Communion

Students from Catholic Schools top "O" levels

2012-01-09T17:50:00.001+08:00

Amongst the three top students in the "O" level results were two students, Zhong Yingyi and Chai Yung Ci from CHIJ St Nicholas, according to the local press.The top 2 Sec 5 students were Amanda Chia from Holy Innocents' High School and Khoo Chit Hui from Monfort Secondary who both scored 4 A1s and 1 A2.
Pictured below are Amanda Chia and her proud parents.

Montfort Secondary comes "Home"

2012-01-03T15:54:00.000+08:00

Montfort Secondary today moved back to its premises after a two year absence. The school had undergone a renovation and rebuilding exercise under the Ministry of Education's PRIME programme. To commemorate the occasion 200 old boys, teachers and students walked from the holding school to the original site at 7.30am.
The principal, Mr Andrew Tan greeted those present and together with members of the school management committee and parent support group moulded their palms onto alabaster to be displayed on a main wall. The school assembly followed and visitors were told of the school's plans by the principal.
Amongst the school's renovations were the rebuilding of a four storey block into a six storey one, a new library as well as an enlarged school hall which now has the capacity to contain all the pupils.

Kindergarten Teachers' Thanksgiving Day

2011-11-25T16:50:00.001+08:00

Principals and Teachers from the various kindergartens gathered at St Joseph's Kindergarten in Bukit Timah yesterday for a day of getting together and for some learning experiences.
The event, which was organised by ACCS, started with a briefing and updates on Catholic Preschools followed by a tour around the hosting kindergarten. This was followed by an Art Therapy workshop conducted by Caroline Essame, a creative art therapist with 24 years of experience.
After lunch a talk by was given by Dr Margaret Anne Carter from James Cook University. Dr Carter discussed the difference a teacher could make in the life of a child and then went on to discuss various behavioural patterns.
The day ended with a special Mass celebrated by Msgr Eugene Vaz.

ACCS Attachment Programme for students

2011-11-04T10:01:00.001+08:00

Five students from CHIJ (Toa Payoh) were attached to the ACCS office for 5 days - 31st of Oct to 4th Nov.
The School’s Programme Objectives were:
a. To prepare IJ girls for the world of work
b. To provide IJ girls the opportunity to taste the world of work
c. To help them to make informed decision regarding career selection
d. To build up their life skills and team work for the world of work
In additional the objectives by the ACCS were:
e. To reflect on the value of work in our changing world today.
f. Pray for the grace of wisdom to discern the right career choice and the courage to pursue it.
g. To explore one’s own strengths, limitations and career possibilities in order to make a choice and commit to it.
The Schedule of Daily Activities
Students worked as a team in planning for the Kindergarten Bible Camp Event on the 28th and 29th November 2011. They did creative planning, research work on the significant landmarks of our Catholic tradition in Singapore, and developed activities for children as well as educational brochures.At the end of each day’s work, students came together to pray and reflect on their experiences. They were given the opportunity to know themselves more, explore career possibilities and reflect on the ways in which their choices are made.

5 New Principals for Catholic Schools

2011-10-15T12:09:00.000+08:00

Singapore's Ministry of Education announced the appointment of 47 new principals of which five are for Catholic Schools.They are:Assumption English School - Mrs Mabel Leong
CHIJ St Nicholas Girls' School - Mrs Tan Wai Lan
St Patrick's School - Mr Tan Chin Eng, Adolphus
De La Salle School - Mdm Poon Chor Choo, Daphne
St Gabriel's Primary School - Mdm Moo Mee Koon, Catherine
The principals will be presented with letters of appointment at an Appointment and Appreciation Ceremony on the 30th of December.ACCS would like to take this opportunity to warmly congratulate the new Principals on their appointment and record our thanks and appreciation for the outgoing principals.

Who Is the Learner?

2011-09-21T16:39:00.002+08:00

Fr David Garcia OP, conducted a workshop on the 20th of September for Catholic teachers and staff in Catholic and non-Catholic schools. The topic was "Who is the Learner? Designed and Called to Become"The two and a half hour workshop was held at Assumption English School. Fr Garcia guided participants to a deeper reflection of the uniqueness of the Human Person. It was designed to enrich the views and appreciation of God's creative power and love. It also aimed to enhance the understanding of the Person of the student whom the teachers meet every day.

CMECS Meeting for Principals and Vice Principals

2011-09-14T12:16:00.000+08:00

Twenty Two Principals and Vice Principals gathered at Catholic Junior College yesterday for a briefing of the new Civics and Moral Education syllabus that could be used in Catholic Secondary Schools.The purpose of the meeting was to update the school leaders of the programme as well as its status. ACCS Executive Director Ms Wendy Louis (picture above) led the session along with Ms Jeanette Atabelo and Mr Edward Dass.

Teachers' Day Celebration

2011-08-03T11:33:00.000+08:00

ALL teachers are invited to our Teachers' Day Celebration on Saturday the 27th of August. It's to be held at SJI International, 490 Thomson Road from 3pm. Mass will celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Nicholas Chia followed by a mini concert and reception. Please register here or call 68587080.

Walking with Jesus - July 2011

2011-07-06T17:35:00.000+08:00

The Biblical based programme "Walking with Jesus" was the focus of a workshop conducted on the 6th of July 2011. Teachers and parent volunteers from Catholic High, St Gabriels and SJI junior attended the three hour session.
Ms Wendy Louis, Executive Director and Msgr Eugene Vaz conducted the sessions which was aimed at providing the groundwork for the teachers.
The topics covered were:

How a Para Liturgy could be conducted
How Scripture is used in Walking by Jesus
Music in the programme
Preparing to teach the sessions.

Lastly, a presentation of how a session with the children could be conducted and an evaluation was carried out.

Kindergarten Parents' Information Session

2011-05-19T15:18:00.001+08:00

On the 14th of May, parents of St Francis Xavier Kindergarten attended an information session organised by ACCS. The aim of the session was to provide information about the operational and curriculum aspects of the school. This also enabled the parents to give suggestions and work in partnership with the school.
Some fifty people attended the two hour session which was given by Merilyn Dasson from ACCS and Shirley Tan. The parish priest, Fr John Bosco, who is also the kindergarten supervisor was also in attendance.

