The Brooksian Times (Issue 1 2023)

THE BROOKSIAN TIMES

Latest news from Northbrooks Secondary School

PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

By Mr David Lau

Dear Brooksians,

First and foremost, welcome, Secondary Ones to Northbrooks Secondary School, and to your secondary family where you will learn to get along and grow together over the next few years.

As you embark on this new journey you are encouraged to embrace all the opportunities available to you and to work hard towards your goals We also congratulate our students on successfully conquering your first post-pandemic, postexamination level activities and camps, and demonstrating your resilience as one family despite the challenges faced We prevailed because we are united as one!

FACES OF NORTHBROOKS:

Two Courageous Campers

ByAlsonLauJoonHee(3G)

I awoke to the blaring of my alarm and immediately went back to sleep The last thing I wanted to do was leave the comfort of my bed. Waking up would solidify my fate for the next three days of utter adversity, hopelessness and dread. Or at least, that was what I had initially thought prior to the Secondary 3 Camp at Pulau Ubin!

When I reached the school hall, disarrayed heaps of bags came into sight, as a sense of relief washed over me I wasn’t the only one who had over packed My confidence was boosted slightly when I realised my classmates might have been anxious too: we were all in this together! Things began to feel more exciting when we met our trainers. After logistics were settled and rules were set, we were off to Pulau Ubin

Upon reaching the island, I was stunned by the abundance of greenery and

Please allow me to share with you a brief tale* about the importance of looking out for one another within a family

A rat looked through a crack in the wall to see the farmer and his wife opening a package. He was aghast to discover that it was a rat trap! Retreating to the barn yard the rat proclaimed the warning: “There’s a rat trap in the house, a rat trap in the house!”

The chicken clucked and scratched, and said, “Excuse me, Rat, I can tell this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to me I cannot be bothered by it ” The rat turned to the pig, who sympathised with him, “I am so very sorry, Rat, but there is nothing I can do about it. Be assured that you are in my prayers.” The rat turned to the cow, who said, “Like wow, Rat a rat trap. I am in grave danger. Duh?” The rat returned to the house, head down and dejected, to face the farmer’s rat trap alone

The farmer rushed her to the hospital She returned home with a fever, so the farmer took his hatchet to the barn yard for the soup’s main ingredient – fresh chicken

His wife’s sickness continued so that friends and neighbours came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them the farmer butchered the pig. The farmer’s wife did not get well She died and many people came for her funeral The farmer had the cow slaughtered to feed all of them And the mouse looked upon it all from his crack in the wall with great sadness

That very night a sound was heard throughout the house, like the sound of a rat trap catching its prey The farmer’s wife rushed to see what was caught In the darkness, she did not see that it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught The snake bit the farmer’s wife

Lessons to learn: The next time we hear that someone is facing a problem and think that it does not concern us, we must remember that when there is a rat trap in the house –when one of us is threatened – we are ALL at risk. We must keep an eye out for one another and make an extra effort to encourage one another Each of us is a vital thread in another person’s tapestry Our lives are woven together for a reason Ignoring the needs of the most vulnerable among us often produces grave consequences for the rest of us

"I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things." – Mother Teresa.

Wishing everyone a fruitful year ahead!

Trace' We learnt that being conscious of our effects on the environment can help sustain it for entire generations to come!

As soon as the short lesson was over, we ventured into the wetlands itself The entire area fascinated me, as I had never experienced it before. Jelawi Tower also offered a panoramic view of the wetlands.

kampong atmosphere Even the air there was fresher. On that very day, my class, 3G, hiked to the Chek Jawa Wetlands. Using a map and a compass, my classmate Serianni and I led our group towards our destination The terrain was smooth and relatively easy to navigate, so we reached the destination in under two hours This was a fun experience - with Seri by my side and my cooperative classmates behind me, the weight of leadership became lighter and less daunting.

After reaching the wetlands, we were taught the seven principles of 'Leave No

As we ventured further along the boardwalk, we encountered various types of flora and fauna that we would never come across in the city. We also walked along a trail that offered a picturesque view of the coast My initial reservations were beginning to wane; the breathtaking view and fresh air made this one of my favorite moments of the camp

Alsonand3GafteralonghikeinChekJawaWetlands

Alsonandhisclassmatesgatherforaphotomomentsafter steppingfootonPulauUbin

HIGHLIGHT S

START OF TERM 1 ASSEMBLY (3 JAN)

@NORTHBROOKS

SEC 1 ORIENTATION & CAMPFIRE (3-6 JAN)

Brooksians participate in an icebreaker game during the Start of Term 1 Assembly Brooksians demonstrated the school values of Teamwork and Discipline to achieve the objective of moving a gym ball from the front of the hall to the back

CHINESE NEW YEAR CONCERT (20 JAN)

It was a roaring welcome for our Secondary One Brooksians as we kickstarted the year with the revival of our annual campfire. The campfire was the highlight of our Secondary One orientation, themed Reimagined Possibilities Our new Brooksians bonded over fun-filled games, school tour and CCA Display Day over the four days.

