, and irresistible savoury bites. Mia Tavola capped it off perfectly with their divine desserts.

Adding to the magical atmosphere, the ANZA Singing Group enchanted attendees with a heartwarming performance of Christmas carols, setting the tone for a truly special evening.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our supporting partner, James Cook University, and to our wonderful members and partners for making this event the perfect way to close out the year. Here’s to more revelry and community spirit in ANZA Land in 2025!

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Annual General Meeting 2025 All members are invited to take part in the ANZA Annual General Meeting 2025, at the New Zealand High Commissioner’s Residence, followed by a cocktail reception. Learn about the ANZA community with reports from our sporting and interest groups, find out about our financial standing, participate in the election of our new Executive Committee, and network with members of the ANZA community.

Interested in getting involved in the community? Join the ANZA Executive Committee!

The following positions on the ANZA Executive Committee are open for nomination: President

Membership Secretary

Vice President

Community Service Coordinator

Executive Secretary

Sporting Coordinator (Two Positions)

Executive Treasurer

Executive Committee Member (Six Positions)

For full position descriptions, online nomination form, and event registration, please refer to the ANZA website at anza.org.sg/agm If you’re interested, or know someone who would be a great fit, please complete the online nomination form by Friday 14 February 2025

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A N Z A AC T IO N

CHARITY IN ACTION

Discover Aidha’s programmes for migrant workers, and exciting volunteer opportunities with ANZA's subgroups.

News just in October was all about community service for our subgroups.

Throughout ANZA, Pink Ribbon Month activities raised funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF).

Morning Tea, Casual Coffee, Cycling, Tours, Netball, and Golf all adopted a pink theme to raise awareness and collect donations. We're thrilled to announce that in total, ANZA raised over $3,000 for this great cause.

Join ANZA Scouts!

Partner Spotlight: Aidha One of ANZA’s long-standing sponsored organisaions, Aidha, helps to improve the lives of migrant domestic workers by offering educational opportunities. Since 2006, over 5,000 students have taken part in their courses.

Tell us more.

Aidha offers courses taught by volunteer mentors in financial management, business

start-ups, and personal life skills. They tend to take place on Sundays at Catapult in Buona Vista alongside some weekday and online classes.

How do the courses work?

The flagship course includes three modules that focus on financial management skills: Module 1 – Manage Your Money Module 2 – Plan Your Financial Future Module 3 – Start Your Business Each module lasts three months, with a maximum class size of 24 students and two mentors/trainers.

Currently delivered in English, a Bahasa version is in the works.

There’s also an “Improve Your English” course and free short courses covering topics like avoiding scams, managing stress, and staying out of debt.

What's the impact of Aidha courses?

They have a huge impact on the future savings rate and long-term investment for migrant domestic workers. Another benefit is the sense of community.

How can ANZA members get involved?

Sponsor your helper to participate in a course.

Encouraging them to build a better financial future can be life-changing.

Alternatively, volunteer with Aidha. Opportunities include class mentorship, helping with operations, or contributing to ad-hoc projects and events.

Class mentor time commitments range from 90 minutes one Sunday a month to three hours across two Sundays per month.

For more information, visit Aidha’s website at aidha.org

The beginning of a new year is a time of change for many ANZA subgroups, with families coming and going. It’s a great opportunity to get involved in running or growing our offerings.

If you're an adult who loves the great outdoors and wants to inspire the next gen of adventurous boys and girls, ANZA Scouts might be for you!

Commitment: Leaders participate for three hours on Saturday afternoons (1.30pm – 4.30 pm) throughout the year, with three overnight weekend camps. Each age group has several leaders, so the expectation is to be available for approximately half the meetings.

Training: Online training is required for child safeguarding, risk management, and programme knowledge. There is also the option to achieve a Diploma of Leadership and Management. scouts@anza.org.sg

ANZA President Toph at Aidha

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G R E AT T I P S

Yes! It is possible to maximise your life and minimise your spend in SG. Here, experts share tips on how to stretch your dollars further.

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eeling the financial pinch is real here in Singapore. As the cost of living continues to rise globally, we’re all looking for ways to maximise our cash while still saving effectively and enjoying all that the red dot has to offer. The good news is there are ways to cut back without sacrificing fun. By being mindful of savings, budgeting, and making smarter choices, you can live your best life while still saving for the future. Here’s how.

Cost Effective TRAVEL Caesar Indra is President of Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform empowering travellers to explore, book, and enjoy a wide range of products including flights, accommodations, transportation services, and unique experiences such as cruises, local attractions, and guided tours.

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ingapore's strategic location provides easy access to affordable holiday destinations. Nearby spots like Bintan, Batam, Bali, and Thailand’s Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Samui are ideal for relaxing getaways. For urban adventures, cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City offer great value. For a unique experience, cruises departing from Singapore, including Disney Cruise Line, offer exceptional value by bundling transport, accommodation, dining, and entertainment.

Packages are often more cost effective than booking each component individually. Bundled deals typically come with 32

discounts on multiple services, which works well for costconscious travellers or those flexible in choosing airlines or accommodations.

Flexibility and strategic planning can help you to save significantly.

LEVERAGE PROMOTIONS: Platforms like Traveloka offer major discounts during shopping events like the Traveloka EPIC SALE® and Black Friday, featuring site-wide promotions on flights, accommodations, and activities USE PLANNING TOOLS: Traveloka’s built-in tools allow you to compare prices months in advance, spot cost-effective dates, and avoid peak travel periods highlighted in the app SET PRICE ALERTS: Enable Price Alerts to get notifications when fares drop for your preferred routes and travel dates BE FLEXIBLE: Travel on off-peak days, such as midweek departures, or explore alternative airports and destinations to lower costs Avoid hidden costs by understanding what's included in your booking and how charges are applied. Always review the total costs, including baggage fees, seat selection, transfers, or resort charges, rather than focusing solely on the displayed base price. Check policies on cancellations, changes, and baggage restrictions to avoid unexpected fees.

Exchange rates, foreign rates and foreign transaction fees can add up, significantly increasing costs. To minimise these expenses, use multi-currency credit cards or payment apps with favourable exchange rates, and always pay in the local currency to avoid unfavourable conversion rates. traveloka.com

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OUT & ABOUT in Singapore

Pic: Sam Churchill

Charley Larcombe is the Marketing Manager Singapore at the ENTERTAINER, a savings lifestyle app and the leading provider of Buy One Get One Free (1-for-1) offers for restaurants, bars, attractions, leisure activities, spas, salons, services, hotel stays and more throughout Singapore.

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he ENTERTAINER is about making the unaffordable, affordable. The offers are simple to use - they’re always 1-for1 and can be redeemed seven days a week throughout the year, with minimal exclusion days like public holidays. Each merchant provides three 1-for-1 offers, allowing you to save on a variety of experiences.

The annual subscription is just $85 and gives you access to 1000's of offers. New merchants are continuously added, and exciting bonus offers are available each month. There are no

percentages off, eaten up by GST and plus-plus, nor are there restrictions at the weekend. Our offer is the same throughout the year, so you know exactly how much you’re saving. The average user saves at least $679 each year.

You can realistically treat yourself. Mid-week dinners may be something you strike from the list when trying to economise, but if you can go to Les Bouchons at Rochester Commons or Bedrock Origin on Sentosa and dine on 1-for-1 steaks – yes, really, only pay for ONE – it can be totally affordable.

Friends with children love activities. It can be pricey to keep the kids entertained at the weekends in Singapore, but with 1-for-1 offers at places like BOUNCE Singapore or Forest Adventures, the whole family can have fun (and still have a college fund!).

I personally load up on all the salon treatments! I just pop along to Pixie Nails or N20 on my lunch break, pay for my mani or pedi using the voucher, and then the next time, it’s free! theentertainerme.com instagram.com/entertainersg

CHARLEY'S PICK OF THE ENTERTAINER OFFERS:

THE KITCHEN TABLE W Singapore Sentosa Cove Exceptional woodfired feasting 1-for-1 Dinner Buffet Estimated savings SGD 98

BASKIN ROBBINS Multiple locations For kids (big and little) with a sweet tooth or for weekend treats 1-for-1 Single King Scoop Estimated savings SGD 7

MO & JO SOURDOUGH BURGERS Dempsey Refuel post ANZA Soccer 1-for-1 Burger Estimated savings SGD 18

HIGH ELEMENT @ XSCAP8 Orchard Central Sweat it out and burn extra calories at this indoor ninja course 1-for-1 Admission Estimated savings SGD 25

FOREST ADVENTURE Bedok Zip lines, Tarzan swings, challenging obstacles 1-for-1 Grand Course Ticket Estimated savings SGD 25

PAUL BAKERY Multiple Locations including Tanglin Mall Tried, tested, ever-popular 1-for-1 Main Course Estimated savings SGD 20

BOUNCE SINGAPORE Cineleisure Who HASN’T done a kid’s party here?!

1-for-1 General Admission Estimated savings SGD 25

ADEVA SPA Paragon Rooftop spa above the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road 1-for-1 60min Body Massage Estimated savings SGD 246

JURLIQUE Orchard Stunning spa using products grown on the brand’s biodynamic farm in the Adelaide Hills 1-for-1 60min Classic Signature Hydrating Facial Estimated savings SGD 195

Use ANZA10 at checkout for $10 off the ENTERTAINER 2025. Only available to ANZA members!

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Pictures by the ENTERTAINER

GINKYŌ BY KINKI Holland Village Beautiful interiors, stunning dishes 1-for-1 Main Course Estimated savings SGD 35

CIN CIN Tanjong Pagar Their boutique gin collection means 500 different ways to build your favourite martini.

1-for-1 Cocktail Estimated savings SGD 25

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Daily FINANCIAL HABITS Alexis Livanes, Partner at Eight Wealth International is an accomplished financial adviser with over 20 years of business experience.

She is known for her unique skills and efficient strategies in financial advising that foster deep connections with her clients.

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he start of the new year can be a great catalyst to take stock and review your ambitions for the future. What do you want to achieve financially, how will you get there and who will be with you on that journey? I regularly conduct financial health checks with my clients to ensure things stay on track: List all assets (cash, investments, property) and liabilities (loans, credit card debt) Calculate your net worth Analyse spending. Review last year’s expenses to identify patterns or waste Set priorities: Determine short, medium, and long-term financial goals Check your retirement balances and consider how they fit into your retirement planning Review insurance policies. Ensure adequate coverage for health, life, and critical illness Set financial goals that are realistic. Break goals into smaller steps and focus on weekly or monthly milestones. Reward progress by celebrating small wins to stay motivated.

Meet with a qualified financial advisor. They can guide you in the planning process and keep you on track to achieve your set goals. I always suggest following the SMART framework: SPECIFIC “Save $10,000 for school fees” MEASURABLE Track your progress monthly

Member BENEFITS exclusive to ANZA! Signing up to an ANZA membership doesn’t just mean being part of the best community in town, it allows you automatic access to a host of incredible discounts. Alongside our sports and activities groups, weekly and monthly events and community gatherings, don’t forget about these!

ACHIEVABLE Base goals on current income and expenses RELEVANT Tie them to life priorities TIME-BOUND Set deadlines Building an emergency fund may feel overwhelming, but like many things, once you start saving it can be a huge relief and something you can feel confident and proud of.

START SMALL Aim for one month’s worth of expenses as an initial milestone AUTOMATE SAVINGS Set up a separate account and automate transfers REDIRECT SAVINGS to your emergency fund USE WINDFALLS WISELY Tax refunds, bonuses, or cash gifts can fast-track your fund Make small, achievable changes now. By taking small steps you will soon see improvements and start to feel good about your progress.

Switch to hawker meals. They’re affordable, delicious, and a staple in Singapore Utilise public transport. It’s efficient and cost-effective Cancel unused subscriptions. Assess if you need all your streaming services or gym memberships Leverage sales and cashback apps. Apps like ShopBack or Fave can save money Cut energy costs. Reduce aircon usage or switch to energysaving appliances Take a hybrid approach to saving and paying off debt.

Focus on paying off high-interest debt first (e.g. credit cards); simultaneously save a smaller amount to build a cushion; reduce reliance on loans or credit cards to avoid new debt; choose a strategy that works for your psychology.

Contact Alexis directly on mobile: +65 8161 9426 and at eightwealthinternational.asia

PETERSONS WINES Great deals exclusive to ANZA members

SOSPIRI 10% off the total bill

SARNIES 10% off in-store and online

AMÒ 10% off the total bill

THE MEAT CLUB $25 off sitewide LOCABA 15% off of online purchases

HARD ROCK CAFE SINGAPORE 15% discount on food & beverages

BAIA 10% off the total food & beverage bill

SOUTHBRIDGE 10% off the total bill

For a full list of ANZA member discounts and to check on ever-changing deals, log onto anza.org.sg

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My world of endless possibilities through limitless learning From exploring their creative side through artistic expression to diving deeper into Maths with engaging learning games, every experience at One World International School helps build a lifelong love of learning in our students. Learn more about our globally-recognised IB and Cambridge curricula and student experience today.

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Purchase Power

If you’re an Aussie expat in Singapore and considering buying property back home, here’s what to consider before getting hold of those keys.

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f you’re an Australian expat, borrowing to purchase a home overseas can be a challenge.

Several obstacles can complicate the process, so it’s important to understand them before you explore your options for borrowing and buying property in Oz.

Foreign income may be assessed differently One of the challenges lenders face is accurately assessing income earned overseas. Fluctuations in currencies, different tax systems, and varying employment standards can all impact borrowing capacity.

From the banks’ perspective, it’s all about assessing risk, and they may apply significant discounts to foreign income to reduce that risk.

Currency exchange rates create uncertainty Currency fluctuations can affect the value of income and savings expats may have in foreign currencies. From a lender’s point of view, these changes can influence the ability to service a loan, adding an element of financial uncertainty to the borrowing process.

Expats face stricter lending criteria

where a mortgage broker with expertise in expat lending can provide value to borrowers. They can offer guidance to ensure that an expat has the right documentation to improve their chances of loan approval.

Getting a loan is not always easy

Not all Australian financial institutions offer home loans to Most Australian banks have stricter expatriates, which limits options lending criteria for expatriates than for competitive interest rates and for residents. This can include favourable loan terms. This can higher deposit requirements, a make securing a suitable loan more comprehensive income more difficult, requiring expatriates verification process, and additional to conduct thorough research or documentation to ensure income enlist the help of a mortgage broker stability and reliability. This is specialising in expatriate services.

Level 12, 37 York Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000 avenyou.net.au

Accessing a credit history might be difficult A borrower’s credit history is critical for securing a loan, but this can be challenging if you’ve lived overseas for an extended period. Finding a lender willing to offer favourable loan terms can be tough without a recent Australian credit history.

While purchasing property in Australia as an expatriate can be challenging, careful planning and the right advice from an expat lending specialist can help overcome these obstacles, guide borrowers through the complexities of the process, and ultimately lead to a successful and more seamless property purchase.

Alfred Moller, Head of Residential Expat Lending, Asia-Pacific Region.

Alfred specialises in lending to Australian expats living overseas and is head of residential expat lending for the Asia Pacific region.

Scan our QR Code to find out more

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REAL LIFE

When Wynona Leach moved to Singapore, not working was not an option. Here's how she embraced solopreneurship and turned her passion into business.

W

hen my husband Damian and I moved to Singapore 14 fourteen years ago, it was the start of a thrilling adventure. I was a 'trailing spouse', but with a background in advertising and marketing, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, I was excited about future job possibilities. Our daughter, Ivy, was three years old, but I was not intending to be a stay-at-home mum. I planned to work.

We settled into Singapore's East Coast and our second daughter, Poppy, arrived within the first year. During this time I grew a small business with a food focus.

Growing up in a Vietnamese household in Sydney, food has always been a huge part of my life. Dining together as a family is customary within Asian culture, and I had a love of cooking and creating from a young age. The business went well, and after two years I sold it to a local company.

In 2017 I started noticing a slew of social media posts about grazing platters of meats, cheeses and salads in Australia and the UK. Wonderfully presented with bountiful fresh produce, the food looked amazing but platters didn’t have 38

a presence in Singapore. I had a strong feeling they’d be popular.

The idea to create my own grazing platters arose while planning Poppy’s sixth birthday party at our condo. I whipped up a mix of adult and kidfriendly options. For the savoury selection there was mild cheeses like gouda and brie, along with charcuterie items such as Parma ham, salami, and chicken sausages.

Healthy choices included fresh crudités, falafels, hummus, fresh and dried fruits, freshly squeezed juices, crackers, and pretzels. For something sweeter, I added fairy bread, homemade cookies, rocky road, and a cake I baked and decorated myself. The platters went down a storm, and within a week I acquired my first paying customer.

With my little bit of previous business experience, I set the wheels in motion for promoting a new company. I named it Lush Platters after my husband’s family in Devon, UK, who often describe something amazing as 'lush'. My focus was on providing grazing platters and larger grazing tables - essentially a grand, visually stunning cheese platter spread

Above: Poppy's 2nd birthday Below: Ivy's 7th birthday

across a table, often becoming the centrepiece of an event.

Building a brand The restrictions on expat spouses starting a company in Singapore were different back then, yet still easier than setting up solo in Australia today. I dove into the launch, buying packaging, perfecting my logo, and setting up my website and social media. I partnered with The Cheese Shop (cheeseshop.sg), which imports cheeses from Europe’s small farms, and began sourcing high-quality products from local markets, like Tekka Market in Little India.

My first post about Lush Platters went live on Australia Day, 26 January 2018. I did

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I STARTED WITH AN EXTRA FRIDGE IN OUR HOME KITCHEN AND AN INTENSE DRIVE TO SUCCEED

feel a little nervous, but ultimately the whole process was great fun, especially as I was doing something I truly enjoyed.

I initially ran Lush Platters from home, which was allowed under Singapore’s rules for small businesses at the time. I started with an extra fridge in our home kitchen and an intense drive to succeed.

It was a frenzied and exhilarating time, with most of the work being carried out at weekends or after the girls went to bed, often until 3am. After eight months of steady growth, I had the funds to move into a 400sqft space in Telok Karau.

Scaling business At first, I catered primarily for children’s birthdays, dinner parties, and small gatherings. But slowly, orders came in from small businesses too. In early 2020, I moved once more into a 1,100sqft office in Joo Chiat. This allowed me to have a small space of my own, refurbish the main area into a working kitchen, and to work professionally while meeting the Singapore Food Authority’s regulations.

We were a small team of five people, doing everything from taking orders to assembling the tables. Sometimes Damian doubled up as delivery driver!

While the pandemic was devastating, it turned out to be a catalyst for my business. The demand for home deliveries surged and we went from manageable weekly orders to a record-breaking 600 platters in one day! To set ourselves apart, we began making our own crackers, dips, roasted nuts, and rocky road - items you’ll find on every grazing table we create.

In 2023 Lush Platters acquired a local partner and we moved into a new 5,500sqft facility. Since then our offerings have expanded to provide canapés, light bites, salads, sandwiches, breakfast options, as well as hot food and buffets.

We’ve evolved to 14 people, and I’ve learned how to scale the business by hiring chefs, drivers, and operations staff.

Clients now include Dyson, Chanel, Rolex, Apple, and ANZA! My solopreneur journey hasn’t been without challenges. Balancing business,

family, and my personal life is a delicate juggle. As women, we’re experts at multitasking, but having a strong support network is essential to my success. I tend to follow my heart more than my head, always striving to stay true to the brand’s essence and remembering why I started Lush Platters in the first place: to create beautiful food that brings people joy.

Alongside providing a service for major corporates, we continue to deliver platters for children’s parties and I always try to stop by and personally check in with our customers. Seeing the pleasure my food brings to others and connecting with clients is what keeps me motivated.

Being an entrepreneur requires unlimited passion, persistence, and the drive to keep pushing forward, especially for the long haul. I recharge by taking time for myself - whether it’s hitting the gym, enjoying quality time with friends, or having date nights with Damian.

Thankfully my daughters, now aged 13 and 17, keep me in touch with the latest dining trends! Funny enough, when we go out to eat, I’m always drawn to the grazing platters. I still adore them especially when someone else is making one for me!"

Wynona’s Solo Business Tips

FOLLOW YOUR HEART – Make your business idea something that excites you and aligns with your interests. When you love what you do, it’s easier to stay motivated and overcome challenges.

START SMALL – Begin with a manageable operation that fits into your life. Starting a business is the fun part, it’s when it grows that things step up and the pressure mounts.

LEVERAGE YOUR NETWORK – Talk to other entrepreneurs, especially those with small business in Singapore as there’s a lot to learn.

UTILISE ONLINE PLATFORMS – Take advantage of Singapore’s easy online business registration (acra.gov.sg) and e-commerce

platforms like Shopify, which can streamline setup and operations for small businesses.

FIND BALANCE – As a mum and wife, time management is key. Create a routine that allows you to focus on both your family and your company. Having a strong and supportive family around you is essential, but don’t forget to make time for yourself too.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE – Navigating the legal and financial landscape in Singapore can be tricky as an expat. As Lush Platters expands, I’ve hired a business coach to ensure that I remain compliant and to get expert advice. lushplatters.com

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Jessi, a Grade 11 student at UWCSEA Dover, participates in the IBDP Systems Transformation course

EMPOWERING THE NEXT generation of Discover the innovative Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change unit at UWCSEA, a unique Standard Level IB Diploma Programme course inspiring students with real-world skills and knowledge.

changemakers

B

ack home in Peru, Jessi remembers seeing dozens of new people in her neighbourhood.

