The Causeway Connection (1)

 The May break saw 40 of us visiting some schools in Singapore; so we named it the causeway connection.

We wrote in to a few and they graciously received us. We chose some established schools but we also felt led to visit the much talked about one; Northlight.

 Geographically, the attachment is real. We are connected by causeways and are neighbours. Singapore's only access out by land is through Malaysia. We have been 'siblings' and now we are friends. Therefore it is not surprising that when we attempted to cross the causeway, we were greeted by this massive jam. People travel both ways like nobody's business. This is an everyday affair. How connected we can be.

Northlight is no ordinary school we were told. It is a school of hope for those who find it difficult to make it through the primary school examinations. It is here that self-esteem is restored and meaning is brought back to the low-esteem. So it's vocational in nature. Children are taught practical living skills for survival. That is what life is really about; to be independent and acquiring strengths emotionally, physically and socially for a place in society.

Northlight tries hard to decrease the attrition rate as the children face challenges in life.

 She aims to minimize truancy. So Northlight provides free shuttle service to school. I thought it was original and practical. The school tells her children that she cares. Oh how nice.

 Home visits are a norm. Teachers are told to observe the needs of their children during such times. They must teach with a heart of love. Teachers who are caring only can perform such duties.

Retailing is in the syllabus and the children are taught skills to manage simple exchanges and business.

 They are also taught to cook, bake and serve 'cafeteria' style.

A professional baked the cake and we asked for a chance to taste. When you ask, you have it.

 "Graffiti" are allowed with rules ! So they play games with joy.

 When free, students are given the privilege of gaming sessions. This special room caters to the needs of students who want a game or two during the course of the day. The environment is inviting and give reasons for students to stay in school.

I like this golden rule. We need it to have a meaningful existence. Northlight imparts a lot of that.

Of the many activities that caught my heart was this little orchard manned by students. We were told that occasionally teachers are awarded with fruits as appreciation. So nice.

In a nutshell, Northlight is an outlet for the not so academically -inclined ones but nevertheless equally important practical-living ones to be vocationally trained.

Here, the heart of education is the education of the heart.

The teachers are called in for a special delivery and purpose.

Northlight taught us true humility, genuine care and meaningful gestures of life.

Perhaps those are everything .

Thank you to the staff who took pains to see us and allowing a physical tour .