It was the pinnacle of their four years in Crescent, hence it was no wonder that the air was taut with tension as students and graduates alike waited with bated breath for the release of the O-level results. Our former principal, Mrs Tan’s surprise visit definitely had us in high spirits, along with the announcement that half the cohort had scored at least six distinctions. The real climax, however, was when the cue was given and the graduates shuffled forward to receive their results from their form teachers.

One after another, cheers of pure ecstasy broke out in the auditorium as the graduates pumped their fists in sheer glee. At the same time, others had latched onto their fellow friends and classmates, unwilling to let go. The auditorium buzzed with laughter, sobs and chatter, to the point which I could barely decipher which was a cry of victory and which was that of a weary warrior; the sounds rang synonymous to the blood, sweat and tears the graduates had shed over one of the most arduous battles they had to fight in their lives.

The atmosphere was so tense, yet filled with a sense of sheer joy it almost inspired tears from those yet to take the O-levels. In their hugs and tears we saw hope: hope for a better future, hope for our journey ahead and hope that we can keep Crescent’s flag soaring high and proud.

Reported by Isabelle Metzger (4G2)

O-Level Examination Results 2016: What our students have to say about their experience and advice to the current Secondary 4 students.

1. What are your feelings right now after receiving your results?

Sze Ying: I am feeling extremely happy because I got distinctions for two of my weakest subjects!

Rebecca: I am still in shock and the fact that I did well has not sunken in yet. I am happy that all my efforts have finally paid off.

Catherine: I am very happy that I have made my parents proud.

Aleena: I’m feeling happy as it feels like all my hard work had paid off.

Shannon: I feel quite satisfied for the subjects I’ve done well in. I’ve put in hard work and eventually scored my desired results.

Pyae: Honestly, I can feel my heart beating so fast because I just cannot believe that I have done so well, it is like a dream.

2. What is the recipe for your success that you could share with your juniors?

Shimona: The key to success is to be consistent in your efforts. From the start of your Secondary 4 year, you should learn how to prioritise your commitments well. Don’t be discouraged by your results in Secondary 3, but focus on developing a consistent pace when working towards your goals. You will be pleasantly surprised at the good results that follow.

Sze Ying: Yes, I agree that consistency in your efforts is the key to success. Do regular revisions so that you will not feel overwhelmed during the major examinations. Start by taking small steps like revising for your class tests and take them seriously.

Rebecca: I had to juggle between Student Council, my CCA (Netball) and my studies. Through that experience, I learnt that you must be sure of what you want, work towards it every day and make sure that you are a step closer to your goal each day.

Catherine: I feel that consistency and having a positive mindset are very important in achieving success. You should not be demoralised by your past results instead, work harder towards your goal. Don’t be discouraged, as poor results are stepping stones that help you gauge where you stand.

Krithiga: I think you should be confident in yourself and not compare yourself to others. Also, you should set realistic expectations and do your best. If you feel disappointed about your marks, it’s okay to confide in your friends. Let out your emotions and move on.

3. Where did you draw your source of inspiration from?

Shimona: My role model would be my father because he was the one who made me think it was possible and brought me back on track whenever I was discouraged. He is the kind of person who works towards his goals and try his best to achieve them. Adopting his positive attitude was probably one of the reasons that helped me achieve academic success.

Rebecca: My Chinese teacher, Ms Ang Lay Pheng, is someone I look up to a lot. She was very supportive and gave me wise advice. Not only did she teach the subject, she also taught me the value of giving my best in everything I do - no matter the results. This has inspired me to work hard not only for good grades, but because I want to do my best.

Catherine: Firstly, I think my role model would be my dad. He was from India and back then, there weren’t many educational opportunities. Although he faced financial difficulties, he never gave up and became the first in his family to be able to further his studies overseas. Secondly, my seniors who graduated with flying colours have also been very inspirational as they were the ones who showed me that performing poorly in school examinations does not mean there is no chance of a comeback. With hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

4. What was your source of motivation?

Carina: I guess my source of motivation would not be just one person, more like people – like my family. My family inspired me a lot, especially my sister. As O levels was nearing something terrible happened in my family. Regardless my family inspired me to keep going and finish the race.