Assumption Pathway Blessing

2011-05-12T15:43:00.000+08:00

The Blessing of Assumption Pathway School was conducted by His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia on the 11th of May.
The new building, completed last year, houses the administration, multi purpose hall, canteen, gymnasium and library has freed up space in the previous building which can now accommodate more classrooms. The building, which faces Cashew Road, took about two years to reach it's completion in late 2010.
Amongst the dignitaries present were the SMC chairman, Mr Gabriel Teo, Bro Dominic, Bro.Emmanuel, and Gabrilite school principals, Mr Andrew Tan, Ms Genevieve Chai, Ms Antonia Teng.
Assumption Pathway caters to students that are more inclined to a less academic course of study and undergo a three year programme which leads to qualification of a ITE skills certificate.

Christopher Walker 2

2011-04-15T12:32:00.002+08:00

The Christopher Walker workshops ended yesterday, the 14th of April.
They did not purely cover musical techniques for specific groups but extended to liturgical practices and their relationship to music and many could be used for all age groups.
They were delivered through entertaining, fact filled sessions that seldom had a dull moment. Christopher also delved into the fundamentals on which a liturgical musical foundation could be built.
Our sincere thanks to Christopher for his time and enthusiasm.

Christopher Walker

2011-04-07T17:20:00.001+08:00

Christopher Walker, the lecturer and composer renown for his liturgical music went into his second day of workshops at CAEC this afternoon. His audience was pre-school teachers and they were enthralled throughout this delightful man's presentation. Christopher will be conducting another eight workshops up until the 14th of April.

Supervisors Meeting

2011-03-28T15:24:00.001+08:00

Supervisors of Catholic Schools gathered today at the SPI conference room for their regular meeting. On the agenda today was the discussion on the common purpose and goals of Catholic Education; growing towards becoming a family of Catholic Schools.

Present at the meeting were Bro. Emmanuel SG, Fr Frederick Quek, Sr Maria Ng FMM, Christina Kheng, Fr Henry Siew, Sr Delphine Kang RGS, Sr Cecily Pavri FDCC, ACCS Executive Director Wendy Louis and ACCS Executive Secretary Ursula Quah.

Evaluating a Catholic School

2011-03-04T10:51:00.002+08:00

Fr Norbert Menezes continued his series of discussions at the Church of the Risen Christ last night. A group of Catholic School leaders, which included Chairmen of SMCs, Supervisors and ACCS Commisioners, as well as Msgr Eugene Vaz, gathered to discuss the evaluation of Catholic Ethos within a Catholic school.
The sub topics covered included:

A Vision, Mision and Culture
Civics and Moral Education/ Religious Education
Partnerships/ Communitarian Involvement
Holistic Education
Spirituality
Gospel Witness

Leading a Catholic School

2011-03-01T11:35:00.000+08:00

Principals from Catholic schools gathered on the 28th of February at the Church of Christ the king for a discussion on Leading a Catholic School. Facilitating the discussion was Fr Norbert Menezes.
Amongst the topics discussed was the challenges principals faced such as shifting priorities, over-emphasis on the externals, inadequate time for religious education, respect to diverse philosophies and ideologies and lack of Catholic Teachers and students.
The principals also deliberated on the identity and distinctiveness of a Catholic School and covered topics like the inspiration of a supernatural vision, being rooted in Sacramentality and being directed by faith and reason.
The principals represented the Catholic kindergartens, primary, secondary and junior college. Also present were Msgr Eugene Vaz, the vicar general and Ms Wendy Louis, executive director of ACCS.

Integral Pedagogy - Fr Norbert Menezes SJ

2011-02-25T17:38:00.001+08:00

Jesuit Father and educator Norbert Menezes returned to Singapore to conduct another series of Integral Pedagogy centred talks aimed at Catholic school teachers, principals, religious education teachers and members of SMCs and Supervisors. The talks and workshops started on the 22nd of February and will continue till the 5th of March. In all, he will meet with groups of educators on nine occasions.
Amongst his topics are: The Core Aspects of Catholic Education, Reflection Skills in Teaching, Leading a Catholic School and How do you evaluate Catholic Ethos.
Fr Menezes is currently the secretary for Jesuit Education for South Asia. He holds 2 Masters degrees - in education as well as Science (Mathematics). He has also authored a total of seven books on education.

Walking with Jesus Workshops

2011-02-09T17:18:00.001+08:00

ACCS organised 2 workshops, on the 26th of January and the 9th of February for teachers of the "Walking with Jesus" biblical based programme for Primary School Catholic students. The programme compliments the CCC based "Call to Faith" programme taught in the parishes.
The session was divided up into three parts; A Biblical overview by Msgr. Eugene Vaz, Music and the programme structure by ACCS Executive Director, Ms Wendy Louis.
The sessions were attended by forty one teachers over the two days.
The video below is the first of two videos of the Biblical Overview.

Fr Norbert Menezes SJ

2011-01-06T16:12:00.001+08:00

Fr Norbert Menezes, the Jesuit priest renown for his talks on Integral Pedagogy will return to Singapore from the 22nd of February to the 5th of March this year.
He will be presenting a number of talks and workshops to various groups of educators in Catholic schools.
His first talk will be over three sessions, the 22nd, 26th of Feb and the 1st of March on Integral Pedagogy for Secondary School educators.
Contact our office at 68587080 for further details and registration.

MOE officers visit ACCS

2010-11-12T15:37:00.000+08:00

The Ministry of Education's Civics and Moral Education (CME) Unit sent 14 of its officers for a visit to ACCS and the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) church.
The purpose of the visit was to gain more knowledge and understanding of Christianity.
The visit began at the IHM church where Fr Stanislaus Pang briefed the visitors on the common rituals, rules and regulations to take note of at a place of worship. This was was followed by a tour of the Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre and the ACCS office.
After that, Ms Wendy Louis, executive director of ACCS gave the visitors a briefing on the main belief system of Christianity and some common practices of Christianity and their rationale.
This was followed by a briefing by Arthur Goh, director of the Singapore Pastoral Institute. He provided a brief introduction of the main Catholic religious texts and their significance as well as common misconceptions about Christianity and how to address them.
The visit ended with a dialogue session.