At the time, she lived in Huaycán, a small town

nestled in the valleys of an ancient archaeological

The course empowers IBDP students to expand their learning through research, collaboration, and realworld knowledge

site just outside Lima. It was the height of the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, and thousands of refugees were pouring into Peru, settling in cities and rural towns like the one Jessi lived in.

Jessi, now a Grade 11 scholar at UWCSEA Dover, wonders how she can support refugees in her hometown, especially youth, to integrate into the local community - and eventually, help build pathways for their futures. She is one of 54 students embarking on the two-year IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) course, Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change.

The two-year Standard Level course aims to provide students with the opportunity to engage in real-world solutions to relevant and significant issues.

“One of the UWC Values that closely aligns with me is compassion. Having solidarity and being

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empathetic with others is important. The Systems Transformation course offers an opportunity to make

learning,” Eivind says.

Louie Barnett, the education lead at Amala and guest speaker at the course launch, is deeply

a real change,” Jessi says.

UWCSEA, following UWC Atlantic, is the second

passionate about providing refugees access to post-

UWC College and one of only a handful of schools

secondary education. In collaboration with Eivind,

in the world to offer this new IB Diploma pathway.

co-course designer Clayton Chmiel, and their teams,

The course is equivalent to two IBDP subjects. Eivind

Louie developed the unit’s focus on students creating

Lodemel, one of the course designers, shares the

resource packs, toolkits, and country profiles to

focus for the first of three units: ‘How do we improve

support refugees when they graduate from Amala.

available pathways for refugees as they enter into

“The UWC Mission is to use education as a force

entrepreneurship, further education, or employment?’

to unite people, nations, and cultures. There’s that element that you can

In partnership with Amala Education, the first Systems Transformation unit focuses on positive change in refugee communities

support refugees in overcoming barriers and bringing people together; it’s a force for good to do that. It’s a challenged community, so overcoming those barriers is pretty important,” Louie says.

As the Systems Transformation course focuses on project-based learning, the course aims

to create opportunities for students to learn from industry partners like Amala. To facilitate interactive learning, UWCSEA is hosting a series - ’Changemaker Amala’s Louie Barnett is one of the guest speakers in the Systems Transformation course who’s mentoring students in their projects

EMPOWERING STUDENTS

of the Month’ - where guest speakers can connect with students at the East and Dover campuses.

DEVELOPING PATHWAYS Focused on making positive change and forming solutions with real-world impact, the Systems Transformation course aims to develop the

At the course launch, students kicked off with a

competencies and skill sets needed for students to

hands-on systems mapping exercise, visualising

take on independent projects. This starts with a series

complex data and identifying patterns leading to

of scaffolded, teacher-led projects in Grade 11, which

ways to support refugees. In roundtable groups,

are conducted together with interactions with experts

they brainstormed solutions and discussed the

and industry partners like Amala.

many challenges refugees face in accessing higher

In Jessi’s hometown of Peru, the refugee crisis is

education. Through mind mapping and filming their

unrelenting. Today, more than 1.5 million Venezuelan

presentations, they turned their ideas into impactful

refugees living in Peru - nearly 35% of them are under

conversations.

19 - need access to entrepreneurship opportunities,

In partnership with Amala Education, the first

further education, and employment. To Jessi, the

Systems Transformation unit focuses on making

partnership with Amala empowers her to make the

positive change in refugee communities through

first step in understanding the needs of refugees.

effective student projects that drive new initiatives in

“You’re giving them tools and opportunities. The UWCSEA mission is to use education as a force

awareness and advocacy.

“The partnership is an obvious connection as we try

to unite people, so that connection with Amala is

to break down the walls of the classroom and engage

important and that the work we students do makes a

students in authentic partnerships for real-world

difference,” she says.

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 January/February 2025

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Get switched on about schools in SG with ANZA’s insider guide

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Choosing the right school for your child is never easy, and it can feel even more overwhelming when you live overseas. Read on for advice.

M

any questions in life can cause an increased heartbeat: “Shall we meet on Friday?” (When you definitely don’t want to); “What's wrong with your face?” (When - as far as you're aware - nothing!); and “Which school are you sending your child to?” (When you literally have no idea).

Making parental decisions about your child’s education is stressful. For years, you’ve tended to this small person whom you know inside out, and now you’re expected to pack them off and trust them with others who don’t know what makes them unique and special.

DAILY PEACE OF MIND THAT YOUR CHILD IS HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SAFE IS PRICELESS 44

There’s no doubt that choosing the right school for your child is critical; it shapes their educational journey, social development, and overall wellbeing.

As Lisa Olinski, Director of Marketing & Admissions at Australian International School (ais.com.sg), explains, “School is where children spend the majority of their time outside of home, so the environment must foster not only academic growth, but also personal development.”

Indeed, while the curriculum available, educational standards, and reputation play a large part in your choice, a school that aligns with your child’s learning style and interests is equally important. Lisa emphasises, “The right school should nurture values that mirror those of your family, ensuring your child feels supported and understood in every aspect of their life." For working parents, she adds, “Daily peace of mind that your child is happy, healthy and safe is priceless.”

For expats, the process of selecting a school overseas differs significantly

from choosing one back home. “On your home turf, you might be limited by neighbourhoods with just a few school options,” says Lisa. “Schools might be well-known or recommendations from local networks are readily available, but expats may need to navigate new education systems and the cultural dynamics of their adopted country. The school’s community can also become a vital support network for both parents and children, making the adjustment to life in a strange land feel much smoother.”

Unlike back home, in Singapore you have a lot of school options available in a small radius. This abundance can add complexity, especially if the Lion City is not somewhere you’re considering making your long-term home.

“For this reason, it’s important to consider the cultural transition and whether the school offers a supportive

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environment for integrating children from diverse backgrounds," Lisa explains.

"Familiarity with the curriculum is vital too, particularly if a return to your native country is on the horizon.”

A POSITIVE OUTLOOK Of course, making an incorrect choice of school for your child is possible, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of the world. If your final pick turns out not to be suitable, your child might encounter issues such as finding it harder to engage, or feel fully comfortable in general. As a parent, it’s likely that you’ll also experience anxiety, as we all want the best for our kids.

“Every child is different, and if the school’s values or approach don’t quite match their needs, they might experience a dip in enthusiasm or confidence,” warns Lisa, who adds that challenges are often manageable with support, and that it’s essential for families to keep a positive outlook. “Every transition is a learning opportunity that can often lead to better outcomes.”

Typically, after one to two terms, you should be able to gauge if the school is the right fit. During this time, observe your child’s happiness, academic progress, and social interactions. “Regular catchups with teachers can provide insights into how your child is coping. If after a term or two they are still unsettled or not progressing, it might be worth reassessing the situation,” Lisa says.

If you truly believe you've made the wrong choice and it’s not just that awkward new transition phase, start gathering details about your concerns from both your child and their teachers.

“Open communication is crucial to understanding where the problems lie.

You can also consult with the Head of School or counsellors to suss out your child’s needs,” Lisa suggests. “It can be hard to listen with an open mind, as anything related to our children activates the heart, however, weighing up matters before settling elsewhere can help drive your decision.”

If after trying to resolve the problems you feel no improvement, consider looking into other schools. Trust between parents and the school is essential for both to collaborate effectively, creating an environment that fosters a contented life, propelling children towards a fulfilling and successful future.

School Selection Checklist • The Academic Results AIS consistently focuses on academic excellence, with students achieving strong results in both the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes.

• The Fit AIS places a strong emphasis on creating a nurturing, inclusive environment that values respect, opportunity, and achievement. The school's culture aligns with families who prioritise holistic education, where academic achievement is balanced with character development and community engagement. It also fosters global citizenship, encouraging students to respect and appreciate different cultures.

• The Size Does your child revel in being the centre of attention, or do they prefer to be a small fish in a big pond? While AIS is a large school with 2,500 students, it’s divided into three sub-schools (Early Years, Elementary, and Secondary), creating smaller communities within the larger structure. This allows for a more personalised approach to education while offering the benefits of a larger institution, such as extensive facilities and a broad range of academic and extracurricular options.

• The Facilities State-of-the-art facilities support a wide range of academic and co-curricular activities. The AIS campus includes specialised spaces such as science laboratories, art studios, music rooms, and classrooms. There are also extensive sports facilities, including swimming pools, gymnasiums, and outdoor fields.

• The Communication Maintaining clear and open communication between the school and families is key at AIS. Regular updates are provided through the portal, newsletters, and direct emails.

There are parent-teacher conferences, and there’s also an active Parent Association.

• The Management AIS takes a positive and proactive approach to behaviour management, focusing on promoting respect, responsibility, and resilience among students. The school has clear behaviour expectations, reinforced through its pastoral care programmes.

Emotional wellbeing is also an important factor, offering students support through counsellors and teachers who work closely with them.

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SHOWCASING

THE PERSE SCHOOL (SINGAPORE)

The Perse School (Singapore) offers top-tier British education at an accessible tuition fee.

Read on for 7 key facts about the school.

1

400 Years of Legacy and Educational Excellence Founded in Cambridge, UK, in 1615, The Perse School has earned its place as one of the top five schools in the UK for Oxford and Cambridge offers, leading the way in both academic achievement and personal development. For over four centuries, it has provided generations of students with a world-class education that balances tradition with innovation.

Now, The Perse School is bringing its time-honoured traditions and innovative approach to education, welcoming its first cohort of students in January 2025.

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2

A Holistic Approach to Education

3

Bringing The Perse Way to Singapore

The Perse School (Singapore) offers a three-dimensional teaching approach that integrates academic, pastoral, and extracurricular development. This is the essence of The Perse Way - a balanced education designed to equip students with the skills, mindset, and resilience needed for a happy and successful life.

As The Perse School expands its legacy into Singapore, the vibrant new campus in Upper Bukit Timah merges the best of both worlds—academic tradition and innovative learning. The school remains committed to shaping future leaders, instilling the same values that have defined The Perse for over 400 years.

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4 A Future-focused Cambridge Curriculum “At The Perse School (Singapore), we believe in developing the whole child. At its core, our curriculum includes essential subjects like mathematics, English, and languages, all of which are enhanced by additional courses such as Entrepreneurship, Robotics, Coding, Global Perspectives and Sustainable future.

Sustainability, in particular, is central to everything we do, as we aim to prepare young people for a better future and a better world. It integrates outdoor learning, with activities like nature reserve exploration and visits to locations such as the Marina Barrage, where students learn about sea level change and flood prevention.”

“This hands-on approach is complemented by The Perse Exploration Society - our outdoor pursuits programme gives students the chance to explore and learn in diverse environments.”

“We’ve carefully crafted a curriculum that integrates academic excellence with a strong emphasis on experiential and outdoor learning, and we look forward to watching our students engage with the world in increasingly meaningful ways. We are also looking forward to seeing our community come together, as we build a school culture that values curiosity, collaboration, and kindness.”

Daniel Cross, Principal of The Perse School (Singapore).

5 Introducing Daniel Cross

Daniel brings over 30 years of British teaching experience, including 24 years at The Perse School Cambridge, most recently as Senior Deputy Head. His profound understanding of The Perse Way and unwavering commitment to academic excellence play a pivotal role in establishing the school’s curriculum and culture.

Campus 6 New with Specialised Facilities We are incredibly proud of our facilities, which are designed to inspire creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning.

Our outdoor learning spaces offer students the chance to connect with nature, deepening their understanding of sustainability and fostering teamwork skills through immersive, experiential learning. From our lush green landscapes to our dedicated outdoor classrooms, every corner of our campus is designed to spark curiosity and encourage active participation.

In addition to our academic facilities such as STEM labs, we are

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excited about the breadth of programmes we offer.

Whether through sports, music, drama, or clubs focused on entrepreneurship and robotics, our students have a wide range of opportunities to develop new talents, build leadership skills, and discover their passions outside the classroom.

Our sports facilities include a massive football field, an AstroTurf pitch, and a variety of multi-purpose spaces for team sports and individual fitness.

Meanwhile, our arts studio and culinarian lab provide the perfect backdrop for students to explore their creative potential, whether they’re participating in drama productions, art exhibitions, or music recitals.

7 The Cambridge Connection

We will maintain strong ties to our Cambridge roots, providing opportunities for collaboration and shared experiences with The Perse School Cambridge. This global perspective enriches our educational offerings, giving students a deeper understanding of different cultures and ideas. Shared resources, student exchanges and training ensure our teachers uphold the same level of knowledge and values.

The Perse School (Singapore) 58 Chestnut Drive, Singapore 679301 +65 6233 2183 | admissions@perse.edu.sg www.perse.edu.sg

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When it comes to understanding school life, the voices of students matter most. Here’s what children from Singapore's finest schools have to share about their day-to-day activities.

“MUSIC HAS GIVEN ME THE CHANCE TO ENGAGE WITH MY MĀORI CULTURE” Eva, 17, Year 12 IB Student, Tanglin Trust School What do you like about school?

Tanglin has a variety of music opportunities that range from informal pop-up performances to ensemble and solo concerts. These have provided me with great experience and more confidence in myself.

Most interesting thing you learnt today?

How to use a LUX metre! This is a device that measures light intensity. I had to 48

learn how to use it for my Chemistry IA on how temperature affects the light intensity of glow sticks.

Top place to hang out?

I love having the opportunity to go to the music department to sing for an hour or work on songs I'm writing. I also like the sixth-form common room because it’s a comfortable, private area where I can hang out with friends to chill out or study.

Most engaging school project so far?

Setting up Live at the Hive, a fortnightly live music gig hosted in the Senior School common room. It provides Year 7-13 students with a relaxed space to perform in. I love it because I like seeing the younger students perform.

Favourite subject and why?

Music, because I’m really passionate about singing and songwriting, and

through the IB HL Music course I can explore new genres. Music has also given me the chance to engage with my Māori culture, for example when I performed a medley of traditional Māori songs for the New Zealand male choir.

Dream job when you leave school?

I’m excited to be moving home to Aotearoa, New Zealand for university. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with my Māori roots and finding more music opportunities there. I love incorporating aspects of Pacific Island music into my original music, such as the ukulele in my song "Daydreams". I also love singing Māori songs and I would love to sing them alongside my whānau (family) and friends.

95 Portsdown Road, Singapore, 139299 tts.edu.sg

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“MEETING THE AUSTRALIAN WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM INSPIRED ME TO WORK HARD” Sienna, 10, Year 6, Dulwich College (Singapore)

“I APPROACH LEARNING WITH AN OPEN MIND” Ashlee, 16, Class of 2025, Grade 12, Canadian International School (CIS)

What do you love about school?

Spending time with my friends. They always make me laugh, support me, and share great ideas.

Everything is more fun with friends!

Most interesting thing you learnt at school today?

I earned my Bunsen burner license in science, and put it to the test by boiling 100 ml of water. In humanities, we explored Hinduism by creating a video that showcased a role play of the lives of Rama and Sita. I also learned to play “Love Story” on the guitar.

Fave project at school?

One of my favourite projects was in Year 5, when we were tasked with designing a Dulwich school to present to the community.

My group focused on creating “Dulwich Dubai”, incorporating sustainable practices and establishing a biophilic environment that would make students feel happy and calm.

Who’s your favourite teacher?

I really love the sports teachers who are kind, inclusive, and supportive. Mr. Chia is energetic, always positive, and has a great sense of humour. Ms. Kaur encourages me to “never give up” and to be the best I can be.

Dream job?

I’m passionate about science, the human body, and helping people, so becoming a doctor could be a great fit for me. I know I need to be brave, determined, and kind, as well as have strong teamwork skills. Meeting the Australian women’s rugby team inspired me to work hard and chase my dream of representing my country in a team sport one day.

Fave thing about Canadian International School (CIS)?

Interacting with my peers from different classes. The range of diversity I’m met with every day encourages me to approach learning with an open mind. I take subjects from Film to Physics, and this allows me to speak and work with people who hold varying interests and perspectives.

What's the most interesting thing you learnt today?

I learnt about the Doppler effect in physics. Essentially, this effect explains why sounds sound different depending on the position or distance from the source.

Best place to hang out at school and why?

The Red Dot Cafe. It has lots of open space and natural light and you feel a constant sense of community around you.

Most memorable project so far?

The ongoing Collaborative Film Project. It requires me to work with my group both in and out of school, thereby exposing me to different working environments. It’s helped expand my creative skills and strengthened my connections with other students.

Who’s your favourite teacher?

Ms. Keohan. She always welcomes our class in a good mood and makes us laugh. She makes learning exciting.

Dream job post school?

Something related to business studies. I’ll need to be sociable and engaging with good leadership skills.

71 Bukit Batok West Ave 8, Singapore, 658966 singapore.dulwich.org

7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore, 649414 cis.edu.sg

“ALL THE TEACHERS ARE SUPER NICE” Summer, 10, Year 6, Brighton College (Singapore) Best bit about school?

I like being with my friends and all the teachers are super nice and it’s a really nice community.

What’s the most interesting thing you learnt today?

I learnt about hydra in science. They’re a type of animal - if you cut them in half they’ll grow their bodies back. So interesting!

Where do you hang out?

At the Brighton Brew cafe with my friends - we eat snacks and talk a lot there.

What’s been your most memorable school project?

Last year we had to make a project about an animal from a biome - my class was assigned to the savannah. I researched the African wild dog and I learnt that they have large ears to help keep them cool.

What do you want to do when you leave school?

I’d like to be an actor or an author as I love drama and creating stories.

1 Chuan Lane, Singapore, 554299 brightoncollege.edu.sg January/February 2025

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“THERE ARE SO MANY ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE SIXTH FORM” Elsie, 16, Grade 11, North London Collegiate School (Singapore) Fave part of school?

The wide range of enrichment activities available, from student-run societies to the insightful McCabe lectures every two weeks. There are so many opportunities in the Sixth Form, which has been amazing for me to explore.

Key thing you learnt today?

I learned about the hybridisation of molecular ‘s’ and ‘p’ orbitals in chemistry, which was challenging but really interesting. In English Literature, I’m studying Euripides’ Medea - it’s been intense but fun.

Best place to hang out?

Definitely the library, where our amazing librarian, Mr. Jonathan Guy, always provides great book recommendations.

It’s also a perfect spot to study and find revision materials.

Favourite school project?

I really enjoyed the Lean In Girls initiative that launched recently within the NLCS (Singapore) community.

Post-school plans?

I hope to return to Australia to attend university, though I’m still undecided on my area of study. To prepare, I’m taking a broad range of subjects in both sciences and humanities, while also participating in academic opportunities beyond school to help me make a decision.

130 Depot Road, Singapore, 109708 nlcssingapore.sg

“THE SPIDER WEB PLAYGROUND IS AN OPEN SPACE WITH LOTS OF GREENERY” Manaia, 9, Year 5, Nexus International School (Singapore) Most interesting thing you worked on at school today?

Our project, Peace and Conflict exists within Communities.

I worked with my group to make a poster about peace and conflict and how we can reduce conflict in school. We may present this to another year group.

Favourite place to hang out?

The Spider Web playground. I like it because it’s an open space with lots of greenery.

It makes me feel cosy surrounded by nature.

Most memorable project at school?

In Year 4, we had to create models of natural disasters and I worked with my dad to create a tsunami. We used a bucket of water with sand, toys, and other stuff in it. We took a wooden plank to simulate the waves of a tsunami in the bucket. It was quite a challenge, especially bringing it into school without spilling it!

Who’s your favourite teacher?

Ms. Sarah because she was really nice and like me, she is from New Zealand. She would speak in Māori, and I would be the only one in class who knew it. I felt a great connection with her.

What do you want to do when you leave school?

I'd like to be someone who helps people in need. I want to help people with no food or shelter and I’d like to contribute to a good cause.

1 Aljunied Walk, Singapore, 387293 nexus.edu.sg

“I DESIGNED AND BUILT A UKULELE STAND” Sam, 16, Year 12, Marlborough College Malaysia What’s your favourite part of school?

The extracurricular programme. Whether it’s singing in the choir, playing football, or participating in house competitions, I cherish the opportunities to explore my interests.

What’s the most interesting thing you learnt today?

How to calculate gravity using the Handbrake and Tracker apps in physics. It not only made the concept clearer, but also demonstrated how fundamental physics is to understanding everyday phenomena.

Where do you like to hang out?

My school has a building called the "Marlburian". The lower floor is very open and a great place to socialise with friends. The upstairs is a nice study area, where I go to work during my free periods.

Favourite school project?

My Design Technology coursework stands out. I designed and built a ukulele stand for children in the prep school to use, which allowed me to experiment with various materials and techniques.

Who’s your favourite teacher?

Mr. Chew, my IB Music teacher. His passion for teaching and dedication to helping students is inspiring. Last year, he helped me to grow not only as an academic, but also as a person. He teaches with passion and gives up his spare time to help students when they struggle.

Jalan Marlborough, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org

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“I NEVER FEEL AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS OR ASK FOR HELP” Talitha, 16, Grade 10, St. Joseph’s Institution International What do you love about school?

How supportive the teachers and students are. I feel encouraged to participate in new activities or projects, and I never feel afraid to ask questions or ask for help with things I find tricky.

Best thing you studied today?

I learnt about the United States of America in the 1920s and the new ideas and culture that has shaped the States and other countries since.

Fave school project so far?

The Literacy Boost, a service programme where a group of us work with kindergarten children to help them develop fine motor skills and a love for reading.

I really enjoy planning fun activities as a team which gets the children interested and involved.

What career would you like to pursue post-education?

I'm still working out my path. I’m curious about how the mind works, so I might consider studying psychology at university.