Krithiga: What really motivated me to study especially for History was my interest in the subject. Initially, I failed the History, however I was still interested to learn the content, which really fascinated me.

Aleena: For me having a clear goal of what I wanted to achieve motivated me to work hard to achieve my goals. It can be a certain JC or L1R5 that you want to achieve, whatever your goals are, working towards them will motivate you to study harder. I think target-setting was a source of motivation for me.

Sze Ying: I feel that the Crescentian culture of hard work motivated me to study harder. When I procrastinated, I thought about my friends around me and I would see them working hard at improving themselves. That motivated me to give my best for O levels.

5. What were some of your study methods employed?

Carina: I realised that not being afraid to ask for help from teachers and accepting that I do not know everything took some pressure off my shoulders. I learns to accept that sometimes content can be confusing and sometimes I would feel really lost in class. instead of refusing to ask for help I decided to go to the teachers to consult and that made a huge difference.

Li Na: I studied with my close friends. Basically, my whole class gathered in the canteen during study break and we just studied together. We ensured that we are all disciplined and did our revision together. We also sought help from our friends who were better at some subjects. I would say studying together and relying on your friends especially during stressful period worked well for me.

Nicole: I will plan my study schedule one week in advance even before the week arrives. Within that plan I would leave out an hour or two to take breaks. The breaks made me feel better and less stressed so when I returned to revision I was able to absorb more information.

Sarah: Unlike a lot of my friends, I preferred to study alone. I just felt comfortable studying alone and I think it is alright to do so if it works for you. I also think it is important to be disciplined if you are studying alone and it requires you to stick to your schedule. Sometimes it can be impossible to complete everything you planned for yourself. For me sometimes I will not be able to complete certain chapters and when that happened I would compensate by taking up a little bit more time than I gave myself in the study plan to cover the topics.

Deepika: My relationship with English was much like a roller coaster ride, sometimes I did well, at other times I did badly and I did not know where I was going wrong. If you are in the same position as me, seek your teachers’ help. I also realised that doing corrections religiously helped me a lot because I took notice of my tense and spelling errors.

Pyae: This is not my story but I want to share it anyway. My friend was not very fond of Chinese and she used to fail Chinese, yet for O levels she got A1. So I asked her how she did it, she said that she put in hard work and learned to love the subject. I realise now that studying becomes less painful when you learn to love the subject.

6. How did you manage your time?

Shyer Wern: I think towards the start of the year, when you still have CCA it is a bit challenging to manage your time between CCA, school activities and studies, but you should try your best and do not be too hard on yourself when you fall short sometimes. But once you step down from CCA, you must discipline yourself and plan ahead and plan your study schedule. For me, I came up with a monthly plan and decided what I wanted to cover in that month or in that week.

Carina: For me, I used Chronos, my own planner - I have three, one for months, one for weeks, and one for days - and I plan everything in advance. In addition, when I plan my days it is by hours. I will allocate for instance, four hours to study and an hour to rest because I think it is very important to take breaks. Sometimes when my friends and I study together we will study for 2 to 3 hours and play basketball for an hour and continue again. It really helped relieve the stress. I think managing time is all about planning. Planning between studying and resting.

Shannon: I was very busy during the O level period but I managed to set time aside to rest and spend time with my family as well. I did not spend one whole day with my family but just spending meal times with them was good enough. Also, try to stay away from your distractions such as your phone, youtube, K drama. Only look at them when you have completed what you were tasked to complete for that day so that your time is spent meaningfully.

Rebecca: I managed to juggle my time between Student Council, CCA (Netball), and my studies because I learnt that prioritising daily activities is important. You should create a schedule or a study plan that helps you to stay focus and divide your time well. You need to allocate more time to revision and studying as it is nearing O levels and keep away all your distractions. I prioritised by spending a little bit more time on the subjects I was weak in. I think a study plan will help you to manage your time.

