MRS TAN WEN YI Class 4A1( 1990)
WITH A TRUE SPIRIT AND WITH ZEAL
An ex-student returns to her alma mater and serves as a Senior Teacher, giving her best to her students, guiding them in their leadership journeys.
I returned to serve in my alma mater in 1999 as a Chemistry teacher. Clementi Town Secondary School is the first school I was posted to, and I was happy to come home.
My seat in the staff room is a privileged one, because I have transitioned from a student to a teacher in this school. Some of my students have come back too to serve as teachers in this‘ second home’.
Since 1999, I have been working with a big group of students who has come forward to undertake duties, driven by their desire to contribute to their friends and to the school. This collection of students whole-heartedly serves as the bridge between the student body and the school, running programmes like school-improvement activities and camps, and planning and executing school events like Teachers’ Day Celebrations. Previously termed the Prefectorial Board, the Student Council is now in its 8th year of function and it has seen the nurturing and development of many remarkably strong student leaders.
Guiding these committed Clementeens for so many years, I realise my biggest challenge is not to plan a successful leadership training camp, or to organise a stunning Graduation Ceremony. The greatest challenge is to support these budding leaders in their leadership journey, as they struggle with their duties, on top of their personal issues and school work- to keep them going. It is my duty then, as a teacher mentor, to help them manage their emotions and guide them to persevere through their challenges and stay true to the commitments they have in all aspects of their lives.
I will always remember this particular student leader who had faced a breakdown. The stress she faced had caved in on her and she was struggling with her problems. I had talked to her about her issues and tried to guide her to see that her commitments have been part of her development as a person. At times, certain areas of their lives have to be sacrificed in the process, but they would need to see themselves through and not give up. Of course, the academics are important. However, the nurturing of strong character, is also vital, as it would stay with them for the rest of their lives. My part in the Student Council, I believe, is to remind the students where their light is, when they doubt themselves. This student leader eventually picked herself up and did well for her O-Levels and I am very proud of her.
The student leaders have been guided to believe in the humility to serve and the confidence to lead. They have committed themselves to giving to the school, and as their teacher, I am committed to being there for them in their journey of self-awareness and eventual leadership.
Mrs Tan Wen Yi was the winner of the Caring Teacher Award in 2012. She also won the Innergy Award( Silver) in 2012.
Our Future: Be the Change You want Others to See! 043