490 Thomson Road, Singapore, 298191 sji-international.com.sg

“SCHOOL EXPOSES US TO SO MANY DIFFERENT CULTURES AND PERSPECTIVES” Allegra, 17, Year 13, Dover Court International School Best part of school for you?

How diverse it is, and how it exposes students to many different cultures and perspectives.

Most interesting thing you learnt today?

In geography I learned that Singapore has the best city planning and management of any modern nation!

Best place to hang out at your school?

My friends and I enjoy spending time in the Sixth Form exclusive lounge, as it's much quieter than other areas. We collaborate a lot and it’s great to have a space where we're not disturbing other students and younger years.

Who’s your favourite teacher?

My English teacher, Miss Vickers, always pushes us to work to a higher quality. She has directly made me improve my critical thinking and essay writing.

What do you want to do when you leave school?

I plan to pursue university courses in either sports science or literature. My elected IB subjects and external commitments, such as being a netballer, will hopefully lead to either of these courses.

“WE HAVE MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO PURSUE OUR DIFFERENT INTERESTS” Ella, 16, Grade 11, United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) What’s your favourite part of school?

UWCSEA has a holistic approach to learning, so we have many opportunities to pursue our different interests. Chemistry is my academic passion but I’m also a competitive gymnast.

What’s the most interesting thing you learnt today?

During chemistry, I learned how the structure of atoms has changed throughout history.

Where do you like to hang out?

As a student-athlete, I hang out with my fellow gymnasts at the Kishore Mahbubani Library. There are spaces for us to study in our downtime before going for training.

Who’s your favourite teacher?

Dance is one of the six subjects I take in the IB Diploma Programme. Ms. Lauren Hickson, Head of Dance, makes our class feel comfortable. She encourages our creative expression as we explore choreography, performance, World Dance Studies, and more.

What’s your dream job?

My goal is to pursue gymnastics and major in chemistry at a US university. I’m hoping my dedication to both gymnastics and chemistry pays off.

301 Dover Road, Singapore, 139644 nordangliaeducation.com/dcis-singapore

1207 Dover Road, Singapore, 139654 uwcsea.edu.sg

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“A MEMORABLE SCHOOL PROJECT FOCUSED ON CYBER BULLYING” Micorazon, 9, Grade 4, One World International School Nanyang Campus What do you most enjoy about school?

Meeting new friends from different parts of the world and sharing the new learning experience together. The new OWIS facilities provide a great learning space with the latest technologies. I like that we get to work together in groups.

What were your favourite bits about school today?

Firstly, my Chinese language class and my art class. Secondly, learning about the factor family in maths class.

Where do you like to hang out?

The play area of my school because it’s brand new and we can not only play soccer, basketball and all other games, but also take part in activities.

Most memorable school project?

A digital media project focusing on cyber bullying. This is a very important topic to be exposed to at a young age on the risks and impact associated with social media usage.

What career would you like to pursue in the future?

I want to become a fashion designer. I need to further my learning in art and design when I go to university.

21 Jurong West Street 81, Singapore, 649075 owis.org/sg

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“EVERY STUDENT AND TEACHER KNOWS ONE ANOTHER” Amy, 16, Year 12, Chatsworth International School

“I WANT TO PERFORM ON BROADWAY SOMEDAY” Amelia, 11, Sixth Grade, Singapore American School

Favourite part about Chatsworth International School?

That it has a community feeling, where every student and teacher knows one another. No matter what background, culture, or ethnicity you’re from, there’s always a place for you here.

Most interesting thing you learnt today?

How to quantify protein through the Bradford assay, a method where the reagent is added to a substance (e.g. milk) to test how much protein there is.

Where do you like hanging out at your school?

The Nest, because it’s a place where everyone can relax and I can casually catch up with my friends during break.

What’s been your fave school project?

The personal project, because it gave me the opportunity to explore and learn about fusion cooking and my Australian-South African heritage, which was very interesting to me.

Dream job post-school?

I want to become a physiotherapist. I'll need to be a good listener and have strong communication skills in order to understand the patients’ specific needs.

What’s your favourite part of school?

I love all of the activities. I’ve been able to do dance classes, perform in musicals, play basketball, do rock climbing, and lots of other things too.

What’s the most interesting thing you learned in school today?

We just dissected a squid which was so fun and gross. We used the ink to write and learned all about the different parts of a squid.

Where do you hang out at school?

I love being in the auditorium where we have our performances. It's so nice and I feel like we are in a professional performance hall.

What’s been your best school project so far?

We just finished an entire project on religions of the world. I learned a lot as we talked about all of the different religions in Singapore. It was really interesting to spend time learning more about why certain religions celebrate different holidays and what the symbolism is.

What do you want to do when you leave school?

I want to perform on Broadway someday. I know this will take a lot of practice and performances and I’m excited for it.

72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore, 289760 chatsworth.com.sg

40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore, 738547 www.sas.edu.sg

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Offering a Hearts, Hands, and Minds approach, here's where children can thrive in a warm and inclusive space.

A

t Little Paddington Preschool, diverse programmes paired with a caring environment and teacher support tailored to the needs of every child provide the ideal environment for your child to thrive.

Inspired by the best early educational frameworks, we believe in child-led learning, hands-on experiences, and a place that adapts to each individual's unique interests. With campuses across the island, Little Paddington offers a warm, inclusive preschool where children are encouraged to discover and grow.

Through our award-winning curriculum, we focus on your child’s development through our Hearts, Hands, and Minds approach.

HEARTS : Prioritises building close and meaningful relationships with your child, helping them to feel valued and secure. We give them the confidence to explore, take risks, and grow their self-esteem HANDS : Engages little ones in hands-on learning. Through play and exploration, we spark their curiosity and cultivate a love for discovery. Our outdoor space includes a sensory garden, obstacle courses, and a petting zoo, making every day an adventure!

MINDS : Encourages problem-solving and curiosity. By blending play and learning, we foster a love for learning while equipping children with critical thinking skills that enable them to face challenges head on.

Moreover, Little Paddington's atelier programmes are thoughtfully crafted to provide unique learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. Each atelier is designed to support your child with essential life skills and explore the world in fun and engaging ways.

United Nations Atelier

Embark on a global journey and learn about different languages, cultures and traditions in the United Nations Atelier. By exploring countries through an array of activities, children develop a sense of global citizenship, respect for other cultures, and gain a deeper understanding of diversity as they explore the world around them.

Science Atelier Learn about the physical world through fun experiments and discover the magic of science, chemistry and

space in our Science Atelier where children are empowered to ask questions, make observations and think critically. Guided

by Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) principles, the programme also ensures children are exposed to facets of engineering, coding and application skills.

Art Atelier Create dynamic artwork in individual and group projects that encourage self-expression and creativity through various textures, shapes, and colours. Through guided discussions, children at Little Paddington are presented with opportunities to reflect on their work, appreciate the perspectives of others, and take pride in their creations.

Cooking Atelier Children prepare dishes inspired by the country they are studying and develop valuable fine motor skills as they measure, mix, and taste. Learn the basics of healthy eating and nutrition, and gain independence and self-assurance as they put together a tasty dish.

At Little Paddington, whether it’s through play, learning, or new experiences, we’re here to support your child every step of the way. Meet our dedicated team of educators and see firsthand how we create a caring and nurturing environment that enhances curiosity and confidence. Book a centre tour with us at https://www.littlepaddington.com Little Paddington Preschool @littlepaddingtonpreschool

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Settle Back Plan YOUR ESSENTIAL

Squeaky shoes? Shiny new bag? Pencil case sorted?

School prep can be stressful – here’s how to navigate an easy-breezy transition for all the family.

Y

ou’ve done Christmas, you’ve done new year, now it’s time to relax into 2025, yes? Not if you have children in Singapore! No sooner have you packed away the tinsel and finished all the turkey sandwiches, life becomes about daily schedules and endless laundry. Whether your child is starting a new term, a new school year, or a new school altogether, what is ultimately an exciting time can quickly become anxiety-inducing for both children and parents. But it is possible to navigate through the newness with positivity and aplomb. Paula Brunning, a counsellor at The Counselling Place (thecounsellingplace.com), shares her

insights on how to ace the transition period and help your child thrive as they start a new term.

Get prepped "Preparing children for a new school year helps them to focus on learning," Paula says. Depending on their age and the changes ahead, begin planning a month in advance, with general conversations about what lies ahead. Mark the first day of school on a calendar. For younger kids, counting down the “sleeps” until school starts can help them understand the concept of time. “This makes the wait more tangible and gives them something to look forward to,” Paula explains.

• Positive conversations: Begin discussing school expectations and feelings early. Use open-ended questions with your children such as, “What are you looking forward to this year?” This encourages them to express their thoughts.

• Visual aids: Create a countdown chart or a list of fun activities leading up to the first day. Engaging visuals can make the transition feel like fun.

• Routine setting: About two weeks before school commences, practice your morning routine. This includes waking up at the same time, getting dressed, and preparing meals together, so your child knows what to expect.

CREATING ROUTINES CAN LIMIT SCHOOL AVOIDANCE OR COMPLAINTS

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Navigate transitions Transitions can be challenging, and your own comfort level around the situation will influence your child’s feelings.

“Open conversations are crucial,” Paula says. Validate your child’s emotions by acknowledging their fears. “It’s natural to feel nervous about new things, but focusing too much on what is going to be different may elevate worries. Be sure to also point out the many things ahead that will stay the same.”

• Explore the new environment: If your child is changing schools, take a tour together.

Plan the walk or bus route. Familiarise them with the layout of the school, including key areas like the playground, cafe, and classroom.

This will help to demystify their new surroundings. For older children it can be helpful to spend time together browsing the school's website, looking at photos and talking about the things that look interesting and cool.

• Encourage questions: Create a list of questions your child has about school, and explore the answers together.

This could include asking about lunch arrangements, recess activities, or the names of their teachers.

• Practice scenarios: It’s normal to go through a pattern of behaviour that may include anxious questions, so you can invite your child to suggest ideas for handling their concern. For example,

Sch Special - Settle Back Plan Jan25.indd 55

talk about how they made new friends last year, and ask them what would help them be ready to do the same this year? Role-play common situations, like meeting a new teacher or making small talk with new buddies. This can build their confidence and prepare them for real-life interactions.

Encourage excitement Children tend to have the wonderful skill of focusing on the present, but getting them excited about the future school term is important. Involve them in preparations to ignite their enthusiasm.

“Shopping for uniforms and school supplies can make them feel engaged and valued,” Paula suggests. Discuss their favourite memories from last year and what they hope to experience this year.

• Choose supplies together: Getting a backpack, filling a pencil case, or discussing a picture drawn during last year’s class that's still on the fridge are great ways to get children into the right mindset for the new year.

• Celebrate learning at home: Reinforce that learning happens everywhere by exploring new skills together, like cooking, crafting, or skateboarding.

Highlight how fun it is to learn new stuff, connecting it to what they will do at school in the months ahead.

• Create a learning corner: Set up a spot at home where your child can do

homework or read. Personalising this area just for them with their favourite colours or items will make it more inviting.

Address anxiety If your child shows signs of stress, be patient and understanding. “A level of nervousness is normal and healthy,” Paula says. "Help them to express their feelings and remind them of past successes, which can provide reassurance."

Normalise their feelings: Do not say, “There’s nothing to be nervous about!” Use phrases such as, “It’s okay to feel jittery about meeting new friends.” This validates their emotions and makes them feel understood.

• Focus on plus points: Highlight previous transitions that went well, reminding them how they enjoyed a new activity or loved a certain teacher.

Encourage them to think about what they’re looking forward to.

• Do story time: Offer to read stories together that reflect characters overcoming school-related challenges.

This can help your child see their fears in a different light, learn how to settle big feelings and act in brave ways. See p59 for great book ideas • Consider professional help: If your child has experienced something that might make them more alert to danger, consider seeking professional support so they can process their feelings and enter new situations without apprehension.

17/12/2024 10:38:18 am

Create a routine

Self-care for parents

Hands up who didn’t want to go to school as a child?! Many of us can relate to that feeling, which makes school a source of stress. Creating routines so there’s a set of actions to be followed each day can limit school avoidance or complaints.

“Providing a student with what to expect is vital,” Paula notes. “Schedules provide stability, especially around meals and bedtime.”

As a parent, maintaining your wellbeing during this busy time is essential, too!

• Involve them in the process: Work together to create a morning checklist that includes everything from getting dressed to packing their lunch. This makes getting ready feel more manageable.

• Think kind: Be creative in considering what would make it a little nicer for your child if they need some additional reassurance. Maybe they can carry a note from you in their bag, or you can plan for a preferred activity when they get home, such as a play-date or outdoor swim before dinner.

• Wind-down time: Establish a calming bedtime routine that includes reading or quiet time to help them settle down before sleep. This is crucial for ensuring they get enough rest.

• Set aside time to prepare and stay informed about school events.

• Build a support network with other parents. Share experiences, advice and tips to ease feelings of isolation. Consider joining or forming a parent group that meets regularly.

• Make time for yourself with activities that rejuvenate you. This could be a walk, a call with a friend, or meditating on your balcony. Taking care of your own mental health is vital during this busy time.

• Embrace the journey! Transitioning

YOUR OWN COMFORT LEVEL AROUND THE SITUATION WILL INFLUENCE YOUR CHILD’S FEELINGS

back to school can be an emotional journey for families. Remember, you’re in this together. With the right strategies, you can turn this potentially angsty period into an opportunity for bonding and growth. Go for it!

Monitor adjustment Noting how your child is coping with the new school transition is key. “Unsettled sleep or changes in appetite can signal worry,” Paula warns. Create space for daily check-ins to discuss their experiences.

• Quality time: Establish a nightly routine where you can ask open-ended questions about their day, such as, “What was the best part of class?” or “What most challenged you?”

• Body language: Pay attention to their reactions when discussing school.

Look for signs of stress, like fidgeting or withdrawing, which could indicate underlying anxiety.

• Encourage expression: Provide different ways for your child to express their feelings, whether through drawing, journalling, or chatting. This can help them process their emotions.

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Little Leaders, Big Leadership!

How Dulwich College (Singapore) Junior School makes an impact on students, prepping them for a successful and fulfilling future.

A

t Dulwich College (Singapore), we are committed to nurturing young leaders who excel academically and are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and motivation to have a positive impact on the world. Through our Junior School Student Leadership Programme, we empower students to design their own pathways, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The programme encourages students to embrace responsibilities across three core areas: Service, Voice, and Academics; each with a focus on community. Every area emphasises leadership qualities like empathy, communication, and problemsolving, giving students meaningful outlets to apply these skills in real-world contexts.

With 15 unique leadership groups catering to a range of interests and passions, the programme “Students celebrates the diversity brainstorm, of our students. Some strategise, and of our most popular bring their ideas leadership roles are our to life” Book Ambassadors, Sports Ambassadors, Learning Ambassadors, and Mandarin Ambassadors, to name just a few!

This year, a record-breaking 68% of our Junior School students applied for leadership roles, showcasing their eagerness to lead, inspire, and make a difference. With guidance from their teachers, students take the reins in discussions, propose initiatives, and lead projects that benefit both the school and the community. Weekly meetings foster an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation, as students brainstorm, strategise, and bring their ideas to life.

Visionary leaders

The impact of their work is already evident. Recently, our Community Ambassadors organised a “Slime-a-Teacher” event, raising $1,218 for the TWC2 charity. Our Compassionate Community Ambassadors met with Professor Mette Böll from Massachusetts Institute of Technology to discuss using the Compassionate Systems Framework in daily lessons, while our Student Council members introduced Worry Boxes, which teachers regularly use to support student wellbeing. Meanwhile,

our Sustainability Ambassadors launched a school-wide recycling program, establishing recycling stations on every floor and encouraging each class to manage its own recycling.

A highlight this term was our first-ever Junior School Student Leadership Day. This exciting event brought the Junior School together for a day dedicated to building essential leadership skills. With the usual timetable set aside, students participated in workshops that strengthened their teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

At Dulwich College (Singapore), our House System provides another platform for leadership development. Inspired by global leaders who embody courage, integrity, and compassion, this system challenges students to engage with core leadership values and aspire to become adaptable, visionary leaders themselves.

Leadership here is more than just titles or roles; it’s about empowering students to create positive change and approach challenges with an open, growth-oriented mindset. From school assemblies and community service projects to mentorship workshops, our student leaders are making an impact every day.

They’re learning that leadership is about working together to make the world a better place, one small step at a time.

Dulwich College (Singapore) 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, 658966 +65 6890 1003 admissions.singapore@dulwich.org www.singapore.dulwich.org January/February 2025

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

After moving to busy Singapore, it can be easy for a family unit to feel disconnected. But there are ways to build your relationship to make it feel stronger than ever.

S

trengthening family bonds can be challenging in Singapore.

Parents often juggle time-

demanding careers, while children

balance classwork and the pressures

of adapting to new environments. It’s

easy to overlook the rituals that keep us close, and it's tempting to blame mobile devices or social media for

the disconnect. However, long before

emojis, "likes", or even colour television, therapists identified how modern

life made it difficult for parents and children to remain fully connected.

In the 1960's, therapists began

to understand how hectic lifestyles

hindered parents from building a deep

eye contact, physical touch, and a

facing attachment issues, behavioural

- a play-based therapy - emerged to

four key areas:

developmental disabilities, trauma, or

bond with their children. Theraplay

address this need, aiming to strengthen parent-child relationships. As the pace of life has accelerated, Theraplay has become increasingly relevant.

Time can pass quickly without parents

taking a moment to celebrate their

child’s growth. Finding opportunities to accomplish something new together or simply enjoying each other's company

deeper union. Theraplay works through

STRUCTURE: Creating predictable,

safe moments

ENGAGEMENT: Sharing joy and delight NURTURE: Giving and receiving care

challenges, emotional struggles, stress. Theraplay encourages:

Increased understanding and

empathy

Improved emotional regulation

CHALLENGE: Building confidence

Stronger bonding and connection

together

Carefully designed activities explore

Reduced stress and conflict

Take the first step towards a

can be a challenge. Theraplay uses

these areas in a way that engages

closer family dynamic by booking a

that supports families navigating life

balloons to playing air hockey with

Counselling Place today.

structured play to create interactions changes, frequent business travel, or

reunions after extended separations.

What is Theraplay?

At The Counselling Place, Theraplay sessions are filled with laughter as

children and teenagers - from juggling straws and cotton balls. Each session

strengthens the ties between parents

and children through a combination of structure, surprise, delight, nurturing, care, and shared achievement.

parents, children, and teenagers

How families can benefit

silly rhymes about each other

to enhancing your family’s emotional

engage in activities such as creating or inventing a new secret family handshake.

However, behind each age-

appropriate activity, our therapists

Theraplay offers a unique approach

wellbeing and relationships. Empathy, communication, and trust between

everyone can improve significantly.

At The Counselling Place, we specialise in helping families and individuals in Singapore navigate life changes. Our newest team member, Nicholas, joins our diverse team of counsellors, who together offer support across various approaches, disciplines, and cultures. Whether you connect with Nicholas or another of our counsellors, you’ll find personalised and practical strategies tailored to expat life. Take that step towards thriving in your Singapore journey - your family will thank you for it.

It also supports family members in

have carefully structured these

managing emotions, reducing conflict,

the parent to take the lead, fostering

and is especially beneficial for those

seemingly simple moments to encourage

personalised Theraplay session at The

and fostering lasting connection,

www.thecounsellingplace.com 58

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Books for children who are starting school, returning to school, or feeling anxious about school in general.

Giant-Sized Butterflies on My First Day of School by Justin Roberts “This book addresses first-day jitters through the metaphor of butterflies in the stomach.”

Breathe Like a Bear: First Day of School Worries by Kira Willey “Teaches children breathing techniques to manage anxiety about starting school.”

Harry Versus the First 100 Days of School by Emily Jenkins “This chronicles Harry’s adventures and challenges during his first-grade year.”

School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex “Offers a unique perspective on

The Crayons Go Back to School by Drew Daywalt “Follows beloved crayon characters as they navigate the first day back at school.”

Recommended by Paula Brunning The Counselling Place (thecounsellingplace.com)

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney “A story about separation anxiety on the first day of school, ideal for comforting young readers.”

The Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo Willems “A humorous take on the fears associated with starting school.”

the first day of school from the school’s viewpoint.”

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman “Celebrates diversity and inclusion in a school setting, reassuring children about their place in the classroom.”

My Wild First Day of School by Dennis Mathew “Encourages bravery and trying new things through a humorous narrative.”

Even Superheroes Make Mistakes by Shelly Becker “Teaches children that

making mistakes is part of learning and growing.”

The Recess Queen by Alexis O’Neill “Discusses playground dynamics and friendship, perfect for easing social anxieties.”

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Guiding LIGHTS

Katie Goggins, Early Learning Center Interventionist/ Counsellor and Alyssa Fraser, Preschool Teacher, share the role of the adult in encouraging children’s competence in the early years at Singapore American School.

I

n the early years classroom, educators make conscious decisions every moment of every day about when to

step in and when to step back. When making these decisions, we like to consider the message that our actions might unintentionally send to the child.

For three, four and five year olds, this time of their lives is a primary window of learning that encourages the development of self-awareness and self-efficacy, including the capacity to recognise their own strengths and limitations (CASEL Framework, casel.

org). The role of the adult can support a child’s developing sense of confidence and encourage a growth mindset when approaching new situations or challenges.

