DONAVAN CHEAH Class 4D1 ( 2007 )
OUSTING THE OUTCAST IN ME
Shunned and ostracised at first because of his Autism , one boy finally fought against all odds to earn acceptance and respect from his schoolmates .
As someone who was diagnosed with Asperger ’ s Syndrome , I thought , at first , it would be very difficult to assimilate into Clementi Town Secondary School ( CTSS ). In fact , I could not even study the subject , Design & Technology at Secondary One because of my temper outbursts . However , that was far from the end of the road . With determination , I gradually found success in CTSS , thanks to its supportive staff and conducive environment . I also grew to realise that how I want to steer myself really depends on myself . In CTSS , I finally saw the light and found the inspiration to change for the better .
CTSS has always been more than just an educational institution to me . It has helped me to develop many lifeskills through effective programmes such as the “ 7 Habits of Highly Effective People ” and its strong Uniformed Group background . Moreover , the opportunities available in CTSS helped develop within me a diverse range of talents and shaped me into an all-rounded individual .
CTSS has helped me to channel my energy into productive activities . In Secondary 2 , my Mathematics teacher and I came up with a Mathematics peer tutoring network within the cohort . It not only allowed the cohort to come together to learn Mathematics , but also unified the Secondary Two students , since there existed a robust way of gathering our peers together to share their knowledge .
The strengths of the Uniformed Groups also helped groom my character . Through the Griffin Scout Troop , I have learnt to become a more disciplined and organised person . It is through weathering thick and thin with our peers that we bond together as a family .
CTSS has groomed someone who has encountered great difficulty socialising and making new friends to become a person who is now a more effective team player .
As the school celebrates its 33rd anniversary , I hope all past and present Clementeens will always remember our roots and all the school has taught us .
After graduating from CTSS , Donovan proceeded to study in Anglo-Chinese Junior College where he attained 5 distinctions with a merit in H3 Physics for his GCE A-Level . He is currently pursuing Physics at the National University of Singapore and has won the Kent Ridge Undergraduate Scholarship Merit Award every year since 2011 .
026 Our Time : Once A Clementeen , Always A Clementeen