Term 2
Catch up on TMJC's Term 2 highlights, from the Pre-University Seminar and College Day to learning journeys, cultural events, and more.
Pre University Seminar 2024
A group of 20 students represented Tampines Meridian Junior College at this year’s Pre-University Seminar from 27 May to 30 May 2024. A key event for Pre-University institutions, this year’s Pre-University Seminar theme is ‘Forging Our Way Forward’. The theme takes reference from the past and future. It is inspired by the Semangat yang Bahru (Forging a New Spirit) exhibition which was referenced by our former Prime Minister at the National Day Rally in 2023. The exhibition and Seminar theme captures the foundational values and spirit of the founding leaders and generation that give strong anchors as a nation. The Seminar theme also continues to be inspired by the Forward Singapore movement (‘Forward Sg’), which takes participants into the future where they come together to examine their aspirations and build consensus to refresh Singapore’s social compact.
Our students were given the opportunity to learn from the insightful sharing by various guest speakers and were able to keenly appreciate how individuals from different walks of life have contributed to Singapore. The empathy cultivated through active listening and engagement inspired our students to envision and imagine the future of Singapore, one in which they could serve the community and the nation. The Guest of Honour at the Opening Ceremony was Minister for National Development, Mr. Desmond Lee. Participants were challenged to be good stewards of our society and the environment, while looking to the past to build a more inclusive future. Over the course of the Seminar, our students were empowered to work on their respective projects and shared how they could contribute to creating a better and stronger Singapore. This eventually culminated in an exhibition, where our students confidently presented their project deliverables to guests. The Closing Ceremony was graced by the Minister for Education, Mr. Chan Chun Sing, who challenged participants to play an active role in making Singapore a better place. At the end of the Seminar, our TMJC students benefitted from the rich learning opportunities and were inspired to play their part in shaping the Singapore Story.
Mathematics Learning Journey
On 24th May 2024, TMJCians had an incredible opportunity to delve into the world of data analytics at the SMRT headquarters. They explored how SMRT uses statistics to meet commuters' needs and gained hands-on experience with real-life ridership data, guided by industry experts.
Concurrently, another group of JC2 students visited the LTA SG Mobility Gallery and discovered the fascinating role of mathematics in structuring Singapore's transport system. They were engaged in interactive games in the different zones of the Gallery, solving statistical questions based on real life examples of our transport system.
These enriching learning journeys, organised by students from the Talent Development Programme and our TMJC Mathematics Department teachers, provided invaluable insights and practical experience in the field of transportation, inspiring our students to consider careers in this vital sector.
#LearningJourney #TMJC #DataAnalytics #SMRT #LTA #Mathematics #TransportSystem
Staff Day Out
On 23 May 2024, we celebrated Staff Teambuilding Day with a fantastic start to the day with our staff promotion ceremony! It was a joyous occasion recognising the hard work and dedication of our colleagues, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. Following the ceremony, we formed groups and headed to the iconic Changi Airport Jewel for an exciting array of teambuilding games.
Our staff had a blast as we navigated through Jewel, solving clues that not only tested our teamwork but also revealed many interesting and valuable facts about this stunning landmark. From the spectacular Rain Vortex to the lush Shiseido Forest Valley, each clue brought new discoveries and a deeper appreciation of the many facets of Jewel.
The activities fostered camaraderie and collaboration, strengthening the bonds within the team. It was a perfect blend of fun and learning, showcasing the spirit of teamwork and collective effort.
The day culminated in a sumptuous lunch, a well-deserved treat to celebrate the ‘heart work’ and effort of our staff throughout Semester 1. It was a wonderful opportunity to relax, reflect, and recharge for the months ahead.
#StaffTeambuilding #ChangiJewel #Teamwork #Celebration #Heartwork #Semester1
GP Learning Journey and GP Day
GP Day 2024, held on 17 May 2024, marked the culmination of a series of engaging fringe activities meticulously organised by the GP department in the run-up to the event. These activities were designed to set the stage for an immersive and enlightening experience, providing students with the opportunity to engage in critical conversations and experiential learning.
Leading up to the event, JC1 students took part in the "Word on the Street" student journalism competition, where they created insightful 2-minute video clips by interviewing peers about current issues. Additionally, three captivating learning journeys were offered to students. These included the exciting Taylor Swift Art Tour at the National Gallery, curated by our very own GP teacher Ms Michelle Choy; an enlightening visit to the Internal Security Department Heritage Centre to explore Singapore's history and the role of ISD; and an educational trip to Werms Inc, where students learned about composting and even brought home their own composting pack with live earthworms.