Talk for Preschool Educators by Sanjay Kumar

2010-10-25T12:07:00.000+08:00

Sanjay Kumar is a pediatric occupational therapist and on the 22nd of October he shared with 45 preschool educators on "Identifying and Handling Preschool Children with Individual/Special Needs".
The programme contents included:

Issues of Children in Preschool
Building a broad categorization of children with odd behaviours.
Analysing observations in a structured manner.
Implications of fractured play behaviour.
Use of Music Listening Therapy in schools to address academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges.

The attendees were presented with a certificate of attendance after the four hour talk.

October Marian Programme: Following Her Ways: To Jesus Through Mary

2010-09-27T12:05:00.001+08:00

We are a few days away from October, the month celebrated in honour of Mary, the Mother of Jesus. During this month, we especially remember what God has done through Mary and continues to do with her for us.
We have prepared a set of the Marian Prayer booklet for use in Catholic schools. In this prayer series we would like to encourage one another, especially the students to imitate her and to live as she did and still does – giving glory to the Lord and rejoicing in God her Saviour!
The overall theme of the sessions is “Following Her Ways: To Jesus through Mary.” The materials were written with clear guidelines making it possible for students with facilitating skills to lead the programme in the absence of the teacher, if necessary.
There are a total of 5 booklets:
1. To Jesus, through Mary – an introductory booklet that contains the introduction and some relevant information on the use of the materials.
2. Week 1 – Praying with the Rosary.
3. Week 2 – Feast days of Mary.
4. Week 3 – Mary in the Scriptures.
5. Week 4 – Shrines dedication to our Lady
RE teachers who have not received this programme may contact ACCS Project Director (RE-Secondary Level) Jeanette

Towards a Shared Vision for Catholic Schools in Singapore 3

2010-09-17T17:01:00.001+08:00

In the last of the cluster meetings addressing a shared vision for Catholic Schools in Singapore held on the 17th of September at CAEC, the participants came from the Canossian schools. Ms Wendy Louis, executive director of ACCS and Mrs Ursula Quah were also present.
The conversation centred around a number of subjects such as the humility of Catholic schools, government schools catching up in teaching values to their students, the perceived lack of academic vigour in Catholic schools and the need for schools to be closely linked to the parishes.
The proceedings were again led by Christine Kheng.

School Chaplaincy Training

2010-09-16T12:44:00.003+08:00

The last two modules of the School Chaplaincy Team training were held on the 8th and 15th of September at the Church of the Risen Christ.

In the second last module, Ms Soh Lai Leng spoke on the Educational Context Today - Learning Environment and Ms Michelle Soliano spoke on Working with Schools - Today's Youth Culture.
In the last module, Bro Collin Wee, FSC spoke on Children in Early Years and Ms Merilyn Dasson spoke on Human Development & Faith Formation - Needs of the Young.

The participants also received their certificates of attendance and will go back to their respective schools armed with fresh knowledge.

Teachers' Day Celebration 2010

2010-09-05T19:42:00.005+08:00

Some Three hundred teachers from both Catholic and non Catholic institutions attended yesterday's Teachers' Day celebration at SJI International.
His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia celebrated mass with Msgr Eugene Vaz and Fr Gerard Louis. After mass the teachers were invited to a tea reception where they mingled and were given more information on ACCS programmes.
Watch the video of the Archbishop's homily below:

Citizenship in the Community

2010-08-28T09:37:00.006+08:00

After four consecutive days of delivering lectures for chaplaincy teams, Fr Ron Bagley delivered his last lecture on "Citizenship in the Community" on the 27th of August. It focused on Catholic Social Teaching and how it applied to the situation in Singapore Catholic schools. Teachers from a wide cross section of Catholic schools attended the talk which included sharing local experiences and watching a ten minute video.
The video above is part of the talk and the picture below is a view of the audience.

Role of Chaplains in Catholic Schools

2010-08-25T17:26:00.000+08:00

Over the space of four days beginning from the 23rd of this month, Rev Fr Ron Bagley CJM delivered a series of talks aimed at new members of the School Chaplaincy Teams.
In the video below, Fr Bagley provides a summary.

Towards a Shared Vision for Catholic Schools in Singapore 2

2010-08-23T17:56:00.001+08:00

In the continuing effort towards having a shared vision for Catholic Schools in Singapore more principals, supervisors and SMC chairmen met at CAEC on the 23rd of August. This time the participants came from the La Salle brothers, Gabrielites, Good Shepherd Sisters and the Diocesan schools as well as His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia. Also present was Sr Maria Lau and Ms Wendy Louis were also in attendance.
The proceedings were again facilitated by Christine Kheng.

Road Show at Christ the King church

2010-08-15T16:57:00.003+08:00

We had a road show on the 14th and 15th of August at the church of Christ the King. The aim was to acquaint parishioners on the work ACCS does, to contact teachers from non Catholic educational institutions and to look for volunteers amongst the parishioners for service at the various schools.
Announcements and a brief were made at the three most well attended masses, Sunset 5.30pm, 9.45am and 11.30am. We received some thirty written requests and countless inquiries.
ACCS would like to thank Rev Fr Peter Koh for use of the church.
More photos may be viewed at our facebook page - www.facebook.com/singaccs

Towards a Shared Vision for Catholic Schools in Singapore

2010-08-03T18:09:00.001+08:00

In a continuing effort towards having a shared vision for Catholic Schools in Singapore some principals, supervisors and SMC chairmen met at CAEC on the 3rd of August.
The participants came from the Gabrielites, Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, the Marist Brothers and Holy Innocents as well as His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia and ACCS Chairman, Mr Bernard Chen.
Sr. Maria Lau, Ms Wendy Louis and Mrs Ursula Quah from ACCS were also in attendance.
The proceedings were led by Christine Kheng and consisted of the participants breaking into three groups and then sharing discussions with the main body of participants.
The meeting ended at 6pm.