Pyae: At the start of the year I was unable to manage my time because I had NPCC competitions and it was stressful. However, with the help from my friends, classmates, and teachers, I managed to overcome the stress. And eventually when you step down from CCA, you will realise that you have a lot of time at hand and you can spend those time doing revision for O level.

7. What were some of your main obstacles and how did you manage your distractions while studying?

Krithiga: I think you should tell your parents about the distractions you are facing (e.g. watching too many Youtube videos) and leave the door open when you are using the computer so that they can help you become more accountable.

Nicole: What I’d do is every week, I’ll plan my schedule in advance so that I’ll have one hour or so to relax. This makes me feel like there is something to look forward to and helps me become less distracted when I know I have a task to complete.

Chloe: For me music was not a distraction, in fact I used it to de-stress. I think it is important to de-stress so that you do not overload yourself.

8. What are some of your plans after this?

Sze Ying: I would like to go on to a junior college, but have not yet decided which one to go to, so I will be going for the open houses this week to make my decision.

Rebecca: I’ve thought a lot about it and I’ve decided that I would want to go to the healthcare sector, and consider the area of nursing or allied healthcare.

Catherine: I would like to move on to a JC, preferably Raffles Institution, and then take up Medicine overseas.

Harini: I am aiming for a JC, personally aiming for NJC.

Chloe: My sister was from Hwa Chong so I want to go to Hwa Chong too.

9. What advice would you give your juniors who are preparing the O level examinations this year?

Jessica: Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to memorise too much information the night before the examination, as it just will not work. Try to focus on the important parts and have faith in yourself. You must remember that it is perfectly alright to fail at times. Just remember that the test or exam is not the end. Your performance in prelims does not affect how well you will do during your O-levels. Even if you do not do well for the O levels, it is still not the end of the world. It may sound optimistic, but it is true.

Shannon: Firstly, do not procrastinate. If you find pockets of time, try to do your revision. Secondly, do not give up. Rather, find things that motivate you and keep going as. Like Jessica said, it is never the end. Thirdly, make sure you are getting enough sleep, as it is very important to help you retain what you have learnt. There is no point in staying up late, and end up not remembering what you have learnt. It is also important to exercise more and eat your fruits and vegetables! Lastly, remember to spend time with your family as they are the ones supporting you. It will be stressful and you will have a lot of work to do, but do remember to set aside time for your family as well. Never give up on yourself; just dream big and do your best!

Gek Chi: Take care of yourself. Your health and the way you take care for those around you are extremely important to get you through the O levels. It is going to be tough with a lot of challenges, so you should be mentally and physically prepared to take on whatever comes your way.

Krithiga: I think you should be confident in yourself. At the same time, you should try your very best. If you feel sad about your marks, it’s ok to confide in your friends. It really relieves all your disappointment. Let out your emotions and move on.

Harini: At least half an hour before the exam, stop reading and revising. It might confuse or make you feel stress. Wish your friends all the best and step into the exam hall with confidence!

10. Finally, do you feel that the Crescent school culture helped in preparing for your O levels?

Sze Ying: I feel that Crescentians are generally hardworking and helpful, and this is what motivates me to work harder. Whenever I procrastinate, I would remember that the people around me are working very hard, and this pushes me to strive on. Moreover, the consultations provided by teachers are very useful, as you will get one-to-one guidance and more in-depth knowledge about the subject.

Rebecca: I think the school culture here is very good, because we’re not fully academic oriented. Crescent gives a holistic education, which I feel is the most important. Having a holistic education means that you not only study hard and have good grades, but you have the mentality, good attitude and good character to push you to do greater things. The school provides night study, which was very good for me. It allowed me to focus for the few two hours and do what I could. All the consultations and supplementary classes helped in the end to help me better understand the concepts.

Catherine: I really love the Crescent culture because it has a very friendly atmosphere, where everyone is very approachable, especially the teachers. No matter how many times we approach them, they never fail to enlighten us and give us wise advice. Feeling happy to come to school to meet our fellow Crescentians and chat with our teachers have been such motivational boosters. Crescent provided us with a holistic education; it did not only encourage us to excel academically, but also developed us into ladies and leaders of tomorrow.