NSG

(2 FEB)

Brooksian teachers, alumni and students gather on stage to sing Chinese New Year songs as the school ushered in the Year of the Rabbit Said Mr Gavin Ler [Centre], "It is always a joy to be able to be on stage, and the experience is one that has been in short supply during the pandemic. The atmosphere was fantastic!"

TOTAL DEFENCE DAY (15 FEB)

Brooksian teachers stand united during the school's Total Defence Day commemoration, 81 years after Singapore’s surrender in 1942 during World War II. Our Uniformed Group students and staff donned their uniforms with pride and our teachers even gave us insights into how they played their part for their nation

36 Northbrooks athletes stand proud in front of the Northbrooks flag after witnessing the opening ceremony of the National School Games "We hope the ceremony inspires Brooksians to advocate for and pursue sporting excellence as well as values such as integrity and teamwork " said Ms Nadya Toha [R].

SEC 4/5 CAREER DAY (27 FEB)

GAMES B DIVISION

Mr Ashok Samuel, a lecturer at Nanyang Technological University and former Senior Vice-President at the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC) speaks to the Secondary Four students during our annual Career Day Career Day helps students learn about possible career paths and how their studies can contribute towards their aspirations.

FACES OF NORTHBROOKS: Two Courageous Campers

Continued from Page 1

That evening, we faced a few difficulties with pitching our tents. My teammates were all pulling their weight. But try as we might, we were unable to do it by ourselves! Finally we sought help from our camp trainers, who showed us again how to pitch our tent This taught me that there is no harm or shame in asking for help

After showering, we went to sleep. I must admit that the tent was a lot more comfortable than I had anticipated Sleep didn't come easy; the night air was alive with the sound of quiet chatter and the smell of feet!

On the second day, 3G went cycling! Even though I already knew how to cycle, I still went into the activity feeling anxious because we would be cycling across the island

However, the company I was with and the route that we chose made this easier than expected We continued cycling until we received a warning about a potential thunderstorm from our trainers We were urged to hurry back and seek shelter

Then, disaster struck Some of our bicycle wheels became jammed in the mud With the rain bearing down and our bicycles uncooperative, it was easy for the group to lose sight of each other We were left behind The rest had made it under shelter elsewhere and begun work on the campfire preparation for that night.

I felt worried because I thought my group wouldn’t make it back in time After making sure everyone was safe, we headed off to find our classmates Although the situation was daunting, I felt safe as I rode because I knew my classmates had my back. When we rejoined the group at last, the campfire preparations could begin in earnest

The campfire performances that night were extremely energetic, fun and unforgettable We danced, we sang, we screamed, we clapped and we laughed My entire class was proud of our performance The rain did not stop once throughout these activities, but that did not dampen our moods - until, that is, we learnt that our tents had flooded We spent our night at the assembly hall - another unforgettable experience, although the novelty of it all was kind of fun, and we all slept like the dead!

On the final day, we went kayaking I did not participate in the activity, I heard from my classmates that it was a blast! Although I didn't take part I was happy for them: they were smiling ear to ear when they returned!

We then struck down our tents, an annoying and challenging process that was exacerbated by the rain and ants that kept biting. We persevered by working together When we were done, we even found time to help the others I was proud of my teammates and my class for the camaraderie we displayed All in all, I overcame a lot of challenges and definitely grew from these new experiences

Would I want to camp again? I've had my fill of adventure for the year, so perhaps not in the near future... Was it fun, though? Absolutely. Sec 3s Oei!

ByNurSyakira BinteNorzamry(1I)

As I prepared for the Secondary One Level Camp, I was very nervous, yet intrigued. Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Circuit Breaker measures, I never had the chance to attend a Primary Five Camp This was going to be my first time staying overnight in school and bond with my new classmates

During the team-bonding activities, I struggled a lot with controlling my temper when working with others. Fortunately, my good friends were able to help me remain calm

Whenever I was with them, I would laugh, smile and forget about the negative things. My friends really made my camp experience awesome.

The highlight of my camp was the trek It may not have been the best moment for everyone else, but it was for me I had a lot of fun during the trek as my friends and I were chatting and singing songs endlessly!

When some of us were getting restless, we received a lot of motivation and support The trek drew me closer to my classmates as we chose not to focus on the distance and instead focused on our journey back to school

The camp was a wonderful opportunity and I was glad that I was able to experience it. When the camp concluded, I had mixed feelings. On one hand, I was excited to go back home and tell my parents about the activities I did during the camp However, leaving my friends and classmates after being together for three days did upset me The Sec One Camp was a very memorable experience for me!