Picture shows ACCS chairman Mr Bernard Chen delivering the opening speech.

3rd Communio - Common vision and mission

2010-07-30T23:43:00.003+08:00

The 3rd Communio of 2010 was held today, the 30th of July at CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel. The objective was to discuss the possibility of a common vision and mission for our Catholic Schools.
The occasion was graced by Archbishop Nicholas Chia who, in his address said that "As a family of Catholic schools within the education system in Singapore we have a common context and share in the Mission of Christ and the Church. It is very important that we see what is common in our mission and purpose and highlight that especially when we gather as a group of schools." His Grace went on to mention that the search today is for what binds us together and gives a stronger common purpose.
Christine Kheng led the day's activities which consisted of two group discussions focussing on a particular school's charisms and "What makes a Catholic School Catholic?" and summing it up with a plenary.
ACCS executive director, Wendy Louis wrapped up the day's proceedings with a synthesis.
ACCS would like to thank the principal Mrs Catherine Seah for the usage of the school's facilities as well as refreshments for tea break.

As You Sow Workshop

2010-07-13T16:32:00.002+08:00

Ms Wendy Louis conducted a workshop for Civics and Moral Education / Religious Education Teachers & Coordinators on the 12th of July at CHIJ St Nicholas Girls' School.
The session underpinned the schools’ efforts to develop students to become men and women for others. It reinforced the whole idea of service and the call to be a neighbour to those in need. The topic offered more meaningful insights into the teacher’s role in forming ‘missionary’ students capable of making choices in life.

FPE Graduation Ceremony

2010-07-09T18:05:00.002+08:00

The graduation ceremony for the FPE, Formation Programme for Educators was held on the 9th of July at CAEC in Highland Road. A Mass preceded the ceremony and was celebrated by Msgr Eugene Vaz and Fr David Garcia. The following teachers received their certificates:

Thomas Aldrin John, Catholic High,
Agatha Poh Hui Lei, St Theresa's Convent
William Ng, St Gabriel's Secondary
Ian Sim Tsi Tang, Holy Innocents' High
Cynthia Lee Hui Hui, Catholic High
Preston Tay Tzu Lin, Hai Sing Catholic School
Amenda Fernando-Haizal, St Theresa's Convent
Wendy Wong, CHIJ Toa Payoh

A tea reception followed the ceremony.
The FPE programme was spread over a two year period and consisted of the following subjects:

Anthropology of the Christian Vocation
Prayer
Principles of Religious Formation
Philosophy
Contextual Theology
Moral Theology
Social Teachings
Theology of Dialogue
Salvation History

Picture shows Louis Oo with some of the recipients.

Updates

2010-07-05T12:31:00.001+08:00

At the end of June we published an article in the Catholic News "What's the point of a Catholic Education?". This was in response to the registration exercise for pupils going to kindergartens and primary one in 2011. We felt parents of these children needed to reminded of the value add of the Catholic schools.
The full article can be viewed here
Our next activity is a talk by Wendy Louis on the 12th of July, "As You Sow" for teachers. This session underpins the school's efforts to develop students to become men and women for others. It reinforces the whole idea of SERVICE and the call to be a NEIGHBOUR to those in need.

Pre-school teachers meet at St Francis of Assisi Kindergarten

2010-06-09T16:37:00.008+08:00

It was the 8th of June and in spite of a drizzle, fifty pre-school teachers and principals turned up at St Francis of Assisi Kindergarten in Jurong West for the second day of their get together.
The morning's activities were a talk by Merilyn Dasson who, amongst other points, graphically showed the educators the importance of a positive attitude towards the pupils by a simple experiment using a container of water, pepper, a small bar of soap and two teaspoons of sugar.

Dr Honey Ng later spoke on "How Words Can Hurt" and also gave a graphic demonstration on how words can inadvertently be used by getting the educators to participate in a memory game.

Lunch followed and after another session the day ended with mass being celebrated by Fr Remi Liando SSCC.

Pre-school educators Get Together

2010-06-07T18:05:00.000+08:00

Monday the 7th of June saw 52 educators from 12 kindergartens gather at the Holy Trinity Kindergarten in Tampines.
The programme for the day was a talk and dialogue session delivered by Merilyn Dasson, ACCS Project Director for pre-schools, who explained ACCS role with the Catholic pre-schools.The topics of supporting curriculum, maintaining a network amongst teachers, bi-annual interaction and kindergarten fees were amongst the topics discussed.
In addition, the host kindergarten also organised some active team building sessions with the participants.
The day ended with a "show around" of the Holy Trinity kindergarten by the hosts.

CHIJ cluster meeting - "What is Catholic Education"

2010-06-02T16:42:00.002+08:00

The second event on the 2nd of June was the cluster meeting amongst the SMC chairperson, Ms Donne Aeria, CHIJ principals and vice-principals and IJ supervisor Sr. Deirdre . It was held at CAEC in Highland Road. His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia, Msgr Eugene Vaz and ACCS deputy chairman Mr John Yip were also present. The topic was "What is Catholic Education?". It was facilitated by Christine Kheng.
The agenda for the day consisted of a reflection on articles and questions, common elements of a vision of Catholic education and feedback on future plans and needs.

Social, Emotional & Spiritual Literacy

2010-06-02T16:30:00.001+08:00

Dr Janet Smith, an educator and consultant today delivered a talk on developing your student's social, emotional & spiritual literacy, SESL, at Catholic Junior College. Some 70 people turned up to listen to Dr Smith's comparing and contrasting cognitive intelligence, emotional/social intelligence and spiritual intelligence. She also discussed how SESL could be introduced and embedded in curriculum and then maintaining a culture that is supportive of it.

Marian Programme for Catholic Schools

2010-05-25T18:10:00.001+08:00

Twenty One secondary students from four schools - CHIJ St Nicholas Girls' School, CHIJ St Joseph's Convent, Maris Stella High School and Assumption English School today attended a Marian Programme for Catholic Schools at CAEC in Highland Road.
The programme was designed to enhance the student's knowledge of Our Lady and also for them to initiate a Marian programme in their schools for the month of October.