We are aware that stepping in to help before a child has had a few tries on their own might communicate, “You can’t do this by yourself,” and further reinforces the child’s dependence upon adult assistance.

We are cautious when supplying a model or offering an adult example of an experience, as we might

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unintentionally be communicating,

“W

as possible, trying not to help unless

e need a teacher who is sometimes the director, sometimes the set designer, sometimes the curtain and the backdrop and sometimes the prompter, and who is even the audience - the audience who watches, sometimes claps, sometimes remains silent”

it is specifically requested, and even

MALAGUZZI, 2006

“What you can do isn’t enough,” and decrease the child’s sense of confidence in taking on the task independently.

Therefore, early childhood educators try to stay in responsive mode as much

then, providing the ‘just right’ support necessary to get the child going. We

personal goal, and showing courage to

avoid completely taking over or taking

take reasonable risks. When educators

control, allowing them to maintain as

intentionally step back, we offer space

that could be improved in order to

much agency and ownership over their

for children to make mistakes and

reach their overall goal. When putting

learning as possible.

encourage them to embrace moments of

on shoes, we might coach the child by

challenge as learning opportunities.

saying, “First, undo the velcro on your

educator to draw for them, our response

Particularly when pressed for time,

shoe. Next, pull up the tongue to make

is not to draw but to help think through

the urge of the adult to step in can be

the steps needed. We might suggest that

especially powerful. An example of this

we look together and think about what

may be when a child is attempting to

children, whether stepping back to

shapes or lines we might need, i.e. “I see

dress themselves or put on shoes when

provide opportunities for them to

a long line here, can you draw a long

we have someplace to go. In these

exert their independence or stepping

line on your paper?” When we propose

moments, we try to remind ourselves

in to offer support when frustration

experiences like observational drawing,

that by taking over and doing it for

sets in, educators are ever conscious

we realise that some of the children’s

them, we are preventing them from

of providing children with the

attempts may look nothing like the

developing the skills they need to be

understanding that they are capable

subject, but we try to reinforce the

independent at these daily tasks.

and competent.

For example, when a child asks an

overall objective of using observation

We might point out a specific strategy

room for your foot to go in.”

Within all of our interactions with

Instead, educators can prompt the

skills to look closely and notice features

child with some

of an object, and then to approach

questions to

the paper with a level of purpose and

help them reflect

planning in the marks that are created.

on the task at

Stepping back

Where is the problem?

hand and the specific steps

These early years of children’s lives

involved. Some

are also a primary window for the

questions may

development of self-management and

include: What

self-regulation, including navigating

are you trying to

feelings of frustration, building resilience

do? What do you

through repeated attempts to reach a

want to happen?

Check the balance

How adults can guide little learners Observe interactions between children and their educators.

Notice how independence and agency are being encouraged.

Listen to ways in which adults support children without taking over or doing things that children could be doing themselves Observe children and their actions for signs of independence and a feeling of ownership over their space and choices in their learning Pay attention to how personal spaces are organised to allow children to know where their belongings go, where to put materials away, and what to expect throughout the day Look for visual supports that provide children with cues for routine tasks, removing dependence on adults and promoting independent skill application

40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547 +65 6363 3403 www.sas.edu.sg January/February 2025

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Keeping it Classy!

It’s no easy task keeping students engaged and eager to learn.

Read on for teacher testimonials from the top schools in Singapore.

Canadian International School (CIS) Ms. Bilo DIA, Homeroom teacher, French-English Bilingual Programme

How long have you been teaching at CIS? It's my second year here and I love it. My inspiration to teach came from a deep-rooted passion for learning and a desire to make an impact on young minds. Watching my students grow and develop critical skills, like empathy and self-management, is what fuels me.

How do you make class engaging?

With a mix of creativity, cultural exploration, and interactive activities. I like to use a variety of tools to encourage participation. I value open-ended questions, conducting polls, and having students work in groups to foster collaboration and engagement.

What makes your lessons stand out?

Interdisciplinary connection is my strength. I will connect the 62

lesson to other subjects or disciplines to show its relevance and value. Bilingual education isn’t just about learning a language; it’s about fostering cross-cultural understanding, which is so valuable in today’s interconnected world.

How do you encourage students to be the best they can be?

I truly believe in them and I show genuine confidence in their abilities. I encourage them to focus on progress, effort and improvement.

What do you most like about your job?

I cherish my job when my students have “wow” moments - when they make connections between their learning and real-life situations.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at CIS? The rich diversity of our bilingual and multilingual students. They bring unique perspectives, drawing connections between their learning and their individual identity and backgrounds, which makes for a dynamic and enriching classroom experience.

How would you most like to be remembered as a teacher?

As someone who was enthusiastic and made learning personal, passionate, and possible for all!

7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore, 649414

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Tanglin Trust School

Luke Hensman, Head of Upper School, Teacher of History and Politics

Dover Court International School (DCIS)

Rachael Cox, Primary Teacher, Year 4 Teacher

How long have you been teaching at Tanglin Trust School?

For 13 years. I grew up in NZ and come from a family of educators, and gained a BA in History and Political Science from Victoria University, before completing a PGCE in Wellington. I then taught at two independent schools in the UK. I have always had a passion for the value of education and a feeling that it would provide an engaging and fulfilling career.

How do you make your lessons interesting?

History and politics are about people and their stories. One of the best ways to engage students is through interesting quirks about iconic characters and fascinating stories from these subject areas.

How do you encourage students to stay motivated?

They know that I believe in them regardless of their current stage in the learning process. Clear expectations coupled with a lot of warmth and authentic interest in them as individual people is also essential.

What's the best bit about your job?

It’s never boring! Working with young people is unpredictable and highly stimulating. It’s inspiring to be part of a young person’s journey of establishing who they are as a person, what they're good at, and what they want to do with their lives.

What do you enjoy about teaching at Tanglin Trust School?

I never take for granted that I work at a school where there is so much aspiration from all types of stakeholders to do better than we did yesterday.

How would you like to be remembered as a teacher?

As someone who loved his subjects, and who believed in every student’s ability to become a better version of themselves.

How long have you been teaching at DCIS? Eight years. For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to work with children. I was fortunate to have a very fulfilling work experience in a primary school as a teenager.

How do you make your lessons interesting?

I make relatable real-world connections and use storytelling to spark imagination. I use engaging activities within a flexible learning environment and promote student agency, and I always try to keep a sense of enthusiasm and positivity, using my energy to keep things exciting.

How do you encourage your students?

I always encourage them to try their best and show resilience when something is challenging. I create an environment where children aren’t afraid to push themselves, to ask questions or to get things wrong.

What do you most like about your job?

The children, and the excitement and energy they bring each day. It’s a privilege to see them learn, to watch them grow and to be a part of it all.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at DCIS? The community feel we have here – like everyone is a part of one big family.

How would you most like to be remembered as a teacher?

As a teacher who made learning fun and engaging, and as a supportive and caring figure who believed in her students, encouraged them and ensured they felt valued. Ultimately, I hope my students carry with them a love for learning and the confidence to chase their dreams.

Tangin Trust School, 95 Portsdown Road, Singapore,139299

301 Dover Road, Singapore, 139644

Chatsworth International School

Ms. Lorna Farmer, Teacher of English Language and Literature

How long have you been teaching at Chatsworth?

Nearly five years. One of the most significant inspirations for me to become a teacher was the impact my own teachers had on me when I was at school. They not only taught me academic knowledge, but also instilled in me a love for learning.

How do you make your lessons interesting?

I enjoy encouraging students to engage in higher-order thinking skills through regular class discussions. I also love exploring the rich language of different texts and teaching students about characters and themes which resonate with them.

How do you keep students motivated?

To make the lessons engaging, I try to create a real-world connection to give students a greater understanding of why they need to learn something.

What do you most like about your job?

Encouraging students to be the best they can be, I emphasise passion, fun and effort. If the learning is enjoyable, they are likely to do better. I find that if I’m having a good time in the lesson, the students are too!

What do you most enjoy about teaching?

Learning new things. It’s fun when students and teachers can do this together. What's really special about working at Chatsworth is the sense of community spirit and a truly inspirational work culture.

How do you hope your students will remember you?

As someone who said that hard work pays off and to never, ever give up.

72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore, 289760

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North London Collegiate School (Singapore)

Jonathan Guy, Head of Libraries

How long have you been teaching at NLCS? I’ve been the Head of Libraries since the school opened in 2020, bringing with me 34 years of experience as a librarian. My passion for research and libraries guided my career, starting at the London School of Economics. At a loss as to where I wanted to go career wise, after university I wrote to every university library in London. LSE offered me an interview and a job!

Why is a school library so important?

I hope that the library environment encourages a love of reading, research, inquiry, and developing knowledge.

How does your role work?

My role as a librarian is to work with each student individually and support them to develop their own method of research. It’s important that I engage with them to ensure that they continue to develop a thirst for reading and a genuine enjoyment in reading for pleasure. Reading and research are lifelong skills.

How do you encourage students to reach their potential?

I believe that education is both holistic and personal. It's not a competition; it's about helping each student reach their unique potential. Education also involves fostering understanding, compassion, and empathy. It’s about growing into a global citizen who values and respects the diverse cultures that shape our world, not just where we live on the red dot.

What do you most like about your job?

Engaging with the students, discussing books, and recommending new ones. I love it when students recommend books to me. The discovery of something fresh, exciting and completely original is the essence of being a school librarian.

130 Depot Road, Singapore, 109708

Nexus International School (Singapore)

Graeme Massey, Year 13 Leader, teaching Physical and Health Education, IBDP Sports Exercise and Health Science How long have you been teaching here?

I’m proud to say since it first opened its doors in Singapore at the old Ulu Pandan Campus, almost 14 years ago. Since then, we've seen the school grow from 300 learners to over 1500 learners across both the Primary and Secondary Schools.

What's important to you as a teacher?

Getting to know my learners as individuals early on is key to building successful and beneficial learning-focused relationships. It’s important to know what my learners’ interests are, how they best learn, as well as what they want out of the year ahead.

How do you make sure your lessons stand out?

In my Sports Science lessons, I believe it's important to stay up to date with the latest trends and research in Exercise and Sport Science. This ensures that the content is relevant and reliable for learners to engage in.

How do you encourage your students to learn?

Ultimately, my aim is to have every learner that I teach leave their secondary education with an understanding of the importance of regular physical activity and a positive attitude towards incorporating it to become a life-long habit.

What do you most enjoy about your job?

For me, it’s seeing the penny drop for a learner whether they are grasping a new skill or understanding a scientific concept.

The energy and enthusiasm that comes from those moments is enough to keep you teaching forever.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at Nexus?

The emphasis that Nexus puts on relationships through our relational approach and the importance of community. These relationships extend to our peers, support staff and, of course, our incredible parent community. For these reasons, it’s a great place to come to work every morning.

How do you hope your students will remember you?

As someone who had a real passion for their subject and for holistic education, and as a teacher who shared valuable skills and tools for the leaders of tomorrow.

1 Aljunied Walk, Singapore, 387293

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Marlborough College Malaysia

Mrs Laura Watson, Physics Teacher and Deputy Housemistress for Iskandar House (girls boarding)

St Joseph's Institution International Elementary School

Bronwyn Cumming, Grade 6 Classroom Teacher and CAS Coordinator

How long have you been teaching at Marlborough?

I’ve been teaching for 13 years with the last five at Marlborough College. I took a break for two years after the birth of my third child and was delighted to return to MCM to continue my career.

How do you make your lessons interesting?

I take the time to develop relationships with the students so I can tailor my lessons as much as possible to their needs and interests. I’m also at a complete advantage as my subject is practical-based so it’s not hard for me to “jazz” up a lesson.

Have you melted marshmallows to find the wavelength of a microwave recently?!

What do you do to make sure your lessons shine?

Often, the lessons stand out because we’re using everyday items to explain some pretty big concepts. The simplicity often makes my students go “Oh! Wow – okay!”

How do you encourage your students to be their best?

It’s about understanding their strengths and weaknesses and playing to those.

What's the best bit about your job?

It's dynamic and keeps me on my toes. No two days are ever the same.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at Marlborough?

There’s so much going on outside of the classroom for pupils to get involved in. Our students are very well-rounded and there's a strong sense of “Let’s give it a go!” Students aren't labelled as “academic” or “sporty”. Everyone can give it all a try and have the opportunity to succeed.

How would you most like to be remembered as a teacher?

That I was a warm and compassionate teacher, and that students knew I cared and brought out their best qualities, both in my subject and in school as a whole.

How long have you been teaching at SJI International (Elementary School)?

Almost nine years. As an avid sportswoman and coach, in my younger days, I’ve always enjoyed working with children and people to help them realise their potential, whether in sports or academics.

How do you motivate your students?

I try to revolve lessons around their world as much as possible, always asking them to make personal connections in their reading and thinking.

How do you make your lessons stand out?

Apart from keeping things light and having a sense of humour, I strive to create a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and exploring ideas.

How do you encourage your students to be the best?

I believe the role of a good educator is to empower students to take an interest and ownership in what they're learning. Taking an interest in who my students are and what they enjoy doing outside of school also helps them know that you care, improves their general wellbeing, and provides an environment that fosters learning.

What's your favourite part about your job?

SJII (Elementary) has a strong values-based and character education programme inspired by The Virtues ProjectTM and the school’s foundation of Lasallian education. Working somewhere that promotes a student’s personal and social development alongside their academic growth is refreshing and inspiring.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at your school?

I find great joy and fulfilment in my role, aside from teaching, as a Community, Activity and Service (CAS) Coordinator at SJII (Elementary School). Beyond teaching, service initiatives like our annual Lapathon has been particularly rewarding.

Jalan Marlborough, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia

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One World International School (OWIS) Nanyang Campus Karen Sharon Brooks, Grade 5 Teacher

United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)

Diana Yacou, Head of Grade 11 and IB Biology & Science Teacher

How long have you been teaching at the school?

Since August 2012. I had the desire to travel, and being in education allowed me to experience the world beyond Australia’s borders.

How do you make your lessons interesting for the students?

As a Science teacher, I capture our students’ wonderful imaginations by teaching complex material in relation to everyday phenomena and the many examples of innovation in the world around us.

What do you do to make your lessons stand out?

UWCSEA’s Science department is very collaborative, so we share our best practices with one another. I like to pose open-ended questions which encourages students to think critically and deeply about the topic.

How do you help students be the best they can be?

I’m always creating opportunities for them to feel safe and supported enough to ask questions, make mistakes, have discussions, listen to constructive feedback, promote curiosity, and develop practical skills for their future careers.

What do you most like about your job?

There's never a dull moment as our students help me to become a life-long learner. I don’t think of teaching as a job; it is my way of living and shapes my identity.

What do you most enjoy about teaching?

The interactions I have with the parent community at UWCSEA. My colleagues have also become my close friends and are my family away from home.

How would you most like to be remembered as a teacher?

Just as I was inspired by my maths and biology teachers, I hope students remember me as a teacher who inspires a passion for the sciences.

How long have you been teaching at OWIS? About 26 years, with experience in Australia, Scotland, and Singapore. I’ve spent the last six years teaching at One World International School (OWIS) Singapore in Nanyang (Jurong West).

How do you make your lessons interesting?

I keep up to date with the latest professional developments OWIS offers and implement ideas from workshops into my daily teaching. In addition, I also run my own maths workshops and conduct personal research to stay informed. To make my lessons interesting, I ask my students what they enjoyed most about the lesson and what they would like to do more of.

What do you do to make your teaching stand out?

I employ various strategies. For example, in maths I set up stations, including a teacher-focused station where I support students at their level, which builds their self-confidence and self-esteem.

How do you encourage your students to be the best?

I have positive conversations with them each morning, and I create a supportive and positive learning environment where they feel safe to take risks and express ideas. I also provide regular feedback to help them identify their strengths and areas for improvement.

What do you most like about your job?

The opportunity to make a positive impact on students' lives.

Seeing their growth and development, both academically and personally, brings me immense satisfaction.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at OWIS? The strong sense of community and collaboration among everyone, from teachers and leaders to administrators, cleaners, and supportive parents. Everyone is friendly and kind, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

What legacy would you like to leave as a teacher?

Ultimately, I wish to leave a lasting impression as a dedicated educator who helped students develop not only academically but also personally, instilling in them the confidence and skills they need to thrive in the world beyond the classroom.

21 Jurong West Street 81, Singapore, 649075

UWCSEA Dover: +65 6775 5344 UWCSEA East (Tampines): +65 6305 5344 admissions@uwcsea.edu.sg 66

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Australian International School (AIS) Lisa Van Der Berg, Head of EAL Elementary (English as an Additional Language) / Year 2 EAL Teacher

How long have you been teaching at AIS? I joined AIS in 2019. I've always been passionate about children having access to high quality education which shapes the future for the child and for society as a whole. It's immensely rewarding to know that you're playing even a small part in educating a child who'll grow up to become part of the next generation of adults, leaders and decision makers.

How do you keep students captivated?

I invite them to bring their interests, experiences and prior knowledge to lessons to enrich the learning experience for everyone. The students make the lessons interesting by engaging, participating and sharing their ideas and perspectives with each other.

How do you ensure your lessons stand out?

AIS is a highly collaborative school that focuses on the success and academic wellbeing of our students in all their classrooms and activities. Our strength is in our teamwork where we support each other as educators to create the environment where students thrive. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to work with and learn from a team of exceptional educators at AIS. How do you encourage students to be the best?

Each one brings with them their own needs, wants and strengths. Co-creating goals together with the student helps to keep them motivated. Providing timely and relevant feedback, instruction and encouragement, and a little bit of freedom, students are empowered to achieve their goals. I have a strong belief in every student’s ability to surprise their teachers and themselves in how great they can be!

Brighton College (Singapore)

Andrew Stratford, Head of Music

How long have you been teaching at Brighton College?

I’ve been teaching for 27 years, mostly in the UK, and at Brighton College for just over a month. Having been a chorister at Gloucester Cathedral from a young age helped in influencing me to become a teacher and share my passion and drive for music holistically.

How do you make your lessons interesting for the students?

Providing varied activities throughout the session keeps them engaged and interested. Of course, the practical nature of the subject helps with this! Topics that the children can relate to also makes lessons fun and interactive.

What do you love about your job?

Listening to students’ ideas and perspectives and watching them grow in confidence, knowledge and skills. Playing a small part in helping students to thrive gives me great joy.

How would you like to be remembered as a teacher?

As someone who cared. Each child needs a champion and as teachers we can be that champion for students every day.

1 Lorong Chuan, Singapore, 556818

What do you do to ensure your lessons stand out?

What other lessons combine activities like singing and acting as a penguin with vocal warm-ups and playing percussion instruments, before exploring the social history of a topic and composing and performing it?!

How do you encourage your students to be the best?

Keep encouraging, keep rewarding, keep challenging.

What do you most like about your job?

There are so many things! But seeing the children grow up and progress musically is rewarding.

What do you enjoy most about teaching at Brighton College?

Meeting new colleagues, parents and children, especially with the mix of cultures here in Singapore.

How would you most like to be remembered as a teacher?

As somebody who encouraged, inspired, listened and made time for all.

1 Chuan Lane, Singapore, 554299

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DULWICH COLLEGE (SINGAPORE) Harry Banks, Year 4 Teacher, Head of Student Leadership

How long have you been teaching at Dulwich College (Singapore)?

This is my sixth year here. Teaching has been my passion since I was 15, when a supportive work experience at my old primary school made me realise this was the path I wanted to follow. I haven’t looked back.

How do you keep your classes engaging?

I believe knowing the students is key. I tailor lessons to their interests, giving them space to express themselves. Dulwich’s curriculum emphasises conceptual learning, allowing students to explore what excites them and create their own paths. When students connect learning to their lives, they’re more engaged and interested.

What makes your lessons stand out from the rest?

At Dulwich, we focus on giving students ownership of their learning. I guide them in connecting past knowledge with current studies, helping them see the real-world relevance. This empowers them to take charge of their education.

How do you keep students motivated?

Students know that my classroom is a safe space to express themselves and make mistakes, which are seen as part of learning. I’ve found they give their best when you genuinely know and care about their interests outside of class.

What's your favourite part of your job?

Nothing is more rewarding than watching a student overcome struggles and grow in confidence. As Head of Student Leadership, I’m proud to see students confidently speak before nearly 1,000 people - something I’d have feared at their age!

How would you most like to be remembered as a teacher?

I entered this profession because of a teacher who saw potential in me when I couldn’t see it myself. I hope to inspire students in the same way - by encouraging them to pursue their passions and helping them recognise their own strengths.

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

THE PERSE SCHOOL (SINGAPORE)

Kephren Sherry, Head of Primary, The Perse School (Singapore)

Tell us about your teaching journey ...

I love guiding young learners and creating environments where they can thrive academically and personally. I hold a Master’s in Educational Leadership and have led teams in both Early Years and Primary schools, as well as helping to establish schools in Malaysia and Dubai. Now, I’m excited to bring The Perse School’s tradition of excellence here in Singapore.

How do you ensure that learning is engaging and relevant?

At Perse School, we focus on creating an interactive and hands-on learning environment. We incorporate project-based learning, real-world examples, and activities that help students apply their knowledge. Additionally, we prioritise building a safe and supportive environment where students feel confident to explore, ask questions, and take risks without fear of failure.

What do you do to make sure your lessons stand out?

We create lessons that not only meet academic standards but also ignite curiosity and foster critical thinking. By integrating subjects in a holistic way, I connect topics to make learning more relevant and engaging for students. Additionally, we leverage technology and creative resources to bring lessons to life, ensuring they are both memorable and impactful.

