Josephian Annual 2024_website | Page 4

CHAPTER 1

SJI COMMUNITY

As we prepare for the year ahead , it is a good time to take stock and reflect on what we ’ ve accomplished together over the past year as one Josephian community . We celebrate with gratitude everything that came and passed us by . This year , SJI continued its tradition of performing strongly in a range of domains , from the academics to the sports , uniformed groups and performing arts . Beyond this string of accolades , the heart and hallmark of a Josephian education lies in real service – borne out of a strong sense of personal commitment and social responsibility .

In SJI , our definition of success is measured not just by the achievements of our students and staff . More importantly , it is measured in terms of our various contributions to the school and the wider community and in finding purpose , fulfilment and joy in giving back to society . And that is why I ’ m heartened and proud to share that many Josephians have sought to uphold this tradition by giving of themselves , be it to the school or to the wider community . They have contributed by supporting numerous social causes through initiating student-led projects at various levels be it school-wide , level- wide , via CCAs / CAS , as a class or at the individual level this year in showing care and concern for others . The dedication , enthusiasm and positive spirit the students displayed are commendable . In doing so , Josephians have role-modelled servant leadership , demonstrated what it means to be of service to others and promoted a sense of community . This indeed is the uniqueness of SJI and it is this mission to be persons for others and the instinct of giving back to the community that differentiates Josephians in this increasingly individualistic and materialistic world .

This year ’ s issue of the Josephian Annual centres around our school theme for 2024 which is , Deepening Our Connections with the World , Industry , and the Community . This theme reflects our commitment to preparing our students for an interconnected world , where knowledge , industry , and community are closely linked , and learning extends far beyond the walls of our school .

In today ’ s rapidly evolving landscape , the traditional boundaries between local and global , school and industry , theory and practice are increasingly blurred . Our students face a world that will demand new knowledge and abilities , and the need to become adaptable , lifelong learners . To prepare our students for this complex and uncertain environment , we in SJI have embraced a holistic approach to education – one that encourages curiosity , critical thinking and resilience . We aim to equip our students with these skills , attitudes and mindsets needed to navigate this dynamic world with confidence and integrity .

Expanding Learning Beyond the Classroom

Through strategic partnerships with local industries and organisations , we have brought authentic learning and real-world insights into our teaching , showing students how their classroom knowledge can be applied in practical settings .

By engaging with professionals across various sectors through the Work Experience Programme ( WEP ), students gain a clearer understanding of the skills , competencies and dispositions needed for the future and how their learning translates to real-life applications .

Community involvement and service-learning projects have also been a key focus this year , as we believe that meaningful engagement with society helps students develop empathy , compassion , social responsibility , and a strong sense of purpose . The giving of oneself in the service of others , with a deep-seated sense of commitment , is a fundamental trait of a true Josephian , as demonstrated by the many old boys and girls of the school who have contributed selflessly to our community and nation .

Our Year 5 Josephians on GEP teaching English to students in a school in Cambodia

Josephians embarking on the Work Experience Programme

From participating in Values-in-Action projects to volunteering in local initiatives , our students have had numerous opportunities to serve , empathise and experience the positive impact they can have on others . These activities foster a deep sense of connection and help them understand their role as contributing members of a larger community .

Fostering Global Connections and Awareness

We live today in a world that is both diverse and interconnected . To help our students appreciate this complexity , we have continued to strengthen our overseas student exchanges and partnerships . We have embarked on numerous initiatives such as twinning , immersion programmes and learning journeys . Through our annual Year 3 International Experience and Year 5 Global Education Programmes ( GEP ), students gain exposure to different cultures and perspectives , broadening their understanding of the world and appreciating that despite our differences , we share common values and aspirations . We need to sensitize our students to developments taking place worldwide and prepare them for the future so that they can be culturally versatile and are comfortable working , communicating and collaborating with people all over the world .

Our students have had the opportunity to collaborate with peers from other countries , engage in international dialogues and symposiums , and participate in projects that address global issues and challenges . These experiences have instilled in them a sense of global citizenship and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world .

Celebrating Achievements and Growth

I am immensely proud of our students ’ achievements across both academics and co- curricular activities . Our students have excelled in national competitions , achieved top honours in various fields , and demonstrated remarkable skill , dedication , and perseverance .

In sports , we have witnessed outstanding performances this year at the National School Games , with our studentathletes showing exceptional talent and sportsmanship . The season came to a fitting finale , with the C-Division football boys emerging National Champions . Additionally , SJI clinched top 4 positions in over 20 competitions across 16 sports at the National School Games . These successes are a testimony to the strength of spirit and resolve of the students , teachers and coaches of all the sports teams .

Academically , our students have also garnered accolades in prestigious competitions , showcasing their intellectual curiosity and pursuit of excellence . They have kept the school colours of green and white flying high and made us extremely proud .

Nurturing Character and Citizenship

Character development remains at the heart of our educational mission . This year , initiatives such as the Lent project the Migrant Brothers project were aimed at reaching out to the migrant workers community in Singapore and to show appreciation for their hard work and contributions to the growth and development of Singapore . The Hair for Hope event that was organised with the aim of raising awareness and funds to support childhood cancer , highlighted the spirit of compassion and selflessness within our school community . Such projects are not your run-of-the-mill community service projects .

What distinguishes them from the rest is the degree of thought that has gone into them to make sure that they serve their communities well and deliver lasting impact .

Through leadership roles , participation in seminars , and involvement in outreach activities , our students have had numerous opportunities to develop the qualities of good citizenship . We have also continued to strengthen character-building programmes like Signum Fidei , equipping our students with the skills needed to make ethical decisions and lead with courage , conviction and purpose .

Looking Forward

As we reflect on 2024 , I am filled with a sense of optimism for the future . We have laid a strong foundation for growth , innovation and meaningful engagement . I am confident that the experiences and skills our students have gained will serve them well as they navigate the challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead .

I am immensely proud and filled with gratitude at how our school community has embraced this year ’ s school theme wholeheartedly and have come together to support our shared vision of holistic education . We will continue in our endeavours towards providing a quality education by enthusing each and every Josephian to be passionate about learning as well as to be engaged and inspired . We want every student to be nurtured into resilient , reflective and responsive individuals who are confident and adaptable in meeting the challenges of the 21st century . We celebrate the good year we have had and look forward to new opportunities for learning and growing as we prepare our students for the exciting world of possibilities .

Wishing all Josephians and friends of the school a 2025 filled with meaning and a sense of purpose .

Have a great new year ahead .

Principal

Our C-Division footballers winning the National Championship