Enhancing CMECS

2010-05-19T16:24:00.000+08:00

In a continuation of the "Enhancing CMECS" programme, the second part of the workshop for educators was held on the 18th of May at St Nicholas Girls' School (Secondary). Eight teachers from the school attended the two hour session which was facilitated by members of the ACCS office; Wendy Louis, Jeanette Atabelo and Raymond Lee.

The CMECS is the civics and moral education subject of which a version suited for a Catholic school is taught. It is gradually being introduced to Catholic secondary schools since being started some two years ago.

Common Space in Catholic Schools

2010-04-26T16:31:00.004+08:00

On the 23rd of April, 40 Principals, teachers, parents and staff of the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools gathered in the Training and Development Centre of Catholic Junior College to exchange and explore the meaning of “Common Space” for Catholic Schools in Singapore. The occasion was the 2nd of the ‘Communio’ series organised by ACCS to bring together educators around topics of concern and interest in education today.

The term “Common Space” came into the public eye when it was mentioned by the Prime Minister last year during his National Day Rally Speech. He even used an example of a Catholic School to show how a school with religious affiliation can be a ‘common space’ where all Singaporeans feel they are respected and can thrive.

Read more...http://www.accs.sg/Common Space.html

CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel's 50th Anniversary

2010-04-23T23:57:00.006+08:00

The 23rd of April marked an important date in the history of CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel. The school in the Serangoon Gardens area celebrated the occasion with a series of events, the highlight being today's feast day.
Mass was celebrated by His Grace the Archbishop Nicholas Chia and was followed by up a speech given by the school's principal, Mrs Catherine Seah.
On behalf of the school's board Sr Celine Low later addressed the gathering.
The school had earlier, on the 5th of February, organised a golf tournament and had raised funds for Catholic Welfare Services. It raised five thousand dollars and a cheque was presented by Mrs Seah to its Executive Director, Mr James Chew.
The morning's events continued with awards being given to former principals of the school.
The school's choir also lent their melodious voices to the day's activities and led the assembly in singing a specially composed song "With Your Grace" to mark the school's 50th anniversary.
The day's activities ended with the burying of a time-capsule which contained mementoes of the day's celebration. It will be re-opened in ten years time.
It was a joyous event and very clearly, judging by the detail which was put in, one which the organisers should be proud of.
The picture shows (in the front row) teacher Ms Constance Tan, Vice-Principal Angelina Lim, Head Prefect Michelle Lee, Msgr Eugene Vaz, Principal Mrs Catherine Seah and His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia.

Blessed Easter

2010-03-31T16:24:00.000+08:00

Greetings and a Blessed Easter to all our friends, educators and collaborators. Our office will re-open on Monday the 5th of April.

Walking with Jesus - Use of music

2010-03-22T12:08:00.000+08:00

This is the first of 3 videos which we recorded during the recent "Walking with Jesus" workshop. This sector concentrates on the music aspect and is conducted by musician Trevor Nerva.

Walking with Jesus workshop

2010-03-15T17:52:00.010+08:00

Holy Innocents' Primary School played host to the second "Walking with Jesus" workshop today.
The facilitators, in sequence, were Msg. Eugene Vaz, who provided the biblical basis for the series, John Chan who again touched on the WWJ programme itself, Trevor Nerva who spoke on the use of music and Ms Wendy Louis who provided the synthesis.
A total of 20 teachers and parent-volunteers attended the session which included active role play in the form of planning and delivering an actual lesson and enthusiastically took part in the music section.
Additional copies of the WWJ books and complimentary materials were also made available for sale.
Picture shows the participants demonstrating an actual lesson. Watch the videos here http://www.youtube.com/user/accscommunion

Walking with Jesus Refresher Workshop

2010-03-12T15:01:00.004+08:00

Twenty Five primary school teachers attended the "Walking with Jesus" refresher workshop on the 11th of March at CHIJ Katong Primary.
Msgr Eugene Vaz shared on Using the Bible, Salvation History and Our image of God, as well as answered some of the difficult Biblical questions that teachers encountered in class.
Ms Wendy Louis shared on Word as Sacrament, Spirituality of the Child and Use of Music in the series as well as revisited the history of this programme.
John Chan, project director, RE (Pri Schools) touched on the WWJ programme itself as well as how one can use Multiple Intelligence & Learning Styles to teach WWJ.

Catholic Ethos

2010-03-05T17:40:00.005+08:00

In his final workshop today Fr Norbert Menezes interacted with nineteen educators on the topic of Catholic Ethos. Combining a lecture with an opportunity for the individual attendees to voice their concerns and experiences the experienced Jesuit spoke on a number of issues. Amongst them were a fundamental question of what is a Catholic school and what makes a Catholic school Catholic.
He also spoke on the need for an education that leads the young into the sacred space of the human person and of every person making them aware of the inalienable human rights of every individual and group.
Those present included Administration Managers, Principals and teachers.

Integral Pedagogy

2010-03-03T18:04:00.005+08:00

Fr Norbert Menezes SJ today delivered his third talk in two days at CAEC. This time addressing a few principals of Catholic schools and tailoring his discussion to a summary of Integral Pedagogy as a vision of what Catholic schools should have. He reiterated its value as a way in which teachers accompany learners in their growth and development. It is an art and science of teaching and cannot be reduced to methodology. And lastly that it must include a world view and a vision of the ideal human person to be educated. The two hour session also included a question and answer time frame.

Integral Pedagogy - A Way Forward

2010-03-02T17:39:00.002+08:00

Fr Norbert Menezes, the renown secretary of Jesuit education in South Asia conducted a workshop for civics and moral education teachers at CAEC, Highland Road today. His topic, Integral Pedagogy, is basically a teaching model that seeks to develop more integrated men and women for others. It is a process whereby a teacher accompanies the students in their intellectual, spiritual and emotional development.
Fr Menezes took the extra step of arriving in Singapore a few days early to familiarise himself with various classroom situations. He also visited local families to be more acquainted with the local conditions.
The session will be for a day and a half with the concluding session tomorrow.
Picture shows Fr Menezes addressing the thirty five educators at a group discussion.

