Kicking off in Puxi, the EdFutures Division invited Dr Yong Yu, Associate Professor at the College of Architecture and Urban Planning at Tongji University, as a guest lecturer for the Year 9 Creative Technology course. Dr Yu delivered an insightful session titled 'Dialogue in Public Space', exploring the critical role of spatial landscapes in fostering social interactions, including seating landscapes, conversational landscapes, and interaction landscapes. Students were guided in designing and creating landscape models, enriching their understanding of public spaces. 

Continuing with real-world learning experiences, Year 10 and Year 12 students visited the AEEC Commercial Aircraft Engine Company, gaining a hands-on understanding of aviation machinery and technology. This semester, we plan to organise more on-site company visits, offering students real-world exposure to various industries and enabling them to apply their learning effectively. 

Meanwhile, upper primary students enthusiastically participated in their assembly, sharing their goals for the new term and striving to become the best versions of themselves in the months ahead. 

Over at the Pudong Campus, creativity was in full swing as Year 5 to Year 7 Art students, guided by Artist-in-Residence Haruka Ostley and art teacher Anita Dai, collaborated with parent volunteers to create a breathtaking mosaic makeover. As part of the project, students learned about symmetry and design, drafted unique mosaic patterns on graphing paper, arranged small tiles, and applied grouting techniques to complete the large-scale installation. 

This artistic transformation not only beautifies the cafeteria but also celebrates creativity and community, allowing everyone to leave their mark. 

Meanwhile, as our Year 11 and Year 13 students gear up for their Mock Exams for IGCSE & IB next week, Year 13 parents hosted a special lunch featuring the signature Singaporean Lo Hei dish, traditionally served during the Lunar New Year to bring good luck and success. Lo Hei, or 捞起 in Cantonese, is a highlight of Chinese New Year celebrations where families and friends gather to “toss up a good fortune.” The yusheng (鱼生), consisting of thinly sliced raw fish, shredded vegetables, and various seasonings, is assembled with auspicious phrases to symbolise well-wishing. 

Year 13 students joined in, tossing the mix high with their chopsticks, believing that the higher the toss, the greater the success they will achieve—in both their exams and the year ahead. 

Younger students also made impressive strides this week. After learning about the vital role insects play in local ecosystems and global sustainability, Year 2 students showcased their knowledge in a vibrant learning exhibition for peers and parents. 

In the performing arts, Year 5-6 students at Pudong began rehearsals for 'Dark Star', an original musical written by our Music Teacher and Director, Mr Robertson. Scheduled for a spring premiere, this production has students learning songs in chorus during music lessons while the cast hones their lines, songs, and choreography during rehearsals.

Athletics also took centre stage this week, as student-athletes from both the Pudong and Puxi campuses competed in inter-school tournaments, including the SISAC Basketball Championship, CISSA Volleyball, and Badminton matches. We eagerly await more exciting news from their performances. 

The school also welcomed Dr Xiaofeng Wan, former Associate Dean of Admissions at Amherst College, to deliver an insightful talk to both the Pudong and Puxi campuses. 

Dr Wan shared his expertise on what makes liberal arts colleges unique, the distinctive qualities they value in prospective students, and practical tips to navigate the application process successfully. 

His presentation provided valuable guidance and a deeper understanding of liberal arts education for our existing parents, helping them support their children in making informed decisions about their higher education journey. 

With the new term now in full swing, our students are diving into a stimulating and dynamic learning environment. They are seizing opportunities, building confidence, forming friendships, exploring new interests, and unlocking new skills. With hearts full of hope and determination, let us embrace the year ahead—each day promises something extraordinary!