Alsonandhistentmatesposeproudlyaftersuccessfully pitchingtheirtent.

MissSumithraNairaddressingSecondary3 Brooksiansduringthecampfire.

NurSyakiraandherclassmatesparticipateinateam-bonding game.

What Say You?

LEVEL CAMPS

ByMissSumithraNair

Level camps are an integral part of a student’s education as it allows them to develop skills and knowledge outside the classroom while building relationships with their peers and teachers

As the newest member of the Brooksian family, our Secondary Ones were given the opportunity to learn more about their friends and school through a three-day two-night residential camp on our school grounds In the day, they enjoyed activities such as dragon boating, cycling and trekking while they prepared for their class performances and other bonding activities at night

HOW HAVE YOU BENEFITTED FROM YOUR LEVEL CAMP?

I especially loved the bowling activity as it is one of my favourite hobbies. I also helped my friends improve in the sport. I felt accomplished helping my classmates and it has gotten me closer to them. Seeing them in the action using the skills I have taught them really makes me happy

school's Upper Secondary Year Head.

Our Secondary Twos experienced the two-day Sports Education Programme where they learnt more about different sports such as bowling, archery and kin-ball On the third day, they participated in a financial literacy workshop where they engaged in finance-related games and worked in groups to discuss possible financial scenarios These were all aimed at helping them make informed financial decisions in the future

Our Secondary Threes had the incredible opportunity to camp for three days on Pulau Ubin. They roughed it out by sleeping in tents and went through an outdoor learning experience with kayaking, cycling and trekking around Pulau Ubin. The weather was unfortunately not our side. However, it was amazing to see the resilience and grit of Brooksians. Though they were in an unfamiliar and tough environment, it didn’t break their spirit till the end. The highlight for me personally was when they sang our Brooksian Anthem with pride and gusto during the campfire. It was truly a moving moment.

Finally, our Secondary Fours and Fives enjoyed a three-day non-residential study camp to build their study skills and develop good study practices The workshops also provided opportunities for them to prepare for interviews and write personal statements for applications to post-secondary institutions But it was not all work and no play for them Our graduating students also enjoyed enrichment activities where they took part in archery tag, Kinball, K-pop aerobics and cardio workouts The cohort also came together to have brunch and sang their hearts out to their favourite tunes

As the Year Head, I am elated that our students have had the opportunity to participate in these camps after 3 years This is a significant milestone and a sign of progress towards postpandemic normalcy More importantly, the camps allowed Brooksians to develop important life skills, gain new experience and create memories with their peers I am also very grateful for the teachers coming together to organise and work closely with camp vendors to ensure Brooksians have a meaningful learning experience whilst ensuring that safety measures are in place to protect the well-being of our students

A PARTING MESSAGE FROM MDM POH...

Dear Brooksians,

My favourite activity from the level camp was kin-ball Why? It is because I have learnt more about two of our school values - teamwork and fortitude kin-ball is an activity which requires us to work together to win a game I have also learnt that during kin-ball, it is okay to fail but it is never okay to give up

My overall camp experience was great because we were given the opportunity to open our minds to different career options. We also learnt about various study methods, such as power zones, which I use now. However, the last day of the camp was my favourite as I got to work together with people I was not close to, such as the Sec Fives

The cohort brunch made an impression on me because I was able to converse with my classmates and get to know them better We also sang songs which I felt was enjoyable On the whole, I greatly enjoyed the level camp because it allowed me to learn new skills and strengthen bonds with my peers. If given the chance, I would like to have another level camp again!

CREDITS

Editors

MrJoelTan

It is with a heavy heart that I am saying goodbye to all of you My past few years at Northbrooks interacting with all of you have given me joy, hope and confidence for our collective future. This is because I have seen what all of you, Brooksians, can collectively achieve as a school together when we put our hearts and minds to it! I am glad that this year, we were finally able to reinstate our overnight level camps to nurture the Champion Learning Mindset - Grit, Resilience and Growth Mindset in all of you The teachers braved and endured with you, because we care and believe these experiences make you a better, stronger, more confident G I

F T E D Brooksian

Therefore, Brooksians, remember these moments when you challenged your limits, when you conquered your fears during the times when the going gets tough You can #riseabovethechallenge I am confident #YouCan I look forward to seeing all of you becoming impactful citizens of society, whom while Soaring, will always remain Rooted in Values

With Best Wishes, Mdm Poh Shi Hui

MrsCarolynLeong

MrsDianaAnnuar

MrMuhammadKhairi

*Page1'sshortstory https://salimowitsfoundatio norg/2015/11/the-story-ofthe-rat-trap-in-the-farmhouse/

AneshAshouk Giri (4F)

AqidMohamed SaniBin Abdullah(2T2)

SeeJiaYi Alisa(4G)

ChuaEnQi Stazier(2F)