NE IMMERSION CAMP PRIMARY 4 Northland Primary School Presented at NE Symposium 2005

“I am therefore heartened to see that our schools have developed interesting and meaningful ways to strengthen the inclusion of these values (of multi-racialism that they imbibe and practise in school, and at home and in the neighbourhood). Northland Primary School’s National Education Camp for Primary 4 pupils is an example. The pupils immersed themselves in activities such as Wushu, Silat and Yoga, and visits to places of worship such as Chinese and Indian temples, a Mosque and a Church…”

“…… They also took part in the gastronomic delights of the various races in Singapore – who says National Education isn’t fun? – and learnt to eat with chopsticks and their hands, and from bowls and banana leaves. And more importantly, the pupils had opportunity through the overnight camp to interact, bond and make friendships.” Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, then Acting Minister for Education, at the Racial Harmony Discovery Day on 17 July 2004 at CCAB at 8.30am

“…… And more importantly, the pupils had opportunity through the overnight camp to interact, bond and make friendships.” Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, then Acting Minister for Education, at the Racial Harmony Discovery Day on 17 July 2004 at CCAB at 8.30am

Objectives Pupils will understand Singapore’s unique challenges, constraints and vulnerabilities, which make us different from other countries. Pupils will understand that every Singaporean is important in our society.

Pupils will develop a sense of identity, pride and self-respect as Singaporeans. Pupils will learn to show their commitment towards promoting social cohesion and foster inter- religious communications. Objectives

To instil the core values of our way of life and the will to prevail, that ensures our continued success and well-being. Objectives

PARENTS PUPILS TEACHERS ALUMNI School Cluster THE COMMUNITY

Participation from all 10 classes across the level. No. of participants up 4% from PUPILS

All teachers were deployed, up from involvement of 30 – 40 teachers in Teachers played role as Facilitators for various activities. TEACHERS

More than 40 Parent Volunteers were roped in. chamPS played an active liaison role between working committee and PVs. PVs were invited as Guest Speakers and Assistant Teachers, and helped with meals and refreshments. PARENTS

Visits to landmarks within the neighbourhood – Places of Worship and the Town Council. Rapport established with respective persons-in- charge. THE COMMUNITY

Ex-Northlanders rendered their assistance to some of our activities. ALUMNI

School Cluster not only endorsed the project, but also provided funds to subsidise the running of the Camp. School Cluster

Activities Silat, Wushu, Yoga “Singapore – Our Home” “Tourism Singapore” “Culture at my Fingertips”

Activities “What Say You?” “Sweat it Out!” Movie Time “Our Neighbourhood” “DELICIOSO!”

98.6% of the pupils have learnt more about other races’ culture and religion. 91.9% of the pupils found the activities at the learning stations interesting & educational. 92.1% of the pupils are more aware of the places of worship in Yishun area. 90.1% of the pupils enjoyed the camp. Immersion Camp – Feedback

“I enjoyed the places visited.” -Andrew Goh (4A6) “I hope to learn even more.” -Harry Teo (4A4) “I will tell my family members all that I have learnt.” -Russell Foo (4A5) Immersion Camp – Feedback

“The camp was very interesting. I enjoyed it!” -Debbie Huang (4A2) “The NE Camp was fun, doing everything in school with my friends.” -Fahmie (4A2) “I wish there were more camps.” -Agnes Heng (4A6) Immersion Camp – Feedback