How do you encourage your students to be the best?

Students should be praised when they're doing things well and putting in effort to be successful. We believe that students thrive when they feel valued and are in an environment where they're encouraged to take risks, make mistakes, and explore new ideas.

What do you most enjoy about your job?

To observe the growth of students and support their development plays a key part in what I like most about my job.

Watching students learn new skills and grow in confidence is always so rewarding. Additionally, building a curriculum to have a meaningful impact on students is a source of joy, and I enjoy being able to support teachers to do the same.

What do you most enjoy about teaching at your school in particular?

The Perse School (Singapore) has a unique community atmosphere where both students and staff feel supported and valued. I love how we integrate "The Perse Way" into everything we do, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also grow as well-rounded individuals.

What legacy would you like to leave as a teacher?

As an academician who truly cared about each student’s success and wellbeing, someone who inspired curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning.

58 Chestnut Drive, Singapore, 679301 perse.com.sg

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Ads Client Jan25.indd 69

12/12/2024 11:13:16 am

Singapore’s preschools set the bar high for holistic learning with unique experiences for little ones that incorporate bilingual education, nature and lots of play.

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“Activities provide an engaging and enriching educational experience” SCHOOL NAME:

Little Paddington

Preschool Infant Care: 3 - 17 months (selected centres); Preschool: 18 months - 6 years (all centres) PRESCHOOL PHILOSOPHY: Little Paddington Preschool follows a child-centred, playbased philosophy that fosters creativity, social skills, and cognitive development.

The curriculum emphasises structured and unstructured play, promoting socialemotional growth through collaborative activities. It integrates early literacy and numeracy into daily routines, encourages outdoor exploration, and includes diverse cultural experiences to promote inclusivity.

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Infant Care (Little Cubbies): 1:3 Playgroup (Little Winnies): 1:6 Nursery 1 (Grizzlies 1): 1:8 Nursery 2 (Grizzlies 2): 1:10

Kindergarten 1 (Giant Panda 1): 1:12 Kindergarten 2 (Giant Panda 2): 1:14 LEARNING & ACTIVITIES:

Creative Arts Science Experiments Culinary Activities Outdoor Exploration Storytelling and Literacy STEM Activities Show and Tell United Nations Programs Social-Emotional Learning Physical Activities Each activity is designed to provide a balanced, engaging, and enriching experience, catering to the diverse needs of preschoolers while promoting their overall development.

DAILY SCHEDULE: Children begin with free play to socialise and settle in, followed by the Be-Pawsitive Morning Assembly, fostering a positive mindset. Circle

Time includes discussions, songs, and movement, while Jolly Music introduces rhythm and melody. Structured learning covers literacy, numeracy, and hands-on experiences in art, science, and sensory play. The Paddington Prep Program develops essential primary school skills.

Children also enjoy Atelier classes in arts, cookery, and science, plus immersive Mandarin learning through activities like Panda Village. Story Time and Jolly Phonics support bilingual literacy, and outdoor play promotes physical exploration.

PARENT COMMUNICATION: We maintain clear communication with parents through the LittleLives app. Each Friday, we send a comprehensive weekly overview, highlighting key activities from the past week and previewing what’s coming up.

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“Each classroom is staffed with one English and one Mandarin-speaking educator” SCHOOL NAME: St. Joseph’s Institution International Preschool STUDENT AGE: 3 - 6 years PRESCHOOL PHILOSOPHY: At SJI International Preschool, we prioritise collaborative exploration, dialogue, and shared meaning-making. Children engage in real-world experiences, constructing knowledge through questioning, investigating, and reflecting with peers and educators. We provide structured components for English Literacy, Mandarin Literacy, and Numeracy to ensure progress and success.

STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO: In Early Years 1, the ratio is 1:8 to ensure personalised care. The ratio adjusts to 1:12 in Early Years 2 and 1:16 in Kindergarten 1 and 2, promoting individual attention and peer collaboration.

LEARNING & ACTIVITIES: SJI International Preschool offers a comprehensive bilingual English and Mandarin Immersion programme, with each classroom staffed by at least one English and one Mandarin-speaking educator.

Our outdoor learning programme promotes sustainability, citizenship, and life skills like self-reliance and leadership.

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DAILY SCHEDULE: The core programme runs from 9am - 5pm, beginning with mixedage group interactions to foster social skills. After breakfast, children enjoy Circle Time with songs and discussions, followed by music, movement, and outdoor play. Bilingual learning is integrated

throughout the day with immersive inquiry and learning space exploration.

After lunch and storytime, a calming rest period follows. The afternoon includes more bilingual activities and characterbuilding sessions, with the day ending in mixed-age interactions.

PARENT COMMUNICATION: We share regular updates on each child’s progress, development, and special moments via our school management system. We also encourage open communication through face-to-face conversations during pick-up and drop-off, email, and phone calls. Indepth parent-teacher conferences are held three times a year.

CONTACT DETAILS:

49A Holland Road, Singapore, 258850 +65 6908 4520 admin@sji-internationalpreschool.com.sg

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Never a dull moment at NLCS (Singapore) Who says school is boring? At NLCS, work and play are combined to create enriching experiences for students in and out of the classroom.

W

ith over 120 co-curricular activities (CCA's) a week and 32 trips a year, students have plenty of opportunities to learn and play. At North London Collegiate School (Singapore), we seek to provide an exceptional educational experience based on the traditions, ethos and practices of North London Collegiate School, UK. We are committed to providing the highest standards of pastoral care to ensure the wellbeing of all our students.

We create a safe and supportive environment in which every member of the school feels valued, and all students can flourish.

Our pastoral care systems are built around the principle that every child is known and cared for. Each student is assigned to a House and belongs to a Tutor Group led by two form tutors and consisting of students within their Grade.

Throughout the year, students have opportunities to work with and participate in events with their Tutor Group, their Grade and their Houses, creating a strong sense of community. Additional expert

support for students includes the School Nurse and the Emotional Guidance Counsellor.

Ambitious Academic Programme At North London Collegiate School (Singapore), our Ambitious Academic Programme is designed to inspire ambitious learning through lessons taught by passionate subject specialists.

Beyond rigorous teaching, we cultivate scholarship in our students, which is defined through three key pillars:

1

Intellectual curiosity – We encourage students to ask why, fostering a natural drive to explore and understand the world.

Independent thinking – Students are guided to think for themselves, developing critical thinking skills and autonomy in learning.

Subject passion – We support students in discovering their passion or niche, igniting a deep enthusiasm for their chosen fields.

2 3

Embarking on the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition in Western Australia

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Students enjoy a ski trip to Verbier

To nurture these qualities, we deliver a broad, balanced curriculum, offering students the chance to explore a wide range of subjects and experiences.

Exceptional Enrichment Opportunities At NLCS (Singapore), we offer an exceptional co-curricular programme that inspires students to be active and enthusiastic participants in a wide range of activities, from our youngest children in Pre-KG (3+), through to Grade 12.

Activities are age-appropriate but with sufficient challenge and rigour.

The enrichment and CCA programmes at NLCS (Singapore) are broad and multifaceted. Over 120 CCA's take place across the school every week, providing an inspiring array for students to choose from.

Some are run throughout the academic year, whilst others change each season.

On top of nurturing passion and talent, CCA's allow students the opportunity to interact with those from other classes and grades as well. To achieve its enrichment and CCA vision, we ensure that stateof-the-art facilities live up to the exacting At the FOBISIA Games

demands of our coaches, teachers, and foundation school in London.

The facilities are similar to its other sister campuses in South Korea and Dubai. Some of the school’s star facilities include well-resourced music ensemble rooms and recording studio, music technology suite, black box drama studio, and a 700-seat auditorium for its music and performing arts-based programmes.

As for sports, there’s a vast sports hall, climbing wall, 50m swimming pool, basketball and tennis courts, and a flood-lit AstroTurf football pitch. Students in technology and IT-based programmes also benefit from the school’s Computer Science robotics spaces.

Overall, NLCS (Singapore)’s facilities support the creative and competitive endeavours of its inspirational teachers and coaches. The school is a member of the Athletic Conference of Singapore International Schools (ACSIS) and the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA). This means that NLCS (Singapore)’s students have opportunities to hone their skills through training and healthy competition, be it in mathematics, music, debating, or sports.

choices and expanding options as students progress through their time at NLCS (Singapore), everyone is able to explore new interests and deepen existing ones.

This approach aligns with our values of providing “floors not ceilings,” and our commitment to supporting students in reaching their full potential.

These trips not only offer opportunities for cultural enrichment and exploration, but also provide valuable learning experiences outside of the academic setting. By immersing students in diverse environments and encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, NLCS (Singapore) helps to shape well-rounded individuals who are prepared to navigate the complexities of the world beyond graduation.

Applications for admission are open throughout the year.

Scan here to book a tour and find out more about our school firsthand.

Enriching Trips Residential and International trips are an important part of the school's offering and they are integral to our educational programme. Students from Grade 3 (8+) upwards have the opportunity to experience residential trips, while students from Pre-KG experience local trips and visits; with the aim of fostering personal development beyond the confines of the classroom. By providing a variety of

North London Collegiate School (Singapore) 130 Depot Road, Singapore, 109708 +65 6989 3000 enquiries@nlcssingapore.sg nlcssingapore.sg @nlcssg

@nlcs.sing

@nlcssg

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Beyond the Bell

These after-school activities encourage children to continue learning, express themselves, and have fun!

“Children learn the fundamentals of dance and develop important life skills” Who we are: Tanglin Arts Studio (TAS) What we offer: At TAS, we provide a wide range of dance classes that cater to various age groups and skill levels.

Our programmes include classical ballet, jazz, acrobatics, musical theatre, and more. We also offer creative movement classes for younger children and specialised programmes for aspiring dancers aiming for professional training. Classes are designed to be both fun and educational, encouraging children to express themselves while learning the fundamentals of dance.

What kids learn: Children not only learn the fundamentals of dance but also develop essential life skills. Through our classes, they enhance their coordination, flexibility, and musicality, while building self-confidence, discipline, and teamwork. Each session is crafted to foster both technical skills and artistic expression, encouraging students to explore their creativity.

Who’ll love us: Tanglin Arts Studio is perfect for children who love to move, express themselves, and be part of a community. Whether your little one is a beginner looking to explore a new hobby or a budding dancer aiming to hone their craft, we provide the perfect after-school destination.

Parents who value a balanced blend of education, creativity, and physical activity will appreciate our inclusive approach and the welcoming environment we nurture.

22 Camden Park, Hollandse Club, 299814 tanglinartsstudio.com

“Our programmes emphasise confidencebuilding, discipline, and sportsmanship” Who we are: TFL (Total Fitness Leisure) What we offer: We offer professional, well-rounded tennis and swimming lessons and camps. Each session is tailored to the student’s skill level, experience, and ability in the sport. Our company thrives on providing students with a fun and engaging learning experience that focuses on personal growth, skill development, and building confidence, all while fostering a love for sports.

What kids learn: Children learn essential techniques and skills tailored to their individual abilities. For tennis, they develop proper strokes, footwork, and game strategies. In swimming, they improve their strokes, water safety, and endurance. Beyond physical skills, our programmes emphasise confidence-building, discipline, and sportsmanship, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable learning experience. Whether your child is a beginner or looking to refine their skills, our lessons offer the perfect environment for growth and enjoyment.

Who’ll love us: Anyone looking to learn tennis or swimming, from beginners to those with a passion for the sports. We welcome participants of all ages and skill levels to join us in becoming better sportsmen and sportswomen. info@tfl.training.com +65 9750 7400

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“Kids are engaged in arts, sports, and outdoor adventures, blending fun and exploration”

“We’re a safe space for children to develop their confidence, creativity, and imagination”

Who we are: Centre Stage School of the Arts (CSSA) What we offer: Led by UK actors Peter Hodgson and Alison Tompkins, Centre Stage celebrates its 25th anniversary this year as Singapore’s premier creative and performing arts school. Our curriculum includes drama, dance, and musical theatre, and we’re proud to be one of the few arts schools offering students the opportunity to develop skills both on and off the stage, culminating in fully staged productions. Our experienced instructors, trained at leading drama institutions worldwide, teach carefully structured courses designed for children of all ages and experience levels. These include Creative and Performance Drama, Musical Theatre, and a wide range of dance styles, including the prestigious RAD syllabus.

What kids learn: Centre Stage’s vibrant and inclusive community provides a safe space for children to develop their confidence, creativity, and imagination. Whether it’s honing acting skills, perfecting dance techniques, or mastering the art of musical theatre, students learn not only to express themselves artistically, but also to develop essential teamwork and strong communication skills, forging lifelong friendships with their fellow performers along the way.

Who’ll love us: Creative education is essential for all children as it empowers them to have faith in themselves, to become confident communicators, and to be creative and collaborative. We offer classes for children aged 3 - 18 years, and complete beginners are always welcome. For children considering a career on the stage, we also offer professional training courses and workshops that provide valuable experience and industry insight.

Who we are: Camp Asia What we offer: An extensive range of camps tailored for kids aged 3 - 16, with five main categories to suit every interest and skill level.

What kids learn: The five categories of multi-activity camps engage kids in arts, sports, and outdoor adventures, blending fun and exploration.

Who’ll love us: Everyone! Activities range from rock climbing to orienteering, with weekly excursions for added excitement.

Get Physical Camps offer sports like Super Soccer, Basketball, and Gymnastics, as well as unique options like Dragonboat Paddling and Parkour, fostering athleticism and teamwork Be Creative Camps inspire budding chefs, artists, dancers, and actors, guiding kids through culinary creations, expressive art, and dynamic performances Clever Stuff Camps ignite curiosity in science, maths, and language through hands-on projects in Junior Scientist, Math Mania, and Intensive English programmes Tech-Savvy Camps dive into STEM with engaging coding, robotics, and engineering workshops for young tech enthusiasts Each camp combines indoor and outdoor experiences to keep kids engaged and active, with excursions to places like urban farms and Sentosa for real-world learning. Camp Asia continuously develops new programmes, ensuring that campers return year after year for fresh experiences.

Whatever your child’s passion, Camp Asia offers the perfect opportunity to learn, play, and grow. info@campasia.asia Parent Hotline:

+65 6289 5888

Portsdown Road & East Coast locations info@centre-stage.com +65 6732 7211 | WhatsApp +65 9118 0221

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Missed the AU tax deadline?

Don’t panic!

Good news! It is possible to catch up on your Australian taxes after the 31 October deadline. Read on for advice.

FOR

Australian expats living in Singapore, the end of October marks an important date: the Australian tax return deadline.

If you missed this deadline, you’re not alone. Thankfully, there are still options available now to help you catch up and stay on track with the Australian Tax Office (ATO).

The ATO understands that Aussie expats may have unique challenges, and there are ways to manage your overdue taxes effectively. By taking action now, you can minimise potential penalties and interests and keep your Australian tax status in good standing.

STEPS TO TAKE FOR OVERDUE AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS: Get back on track Gather your documents, including income statements, bank records, and property-related expenses. Use the ATO’s online portal or contact an expert Consult an expat tax specialist Tax laws and requirements can be complex for Aussie expats in Singapore. A specialist can help you maximise deductions, avoid penalties and interest charges, and even assist with filing multiple overdue returns/backlogs at once Consider a payment plan If you owe a tax amount you weren’t expecting, the ATO also offers a payment plan to help manage your debt in instalments Set reminders for future deadlines Mark key dates in your calendar or set reminders to avoid missing future deadlines.

Consider using ATO’s MyGov app or working with a tax agent to keep track of dates for every tax season

Why staying compliant matters

Filing your Australian tax return as an expat is essential for accessing tax benefits and protecting your income in Singapore from Australian tax. Staying compliant allows you to claim deductions on property expenses like loan interest and maintenance, reducing your taxable income.

If your property expenses are higher than the rent you’re earning from it, you’re in a “negative gearing” position.

You may carry those losses forward to reduce your taxable income in future years, potentially lowering your tax when your property becomes profitable.

The ATO fines $313 every 28 days on overdue payments (up to $1,565 annually), plus interest. Staying on top of your taxes avoids these penalties and keeps your residency status updated, so you don’t even need to disclose foreign income.

“Filing your Australian tax return as an expat is essential”

Do an ATO tax health check

Ready to get back on track? Contact Odin Tax for a free Australian tax status check. We’ll assess your overdue returns, address compliance issues, and help you to avoid further penalties. Our expat tax specialists ensure secure handling of your data and offer: Early detection of tax issues to minimise fines A tailored action plan Ease of mind, knowing your taxes are managed professionally Scan to check your Whether you’re catching up on overdue returns or simply want clarity on your current tax situation, we’re here to help make your Australian tax return process effortless.

Australian tax status for free

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Batya Shulman, Partner, Select Investors, Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited

Why don’t New Year's resolutions work, and what should I do instead?

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very January, millions of people set New Year's resolutions with the best intentions: get fit, get organised, or, notably, improve their financial situation.

Yet by the time February rolls around, many of these resolutions have already fallen to the wayside.

The nature of New Year’s resolutions can set us up for failure. They’re often vague, overly ambitious, or set without the necessary plan to achieve them. Here’s why resolutions often don’t stick:

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Long-term success

To make real financial progress, it’s essential to move beyond the typical New Year’s resolution approach. Instead, consider practical steps that prepare you for long-term success. Working with a financial advisor can help make these goals achievable by breaking them down into manageable, tangible actions.

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Set Realistic Standards: A good advisor will work with you to set goals that are ambitious yet achievable. For instance, rather than aiming to save half your income right away, they might recommend increasing your savings rate gradually over time.

Provide Accountability: By scheduling regular check-ins, an advisor can keep you on track, helping to ensure you stay motivated and focused on your objectives.

Build Confidence Through Education: Advisors can offer insights and education to help you understand the reasons behind your financial choices. By explaining investment strategies, they give you the knowledge to make informed decisions that align with your long-term goals.

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Offer Ongoing Support: Financial goals often require adjustments along the way. With regular support from an advisor, you’ll be able to adapt your approach based on changing circumstances, keeping you on the path to success.

The best resolutions aren’t about making sweeping changes - they’re about creating habits you can sustain.

With a structured plan, regular accountability, and the right support, you can make significant strides toward your financial goals.

It’s not about the promises you make on 1 January - it’s about the actions you take all year long, and hopefully, many years to come.

Unrealistic Expectations: Setting massive goals, like eliminating all debt or saving thousands in a few short months, can lead to discouragement when the reality doesn’t match up.

Lack of Accountability: Resolutions are easy to abandon if no one is holding us to them. Without regular check-ins, The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs motivation fades, and the goals are from taxation can change at any time. quickly forgotten.

The value of any tax relief depends on Overconfidence: People often assume individual circumstances. You are advised to they’ll simply have more willpower in seek independent tax advice from suitably the new year, but without real change in qualified professionals before making mindset or habits, it’s challenging to stick any decision as to the tax implications to resolutions. of any investment.

Thinking Too Big: Bigpicture goals, like “save more money" lack specificity Batya Shulman (batya.shulman@sjpp.asia) and can feel daunting. Without Partner, Select Investors, Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place smaller, manageable steps, they (Singapore) Private Limited can feel impossible to achieve.

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The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

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Tuesday 4 March, 7pm Padang Room, Singapore Cricket Club

Join us at the Singapore Cricket Club for an evening of mixing and mingling. Whether you’re new to the ANZA community, or have been on the dot for a while, this event is the perfect opportunity to forge new connections.

Unwind with drinks and delicious bites in the Padang Room, offering views of the iconic Padang and city skyline.

ANZA new members: Complimentary | ANZA members: $40 | Non-members: $60

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

insights into your children’s health Sickness is a part of parenting. Dr. Valerie Druon highlights some of the most frequent concerns she encounters at Osler Health International.

s a family physician in Singapore, I see many children and have become familiar with some of the most common health concerns over the years.

Below are just a few - rest assured, we’re here to help with all of them!

Worms Intestinal worms are a common issue worldwide, frequently affecting children in Singapore. The most common is threadworms - tiny white threads about one centimetre long. If your child complains of an itchy bottom, this may be the cause. To treat the worms, we use anthelmintic (antiworm) medication, available in tablet and liquid forms, which is generally safe and easy to administer.

Skin Protection Temperatures and the UV Index in Singapore are rising.

Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is linked to intense sun exposure, particularly in childhood. The UV Index measures UV radiation, ranging from 0 to 11+, with Singapore's average around 6 to 9, occasionally reaching 15. To protect your child, use UV-protective clothing, apply high-SPF sunscreen, and avoid the sun during midday when UV levels peak.

Water Warts Molluscum contagiosum, or water warts, is a mild viral infection that causes raised spots on the skin. It typically affects children aged one to five. While usually harmless, it can take up to 18 months to resolve. The warts often appear on the face, chest, tummy, back, armpits, behind the knees, or nappy area, but can occur anywhere. Though they usually disappear on their own, treatments like cryotherapy (freezing) are available.

Dengue

Many children with dengue fever have mild symptoms, which appear 4 -14 days after a mosquito bite. Younger children and those infected for the first

time tend to have milder symptoms.

However, older children, adults, and those with previous infections may experience more severe symptoms, including the lifethreatening Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF).

