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Learning Journey
CAMP Together and By Association ( TABA )
Bintan , Indonesia ( Nirwana Gardens )
Camp TABA began in 2010 . Similar to the Secondary One Orientation Camp , this was for the newly formed Secondary Three classes to provide time and space for the classes and their tutors to bond together like a family . After all for the following two years , the class will be together . It is hoped that these communities will have members who have faith in themselves and each other and will be of service to the larger world .
This year instead of having the camp in SJI or at St Patrick ’ s Secondary , the Secondary Threes headed to Bintan , Indonesia for Camp TABA .
Once they reached the destination , the boys erected their tents that would be their sleeping quarters for the following two days . The sight of the beautiful blue ocean and white capped waves lapping with the shimmering expanse of endless white sand was welcoming to the campers .
The first two days saw them engaged in various team building activities such as low elements , a jungle trek and beach games . Low elements and the team building activities comprise a few stations and a short walk from the campsite . Although challenges were met , they were overcome by teamwork and mutual understanding , which further provided opportunities for the boys to get to know each other better . Beach games included touch rugby , soccer and captain ball . Everyone enjoyed themselves while playing hard to compete for their classes .
Jungle trekking was by far the most enjoyable and interesting activity as besides being a normal trek , there was a hunt for clues and obstacles to cross . Equipped with a map , clues , wooden poles and a plastic sheet , the classes set off on their adventure through the jungles of Bintan . Part of the trek required classes to build a stretcher with the materials provided and carry a member of the class on it till they reached a checkpoint .
On the third day , the camp culminated with Mr Dominic Ang conducting a reflection . Each class was then given a rope and was told to tie a knot to represent each student in his class . This reflection underscored the importance of the class staying united and embracing one another despite coming from different classes in 2011 .
Camp TABA marks not only the beginning of the students ’ adventure in the Upper Secondary but also the start of a lifetime of friendships as Kennard Chin ( 301 ) opined , “ The activities were well chosen as they really helped us cultivate friendships with our new classmates .” Liew Zheng Yi ( 313 ) agreed , “ It marked a bright start to our Sec 3 year . I deeply enjoyed camping with the many unfamiliar faces in my new class .”
1 301 boys tying a knot each leading to their finished product 2 Deep in reflection 3 Displaying their finished product 4 What ’ s happening there ? 5 We love it here ! 6 The campsite 7 This is a breeze 8 Let the games begin !
9 The beaming 302 boys
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