As a teacher in the secondary school for the last 23 years, it has been most rewarding for me to see batches of students performing well at the GCE "O" Level Examinations. Many of these students have moved on to pursue a tertiary education and have become exemplary citizens. 2004 promises to be a challenging year. The transition from the role of Head of Department for Mathematics in a secondary school to a Vice Principal's role in a primary school poses some great challenges. I believe there is a need to develop my competencies, to know the differences in organizational culture, student profiles and instuctional programmes. I have embarked on a learning journey that evokes a sense of excitement as I support the teachers in their pursuit of professional development and exploration of new teaching strategies. My perspective of an Ability-Driven Education in the primary school context has been broadened since January. Working collaboratively as a team, with my Principal, Mrs Tan, and my buddy Vice-Principal, Mrs Tang, has deepened my organisational awareness. Our continual reflection of our practices and sharing of approaches have enabled us to respond to and accomplish our daily tasks responsibly and successfully. To bring our school to greater heights, we would have to work hand in hand to help our parents manage their expectations of their children by broadening the notion of success and excellence. To fulfill the aspirations in our school motto: Staunch, Stable, Steadfast and Successful, we would have to
engage our parents and draw on their active support to meet the needs of all our students. |
Since its inception in 1999, Woodgrove Primary School has undergone many changes to cope with the rapidly increasing enrolment, from a mere
360 students to the current population of 2679. True to our vision of being a 'vibrant organization in pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning through innovation and collaboration', the necessary changes undertaken
have included plans to accomplish quality curriculum work. The school consciously develops curriculum processes, schedules and mechanisms that ensure continuous improvement of the curriculum.As Head of Department in the school over the last five years, the challenge for me has been to galvanise the teachers effectively, to create a learning environment that caters to the differing learning needs and looking into meaningful ways to improve Mathematics learning. Supported by technologies which include equipments like visualizers and computers in internet-enabled classrooms, learning experiences have become more authentic. In the upcoming months, working with my buddy Vice-Principal, Mrs Koh Kwang Hoon, we propose to refine our existing programmes. We will look into strategies that will enhance the enrichment activities and increase the children's competencies. This will undoubtedly enable them to be better prepared for the challenges ahead. Greater emphasis will be placed on NE. The stress on racial harmony and the importance of fostering friendships among pupils of different races will be through our newly implemented FAST(Friends At Socializing Time) programme. As a committed team, we will endeavour to promote a learner-centred environment that fosters continuous learning. |