Symptoms include: Low to high-grade fever (up to 40ºC) Body aches, muscle and bone pain Severe headache Rash Mild bleeding (from the nose or gums) Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting Easy bruising Change in behaviour or irritability

HPV Vaccine HPV infection of the cervix causes nearly all cervical cancer cases, which primarily affect younger women. While boys can't develop cervical cancer, they can get other HPV-related cancers and genital warts. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys aged 10 - 14. While many parents still view the HPV vaccine as new, it has been in use for over 15 years, with the most

common, Gardasil 9, protecting against nine HPV strains. Osler Health can assist with the vaccination.

Mental Health While it is normal for teens to be moody or unmotivated at times, it's essential to recognise the signs of potential mental health issues.

If you notice the following signs lasting more than a few weeks, consider seeking external support: Social withdrawal Changes in appetite Changes in sleep patterns Changes in behaviour The inability to enjoy activities Low mood Physical signs of self-harm/injury At Osler, we provide a safe space for supporting teen mental health.

Together we’ll help you to navigate these challenges.

Dr. Valerie Druon is a French-speaking family physician based at Osler Health International (Star Vista clinic). Known for her kind and friendly attitude to everyone, Dr. Valerie is the trusted doctor to many families in Singapore.

T: 6339 2727 osler-health.com

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H E A LT H

IS DRY JANUARY

really worth it?

Even if you ditch the booze for one month, your body and mind will experience health and wellbeing benefits. Read on.

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very year, millions of people around the world give up alcohol for Dry January. It's a movement that began as an ad campaign from the charity Alcohol Change UK in 2014, but has grown into a global phenomenon. While many of us don’t need a reason to crack open a tinnie or succumb to the pop of a cork, it seems we do need a reason to curb our drinking.

“The sober movement is gaining increasing traction,” confirms Dr. Sanja Cook, a GP at International Medical Clinic (imc-healthcare.com). “Studies show that Gen Z (born 1997 - 2012) are drinking a lot less than Millennials (born 1981 - 1996), who are consuming much less alcohol than previous generations.”

Dr. Cook believes this is due to various factors: greater access to medical information, increased empowerment for individuals to take charge of their health and recognise the personal negative effects of alcohol, and improvements in the quality and availability of nonalcoholic drinks over the past five years.

Additionally, the fear of being caught in an unflattering state on social media

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serves as another valid deterrent.

Additionally, it contributes to hangovers, Online-boozy embarrassment aside, gastric irritation, low blood sugar, poor the harmful consequences of a few sleep, and other complications. bevvies are many. Alcohol's effect on “Beyond that, the long-term the body depends on how much (and repercussions of alcohol on the body and what) you’ve consumed, but in the short mind are serious, affecting your brain, term it acts as a sedative, slowing down bones, liver, heart, reproductive organs, your nervous system and impacting your and much more,” warns Dr. Cook. breathing. Excessive drinking can result in serious health issues, including aspiration pneumonia, hypoglycemia, and even coma. It impairs memory and leads to dehydration by depleting essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.

Have

Recommended drinking guidelines

2 days alcohol free every week

1-2 drinks a day (1 for women, 2 for men)

6 or more drinks in one day is considered bingeing and harmful, even if not done regularly

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Statistics show that over 400,000 people in Australia planned to stop drinking alcohol in 2023. As the number of those giving up the grog increases, it raises the question of what the benefits of abstaining from alcohol are, and whether a month like Dry January is long enough to start experiencing them.

According to Dr. Cook, the answer is yes. Periodic abstinence is subjective as every experience is different, but she says, “Taking a month-long break from alcohol can lead to several health improvements, including weight loss, a better immune function, lower blood pressure, improved liver health, reduced cholesterol, and a healthier heart. It can also enhance brain function, concentration and mood, reduce cancer risk, and promote restful sleep."

The healing process post-drinking varies across organs, typically taking anywhere from one week to a year. Dr. Cook continues, “The liver in particular can repair itself after alcohol cessation, but only if there’s no ongoing damage.

Alcohol also harms the gastrointestinal tract by eroding the lining and interfering with nutrient absorption, but this can improve within just a few weeks of stopping drinking.”

Brain function is proven to recover quickly with studies showing that grey matter, which shrinks with chronic alcohol use, begins to repair itself within two weeks of cutting out booze. As alcohol depletes a brain chemical called GABA, which reduces stress, this can lead to improvements in mood and anxiety as soon as one week after reducing alcohol consumption.

It gets better. “If you usually consume just a small amount of alcohol, during Dry January you might notice that you’re resting better and have more motivation or physical and emotional energy.” Dr. Cook continues, “If you're a moderate drinker, you might experience the benefits mentioned above, along with reduced anxiety, improved mood, enhanced clarity, and a stronger ability to handle difficult situations. Close relationships may improve with fewer arguments and less tension, and your work performance could significantly pick up, making challenging situations easier to manage.”

However, if you’re a daily heavy drinker, you might have withdrawal symptoms such as handshakes, agitation and nausea,

or vomiting if you delay or omit a tipple. If this is the case, Dr. Cook recommends that you do not attempt Dry January (or any other sudden sober month) and consult your doctor for guidance.

Fresh perspective While embarking on abstinence can feel daunting, there are clearly incredible benefits. Taking on the challenge doesn’t have to be a gargantuan task, and any time can be a good opportunity to give it a try. Sober October and No-Booze November are also popular, although January serves as the perfect reset to heal both body, mind, and soul.

Quit Tips

STUDIES SHOW A 3-WEEK BREAK FROM ALCOHOL LEADS TO A COMPLETE RECOVERY OF GUT BARRIER FUNCTION If you’re curious about Dry January, give it a go and don’t overthink it. “See it as a game or a fun experiment, rather than as a chore or burden. Don’t pressure yourself. You can always start over. Some people may choose to change their drinking habits or quit entirely, while others may see fewer changes." Dr. Cook continues, adding that her husband committed to thirty days of abstinence but ended up going for ninety. "After a few more sober stretches, he chose to quit drinking altogether. As for me, I've cut back significantly on both the amount and frequency of my drinking,” she says.

The important thing is that a month of sobriety will likely give you a fresh perspective and show you a different way of life. Whether dry or just damp, it's an opportunity to assess how your body feels with less alcohol. Ultimately, focus more on what you're gaining, rather than what you're giving up.

HAVE AN ALTERNATIVE If you're going out or being social, have a non-alcoholic beverage that you enjoy in your hand at all times.

This can lessen the urge to grab a vino and can deter people from asking why you're not drinking.

RECRUIT A FRIEND It’s easier when you can share a dry period with someone else and keep one another accountable.

DAILY JOURNALLING Write about your experience of abstinence. Each morning, note what is hard, what beliefs you have about alcohol, and monitor how these change over time.

PICK UP A HOBBY OR SPORT Whether it’s ANZA Tennis, Adult Netball, our weekly coffee meetups or mahjong classes, a regular activity can provide the social outlet you usually get from drinking, sans hangover! Check out anza.org.sg GO FOR A WALK If you get home from work and find yourself craving a glass of wine, leave the house with a loved one or a podcast, and go for a 20-minute walk. The dopamine from movement will replace the buzz you would have got from the drink.

REWARD YOURSELF Have a sweet treat at the end of the day - a hot chocolate is always a good idea.

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Statistics source: 9news.com.au Pull quote source: arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/volume/41/1/natural-recovery-liver-and-other-organs-after-chronic-alcohol-use

The healing process

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LADIES

ANZA ORGANISES MONTHLY

GIRLS ONLY GET-TOGETHERS WITH GREAT DEALS ON DRINKS AND FOOD AT DIFFERENT HOTSPOTS AROUND SINGAPORE.

WED 22 JAN

JANUARY

6.30pm - 9.30pm Neon Pigeon, 36 Carpenter St

FEBRUARY

LADIES NIGHT, GENTS WELCOME

JOIN US AT NOVA, SINGAPORE’S HIGHEST ROOFTOP BAR, OFFERING

PANORAMIC VIEWS AND A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE WITH A RESIDENT DJ SETTING THE MOOD.

WED 19 FEB 6.30pm - 9.30pm NOVA, 1 Raffles Place, L63

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See you there ladies and gents! anza.org.sg/groups/ladies-night

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What is ADHD?

SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

As awareness increases, we look into ADHD in children and adolescents and how parents can navigate the basics.

“I

have repeated my instructions FOUR times but you are not listening at all!”

Hyperactivity Difficulty engaging in activities quietly, very talkative and interruptive Difficulty staying still, frequently moving around, and often leaving their seat Very fidgety when seated (e.g. squirming, tapping hands, flinging pencil) Difficulty waiting their turn in games or queues Coming across as very restless and “on the go”

“Your child is not paying attention in class. She keeps drawing or looking out the window.”

If you hear consistent comments such as these from the class teacher about your child, there is a possibility that they may have Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

ADHD is a neurobiological and developmental condition characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivityimpulsivity. Most of the symptoms tend to be present in children starting from a young age but they become more obvious when they enter formal schooling. Symptoms interfere with the child’s functioning at social, academic and occupational levels. Many of these children are referred to as energetic, disruptive or day dreamers.

Children with ADHD often experience other co-morbid difficulties such as anxiety, low self-esteem, social difficulties or learning problems.

There is a small group of children with ADHD who do very well academically but display a lot of behavioural and emotional symptoms. Research has

Kavitha Manokaran is a Senior Clinical Psychologist at International Medical Clinic (IMC). She

Seeking Help

shown that some of the core deficits tend to be in working memory, processing speed and/or selective, sustained attention.

Signs & Symptoms of ADHD

There are three presentations of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. Some of the more common signs and symptoms of ADHD are listed below.

Inattention

Difficulty focusing on tasks or play activities, jumping from topic to topic Difficulty following through with instructions, particularly multiple instructions at a time Difficulty organising their tasks and activities Frequently forgetful (e.g. losing wallets, pencils, books) Very easily distracted by their environment

One of the first steps in getting help for the child is to get a Psychological Assessment to understand if they do have ADHD and if so, the type of ADHD. ADHD Psychological Assessments are very comprehensive and involve the child, parents and school personnel.

The assessment aims to identify the ADHD as well as any other co-morbid difficulties that the child may be experiencing.

After a diagnosis is given, the recommended intervention can include a referral to paediatrician or psychiatrist to explore medication, if required. Other interventions consist of behaviour therapy, ADHD coaching, psychoeducation for families and schools, parent training, social skills training, accessing accommodations for major examinations, and working with school personnel to help with the child’s behaviours in the classroom.

Many children with ADHD go unnoticed or get labelled as “naughty” or "defiant/misbehaving” children.

Assessing for ADHD is the first step in paving the way of success for these children in the long run.

specialises in therapy/counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. Kavitha

Online booking www.imc-healthcare.com or call 6733 4440 For updates, useful tips and engaging content, follow @international_medical_clinic @IMCSG

Manokaran provides ADHD Assessments for children between 7– 17 years old.

Kavitha is available for booking at IMC Camden, IMC Children and IMC Katong January/February 2025

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Petersons Wine Tasting

CREATE YOUR UNIQUE SCENT, PAIRED WITH NIBBLES AND BUBBLES

Join us for an evening of wine tasting at Petersons Wines in their gorgeous tasting room at Dempsey Enjoy 8–9 premium Australian wines, including sparkling, white, and red, from the renowned Hunter Valley. Guided by Petersons’ wine experts, you’ll explore award-winning flavours and learn the art of wine tasting

Craft Your Signature Scent with Oo La Lab Craft your signature scent with Oo La Lab! In this 90-minute hands-on workshop, blend 27 unique fragrance notes to create and take home a 20ml Eau de Parfum and two vial samples.

Guided by expert mixologists, design a scent that captures your mood, character, and style.

Wednesday, 5 February | 7pm - 9pm Venue: Deviate Wine Bar, 71 Loewen Road #01-06 S248847 Tickets: Members $40 Non-members $45

Wednesday, 12 February 7pm - 9.30pm 71 Amoy St, S069890 Members: $120 Non-members: $130

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THRIVING IN SINGAPORE

Tips to living in the Lion City Whether you’re new to Singapore or a long-term resident, join us at the Australian High Commission to learn more about life on the island. Hear about the plethora of activities happening in the ANZA community, get tips and advice from our guest speakers, and meet new friends over a relaxed morning tea.

Everyone is welcome - bring a friend!

13 March, 9.30am-11.30am AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION ANZA MEMBERS AND NON MEMBERS: COMPLIMENTARY REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR SECURITY PURPOSES. REGISTER AT ANZA.ORG.SG Any views or opinions expressed by ANZA or our sponsors belong to respective parties. They do not reflect the views or opinions of the High Commission, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or the Commonwealth of Australia.

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T U C K E R B OX

A taste of Thaipusam RAELENE TAN reveals the history and traditions behind the Thaipusam Festival, taking place on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.

INDIAN VEGETARIAN DELIGHTS

After early morning bathing in turmeric-spiced water (representing goodness), devotees dressed in yellow (with its calming affect) pray at the temple.

Many carry kavadis (arched steel structures) on their shoulders, while some females carry palkadams (milk pots) on their heads. A kavadi could be four-metres high, weigh up to 35 kilograms, decorated with flowers, fruit, neem leaves and peacock feathers. Devotees might have their cheeks, tongue and body pierced with skewers, or spears, some weighted with limes against negative energy. The sacrificial walk, which takes several hours, culminates with the removal of kavadis and the emptying of milk pots as an expression of thanks to Lord Subramaniam.

Popular dishes for general meals include lentils, a protein-rich staple; plantain poriyal curry made with bananas for an energy boost; accompanied by sambar, a lentil and vegetable puree; and chutney. Other favourites include olan, a mild curry with cooling winter melon slices; rasam, a spicy tamarind-based soup that aids digestion; and mouth cooling raita, a refreshing condiment made with yogurt, herbs, spices, and cucumber.

Long-time friend Dhershini Govin Winodan, author of Indian Food Today and Feast of Flavours from the Indian Kitchen shared, “A meal might include rice, sambar, aviyal (mixed vegetable thick curry with coconut-milk), ereshery (green bananas cooked with white kidney-beans and pumpkin, high in fibre), and a host of others. Payasam dessert is favoured (milk-based, sweet, thick porridge made with rice or vermicelli, nuts and fruit).”

Snacks include crispy appalam (fried thin wafers using rice and ground lentils), enjoyed with chutney; popular mango-chutney uses tamarind, strengthening immune systems; papadam (crisp thin flatbread) of chickpea-flour and cumin; farali chevdo (potatosticks) provides energy from nuts, spices, and potatoes.

Beverages include milk, tea, coffee and fruit juices. Buttermilk incorporates yoghurt, herbs and spices. Lassi is yoghurt-based.

Cumin water aids digestion, winter-melon tea is cooling. Falooda dessert-drink contains milk, basil-seeds, rose syrup, tapioca and vermicelli.

FASTING

ORDERING A MEAL

PREPARATION Thaipusam, signifying penance and thanksgiving, sees devotees walking four-kilometres from Sri Srinivasa Temple on Singapore's Serangoon Road, to Chettiars Temple, Tank Road. Preparations involve cleansing spiritually and physically for 48 days, eating only one meal (vegetarian) daily, and fasting for 24 hours before Thaipusam.

THAIPUSAM DAY

Vegetarian food for Hindu religious fasting includes nutritious dairy products, nuts for energy, and fruit and vegetables.

Garlic and onion are avoided, spices used sparingly, plus abstaining from caffeine and chocolate.

Food is generally shared at the table. A meal typically includes three vegetable dishes (including lentils) and two curry items, depending on the number of persons, choosing different textures, tastes and colours. Rice and bread are staples. Very sweet desserts or fresh fruit end a meal.

“Sapudungal” “Please eat.”

Photographs: snacks, payasam, from Raelene Tan

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uring the Hindu tenth lunar month (Thai), when the brightest star (Pusam) shines, the Thaipusam Festival honours Lord Subramaniam who battled victoriously using a spear, and represents good over evil.

Born in Adelaide, Raelene Tan is an etiquette consultant and a food and travel writer. She has authored five books and has been a regular guest on radio and television.

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RECIPES

With Valentine’s Day in February, Cheryl MilesNixon shares some special recipes from her cookbook, Smitten in the Kitchen.

Ivan Joshua Loh, Pigs Can Fly Photography

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hen Cheryl Miles-Nixon wrote her cookbook, Smitten in the Kitchen: 60 Recipes for Love (facebook.com/smitteninthekitchen), she brought together two of her favourite subjects: food and love. As a Eurasian of mixed ancestry with Portuguese and British roots, food has always been a big part of the former radio presenter's life. “I started cooking around the age of 13. For me, cooking is about the memories you create around it. To this day, my mother and I still bond over cooking, and it serves as an expression of love. Food tells a story, and knowing how to recreate your family recipes keeps traditions alive.”

It wasn’t until Cheryl got a kitchen of her own in her 30s that she began experimenting, adding her modern twists to local dishes. “Food is love - first for myself, then for others. Many people hesitate to cook for just one or two people because they think it’s too troublesome, but cooking for myself, becoming smitten in my kitchen during my single years, filled

FOOD IS LOVE - FIRST FOR MYSELF, THEN FOR OTHERS

Jessica Yahn Photography (Springfield, Missouri, USA)

my belly and my heart!" Cheryl continues, "They say you can’t love someone until you love yourself. But also, you can’t cook well for someone or love the body you’re in until you start nourishing yourself with food you make with your hands.”

When she met her husband, Matthew, in 2016, they bonded over their love of great meals, with Cheryl whipping up some easy date-night dinners in her kitchen while they were dating.

The fact that Cheryl and Matthew both come from a long line of proud home 88

cooks provided a unique foundation for Smitten in the Kitchen. Featuring recipes from Cheryl’s Eurasian Singaporean background, Matthew's Midwestern American heritage, and original dishes created by Cheryl herself, the book includes a gorgeous mix of recipes alongside relationship advice, love lessons and anecdotes.

Says Cheryl, “Cooking is a way to bond and build new memories, so grab a loved one - whether that be your partner, friend, or kids - and get in the kitchen!”

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ONLY HAVE EYES FOR YOU

Carrot Ginger Soup with curry oil Serves: 4 Prep: 15 minutes Cook: 50 minutes

“According to relationship experts, the first year of marriage is the hardest - even if you’ve been living together or dating for many years before you tie the knot. The smallest issues and quirks are amplified when you suddenly realise you are 'stuck' with each other for life. I wish someone would have told me that because our first year of marriage in 2018 was riddled with silly squabbles. Thankfully, we've since learned how to work through any challenges together. Carrot and ginger are a powerful pair that are good for the heart and full of antioxidants to help you grow old together gracefully. Drizzle with curry oil (this stuff is amazing) for extra domestic bliss.”

FOR THE CURRY OIL ½ cup olive oil Handful of curry leaves, stems removed 5 garlic cloves, minced ½ tablespoon mustard seeds ¼ teaspoon pink himalayan salt FOR THE SOUP 1.4 kg carrots, roughly chopped ½ kg potato, peeled and roughly chopped 1 red onion, diced 5 garlic cloves, minced 2 knobs ginger (about 50g), sliced 10 cups water (add more if necessary) 3-5 stock cubes 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Salt & pepper to taste Olive oil, for cooking MAKE THE CURRY OIL, in a small pot on low heat. Pour in the olive oil and add the curry leaves, minced garlic and mustard seeds. Keep stirring. Turn the fire off when the garlic turns golden brown.

Allow to cool before straining and storing in a glass jar. This infused oil can now be drizzled over soups, used to level up pastas, hummus, and really anything your heart desires.

TO MAKE THE SOUP, roughly chop the carrots, potatoes, and onion. Mince the garlic and slice the ginger into thin strips. In a large pot, heat some olive oil and sauté the garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant. Add the carrots, potatoes, and water, then boil over medium-high heat until tender. Cook for about 40 minutes, then allow to cool before transferring to a food processor, blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot over low heat, add the stock cubes, salt, and cayenne pepper to taste. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of curry oil over the soup and mix thoroughly.

SERVE HOT with a drizzle of curry oil and a sprinkle of parsley.

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BE MY VALENTINE

Vongole Pasta Serves: 4 Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 20 minutes

“Many of my recipes are inspired by mine and Matthew's travels and this one reminds me of our trip to Kansas City.

I was especially ecstatic over finding bottled clam juice and gleefully brought a bunch of bottles back to Singapore in our suitcase. If you can't find bottled clam juice, white wine helps to extract more flavour out of frozen clams. I've added chillies here but you can use less or skip them altogether!”

FOR THE PASTA 500g spaghetti, cooked in salted water (2 teaspoons salt) 10 cloves garlic, minced 10g dried chillies, chopped (about 15-20 pieces) or chilli flakes to taste 1kg clams in shells (I use frozen clams) 90

500g of frozen clam meat 1 cup white wine 2 cups clam juice or 2 cups pasta water ½ cup pasta water ½ lemon, zested 2 teaspoons sea salt Olive oil, for cooking FOR TOPPING 30g flat-leaf parsley Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, for serving COOK THE SPAGHETTI in salted boiling water until al dente, then reserve about 4 cups of pasta water. Once done, drain and set aside.

FOR THE SAUCE, sauté the garlic in the same pot with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Once it turns golden, add the chopped dried chillies. After 2 minutes, add the clams, white wine, and clam juice (or 2 cups of reserved pasta water). Bring to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 4 minutes. Discard any clams that remain closed. For added

YOU CAN’T COOK WELL FOR SOMEONE UNTIL YOU START NOURISHING YOURSELF balance between carbs and protein, stir in the clam meat. Remove the lid and add ½ cup (or more, if necessary) of reserved pasta water, lemon zest (to enhance the flavours), and salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly TOSS IN THE COOKED PASTA and stir to combine. This pasta soaks up all the sexy juices so add a splash more of the reserved pasta water if needed. Store any extra pasta water in a bottle and refrigerate for warming up leftovers on the stove (never in the microwave!).

