T3 Newsletter 2024

#OPPORTUNITY Unity Secondary School Termly Newsletter

FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK

Principal, Mdm Ong, Vice Principals, Mr Lim & Ms Ng, with our Parents Support Group

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Unitians, Term 3 concluded on a high note, with heartfelt appreciation from our School Advisory Committee, parents, and students for our staff. We extend special thanks to the School Advisory Committee for their generous gifts and our Parents’ Support Group for their effort in creating the nostalgic Kampung photo booth, delightful treats, personalised cups, and the energetic Zumba performance at the Teachers' Day concert.

We also thank our student leaders and all students for their touching tributes, from organising the Teachers' Day concert and classroom dedications to their unique ‘Teacher for a Day’ activity, where they taught our staff the art of soft clay making.

This year has also been remarkable for our staff’s professional growth. As part of our ‘Active Learning Plus’ journey, teachers have continued to refine their craft by designing differentiated lessons to better meet the diverse needs of our students.

They have also embraced new technologies, experimenting with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like FAMaths (SLS), ChatGPT, and POE.AI, exploring how these innovations can enhance the teaching and learning process.

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Our teachers' dedication to lifelong learning was celebrated at our annual Learning Symposium, where they shared their insights, best practices, and discoveries with one another. This commitment to growth and innovation embodies our school’s vision of “Lifelong Learning and Inspiring Leadership.” In our ongoing effort to develop “lifelong learners and inspiring leaders,” the school continues to actively design and create opportunities that empower students to take the lead. A wonderful example of this was during Term 3's Racial Harmony Day commemoration, where our Sec 1-3 Community Service Leaders (CSLs) rose to the challenge of organising a Racial Harmony Carnival. CSLs from each mixed CCA form class collaborated to set up diverse cultural booths, celebrating the rich multi-ethnic tapestry of Singapore’s culture.

As we near the end of 2024, we are beginning to witness the positive impact of our Mixed CCA form class initiative. Students have progressed through the phases of forming, storming, and norming, and we are now seeing the benefits of CCAs synergising to support one another. It has been heartening to see, for instance, the Football and Dance CCA form classes cheering for each other during the National School Games Football match, and our NPCC cadets showing their support for the Media Club CCA during the YouthTech competition organised by IMDA. We sincerely thank you, parents, for your belief in us, and for your trust and support as we continue to refine and experiment with programmes that develop 21st century competencies in our students. Your partnership is invaluable as we work towards the best interests of our students.

From Term 3 onwards, our teachers intensified their efforts to prepare our students for their Sec One to Three End-of-Year Examinations and Sec 4 and 5 students for their National Examinations, providing intensive revision and timed practices to ensure they are ready for this important milestone.

As we begin a new school term, I encourage all Unitians to stay positive, focused, embrace a growth mindset, and remain persistent in working towards their yearend academic and character goals.

Wishing you and your family a fulfilling and successful term ahead.

With gratitude, Mdm Adel Ong Principal PAGE 3

UNITY SPORTS FIESTA Unity held its annual Sports Fiesta in June, providing students and staff with a vibrant opportunity for meaningful bonding through friendly competitions. The event saw students competing with enthusiasm and determination, showcasing both their athletic abilities and a commendable sense of sportsmanship. Additionally, the Fiesta served as an excellent platform for students to refine the skills and knowledge gained in their PE lessons, making the experience both enjoyable and enriching for all involved.

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RACIAL HARMONY DAY: EMBRACING OUR MULTICULTURAL MOSAIC On 19 July 2024, Unity celebrated Racial Harmony Day (RHD) with the theme ‘Singapore: Our Multicultural Mosaic,’ highlighting the diversity that defines our nation and the contributions of every community to our shared cultural identity.

The day began with a session emphasising the importance of unity in maintaining Singapore’s stability amid global challenges, followed by a lively RHD Carnival. Students, teachers, and the Parent Support Group collaborated to offer traditional games, kachang puteh stalls, and henna painting booths, reflecting the spirit of our national pledge: ‘regardless of race, language, or religion.’ Interactive booths, managed by our Secondary 1 to 3 Community Service Leaders, featured wedding customs, traditional foods and games from various ethnic groups.