Chaplaincy Team Communio

2010-02-27T21:58:00.006+08:00

St. Anthony's Cannossian Secondary School in Bedok played host to the first "Communio" session of the year on the 26th of February. Entitled "Practices in Catholic Schools/ Chaplaincy Team", it sought to give greater insight to the concept of Chapliancy teams in Singapore Catholic schools.
It was a lively three hour session and was delivered by Ms. Daisy Tan from the host school, Ms Soh Lai Leng & Sr Assunta Cheng, FMM from Holy Innocents' High School and Friar Michael D’Cruz OFM from St Joseph's Institution. A total of 58 educators coming from a cross section of Catholic schools attended the dialogue session which ended with a synthesis by Fr Norbert Menezes, SJ.

Enhancing CMECS - CHIJ St Nicholas

2010-02-24T14:36:00.002+08:00

In the second of the series, Enhancing CMECS, 16 teachers attended a workshop on the 23rd of February.
The CMECS or Civics and Moral Education for Catholic Schools, was hosted by CHIJ St. Nicholas. The programme for the day included talks, group discussion, role play and a question and answer session. The purpose was to explain the lesson plans that the secondary school is trialling out. It was facilitated by ACCS executive director Wendy Louis and project director (Secondary) Jeanette Atabelo.
The feedback received was encouraging as participants felt the lesson plans were detailed and helpful.

Who is the Learner

2010-02-22T18:08:00.004+08:00

CHIJ Katong Convent played host to a workshop led by Fr. David Garcia OP today. A total of 15 teachers from Assumption English School, St Patricks, St Joseph's Institution Independent and CHIJ Katong Convent attended the two hour workshop.
The session examined the person of the learner who is at the heart of the teaching - learning process. It was aimed at the Civics and Moral Education teachers as well as those involved in RE, religious education.

Call to Discipleship

2010-02-09T17:30:00.002+08:00

On the 9th of February, sixty four students and eight teachers from nine Catholic schools gathered at CAEC for the "Call to Discipleship" Lenten journey preparation. The students will in turn go back to their schools armed with the skills they picked up at today's session.
It encompassed the following:
1. Appreciating their role as a Catholic student leader.
2. Learning about their role as facilitators and the skills required in handling small groups
3. Familiarisation with the Lenten booklet.
In addition, the participants were provided with a copy of the 52 page Lenten booklet, a purple cloth to signify Lent and a cardamom seed representing the strong influence that the student leaders can have amongst their fellow students.

Why Teach in a Catholic School

2010-02-05T16:17:00.007+08:00

As part of Catholic Awareness week which ends today at the National Institute of Education, ACCS held a talk for the undergraduates on "Why Teach in a Catholic School".
The speakers were Mdm Quek Seok Noi, principal of Holy Innocent's Primary, Mr Andrew Tan, principal of Montfort Secondary and Mrs Christine Anne Kong principal of Catholic Junior College. Summing up was Ms Wendy Louis, executive director of ACCS.
A total of 27 people attended and after a short individual talk by each principal a question and answer session followed.
Essentially the merits of teaching in a Catholic School were discussed (whether being a Catholic or not), the expectations of principals and how to go about applying for a position in a Catholic school.

What is a Catholic School?

2010-02-04T10:51:00.003+08:00

On the 2nd and 3rd of February a total of 20 Operation and Administration Managers of Catholic schools, gathered at the FMM House of Prayer and Formation at Holland Road. The occasion was an induction and half-day retreat on the theme of "What is a Catholic School?"
It aimed to explain the basic tenets of a Catholic School and to expound on the ethos that a Catholic school educates the whole person.
Conducted by Bro. Dominic Yeo SG, the 4 hour sessions were tailored for operation and administration managers separately.
Participants commented, "It creates awareness of working in a Catholic school as compared to a normal school" and "Sharing with our brothers and sisters, it helped me to understand the basic tenets of a Catholic School".

Civics and Moral Education Workshop

2010-02-02T17:46:00.004+08:00

On Tuesday the 2nd of Feb, St Gabriel's Secondary School played host to a workshop on Enhancing CMECS, Civics and Moral Education for Catholic Schools. A total of 26 teachers from the school attended the two hour session.
It aimed to provide an overview of the programme which is to be initially taught in stages to Secondary One students at the school.
The workshop consisted of talks by ACCS executive director, Ms. Wendy Louis and project director (secondary), Ms Jeanette Atabelo. It also involoved role play by the participants and served as a platform for feedback from the teachers as well.

Taizé – An Ecumenical Evening of Prayer

2010-02-01T14:35:00.006+08:00

Taizé, the renowned, meditative prayer style, was brought to life in a three hour prayer session with the Prior of Taizé, Brother Alois. On the evening of 29th January Catholics and people of various Christian denominations prayed in a packed Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.
The Taizé community is a “parable of community” that wants its life to be a sign of reconciliation between divided Christians and between separated peoples. They aim to give greater visibility to the communion which, in Christ, already exists between all who are baptised.
The three hour meditative prayer session was punctuated by a welcome from the Archbishop and a meditation from Brother Alois and a prayer around the cross.
The event was organised as part of the Taizé “Pilgrimage of Trust on Earth” event in Manila. ACCS sees this as a way of encouraging prayer amongst older students and teachers.

Principals' Commissioning 2010

2010-01-25T17:15:00.003+08:00

The 5th Principals' Commissioning was held at the Church of the Holy Family on the 23rd of January. The occasion saw His Grace, Archbishop Nicholas Chia celebrating mass and commissioning 18 new principals as well as leading the prayer of commitment for some 70 principals and vice-principals of Catholic Schools.
In his homily, the Archbishop asked the congregation to truly search in their hearts and ask what they were doing in their life and their schools. He also encouraged the reaching out to non Catholics in our schools as they too were children of God. In conclusion, he thanked the school leaders, committees and boards for bringing quality education to the some 50,000 students and assured of the Church's support and prayers.
A dinner at the church's function room followed the mass.
Two video clips of the event may be viewed here.