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BECAUSE I SAID SO

Coconut Panna Cotta with Berry Compote Serves: 4 Prep: 30 minutes Set: Overnight “This super-easy dessert can be crowned with a variety of toppings - honey, fresh fruit, coconut flakes - or this decadent boozy berry compote. My favourite option is a sprinkle of cacao nibs. A healthier alternative for chocolate lovers, it is higher in antioxidants and lower in sugar. Plus it’s rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. For a vegan-friendly version, substitute agar-agar for gelatin. I hope you will enjoy my spin on this creamy Italian dessert that uses rich coconut cream instead of the traditional dairy."

FOR THE PANNA COTTA 1 cup coconut milk 2 cups coconut cream 1⁄₃ cup white sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 3 gelatin leaves (or 1 teaspoon agar-agar for vegan version)

BERRY COMPOTE 8 fresh or frozen strawberries 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey ½ cup Southern Comfort (or substitute with bottled orange juice) Juice of 1 lemon Zest of ½ lemon Mint leaves, for garnish ALTERNATIVE TOPPINGS Dark chocolate Orange Blueberries Cocoa nibs Coconut flakes PREPARE GELATIN/AGAR AGAR Soak gelatin leaves in cold water. Once softened, squeeze off excess water as much as possible. If using agar-agar, just spoon out 1 teaspoon and set aside.

MAKE THE PANNA COTTA In a small saucepan add coconut milk, coconut cream and sugar on low heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves.

Once done, add the vanilla extract and stir for another minute. Turn off the heat and add the prepared gelatin or agar-agar, stirring until dissolved. (Agar agar melts at 85°C/185°F so use a kitchen thermometer or you’ll get grainy panna cotta!) Transfer liquids into ramekins or glasses. Allow it to cool at room temperature. Place the cups in the fridge and let the panna cotta set for 2 - 3 hours, or overnight FOR THE BERRY COMPOTE, add all the ingredients, except the mint leaves, to a small saucepan. Cook for about 10 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off, stirring frequently to prevent the mixture from burning at the bottom. Once cooled, use an immersion blender to roughly purée the mixture, keeping it slightly chunky.

TO SERVE, top with various goodies fresh fruit, shaved chocolate with orange zest, cocoa nibs with coconut flakes, or berry compote. Sharing, optional!

CHERYL MILES is the founder of “The Smitten Collection by Cheryl Miles” featuring candles, cookbooks and other scrumptious things. facebook.com/OfficialCherylMiles instagram.com/thesmittencollection/ instagram.com/smitteninthekitchen cherylmiles.com

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NIPPERS

Nineteen ANZA families, fifty surf lessons, endless awesome waves. The second annual Desaru Surf Trip was a rip-roaring success for our ANZA Nippers. By CASPAR SCHLICKUM.

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ingapore is not exactly famous for its waves, which is why 32 ANZA Nippers and their parents went on the second, now regular annual getaway to seek out some real surf action in nearby Desaru, Malaysia.

Situated a short drive or ferry ride from Singapore, Desaru’s golden beaches and warm waters provided the ideal backdrop for a weekend that brought together kids and adults for surfing, swimming, eating, relaxing, and a great deal of fun.

The Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast was the home away from home for most of the group. Bringing together a unique mix of

Practicing surf stances on the sand at Desaru

rock-and-roll charm and family-friendly facilities, it was the perfect base. The band that played at the hotel each night gave everyone a reason to let their (sandy) hair down after a day on the beach, and the kids loved bopping along.

The adjoining waterpark offered those not out on the real waves a chance to enjoy time together – whether on the giant wave machine, the rollercoaster, or the many, many slides. Being able to walk from the hotel to such a huge waterpark is a massive bonus.

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Proper surf helped nippers' to hone their skills

THE EXCITEMENT IS ALREADY BUILDING FOR NEXT YEAR’S TRIP! Below: Parent volunteers overseeing the transport

out on the waves, putting some of the nippers’ skills into practical action, and learning and honing our surf talents.

The instructors and crew from Jom surf were excellent, making sure everyone, including many of the parents who decided to have a go, was safe, surfing, and having a great time.

“For our second annual Desaru Surf Trip, we had 19 ANZA Nippers families join in on the action. Together, we had over 50 surf lessons, with everyone catching a few awesome waves,” said Lindsay Withaar, who was the amazing organiser and chief herder of cats for the event.

Trips like these are more than just a break from routine; they're a fantastic way for the community to come together, share stories and create memories that extend beyond the beach (and the waterpark).

Sunday afternoon was reserved for the adults - a large group enjoyed a leisurely lunch at the One & Only Desaru Beach Club, with excellent food, plenty of rosé, and a kids’ club ensuring the little ones were entertained. It was a great way to round out the weekend and consolidate old and new friendships.

After such a successful trip, Lindsay already has her focus on the future: “The excitement is already building for next year’s annual ANZA Nippers trip – we can’t wait to do it all again!”

Bring on 2025!

2025 REGISTRATIONS ARE OPEN NOW anza.org.sg/sports/nippers

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C YC L I N G

The Power of Perseverance Read on for the journeys of two amazing ANZA Cycling members, where grit and resilience led to personal triumphs.

The journey is more important than the destination

The Road to the Ironman World Championships

Martin was captured by the magic of Kona

BY MARTIN TRESCA

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hree years ago, I decided to take a leap into the unknown. With no background in swimming, biking, or running, I reached out to my coach and told him I wanted to train for triathlons.

He assured me that triathlon is the fairest sport out there, rewarding those who show up, rain or shine, and put in the work day after day. That belief became my guiding principle.

Over the past three years, I’ve logged countless hours of training - on my own, with friends, and with the incredible ANZA cycling community. The crazy Mandai Madness sessions, the relentless BartleyChangi loop, and the long, challenging Saturday rides with ANZA were more than just workouts - they were where I built strength, endurance, and camaraderie.

Those rides turned gruelling miles into opportunities to push limits, share laughs, and gain invaluable support.

Last October, all that training culminated in an amazing experience at the Ironman World Championship in Kona, 94

CROSSING THAT FINISH LINE WAS THE CULMINATION OF YEARS OF COMMITMENT Hawaii - a magical place that feels like the beating heart of the triathlon world.

Athletes from every corner of the globe go to Kona, bringing with them inspiring stories of dedication and resilience. But it’s also an intimidating atmosphere everywhere you look, people appear

incredibly strong and prepared. You can feel the weight of the competition in the air, and it pushes you to give your absolute best.

The race itself was everything I had imagined and more. The course is tough, both physically and mentally, but undeniably beautiful. The swim in Kailua Bay, the ride through the scorching heat of the Queen K, and the run through the iconic Energy Lab all challenged me in ways I could never have anticipated.

One of the highlights was seeing the pro triathletes up close, battling through their own pain and proving that no one escapes Kona without suffering.

Crossing the finish line was the culmination of years of commitment, supported by my family and the incredible community around me. Kona isn’t just a race; it’s a place that captures the heart of the triathlon world and leaves you yearning for more.

I’ve already set my sights on returning in 2026. Because if Kona taught me anything, it’s that the journey is just as important as the destination - and that magic, once experienced, keeps pulling you back for more.

Here’s to chasing dreams, to those who believe, and to those who never quit.

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Masters Tour of Chiang Mai

BY GONZALO RICO

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he 12th edition of the Masters Tour of Chiang Mai (MTCM), a four-stage cycling race, was a challenging yet rewarding experience. The event attracted a diverse field of cyclists from across Asia, including some top-tier riders from Thai Pro Continental teams.

The first 65km stage started with promise. However, a puncture early on derailed my momentum, and I ended up finishing in 19th place in the 30-39 age category. Disappointed but determined, I shifted my focus to the upcoming stages.

The second stage, the 90km “queen stage”, was a turning point. The course featured several challenging climbs, and I found myself in a select group of riders battling for position. After attacks and counterattacks, I managed to bridge the gap to the breakaway group and even overtake a few riders on the final climb, finishing in second place. This propelled me to 12th in the overall standings.

The third stage was a fast-paced 40km criterium. While I couldn’t quite make it into the decisive breakaway, I managed to secure a solid 4th place finish and moved up again to 8th overall.

The final stage, a challenging 10km individual time trial, was a true test of strength and endurance. Despite the tough uphill course, I pushed myself to the limit and finished in 4th place, cementing a 5th place overall.

I WAS PROUD TO BE ABLE TO OVERCOME ADVERSITY Left - right: Podium pals Marco and Gonzo

Gonzo finished in impressive 5th place

The MTCM was a fantastic experience.

While the first stage was a setback, I was proud to be able to overcome adversity and deliver strong performances in the subsequent stages. The race showcased the high level of competition and the incredible camaraderie among the riders - a big shout-out to my ANZA teammate Marco Scognamiglio, who helped make the experience so enjoyable. I'm looking forward to future races!

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N E T BA L L Louise Bibby and Sharni Norder with ANZA Netball

Shooting With The Stars ANZA Netball had the privilege of hosting Australian netball legend Sharni Norder and sports osteopath Louise Bibby for a weekend of training, coaching, and insights.

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NZA Netball was thrilled to host Australian netball legend Sharni Norder and renowned Australian sports osteopath Louise Bibby for a threeday event in November.

Sharni is a celebrated figure in netball, with 46 international caps for the Australian national team, The Diamonds.

She captained the team in 2017, earning two World Championship Gold Medals and a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal in 2014. She was also named Australian International Player of the Year in 2017. Known for her strong work ethic, leadership, and dedication to the sport, Sharni is an inspiring role model for our community.

Louise Bibby, a former VFLW footballer, leading osteopath, and strength and conditioning coach, currently works on player development for the Western Bulldogs VFLW team.

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Friday Special Session Sharni and Louise brought their expertise to a special Friday training session, focusing on warm-up techniques, injury prevention, and new netball concepts.

Players were introduced to creative drills and techniques, including “fancy hips”, followed by a warm-down and hearing about Sharni’s motivational journey.

Sharni shared personal challenges and triumphs, leaving the players spellbound.

The session was open to other netball clubs, providing a fantastic opportunity for everyone to engage with the two legends.

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Saturday Training During regular ANZA training on Saturday, Sharni and Louise interacted with players, led sessions, and participated in Q&A's.

Sharni’s engaging storytelling sparked numerous questions, ranging from her pre-match routine (starting with Taylor Swift!) to her love of other sports like basketball and horse riding. Sharni’s consistent message to the players was clear: “Don’t give up” and “Stay positive.”

Even the youngest ANZA players and our most experienced coaches were energised by her presence.

Sunday Matches On Sunday, two lucky U12 ANZA teams - the Comets and the Suns - welcomed Sharni as a guest coach during their league matches. Watching Sharni connect with players, and calling out encouragement and personalised tips, was truly inspiring. Both teams emerged victorious. ANZA coaches also gained valuable insights from Sharni’s coaching perspective, particularly in match strategy and tactical adjustments.

Specialist Clinics Sharni and Louise also led two specialist clinics focused on skill development and game strategy.

One clinic concentrated on midcourt play, while the other focused on shooting and defence in the circle. ANZA coaches were once again inspired by Sharni’s energy and coaching style.

It was an unforgettable weekend for ANZA Netball, and we can’t wait for Sharni and Louise to return!

Feedback Corner FROM THE PLAYERS “Sharni is amazing! Meeting her and seeing her energy and coaching through ANZA Netball was something I never imagined. She was funny, clear, and shared techniques I can now use in training and matches.”

— CHLOE, U11 “I had so much fun training with Sharni and Louise. Sharni, your story was inspiring, and I hope to play for Australia one day, just like you!"

— MEIRA, U11 “Training with Sharni and Louise was amazing. Sharni’s story was so inspirational, and it was great to learn new skills that I can use in training and matches. Thank you so much!”

— MIMI, U11

FROM ANZA VOLUNTEER COACHES “Watching Sharni coach was amazing. Her ability to read the game, connect with players, and offer precise guidance was remarkable. I’ve learned so much from her approach simplifying complex concepts, adjusting strategies on the fly, and fostering growth and confidence in every player.”

— COACH LIVIU “Sharni’s energy and enthusiasm were incredible. She engaged with the girls, learning their names and providing insightful, positive feedback. She’s an awesome role model and what an experience for us all!”

— COACH JEN

FROM THE ANZA SUNS LEAGUE TEAM “Thank you for coaching us! I will always remember your advice to ‘believe in myself’ and, as GK, to ‘control the circle’.”

— VERENA, U12 SUNS

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SOCCER

Coach’s Corner

At ANZA Soccer, we’re super grateful for our dedicated volunteer coaches who play a crucial role in shaping the lives of our young players. We give them a high-five here!

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t ANZA Soccer, our volunteer coaches are the backbone of our programme, some of whom have been guiding and inspiring young players for many years. Their patience, commitment, and ability to channel kids’ enthusiasm into life lessons like teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship - make an unforgettable impact on every child they coach. Their influence goes beyond soccer, helping to shape the character and confidence of our young players.

With over sixty volunteer coaches supporting both our Saturday and competitive programmes, each one brings unique talents and a big heart to the field. They invest their time and energy out of a genuine passion for the sport and a commitment to our community’s youth, and we owe a debt of gratitude to every one of them. We wish we had space to feature every coach, but in this issue, we’re highlighting just a selection of our standouts. Thank you to all our coaches for everything you do!

Andrew Stott Matildas YEARS WITH ANZA: 3 BIGGEST LEARNING: Saturday coaching sessions mean that it’s sensible to stay in on Fridays! Also, volunteering at ANZA Soccer has highlighted just how talented our athletes are, with a keen desire to belong to a team ethos.

HOW THE KIDS WOULD DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 WORDS: “He is annoying.” But

hopefully also: fun, ambitious and a “crossbarchallengewinnereverytime” (!).

Pete Williams YEARS WITH ANZA: 1.5

Dave Allen Matildas YEARS WITH ANZA: 5 BIGGEST LEARNING: Socccer

is less about perfect passes and more about perfecting patience. Kids will surprise you - sometimes with brilliant goals, sometimes with mid-game grasscollecting. Embrace the chaos; every stumble, smile, and breakthrough is part of the journey.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Cheer loudly, critique gently, and remember: the car ride home isn’t the game’s second half. They’ll remember the cheers, not the post-match analysis.

WITH OVER 6 0 VOLUNTEER COACHES, EACH ONE BRINGS UNIQUE TALENTS AND A BIG HEART TO THE FIELD

BIGGEST LEARNING:

Always ‘ask’ rather than ‘tell’. It’s been amazing to see how quickly children can pick things up when the environment is safe, fun, and challenging for them.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: In youth football, the development of the player is more important than results.

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Bjorn van Schijndel - M9 Tigers, B9 Comp YEARS WITH ANZA: 5 BIGGEST LEARNING: Creating a team

by getting all players of different levels to play within their strengths.

HOW THE KIDS WOULD DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 WORDS:

Fun, focused, enthusiastic.

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Chang Lih Herng - M11

Andy Grant - Mixed 7 Gordon’s Coach & B7 Socceroos Comp

YEARS WITH ANZA: 2.5 BIGGEST LEARNING: Boys have varying levels of development. It’s a challenge to keep their interest in football while pushing them to their limits, mixing hard work with fun.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: A pat on the shoulder after a tough day on the pitch goes a long way.

YEARS WITH ANZA: 1.5 BIGGEST LEARNING: Like most

things, a little bit of preparation goes a long way!

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Give it a go!

Coaching at ANZA Soccer is a great way to spend time with your child and do something rewarding.

Ross Mackay YEARS WITH ANZA: 3 BIGGEST LEARNING:

Patience - the boys aren’t the best listeners! The girls, on the other hand, are very good! It’s extremely rewarding to watch the players develop their skills over the years.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: You see leaders emerging where you least expect it.

Adversity helps develop resilience, which serves children as they grow into teenagers and adults.

Sam Mason YEARS WITH ANZA: 2 BIGGEST LEARNING:

Understand things from the player's point of view, have patience, and find a way to be motivational while instilling discipline around skills and teamwork.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Get involved, be committed and supportive, and remember that kids will perform better if they value and enjoy their experience.

Arek Stesik and Miko - G8 YEARS WITH ANZA: 4 BIGGEST LEARNING: The children see things very differently from the adult

coaches!

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Get your kids into sports! Any sport is beneficial, and the more

they try, the more likely they are to find their passion.

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Rich Cannon

Stu Gurr

YEARS WITH ANZA: 5

YEARS WITH ANZA: 6

BIGGEST LEARNING:

BIGGEST LEARNING:

There is no bootlace knot that won’t come undone at some point during training!

Also, I’ve discovered that soccer offers that rare thing - a kind of levelling of the field - providing opportunities to kids from different backgrounds and with personal challenges to genuinely thrive as one in a team.

Coaching is not just about teaching the game, it’s about teamwork, resilience, and learning to enjoy the journey.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Prioritise effort and enjoyment over winning. When kids feel supported for trying their best and having fun, they build resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love for the sport.

Alex Hollingworth - M5 YEARS WITH ANZA: 4 BIGGEST LEARNING: Keep the

ball moving and have fun.

HOW THE KIDS WOULD DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 WORDS: Funny, loud, strict!

Dick Stamsnieder YEARS WITH ANZA: 2.5 BIGGEST LEARNING:

It’s crucial to focus on building confidence, teamwork and a love for the game, rather than just winning. This helps young players develop not only their skills but also their character, resilience, and sportsmanship.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS:

Have patience and fun. Don’t expect too much and focus on what goes well, make sure children stay motivated to return to the pitch the following week.

James Wyatt YEARS WITH ANZA: 2 BIGGEST LEARNING:

When things don’t work out on the soccer pitch, the players often have the answers.

Encouraging their voices fosters ownership and accountability.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Let the kids find resolutions. Providing constructive encouragement is key to their development. (We all get very passionate on the sidelines!).

Steve Carroll YEARS WITH ANZA: 3 BIGGEST LEARNING: When

you drive a positive team culture, it’s amazing how fast all players grow in confidence, both on and off the field.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS: Associations like ANZA rely on volunteers. I can’t stress enough how much of a difference it adds to your kids and the club if parents engage and help out in any role. Get involved!

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To all of our coaches - you’re amazing.

We thank you for the lasting memories and lessons you create each ANZA Soccer season. Here’s to you!

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ANZA NETBALL Term 1 Registrations Now Open!

Saturday mornings at Tanglin Trust School • Led by professional coaches • All abilities welcome, starting from 5 years upwards • Fun, friendship and teamwork Register at anza.org.sg/sports/netball

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C R IC K E T

Men of the Match

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ricket is a team sport where victory depends on everyone contributing. Each member of ANZA's Cricket team plays a crucial role, but some players make standout, game-changing contributions. This feature celebrates those exceptional moments.

If a player is highlighted here more than once, they're a true legend. If mentioned once, they had a stellar day on the field. And if someone's not included at all, they're likely to be putting in the hard work at NETs, sharing a laugh, socialising, enjoying a drink, or anchoring the game at the other end. Remember, every dog has its day - let's see who shines this season!

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ANZA Cricket celebrate an outstanding performer in each game. We start 2025 with a round of applause for these players who've made outstanding contributions on the pitch.

NETs stuff to know NETs kick off each Wednesday at The Cage Sports Park, Dempsey, from 7pm.

We assemble 5 - 10 people through our WhatsApp chat to roll the arm over. It's not a problem if you don’t want to play games, don't have equipment, and/or just want to do NETs. They are social NETs for all abilities.

Sponsored by

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TERM 1 REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN! CREATING A COMMUNITY THROUGH SURF AWARENESS AT OLA BEACH CLUB, SENTOSA

REGISTER AT anza.org.sg/sports/nippers

ANZA Scouts are all about fun, adventure and learning Find out more and register at anza.org.sg/groups/scouts

Singing Group

Come sing with us – where every voice We cover rock, musicals, is pop, welcome! old favourites, classical, karaoke Discover the joy of singing with sessions that– youwriting, namemusic it! Don’t shy, event include song theory,be karaoke, all abilities welcome. performances, and more! are In 2025, we’re bringing an exciting lineup of new songs, fresh activities, and fun ways to connect through music.

Group host, Bernadette Nagy, is a singer and a passionate music educator.

Find out more at anza.org.sg/ groups/singing-group Find out more at anza.org.sg/ groups/singing-group

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ANZA Adult Netball

SP O T L IG H T O N

If you last played netball at school, you’re not alone!

This year we’re adding ANZA Adult Netball to our 30+ strong portfolio of sports groups - and everyone is welcome.

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NZA Netball has been one of our most popular sports groups for children for the past 20 years, but why should the kids have all the fun?!

Seeing the satisfaction our younger players get from regular games prompted the netball committee to invite those aged 18+ to the court. After the successful launch of Adult Netball Training sessions in 2024, Term 1 Adult Netball starts on 23 January 2025 for a 10-week block.

If the last time you graced a court Boyzone were in the charts, hear us out.

ANZA Netball's senior coach is all set to lead the sessions, designed for both beginners and those looking to return to the game. Participants can expect plenty of fun skill-building and matches.

As netball is an excellent cardiovascular exercise, you’ll also get a full-body workout that will help to improve endurance, strength and flexibility.

Additionally, playing netball helps maintain bone density which is crucial as we age, and for preventing the onset of osteoporosis. By joining you’ll be future-proofing your body without even realising it!