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Additionally, the ISPR students hosted a popular traditional costume try-on booth, complete with a photo station. RHD 2024 was not just a day of festivities — it reaffirmed our commitment to national harmony. As we continue to embrace our multicultural mosaic, let us foster understanding, empathy, and unity, contributing to the vibrant and inclusive Singapore we hold dear.

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NATIONAL DAY: CELEBRATING UNITY AND OUR SHARED FUTURE On 8th August 2024, our school celebrated Singapore’s 59th National Day with a vibrant and meaningful event, reflecting this year's theme, ‘Together, As One United People.’ This theme emphasises the power of unity and the collective effort needed to shape our future and support one another.

The celebration began with a school parade, showcasing the dedication of our Uniformed Groups, who marched in unison, embodying national pride and unity. The SG Dance of the Nation further energised the atmosphere, led by our dancers, Learning for Life Programme (LLP) Leaders, and Special Projects Leaders (SPLs), creating a lively and patriotic ambience.

Students participated in lessons on living heritage, deepening their connection to their communities and the nation. A highlight of the day was a creative fashion parade, where Lower Secondary Community Service Leaders (CSLs) designed and presented iconic Singaporean symbols. This was followed by captivating performances from our Drama, Dance, and Choir CCA students, and concluded with a spirited sing-along of National Day songs, reinforcing our unity.

As we reflect on our shared journey, we are reminded of the importance of building our future together. Happy 59th Birthday, Singapore!

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SEC 3 NATIONAL EDUCATION SHOW 2024: A DAY TO REMEMBER Despite the missed opportunities in the past years due to COVID19 restrictions, our Secondary Three students finally attended the National Education (NE) Show on 20 July 2024, at the Padang.

This event was particularly meaningful as it marked the first time secondary school students were invited to participate since the pandemic.

Traditionally reserved for Primary Five students since 1997, the NE Show aims to foster national pride and deepen understanding of Singapore’s history and values. In light of the disruptions caused by the pandemic, the NDP 2024 Executive Committee extended an invitation to Secondary Three students to ensure this cohort gained valuable insights into Singapore’s national identity.

For our Unitians, the event was not only about watching the parade but also about bonding with their peers and reflecting on what it means to be Singaporean. The spectacular aerial displays and heartfelt performances left a lasting impact, reinforcing the significance of unity and resilience in shaping our nation’s future.

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POST NATIONAL DAY RALLY DIALOGUE: LIMBANG VOICES OF YOUTH Our Unity Councillors participated in a facilitation training workshop to prepare them for leading discussions at the Voices of Youth dialogue session on 24th August 2024. This event brought together students from various schools to discuss the National Day Rally (NDR) initiatives. The dialogue provided a platform for youth to share their views, concerns, and aspirations regarding the key points highlighted in the NDR and seek clarification on national issues. As facilitators, our councillors played a crucial role in guiding these discussions, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives were shared and explored. This experience was instrumental in developing their leadership, communication and active listening skills, managing differing opinions, as well as cultivating a sense of empathy towards others.

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YEW TEE OBSERVANCE CEREMONY: A PROUD CELEBRATION OF SINGAPORE’S 59TH BIRTHDAY On 9th August 2024, our Uniformed Groups proudly participated in the annual Yew Tee Observance Ceremony, celebrating Singapore’s 59th birthday. This event brought together students and residents to reflect on the nation's progress and achievements. Our students, adorned with pride in their uniforms, represented the school with dedication, thus contributing to the day’s patriotic spirit.

Their involvement showcased their commitment to the nation and the strong connection between our school and the Yew Tee community. The ceremony was a powerful reminder of Singapore's unity and collective strength as we continue to honour our history while looking forward to a brighter future.