The highlight of GP Day was the GP Unconference in collaboration with The Birthday Collective, themed 'Critical Conversations: Changemakers'. Students participated in the Opening and Closing Sessions and joined different Breakout Rooms that considered various Singapore issues. This year's edition incorporated thought-provoking experiential activities to stimulate discussions, fostering an environment for meaningful dialogue and exploration of diverse perspectives.
Overall, GP Day 2024 proved to be an enriching and thought-provoking experience, empowering students to engage in critical conversations and gain valuable insights into contemporary issues.
Economics Edventure Series for J2 - Learning Journey to Singapore Maritime Gallery and Port Operations Control Centre!
On 23 May 2024, a group of our J2 Economics students embarked on an eye-opening expedition to the Singapore Maritime Gallery and Port Operations Control Centre (POCC). This immersive experience offered invaluable insights into the heartbeat of Singapore's maritime industry.
Singapore Maritime Gallery Tour:
Our budding economists saw the extensive network of shipping routes that connect Singapore to the rest of the world. They noted how this connectivity is crucial for the country's role in international trade. Furthermore, they explored how Singapore has become a thriving global hub and international maritime center, understanding its significant implications for international trade and the economy. They also recognised how strategic geographic positioning and advanced infrastructure contribute to this status. Additionally, they learned about the cutting-edge technologies propelling Singapore to world-class status while ensuring environmental sustainability. Observations included innovative solutions like automated port operations and eco-friendly practices that reduce the environmental impact of shipping.
POCC Visit:
Our budding economists observed the intense, real-time operations in the control room, witnessing firsthand how over 1000 vessel movements are managed daily. They were impressed by the coordination and precision required to maintain such high efficiency. They gained a deeper understanding of how POCC serves as the nerve center of Singapore's maritime operations, ensuring smooth and safe navigation through one of the busiest ports in the world. Additionally, they noted the use of advanced tracking and communication systems to monitor and direct maritime traffic. By observing the professionals at work, our economists appreciated the blend of human expertise and technological support essential for effective maritime management.
This experience enriched our students' knowledge of international trade, globalization, and the intricacies of economics at play. A huge thank you to our guides and hosts for making this an unforgettable learning journey!
#TMJCEconomicsEdventure2024 #GlobalTrade #SingaporeMaritime #TMJCEconomicsEnrichment
Inaugural TMJC Homecoming
On 17 May, we organised the very first TMJC Homecoming event. An alumni-for-alumni initiative, this was the culmination of the efforts of a dedicated group TMJC alumni, led by the TMJC Alumni Exco, after many months of planning. The event sought to reconnect not only the first five graduated batches of TMJC students, but also the alumni from our parent colleges, TPJC and MJC. Almost 220 former students and staff, together with our distinguished guest Mr Amrin Amin, who is an alumnus of TPJC, gathered at our college campus for a night filled with good food, awesome performances and most importantly, great fellowship in the most memorable of evenings.
Welcome home TMJCians!
Sonrisa
On 10 May 2024, our performing arts CCA groups - Chinese Orchestra, Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Modern Dance and Symphonic Band, successfully performed at Sonrisa, a combined performing arts concert. Meaning ‘smile’ in Spanish, Sonrisa was a student-led endeavour under the guidance of their instructors and teachers, aimed at celebrating the power of music and dance to bring people together.
It was an evening lined up with classical pieces to contemporary tunes, and a celebration of our students’ passion for the arts and willingness to perform to the best of their abilities. Throughout the evening, parents eagerly captured their children's performances on their smartphones, adding to the warmth of the atmosphere. As the concert drew to a close, the audience witnessed a heartwarming display of College spirit as our performers spontaneously led the crowd in our College cheers.
The concert ended on a high note and its success would not have been possible without the support of the Media Resource Club for the excellent AV and lighting support, the Photography Club for capturing precious memories on camera, and the TMSC for being a reliable and efficient backstage crew for our performers.
The performers undeniably spread joy and brought smiles to all in attendance. Sonrisa not only highlighted the transformative power of music and dance but also created enduring memories, emphasising the ability of the arts to unite people in shared experiences.
Parents Engagement Talk - Raising a Resilient Teen
On the evening of 10 May 2024, the College organised a Parents Engagement Talk on the topic of “Raising a Resilient Teen”. The session aimed to provide parents of our students with tips on how to help their child grow from the unique challenges presented at the JC level and to build resilience.