St Nicholas has 14 top girls

2010-01-11T15:54:00.001+08:00

In today's release of the 2009 "O" level results, the Straits Times reported that the top student came from St Nicholas - Malaysian Lai Kai Rou who scored 10 A1s. The school also produced 14 of the 42 best scorers.
The complete story is here - St Nicholas has 14 top girls

Walking with Jesus Workshop

2010-01-08T11:39:00.007+08:00

The new year saw the "Walking with Jesus" introduction and refresher workshop for teachers taking place on the 7th of January. It was held at CHIJ Kellock Primary. The overall aim of the programme is for the Bible to come alive for children and that they recognise Jesus speaking to them in his word.
Four speakers, Msgr Eugene Vaz, Ms Wendy Louis, Trevor Nerva and John Chan presented the topics.
These were:

The role of scripture, silence, music, prayer, experiential learning & memory.
How Scripture is used in the programme.
The objectives, methodologies, scope and sequence of WWJ.
How RE in primary school complements the parish catechism classes.
Learning styles and multiple intelligences.
Word as sacrament - spirituality of the child.
Music in WWJ programme
Group work and sharing

Taizé - An Evening of Prayer - 29th January

2010-01-05T15:18:00.001+08:00

Join us on the 29th of January, 8pm at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd for an evening of prayer with Bro. Alois of Taizé. Watch the video above for a previous performance.
Taizé (Tay-ZAY) prayer is a style of Christian worship that combines song, scripture, silence and intercessory prayer. It often takes place in a candlelit setting around a cross. The style is based on the communal prayer of an ecumenical community of brothers in Taizé, France, whose lives are dedicated to living out the Gospel message of peace and reconciliation. The meaning and practices of Taizé have spread throughout the world. In Fresno, there are three locations that hold monthly Taizé prayer services.
The picture below are our local youth practising for the big day.

Timothy Radcliffe OP - 4th Communio of 2009

2009-11-18T09:38:00.005+08:00

In yesterday's last Communio gathering for the year, a crowd of some one hundred educators attended a talk by Fr Timothy Radcliffe at St Patrick's School.
He spoke on "How Can We Share Our Faith with the Young". Fr Radcliffe has a width and depth of experience in Asia, Africa and Latin America and the author of four books. His talk was thought provoking and enlightening and he peppered it with just enough anecdotes.
After the talk and a break, a question and answer session followed.
We would like to extend our thanks to the Principal, teachers, staff and students of St Patrick's for their hospitality.
More pictures at our web site.

RE Coordinators' Meeting

2009-11-06T17:05:00.002+08:00

On the afternoon of the 6th of November, Religious Education Coordinators met at CAEC to be given updates to the FPE (Formation Program for Educators) and the CMECS (Civics & Moral Education for Catholic Schools).
The meeting was concluded after a question and answer session which included topics like the Chaplaincy teams and other concerns.

2010 Appointments to Catholic Schools

2009-10-23T17:18:00.007+08:00

ACCS would like to congratulate the following Principals on their new appointments. These appointments take effect from the 29th of December.

School	Name of Principal
Catholic Junior College	Mrs Christine Anne Kong
Maris Stella High School	Mr Lim Choon Kiat Joseph
CHIJ Our Lady of the Nativity	Miss Agnes Chew Geok Kim
CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh)	Mrs Tan Soon Kee Margaret
Holy Innocents’ Primary School	Mdm Quek Seok Noi
Marymount Convent School	Miss Cecilia Lim Seok Cheng
Temasek Primary School	Mdm Chin Ming Yew Magdalene
CHIJ (Katong) Primary	Mdm See Sue-Lyn Geraldine
CHIJ Our Lady Queen of Peace	Mdm Lim Kim Gek
Montfort Junior School	Miss Chye Wui Hung Genevieve
St. Anthony’s Canossian Primary School	Mdm Sia Lu-Ming Eugenie

In addition this is another article of interest summarised by CathNewsAsia -
Last Singapore religious school head resigns

3rd Communio

2009-10-09T23:24:00.007+08:00

The 3rd Communio of the year was held in the library of Marymount Convent School today. Entitled "Innovative Designs for Enhancing Achievements in Schools (IDEAS)" it was delivered by Stella Fernandez and Marilyn Joseph.
The Living Values or LVEP is an educational programme for establishing a values-based atmosphere for more effective integration and inculcation of values to better prepare their students for lifelong learning. The two teachers shared their programme with 40 other educators who came from kindergartens, primary and secondary schools.
It was a lively session punctuated with group discussions and role play as well as a question and answer session. The principal, Mrs Angela Tan was also present to lend to the hospitable atmosphere.
Pictured is Stella Fernandez delivering the second part of the talk.

Principals and Vice-Principals' Meet

2009-10-02T16:35:00.010+08:00

Christ the King church in Ang Mo Kio was the venue for the annual Catholic Schools' Principals and Vice-Principals' meet this 2nd of October. The purpose of the meet was to acquaint the school heads with the ACCS programmes and initiatives for next year as well as to gather feedback on the various issues.
The main areas presented were the School Chaplaincy programme, prayers in schools, Formation Programmes for Educators and the Religious Education Curriculum Development.
The two hour meeting was attended by some forty odd educators.

Selected pictures above

Why Teach in a Catholic School

2009-09-15T15:41:00.001+08:00

On the 11th of September, a conference was jointly orgainsed by ACCS and the National Institute of Education's Catholic Students' Apostolate. The theme was "Why Teach in a Catholic School".
During the 2 hour session at NIE, 3 principals, Ms. Cecilia Lim Seok Cheng- CHIJ Our Lady Queen of Peace, Mr. Lucas Lak Pati Singh- St. Patrick’s School and Brother Paul Rogers, FSC- Catholic Junior College addressed the issue.
Some 40 trainee teachers took part and stayed back after the session to ask further questions.