As a team sport, netball is especially brilliant for encouraging social connection

and fostering a sense of belonging which is vital for mental wellbeing. Engaging in a game as an adult allows players to focus on the present moment, providing a mental break from daily stress (and thoughts of what to prep for dinner).

Initial sessions at ANZA Adult Netball will focus on skill development and building strength and agility to prevent injury, while working towards strategy and match play for players joining leagues and tournaments. Let’s show the young ‘uns how it’s done!

ANZA Adult Netball will take place on Thursdays, 23 Jan – 3 Apr 2025.

TIME: 7pm – 8:30pm LOCATION: Tanglin Trust School COST: $250 for 10 weeks REGISTRATION: Log onto anza.org.sg

FASCINATING NETBALL FACTS Netball has roots in basketball Netball originated from basketball in the late 19th century.

It was developed by Clara Baer in 1891, who modified basketball rules to make it more suitable for women.

Netball is big in Commonwealth nations While netball may not be widely known in some countries, it is hugely popular in the likes of Australia, New Zealand, England, Jamaica, and South Africa.

Netball was once played on horseback

Not all netball courts are created equally

In the early 1900s, a variant of netball known as “horseback netball” was created, where players would ride horses while playing.

The game was quite challenging due to the difficulty of passing the ball while riding, so the horses were dismissed.

The standard adult netball court measures 30.5 metres long x15.25 metres wide, but there are variations in court sizes for different age groups and levels of play. Junior players, for example, use smaller courts.

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ANZA Pickleball

Mixed Social Tennis The ANZA Mixed Social Tennis group gets together on Friday mornings 9am - 11am.

Players of all abilities are welcome.

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ANZA Discover Tennis Clinics

Pickleball is taking the world by storm!

It’s fast moving, heaps of fun and will get your fitness levels up. y Plus weekl’s beginner ns io sess

Join the ANZA social Pickleball group. We play on Friday mornings at centrally located courts.

ANZA Discover Tennis Clinics are a 6-week programme designed for newcomers wanting to learn the basic skills of tennis, or for players wanting to refresh their technique.

!

S LU

Register at anza.org.sg/sports/tennis

Register at anza.org.sg/sports/pickleball

ANZA Padel

Are you passionate about padel tennis and eager to connect with fellow enthusiasts?

ANZA Padel group is the perfect place for players of all levels to come together for a fun hit. New to the game? Join our monthly beginner’s sessions.

9 Hole Golf Looking to kickstart your golf game? This relaxed group of golfers meet on Tuesday mornings. Other activities include group lessons and social events. Suitable for beginners and those seeking a handicap.

VENUE Mandai Executive Golf Course Upper Seletar Reservoir, Mandai Rd Track 7, 779384 anza.org.sg/sports/golf-9-hole

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AN Z A GROUPS

ANZA members are an active bunch, which is why we offer a plethora of interest groups. Find out more and register at anza.org.sg

INTEREST GROUPS ANZA SCOUTS Open to everyone aged 5-17, ANZA Scouts is about meeting new friends, developing leadership skills and being outdoors. They meet every Saturday at various locations.

ART AND CRAFT GROUP Join up and learn new craft skills, such as silk painting, bookbinding, candle making, sewing, card creation, beading, batik, and more.

ANZA ACTION The community affairs arm for ANZA supports charities in Singapore through fundraising and volunteering activities. For info visit the ANZA website.

BOOK CLUBS We have a number of social book clubs that meet monthly in the morning or evening. Contact us to be connected with a group.

SECRET MEN’S BUSINESS Secret Men’s Business (SMB) is an exclusive ANZA group made up of men of all ages looking to catch up with like-minded, friendly blokes. The group’s main activity is golf twice a week. There’s also squash, cycling, tennis, lunches and drinks.

TINY TOTS NATURE PLAY This group invites families to bring their active toddlers aged 6 months and above for nature-based playdates in a relaxed setting. Meet-up locations vary and take place on Saturday or Sunday mornings from 9.30am 11.30am.

STITCHES Interested in any type of needlecraft?

All levels are welcome to join this relaxed group who sew, chat, and share creative tips.

abilities are welcome.

SET LUNCH We seek out great value set lunch deals around Singapore to enjoy together in group outings. Discover new restaurants and cafes, meet new friends, and enjoy Singapore’s delicious food scene.

KILL-O-METRES Join ANZA’s walking group to get moving around some of Singapore’s great nature reserves and interesting neighbourhoods.

INVESTORS INTEREST GROUP This money-minded group meets monthly to connect and discuss investments and important financial matters for expats.

EASY RIDERS This cycling group explores Singapore’s Park Connector Network (PCNs) and off-road bike paths.

Participants will need their own bike and a helmet.

CASUAL COFFEE Sometimes you just need a good cuppa and a friendly welcome. Casual Coffee catch ups are being held on various days and locations around the island.

LADIES NIGHT ANZA organises monthly girls-only get togethers at various hotspots in Singapore. They’re a great way to widen your social circle, and always a good night out.

MAHJONG Join our group mahjong sessions on Monday evenings and various days in different locations. It’s fast paced, social and great fun.

SINGING This group of passionate singers comes together to celebrate the joy of music, exploring a wide range of songs across various genres. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned vocalist, all levels are welcome. The group also explores songwriting, music theory, and karaoke, with opportunities to perform at events.

CROCHET Join our friendly crochet group who meet on Tuesdays from 10am - 12pm at the ANZA office. Perfect for all skill levels. Come craft and connect!

SPORTS GROUPS

ANZA ADULT NETBALL Welcomes beginners and those looking to get back into the game. A senior coach leads upbeat sessions, teaching new skills, refining existing ones, and offering advice for friendly matches.

ANZA CRICKET Three cricket teams. Two leagues and one social side. 1-2 teams play every week. NETs are on Wednesday evenings.

ANZA CYCLING Join our keen cycling group and you can get out on two wheels every morning of the week. Suits most skill levels and includes road, racing, MTB and also triathlon disciplines.

ANZA GOLF / 9 HOLE ANZA Golf is a great way to get outdoors, meet new people and learn how to play the game. The 9-hole golf group is aimed at beginners and is very friendly.

ANZA NETBALL ANZA Netball offers a fun, inclusive and competitive netball programme for players aged 5-16. Teams play Saturday mornings at Tanglin Trust School, with a mix of parent and professional coaches.

ANZA NIPPERS Children aged 5-14 learn ocean awareness through fun surf lifesaving activities, including paddling, drills and swimming. Sunday mornings at Ola Beach Club, Sentosa.

ANZA SINGAPORE WOMBATS AND WOMBETTES (AFL) This welcoming Aussie Rules Football programme is open to men and women aged 18+. Training is on Thursday evenings and Saturdays, with regular social catch-ups.

ANZA RUNNING Looking for some running buddies in Singapore for regular casual runs? The ANZA Running Group meets on Monday evenings in the Botanic Gardens.

ANZA SOCCER Get your kids kicking with ANZA Soccer! Our programme is open to children aged 3-18, focusing on fair play and community. Saturday games and mid-week training.

CASUAL TENNIS Join our social tennis group. Sessions run Friday mornings, 9am - 11am.

Six-week clinics that focus on the fundamentals of tennis run throughout the year.

ANZA PADEL ANZA Padel provides an ideal setting for players of all levels to get together and enhance their gameplay. Sessions take place on late afternoons every Friday and Sunday.

ANZA PICKLEBALL The ANZA Pickleball social group meets for social play on Friday mornings and ad-hoc evenings at centrally located courts for a fun and friendly game. We also run weekly beginner sessions for those new to the sport ANZA WATERSPORTS Join our Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Sailing sessions! SUP & Kayaking meets at Ola Beach Club, Sentosa. ‘Learn to Sail’ and social sailing sessions depart from various marinas on different days.

disclaimer ANZA offers many and varied activities and events to benefit its members. Occasionally, and due to circumstances outside of ANZA’s control, activities or events (including sporting competitions and seasons) may be cancelled or subject to date, venue or content changes. Every effort is made to avoid this, but where it does happen, neither membership or ticket fees are refundable. Current and prospective members and guests are encouraged to reference both the constitution and terms and conditions of ticketed events.

January/February 2025

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N EW M E M B E R S

NEW MEMBERS

We are delighted to welcome new members every month to the ANZA community.

Priti Breakey

Stefany Gomes Da Rosa

Gaspard Bertin

Linda May James

Shem Breakey

Lucie Lamprey

Susan Tedd

Stanisava Filipova

Jill Pettipiece

Daniel Omara

Jonathan Tedd

Ivailo Dikov

Jose Leon Santos

Vidhi Gupta

Jasmine E. Yeo

Camille Thelu

Edwin Cooper

Siddharth Gupta

Steven Wells

Celine Sinnott

Joanna Henley

Jane Zollo

Ajay Kumar

Peter Sinnott

Aditi Roy

Andy Zollo

Ekta Tejwani

Shyam Dhupelia

Carl Dsouza

Josh Horton

Mike Baker

Aditi Anand

Helen Laverty

Trisha Peel

Melanie Baker

Morgane Penet

Ryan Gruenthal

Thihan Chandramohan

Fernando Bello

Julia Wallace

Adam Collins

Mohammad Imran Mohammad Zainal

Bertha Mendoza

Ng Aik Gee Dylan

Diana Nhan

Siti Fatimah Mohamad Ridwan

Louisa Jansa

Chua Yee Lan Kelly

Erin Tavallai

Nirhiadayah Bintenjohari

Marcus Jansa

David Burren

Ali Tavallai

Takaaki Irie

Lim Chun Shuang

Alice Burren

Mark Findlay

Reika Irie

Jean Lai

Frank Ong

Claire Findlay

Michael Symes

James Proctor

Alice Chu

Sok Hee

Netta Hjelm

Lena Roesch

Alasdair Roy

Yee Ling Tay

Niko Hurskainen

Laura Rudkin

Stephen Martin

Robin Blythe

Sudarat Asvinvichit

John Milne

Alex Kelly

Jitesh Ramchandani

Bence Szegedi

Tammarika Tricarico

Daisy Kelly

Pooja Ramchandani

Mellissa Saw

Luan Bui

Thomas Cree

Ostiane Goh-Livorness

Lavinia Fyson

Tereza Tennett

Jodie Cree

Dan Snowball

Patrick Fyson

Adrian Tennett

Miguel Fonseca

Arina Azman

Christopher Pollard

Louisa Dimarco

Teresa Fonseca

Jeannin Lucien

Jennie Suarez

Mei Young

Malcolm Mauger

Jeannin Camille

Avital Oretsky

Gervin Yang

Nicky Mauger

Murtaza Hasan

Oren Avidan

Mark Kirby

Avner Mizrahi

Wenkai Lyu

Claire Moulin

Erin Owens

Lisa Kienzle

Lionel Gomes Da Rosa

Antoine Bertin

Jonathan James

Roy Duffin

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Ashley Singer

Joanna Friedhoff

Hai Jade Fuan

Stefan Friedhoff

Paul Quesado

Annette Thomsen

Marisa Azman

Logan Caulfield

Mulle De Terschueren Geraldine

Georgina Patterson

Aled Rees

Michael Patterson

Koen Jakob Jan Vessies

Corinne Gogolitsyn

Sanne Post

Emily Hudson

Fiona Gray

Jonathan Hudson

Stuart Main

Christine James

Mary Teh

David James

Stephen Campbell

Anthony F Correa

Farina Jeyaraj

Rebecca Hong

Ravi Jeyaraj

Elaine Kinsella

Yumika Mimoto

Anthony Smith

Futa Mimoto

Alison Ennis

Sam K. Sabesan

Adrian Smith

Gabriel Farnezi De Melo

Sara Osman

Philip Cockerill

Gemma Pimlott

Sarah Cockerill

John Heath

Jennifer Doig

Chris Allen

Wade Lundin

Cookhie Choi

ANZA NEW MEMBER GIVEAWAY Congratulations to AVNER MIZRAHI Winner of $125 e-gift voucher from ThunderWear Asia

NEW MEMBERS PREMIER PARTNER

NEW MEMBERS SILVER PARTNERS

Jane Duke

Play Mahjong with ANZA

SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED A STRONG CUPPA AND A FRIENDLY WELCOME. Whether you’re new to Singapore, new to ANZA or have been here a while, our Casual Coffee mornings are a fantastic way to meet new people and pick up tips for living in Singapore. ANZA Casual Coffee meets at various locations around the island.

Register at anza.org.sg/groups/ casual-coffee

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ANZA Mahjong meet up on various days and locations around the island. It’s a great way to learn this brain boosting Chinese tile game. From beginners AY and beyond, all levels are welcome!

D N O M G NIN EVE IONS! S S SE

anza.org.sg/groups/mahjong

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A N Z A M E M B E R D I S C OU N T S

Exclusive ANZA Member Offers!

SARNIES

10% off in store 50% off 250g bags of coffee beans online purchase

SANTI'S

10% off in store

Head to our link below to find out more. www.anza.org.sg/member-discounts/listing HERO’S heros.sg 10% discount on all nonpromotional beverages

SARNIES sarnies.com 10% off in store and 50% off 250g bags of coffee beans online purchase

MOGAMBO BAR & RESTAURANT mogambo.sg 10% discount on all nonpromotional beverages

HARRY’S harrys.com.sg 15% off total food and beverage bill and 10% off spirit bottles when you register using the Harry’s mobile app e-card

BQ BAR bqbar.com 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month MOLLY MALONE’S molly-malone.com 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month CAFE MELBA cafemelba.com.sg 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month AMÒ amorestaurant.sg 10% off the total bill LOCABA locaba.sg 15% off online purchases

SOUTHBRIDGE southbridge.sg 10% off the total bill LUCE BY ANDREA ROSSI – INTERCONTINENTAL SINGAPORE https://singapore. intercontinental.com/dine/luce 20% off weekday lunch buffet FIRE firerestaurant.sg 10% off the total bill THE LOBBY LOUNGE singapore.intercontinental.com/ dine/lobby-lounge 20% off weekday food & beverage A La Carte Menu and Afternoon Tea

PULSE LIVE www.pulsesingapore.com Complimentary classic cocktail with food & beverage orders

CLUBHOUSE SG clubhousesg.com 20% off the total bill (food and beverage and simulator rental, if applicable)

THE MEAT CLUB themeatclub.com.sg $25 off sitewide

KNOTS CAFE & LIVING knotscafeandliving.com 10% off the total bill

SANTI’S santis.pizza 10% off in-store

EL CHIDO pullmansingaporehillstreet.com/ restaurants-bars/el-chido 15% discount on food & beverage A La Carte Menu

MOGA pullmansingaporehillstreet.com/ restaurants-bars/moga 15% discount on food & beverage A La Carte Menu

ROYAL ALBATROSS tallship.com.sg 15% off and free welcome drink (non-alcoholic) for any Royal Albatross experiences

1-ARDEN 1-arden.sg 15% off the total bill

THUNDERWEAR ASIA thunderwear.asia 20% discount with minimum purchase of $50

MADISON’S pullmansingaporehillstreet.com/ restaurants-bars/madisons 15% discount on food & beverage A La Carte Menu HARD ROCK CAFE SINGAPORE cafe.hardrock.com/singapore 15% discount on food & beverage ATICO LOUNGE & BAR 1-atico.sg 1-for-1 on selected cocktails, housepour wines at $15++ (excluding champagnes) FLNT flnt.sg/flnt 10% off the total bill RAFFLES HOTEL SINGAPORE anza.org.sg/raffles-hotel-anzaoffer Great deals exclusive to ANZA members. Log in to your ANZA account for more PETERSONS WINES anza.org.sg/petersons-winesanza-offer/# Great deals exclusive to ANZA members. Log in to your ANZA account for more VISAGE SALON 20% off all services Visage Beauty Salon. 10% off all facials and waxing services

SOSPIRI sospiri.sg 10% off the total bill DEVIATE WINE BAR deviate.com.sg 10% off the bill BEANS N’ BOTTLES deviate.com.sg 10% off the bill SOUTHERN ALBATROSS speedboat.sg 15% off Southern Albatross experiences with free welcome drink ODIN MORTGAGE AND TAX odinmortgage.com/partners/anza-sg 20% off tax services MAN FU YUAN singapore.intercontinental.com/ dine/man-fu-yuan 15% off A La Carte Menu KELLY SER ATELIER kellyseratelier.com $10 off with a minimum purchase of $100 MIA TAVOLA mia-tavola.com/discount/ANZA10 10% off online purchases BAIA baia.sg 10% off the total bill

Terms & conditions apply to member discounts. Please check our website for details of each offer before you go.

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GREAT REASONS TO

AN ANZA MEMBER

30+ social & interest groups, 90+ community meet-ups a month Access to Singapore’s top experts offering expat life advice

David Lau

Weekly e-newsletter + bi-monthly ANZA magazine packed with info

SPORTS GROUPS

ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Over 1,500+ kids and 500+ adults come together for our exciting and varied sports groups. Soccer, netball, nippers, cycling, cricket, golf, and racquet sports, among others

From Singing and Scouts to Mahjong and Secret Men’s Business, you’ll find something to suit every passion and hobby at ANZA.

80+ events every year, including monthly Ladies’ Nights, new member gatherings, networking sessions, our signature annual ball, and more!

MEMBER DISCOUNTS

TOURS

ANZA members get access to incredible discounts including deals at F&B outlets, health and beauty hotspots, and travel. You're welcome!

Join weekly adventures exploring Singapore. Learn about history, cultures, festivals and traditions, and uncover secret hidden gems.

“With over 76 years in Singapore, ANZA is more than an association. We have evolved into an essential community and trusted lifeline for expats of all nationalities from around the world, providing support and friendship within our home away from home.”

KERRY LOW, GENERAL MANAGER, ANZA

Log onto anza.org.sg to sign up today

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10 MINUTES WITH

Nelmalyn Olivia Nelmalyn, 34, from the Philippines, is one of Singapore’s many migrant domestic helpers to join the exclusive Splash Foundation Swimming Programme for adults.

Nelmalyn, second from left, with her swim buddies at Splash Foundation

Congrats on completing the programme! When did you first hear about it?

Back in 2022, here in Singapore, through my previous employer. The programme was first introduced to the domestic helpers of the students of United World College (UWC), where the child I looked after was studying.

What most appealed to you about it?

Growing up in the Philippines, I lived near the sea and rivers, so I was lucky to learn to swim as a child but received no formal training. I wanted to improve

I WAS ABLE TO OVERCOME SELF-DOUBT BY ACHIEVING MY GOALS

my swimming skills and learn new techniques. What appealed to me most was the opportunity to challenge myself physically and mentally, while developing my self-discipline and time-management skills. I also wanted to boost my selfconfidence and self-esteem.

What was your favourite part of the programme?

The supportive team environment, our coaches, team captains, and my cosplashers, who all motivated me to push my limits.

Any frustrations?

How did you feel when you signed up?

I was extremely excited but also a bit on edge and sceptical! The programme spanned 12 weeks, every Sunday at UWC Dover Campus. As it was open to all domestic helpers, I soon settled in when I got together with participants from Indonesia, Myanmar, and other countries.

What techniques did you learn?

A balance of practical skills, such as good breathing, diving properly, treading water, and performing turns, alongside theoretical knowledge of swimming, including water safety, buoyancy, and improving techniques.

Dealing with disappointments was the most challenging part of the programme, primarily due to my initial struggles with self-doubt and fear of failure.

These disappeared when I discovered surprising things about myself, such as my ability to swim longer distances. In time I learnt that I could overcome doubt by achieving my goals.

What other skills did you improve on?

I developed valuable teamwork and communication skills that enhanced my ability to collaborate and connect with others. As my confidence improved through swimming, I learned to believe in myself and establish a growth mindset.

How has Splash Foundation Programme changed your life?

It changed me a lot as a person. It has expanded my perspective on life and taught me to deal with challenges and persevere, both in and out of the pool. I’m happy and grateful to say that thanks to my time as a Beginner Splasher, I am now a Graduate Coach.

Nelmalyn (second from left) is now a Graduate Coach

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What skills do you need to be ready for the real world?

Our students know.

At CIS, our students know that academic rigour is not about how much you can remember or just your test score. It is the ability to apply, analyse, synthesise and evaluate the knowledge learned. We encourage CIS students to excel in every area by developing intellectual curiosity and independence of mind, concern and respect for others, a sense of compassion and high standards. Our students leave us ready for success in the real world. Our students know.

Book an on-campus tour at www.cis.edu.sg/tour or call 6734 8088.

As an IB World School, CIS offers the PYP, MYP and IB DP. Canadian International School Pte. Ltd. PEI Registration No: 199002243H. Period of Registration: 8 June 2023 to 7 June 2027.

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Choose the path that is best for you.

As the only school in Singapore to offer the choice of A Levels or the IB Diploma in Sixth Form, Tanglin Trust School students can thrive and flourish by studying the programme that most suits them; either the specialist study of three to four subjects or a broad and balanced programme of six subjects.

Our students’ examination results are outstanding, consistently surpassing Singapore and global averages, with 95% of graduates typically receiving their first or second choice university, which are among the best in the world. But that’s not the full story.

Going to school is also about developing a community of lifelong learners, whether it be through sports, the arts, outdoor education or the multitude of other opportunities students embrace. With the support of our dedicated and experienced staff, everyone gets a chance to find their passion, to be part of our dynamic community, and to achieve their personal best.

Visit www.tts.edu.sg

CPE Reg. No. 196100114C (7/6/2023 - 6/6/2029)

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