To kickstart the evening, our College invited Ms. Dawn Sim, a clinical therapist and founder of The Mindful Camp and The Open Centre, to share with us her expertise and experience in working with adolescents. Together with Ms. Sim, Ms. Deepa, Senior Teacher/CCE, and Mr. Goh Pek Weng, an alumnus of TMJC, were the panellists for the panel discussion. They shared their unique perspectives on how parents can support their children in developing social emotional competencies and how to keep communication channels open.
We thank all parents who joined us for a meaningful evening. The College looks forward to continuing forging stronger partnerships with parents in our collective efforts towards developing our students holistically.
College Day 2024
On 3 May, the College celebrated the efforts and achievements of the Class of 2023 with our Guest of Honour, Mr Hassan Ahmad, Special Advisor, Humanity Matters. The guests, awardees, parents and staff came together to enjoy the beautiful performances presented by the TMJC Symphonic Band, Chinese Orchestra, Modern Dance, and Choir, and witnessed the presentation of awards to distinguished students.
It was indeed a day of celebrations of the holistic achievements of our students. The Class of 2023 not only worked hard and achieved commendable results in the 2023 GCE A-Level Examination, but they also played hard. They competed in full force in sports and games, and in the Performing Arts, and were actively involved in volunteerism making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities.
The College sincerely wishes the awardees all the very best in their future endeavours.
TMJCians of the Class of 2023: we are proud of you, and we look forward to having you back as alumni among our TMJC family.
Mother Tongue Fortnight Chinese Enrichment Day 2024 - Our Food Our Songs
“Our Food Our Songs” is the finale event of Mother Tongue Fortnight held on 26 April. It was an enriching afternoon of music and short films with local movie director Royston Tan, as well as local singers Ben Hum and Sherman Teo.
Royston Tan showcased various short films such as “Popiah” and “Singapore Memory Project” to our students, shared his love for local delicacies and how he frequently used the element of food in his movies and short films. Ben and Sherman sang their hearts out with a repertoire of Chinese popular songs, bringing delight to our student audience.
A box of Ang Ku Kueh was also given to each student at the end of the event, to honour the Chinese tradition of sharing blessings and good fortune. This certainly provided a sweet and tantalising end to the Chinese Enrichment Day!
MTL Fortnight 2024- Appreciating out Mother Tongue Languages and Cultures
The MTL Department organized the Mother Tongue Fortnight 2024 for our students, with the objectives to create an immersive environment for the learning and appreciation of the mother tongue languages and cultures.
An array of common enrichment activities was carried out by the 3 language units to ignite the students’ interest in mother tongue languages. This included broadcasting of songs in the 3 languages before morning assemblies, online QR code quizzes on language and cultural knowledge and “Quote of the Day” in which our student presenters shared proverbs in the 3 languages with their insights to motivate their peers in their learning.
The Malay unit organized the Silat Workshop for our Malay students. As the students learned simple Silat moves, values of courage and resilience were inculcated. The students also have fun participating actively in the Congkak Challenge and have a deeper understanding of Malay culture associated with heritage games.
The H1 and H2 Tamil students participated in a guided visit to the Indian Heritage Centre focusing on the interesting traditions of Tamil Culture. During the Tamil Enrichment Day, the H2 TLL and H1 TL students participated in a Workshop to learn how to create avatars with artificial intelligence tools, to make the learning of Tamil language more interactive and engaging.
For the Chinese Enrichment Day, the renowned local movie director Royston Tan was invited to share with our Chinese students about his film works, and how he worked with the elements of food and memories in them. Local singers Ben Hum and Sherman Toh sang their hearts out with a repertoire of Chinese pop songs, bringing excitement and joy to our student audience. Each student who attended the talk-cum-performance received a box of Ang Ku Kueh at the end of the event. In the learning journey entitled “Rejuvenation of our Heritage'', the H1 Chinese students went on a walking trail of various cultural and heritage sites from Telok Ayer Street to South Bridge Road. They were also enriched by the sharing held at the 90 year old Tong Heng Confectionery and have a better understanding of how they rebrand and rejuvenate their business, while preserving the rich heritage of their traditional Cantonese pastries.
All participating students of Mother Tongue Fortnight activities were also given a highlighter with a proverb in their respective mother tongue language to encourage them to embrace their mother tongue language and culture with joy. Have Fun, Speak the Language and Embrace our Ethnicity.