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ANTI-VAPING ASSEMBLY PROGRAMME In August, Unity hosted an anti-vaping and smoking assembly conducted by the Health Promotion Board (HPB).

The assembly featured an engaging skit with the message ‘Winners don’t puff!’, which resonated strongly with students. Following the assembly, lower secondary students participated in a mental health lesson focused on responsible decision-making, peer influence, and the importance of well-being, encouraging them to reflect on their role in creating a supportive culture. Upper secondary students explored vaping from personal, societal, and legal perspectives, discussing its impact on health and mental well-being, and considering their responsibilities as role models. This comprehensive approach reinforced the assembly’s message and promoted informed, responsible choices among students.

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BATTLE OF THE I-BANDS

During Music lessons, our Secondary 2 students learnt how to use the application, Garage Band on ipads in groups, to perform several pop songs. On the 2nd of August 2024, they competed in the Battle of the iBands. The competition consists of different groups of students, representing the different classes, to make up a Pop band. Each band includes a vocalist, guitarist, keyboardist, bassist and drummer. There were energetic performances by various classes, which included popular songs from Coldplay and Post Malone, among others, and guest performance by our 2023 winner, Celovily. performing Katy Perry’s ‘The One That Got Away’.

2Inspire8’s Deep Blues emerged victorious, winning the competition with their cover of Lana Del Ray’s ‘Young and Beautiful’ while 2Serve3 and 2Inspire7 took the 2nd and 3rd place respectively.

Congratulations to all our winners!

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TEACHERS’ DAY CELEBRATION: A JOYOUS SHOWCASE OF KAMPUNG UNIT Our Teachers' Day celebration, themed “Kampung Unity,” was a vibrant and heartfelt occasion that united our school community in a spirit of gratitude. The event featured various performances, games, awards, and activities, making it a memorable experience for all. The celebration began with a lively concert, showcasing performances from our Performing Arts CCAs and a Zumba dance by the Parents Support Group (PSG). Their enthusiasm and commitment set a joyful tone, highlighting the strong bonds within our community. An engaging "Guess the Teacher" game added fun to the day, as students and staff enjoyed identifying teachers from childhood photographs and playful clues, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

A key moment of the event was the presentation of the Caring Teacher Award (CTA) and Long Service Award (LSA), which honoured the exceptional dedication and contributions of teachers. It was a proud occasion as we celebrated their unwavering commitment to supporting and inspiring students. The members of Unity Council also led a unique “Kampung Unity” clay flower sculpting activity for the staff, displaying our shared values of creativity, unity, and appreciation. This hands-on experience beautifully captured the kampung spirit and provided a meaningful way to honour our teachers.

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CCA ACHIEVEMENTS: BOYS’ BRIGADE ACHIEVEMENTS Neo Wei Jie Ricardo and Tan Chin Wei Damien are exemplary young leaders whose dedication to the Boys' Brigade has distinguished them as role models within our school community.

Ricardo, who served as the USS Boys' Brigade Company Sergeant Major in 2023, was awarded the prestigious Boys' Brigade Founder's Award, the highest honour in the Seniors Programme, reflecting his dedication, sense of responsibility, and inspirational leadership.

He also received the Best Boy award for his outstanding contributions to the CCA. Ricardo's leadership, which focused on personal reflection and CCA programme improvement, strengthened the unity and performance of the company, thus fostering individual and collective growth among its members.

As the USS Boys' Brigade Platoon Sergeant, Damien also received the Boys' Brigade Founder's Award, recognising his diligence, perseverance, and a strong sense of responsibility. Known for his balanced leadership style, he maintained strict discipline while showing compassion to his peers and juniors, earning their respect. Damien played a pivotal role in organising the 2023 “No Sugar Challenge” VIA initiative, demonstrating his project management and community engagement skills. His pride in serving the Brigade has left a lasting impact on both the company and the school.

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9TH SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL BAND FESTIVAL COMPETITION Unity's Symphonic Band proudly participated in the 9th Singapore International Band Festival (SIBF) at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, Concert Hall.