Reported by student interviewers: Anna Lim Jia Jia (4S1), Gloria Maclaine D’silva (4S1), Helen Chong (4C2), Grace Kwok (4S2), Divya Kothari (4S2), Kay Yi Xin Elisabeth (4S2), Soh Shun Qin Cheers (4C1), Sarah Lim Su-En (4C1), Mia Preto (4G1), Iyshu (4G1).

O level graduate interviewees: Htoo Pyae Pyae (4S1), Deepika Sundaram (4S1), Chloe Tan Yi Qian (4C2), Kusalavan Kinububha Harini (4S1), Krithigha Panneer (4S1), Aleena Saju (4S1), Nicole Leong Le Xuan (4C2), Shannon Kwok Xin Yi (4G3), Yosephine Jessica (4G3), Lee Gek Chi (4G3), Sivasubramani Shimona Sylvia (4S1), Tan Sze Ying (4S1),Rebecca Sim Rui Yi (4C2), Catherine Ezhilvalavan (4S1), Carina Lim (4C1), Goh Shyer Wern (4S1), Sarah Wong (4S2), Chua Li Na (4S3).

Red Cross Trailblazer Competition 2017

On 14th January, a team of four cadets from Crescent Red Cross participated in the Trailblazer Competition organised by the Singapore Red Cross. The team consisted of Sarah Png (team leader), Harishini D/O Thirruselvan, Toh Jia Wen Carmen and Theyvarrthnah D/O K. This competition aimed to enrich Red Cross training and activities by providing a platform for cadets from various school units to share innovative ideas. It was also an opportunity for us to reflect on our leadership journey in Red Cross Youth.

Our team’s idea was to use Virtual Reality (VR) technology to enhance training sessions. We proposed a VR room to be set up in the headquarters, where different units could take turns going down to experience this new dimension in learning. Our idea was accepted as the cost of VR technology would only continue to become more affordable over time.

In the last few weeks leading up to the competition, our team worked tirelessly, drafting the script and planning our booth layout. We had difficulty condensing our idea into the three-minute presentation time frame. To make our booth more interactive and multisensory, we downloaded a VR app - Google Cardboard, and bought an affordable VR case.

We presented our booth and idea to a panel of judges who graded us on our presentation skills as well as the feasibility of our innovation. It was truly a test of our confidence and passion for excellence.

Our efforts were rewarded when we were one of three teams to achieve the Gold Award. We also received a special award for the Most Innovative Idea. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the help of our teachers-in-charge, Ms Tai Wai Peng, Mrs Yip Wai Pheng, Mr Bobby Tandri and Ms Nat Yuen Mei Fang, who gave us constant guidance and constructive feedback. We would also like to thank our squad mates. Without their moral support and team unity, we could not have done this on our own.

Reported by Sarah Png Shi Hui (4S2)

Dedication Ceremony 2017

It was once again time to welcome the new cohort of Secondary Ones into the Crescetian family. All of us, fellow Crescentians gathered in the auditorium for this long-awaited and meaningful event, cheering enthusiastically as the school staff, distinguished guests, Mrs Wendy Wong, Chairman of the School Advisory Committee, Ms Quek Ser Choon, President of the Crescent Girls’ School Alumnae Association and Mdm Betty Huang, Chairperson of the Parent Support Group made their way onto the stage. Indeed, the staff truly deserved this resounding welcome for their dedication to the school and bringing Crescent to greater heights.

Mrs Helen Chong, our Principal and head of our Crescentian family, then addressed us, reminding us to have resolutions which will help us realize our goals. Mrs Chong then led the staff through the Staff Pledge, which promised to bring out the best in Crescentians and guide them to become good and useful citizens of the nation.

This was followed by a truly significant moment where the Secondary four Crescentians pinned the school badge onto the new Secondary one Crescentians, and the new Secondary Two and Three Crescentians who had just joined us this year. The Secondary Fours also prepared handwritten notes to welcome the new Crescentians. One could see many faces filled with pride as they passed the baton to the Secondary Ones who would no doubt carry on the legacy and bring Crescent to greater heights. This marked the start of the Secondary Ones’ very own Crescent journey as they were officially welcomed into our big Crescentian family.