Student Council Camp
The 6th Tampines Meridian Student Council (TMSC) held the Student Council Camp to initiate the newly minted 7th TMSC on 19 and 20 April 2024, with both JC1 and JC2 Student Councillors buzzing with excitement and anticipation. Leadership training workshops, physical activities, external games at Pasir Ris Park and College cheers were conducted to strengthen the camaraderie within the Houses and equip the 7th TMSC with the leadership knowledge and skills to serve the College. Among the cherished memories was the creation of a vibrant TMSC mural, symbols of unity and creativity.
The highlight of the Camp was the iconic Student Council Initiation Ceremony, where a flame was passed from our School Leaders to our Council Teacher Advisors, then to our alumni representatives of the first five batches of TMSC seniors, then to the 6th TMSC and finally to our newly initiated 7th TMSC. The alumni representatives proceeded to share inspiring tales of their own leadership and growth.This tradition is of great significance as it signifies the symbolic passing of the passion and responsibilities of being a student councillor through the generations of TMSC. The flame was also a representation of a guiding light, one that will steer our TMSC towards the path of excellence and duty, as they serve the College with fervour and commitment.
The Student Council Camp left our hearts full and spirits uplifted. The echoes of laughter and the warmth of newfound connections lingered, promising a treasured legacy of leadership and camaraderie during their term in office.
CG Leaders' Training Workshop
On 19th and 20th April 2024, our newly minted JC1 CG Leaders (comprising CG Chairpersons and Peer Support Leaders) gathered for the CG Leaders’ Training Workshop, aimed at fostering a positive and enabling culture within the CGs.
Throughout the two days, they were meaningfully engaged in a series of workshops, each focusing on a different aspect essential for effective leadership, specifically effective communication and culture building. These workshops, helmed by JC2 CG Leaders, volunteers from SG Cares, and the CCE Committee, provided invaluable learning experiences for JC1 CG Leaders. Through collaborative learning and active participation, the JC1 CG Leaders gained insights and skills crucial for their roles.
We will continue to journey with the newly minted CG Leaders in their leadership development.
Youth Against Cancer – TMJC x Project Panacea
Our recent fundraiser at TMJC from April 8-12, 2024, benefiting the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS), was a resounding success! 👏 This student-led initiative aimed to raise awareness about various cancer types and recruit volunteers for SCS's Relay for Life 2024.
Special shoutout to our amazing Health and Fitness Club for their outstanding dedication and participation! You all truly made a difference in the fight against cancer! 🌟
💪 Let's stay cool and healthy together! ❤️
#YouthAgainstCancer #FightAgainstCancer #RelayForLife2024
International Friendship Day & Beyond
From 15 – 19 April, TMJC commemorated International Friendship Day to imbue in students an appreciation for diversity and how Singapore navigates such diversity on the global stage through her foreign policy. The theme was ‘Singapore in Asia’ and the commemoration focused on deepening students’ understanding of the friendships nurtured in the ASEAN region, one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.
In collaboration with the Student Development Team and Culture Promotion Club, our international students presented on the unique sights, enduring proverbs and economic potential of Southeast Asia. To increase their cross-cultural sensitivity via hands-on learning, students also shared on the importance to foster people-to-people ties to promote the spirit of cross-cultural friendship and collaboration. Finally, they concretised their understanding of Singapore’s foreign policy and relations with ASEAN via creation of a jigsaw mural inspired by the craft activities of the Culture Promotion Club.
Students will extend their learning on the importance of international friendships in an increasingly fractious world via the upcoming JC1 SG Perspectives Student Dialogue Session and Explore! 2024 Overseas Cultural Immersion Programme in November.
2024 Economics Edventure Week – GIC Talk by SVP Mr Wong De Rui for J2 H2 Economists!
The Economics Department invited Mr Wong De Rui, Senior Vice President & Sustainable Investment Strategist from GIC’s Sustainability Office, to deliver a talk on the critical issue of climate change and its impact on the global economy to the JC2 H2 Economists. Mr Wong provided invaluable insights on the critical issue of climate change and its profound impact on the global economy, specifically tailored for our Economists.
During the session, students had the opportunity to delve into the complexities of climate change, exploring the wide spectrum of uncertainty surrounding its magnitude the and timing of its impact. From dissecting plausible climate change scenarios to understanding their implications for the global economy, students gained a deeper understanding of this pressing global challenge and the importance of sustainable investing.
Moreover, Mr Wong emphasized the significance of strategic planning and prudent investment strategies in navigating climate-related risks and seizing opportunities for sustainable growth. It was indeed an enlightening session that underscored the vital role of informed decision-making in addressing the challenges of our time.