This prestigious biennial event attracts top-tier bands from around the world, offering a platform for musicians to showcase their talents in a spirited yet friendly competition. We are thrilled to announce that our Band has earned the Silver award with an impressive score of 77.33, just 3 points shy of Gold! This marks a significant achievement and a commendable improvement from the Bronze award they had received in 2022.

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NPCC INTER-UNIT DRILL COMPETITION Following a four-year hiatus, the NPCC Headquarters reinstated the highly anticipated Inter-Unit Drill Competition, drawing participation from 124 units.

Among the 12 finalist teams, Unity Secondary School's NPCC unit distinguished itself by securing the prestigious Gold award, emerging as the overall Champion with the highest score. Unity's success is shared with other Gold award units, including Nan Hua High School, Yishun Secondary School, and Tanjong Katong Secondary School, all recognised for their exemplary performance in August.

This accomplishment is a source of immense pride for the cadets, reflecting their dedication and hard work.

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SUPER 24 DANCE COMPETITION S

Super 24 brings a new dimension to dance showcase competitions in Singapore. Super 24 emphasises teamwork and ingenuity – essential qualities to working within the constraints that the competition brings. The challenge is that the 24 dancers only have an 8 by 8 metre square space and a 90-second time limit to complete their dance routine.

Our 24 dancers from Unique Dance Fusion danced their hearts out and managed to get into the finals, securing the 7th spot for themselves. Well done dancers!

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VOICES OF SINGAPORE CHORAL FESTIVAL The Voices of Singapore Festival is Singapore's largest noncompetitive choral festival. This year marks the Festival’s ninth instalment, and our very own school Choir, UniqVoices, Monfort Chorale as well as Pei Hwa Secondary School Choir had a combined concert on 3 September 2024 at the Chijmes Hall, Singapore. This annual festival aims to create meaningful choral music-making experiences for all its performers.

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NATIONAL YOUTH TECH CHAMPIONSHIP 2024 The NYTC is the flagship national tech competition organised

by IMDA in partnership with GoogleCloud held exclusively for secondary schools’ Infocomm Media Club members. IMDA supports the Infocomm Media Clubs CCA in MOE schools and the competition is part of IMDA’s efforts to inspire interest and deepen learning for youths in deep tech. As part of IMDA’s efforts to encourage youths to be curious, confident and creative about tech, the NYTC was filmed as a web series on YouTube, hosted by Titan Digital Media.

Our student participants were Joshua Ham, Tan Pin Yuan and Teo Cheng Feng from 3Lead2, and Koh Rong Shen from 2Lead2, who put up a good fight throughout this competition, impressing us with their performance at the semi-finals, pitting against Hwa Chong Institution. They stayed focus on programming their drones to go through the obstacles and strategising as a team on which obstacles to prioritise, which led them to their victory to qualify for the finals. They continued to strive on amidst the high tension during the finals, and they were very close in making it to the Top 8! Team Unity achieved a place among the Top 13 in the National Youth Tech Championship 2024! The Media Club would also like to thank the student leaders who had given their unwavering and enthusiastic support during the competition.

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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS: INTERNATIONAL MATHS MODELLING COMPETITION The International Mathematical Modeling Competition (IMMC) is a prestigious global competition that challenges secondary school students to apply mathematical concepts to solve realworld problems through modelling. This competition aims to promote the importance of mathematical modelling in education, encouraging students to develop their problemsolving skills, teamwork, and creativity. The competition seeks to enhance students' ability to think critically and analytically by engaging them in complex, open-ended problems.

A team of four Unitians, Ng Yue Jia Gerlyn, Calunsag Cadence Michiko Laborte, Celestia Maye Choo and Chiam Sheng Le worked together within a given time. They had to write a detailed report explaining their approach, methodology, and findings. We are happy to announce that this year’s IMMC team clinched the Merit award for their solution.

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See you in Term 4!

Visit our school website: http://unitysec.moe.edu.sg/ Follow our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/unitysec/ #schoolofopportunity