Thereafter, all Crescentians were led by the President of the Student Council, Megan Tan, to recite the Pupils’ Creed, where each Crescentian pledged to live by the school values (CDIET) and school motto - Courtesy, Generosity and Sincerity.

As we begin our journey this year, we should always remember to stay committed to our personal goals and not be fazed by the challenges that we may face along the way.

Onward with zeal and zest,

Forward, we of CGS!

Reported by Tan Wanting Megan (4S2)

Dedication Ceremony 2017

Dedication Ceremony evoked in me a mix of nervousness and excitement. Since it was an official school event, I knew that there would be many important people attending and the thought of seeing them made me nervous. At the same time, I was extremely excited because I was going to get my school badge!

During the Badge Pinning Ceremony, I could hear the Secondary Fours laughing as they chatted with their friends. I wondered if I would be like them, laughing with my friends in four years’ time. The transition from Primary Six to Secondary One was a huge one for me and I was still trying to get used to my new classmates.

As a Secondary Four senior was pinning on my badge for me, I realized that she was nervous too. It was also her first time pinning a badge onto someone. She asked me to excuse her shaking hands as she mumbled about how she might not be pinning on the badge properly. I laughed. She made me feel as though it was alright to be scared and nervous. We did not talk much after. There was no need to because the note of encouragement she gave me said everything I needed to hear.

The note of encouragement made me less nervous about the transition period into secondary school. I particularly liked how the Secondary Four senior understood the feelings that I experienced and gave me some useful tips. It made me feel welcomed to the Crescentian family and lifted my spirits. After that day, I began to feel more relaxed and made many new friends. Thank you, Secondary Fours!

Reported by an anonymous Secondary One student

Secondary One Orientation 2017: Lumière

Lumière, which means ‘light’ in French, is the theme of this year’s Secondary One Orientation. Throughout the four days of orientation, the Secondary Ones were introduced to the various activities organised by the four student leadership groups, House Leaders, Peer Leaders, Crez Ambassadors, and Student Councillors. They were also taught the school song, school cheer and mass dance! The Secondary Ones also played games with their classmates and created their own class cheers and flags. The highlight of the Orientation programme was the Orientation Campfire! We certainly hope that the Orientation programme not only lighted up the Secondary Ones’ lives as they join Crescent but also inspir them to always keep that light in their hearts so that they can overcome any challenges that come their way.

Reported by Natalie Yeo (3S1) and Rachel Chin (3C2)

Secondary One Orientation Campfire

The week-long orientation programme for our new Secondary One Crescentians ended with a ‘bang’. The Orientation Campfire was organised by the Girl Guides with the help of many other CCAs that put up captivating performances. Mrs Helen Chong, our Principal, kicked off the event by lighting the fire: the yellow flames looked beautiful against the dark sky. This year’s theme for the Orientation Programme was Lumière, which is French for ‘light’, signifying how the Orientation Group Leaders, seniors and teachers were just like the guiding light for the Secondary Ones, ceaselessly helping them throughout their journey in Crescent.

The audience sang enthusiastically, marvelled at the brilliant skit presented, and cheered for the stunning performances put up by the participating CCAs. Through this campfire, the Secondary Ones strengthened their sense of belonging to the Crescent family and further cultivated their love for the school. Every Orientation Group (OG) was also required to work as a team and every time an OG successfully rose up to the challenge and overcame the obstacles that confronted them, they earned themselves glow sticks. By the end of the whole event, the place was filled with luminescence, a representation of how there will always be light to lead the way and guide them along throughout their days in Crescent.

From the cheers and applause, it was evident that the Campfire was enthusiastically received by the new Crescentians. They also took turns showcasing performances and cheers that they had planned as a class, whilst waving the flags they created with pride. They bonded throughout the orientation programme and forged new friendships.

May the Secondary Ones have a fulfilling Crescent experience in the years ahead; may Crescent always remain in their hearts!

Reported by Randelle Ong (4S2)

January