Teachers' Day - 5th Sept 2009, SJI International

2009-09-09T17:22:00.005+08:00

For the Catholic News article on the Teachers' Day celebration please click here

Communio - 4th Gathering 2009

2009-09-04T16:22:00.005+08:00

Teaching as a Spirituality of Dialogue & Communion - is the theme to be presented by Fr Timothy Radcliffe, OP an internationally renown spiritual writer & speaker.
Life for teachers and school staff is full of of competing demands and many feel under increasing pressure in their professional lives. Yet, the very vocation of teaching proposes dialogue and friendship as ways of finding one's identity and purpose in life.
Come and explore teaching as a spirituality of dialogue and friendship in every intersection with students and colleagues, and in this way, how you can nurture each person and build community.
This programme of storytelling, personal reflection and eucharistic celebration will be from 3pm to 5.30pm.
Please register with Louis Oo at 68587085 or louis_oo@catholic.org.sg by 10 November 2009.

Short video clip of Fr Radcliffe at a talk he delivered in the United States in July this year.

Communio - 3rd gathering 2009

2009-09-03T16:14:00.002+08:00

ACCS invites teachers, educators to come together for the the 3rd Communio, which is focused on the on-going formation of Catholic educators in Catholic schools.

The presentation and fellowship is now on Friday 9 October 2009, from 2 to 5pm at Marymount Convent School (29 Marymount Road S299754) and the topic is on “Marymount Convent School’s IDEAS and LIVING VALUES Journey” facilitated by Ms Marilyn Joesph & Ms Stella Fernandez.

View Larger Map

Please register your attendance with Mr Louis Oo at 68587085 or louis_oo@catholic.org.sg by 2 October at the latest.

The programme for the afternoon will be as follows:

2:00pm Registration

2:15pm Opening Prayer

2:30pm Introduction and Presentation

4:00pm Tea Break

4:30pm Reflection and Small Group Discussion

5:00pm Closing Prayer

3rd Recollection 2009

2009-09-02T10:29:00.012+08:00

A teachers’ recollection with the theme: Called to Teach and Renew was held at the Centre for Ignatian Spirituality and Counselling from Fri 28 Aug 7pm to Sat 29 Aug 5pm.

Five Catholic educators from Primary and Kindergarten grasped this opportunity to refresh and renew spiritually during this one evening and a day. Although the group was small, it encompassed a good mixture of experiences representing a principal, teacher, RE-coordinator and religious. Generously, Fr Colin Tan S.J accompanied the retreatants by teaching Ignatian contemplation, examining of conscious, and giving three inspiring talks on:

- The vocation of Teaching- Learning from Jesus the Teacher.

- The Tradition- Handing on Wisdom and Knowledge for life.

- The Sources of Renewal- Self Awareness, Silence and the Sacred.

Participants were able to sink-in the mood of recollection with the help of the serene atmosphere around the retreat house. Sharing on personal prayer and reflection in the group was deep and consoling. Moreover, Fr Colin Tan facilitated Individual Spiritual Direction to nurture the spiritual growth for the participants. The graces that the participants have received were revealed in their evaluation as:

“…it helps me to connect with God.”

“I was able to refocus and renew the spiritual within.”

“It was time out to centre and focus so that I’m able to discern God in my life.”

“Talk, sharing, personal prayer/reflection, rest and break…are the most valuable for me.”

“The scriptural text and selected prayer exercises and the silence opportunity led me to reflect... Fr Colin‘s time with the individual participants is appreciated.”

ACCS would like to express our great appreciation to Fr Colin Tan S.J for stretching his time to attend the spiritual need of catholic educators and also to the teachers who took a great effort to nurture their spiritual growth.

School Chaplaincy Training

2009-08-07T15:45:00.015+08:00

The third module for the School Chaplaincy Teams, SCTs, was delivered by Ms Soh Lai Leng, the principal of Holy Innocents High and Ms Michelle Soliano, the principal programme executive of the Family Life Society on the 22nd of July.

Their session explored the structures of Singapore's educational system. The important role of the Church and the Ministry of Education was also examined.

Bro. Colin Wee, FSC delivered the concluding module on the 29th of July. The La Salle brother's topic on Human Development & Faith Formation was delivered at the parish of the Risen Christ Church in Toa Payoh.

His hilarity and wealth of experience was indeed enriching as he expounded on the changes and challenges that school children face today. The four hour lecture was concluded with the presentation of certificates of participation to the attendees.

The School Chaplaincy Teams is ACCS' response to Catholic schools who have long called for support from the Archdiocese in the areas of Religious Education, Catholic ethos and relations with parish communities.

The SCT is a team of persons who may be lay, religious or clerical who minister to a school community. The aim of the SCT is to support school leaders in their on-going efforts to provide quality Catholic education for all students in our schools, especially in the areas of religious education, pastoral care and sacramental life.

Pictured above is Bro. Colin Wee delivering his topic.

Kindergarten Principals & Supervisors gathering

2009-07-30T16:59:00.015+08:00

On 23rd July Principals, teachers and a few Supervisors from 12 of the 19 Catholic Kindergartens gathered for the first time to meet with the Archbishop and to get to know each other and share the challenges they face.

Also presenting at this meeting were Christina Ying and Julie Ong who are both Montessori trained kindergarten educators and pioneers in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a way of leading young children to God.

Archbishop Nicholas welcomed the 24 Kindergarten educators and stressed the importance of pre-school education today. He explained that on the one hand we have affluent Singaporeans who have little time for their children. These children who come from small families often lack social skills. On the other hand, at the other end of the spectrum, he said, there are children at risk in families where parents have become recently unemployed or are single parent families. Archbishop said that these early childhood educators are VIPs in the education family as they are dealing with children in their most formative years.

Christina Ying and Julie Ong, Montessori trained Kindergarten educators and pioneers in the ‘Catechesis of the Good Shepherd’, spoke passionately about ‘protecting’ the spirituality of the child which can be quite easily crushed in the rush to get through a great deal of reading and writing skills leaving little time for wonder and quiet. For the pre-school child, the capacity for wonder is even more powerful than for many of us adults who have become jaded by routine and daily grind. If we want children to relate to the spiritual and have a warm and loving relationship with God, they need time to wonder at creation, wonder at themselves and spend time with friends. The same of course is true in the family, not only in kindergarten.

In the latter part of the afternoon Principals, Supervisors and teachers discussed the challenges they are facing today in running Kindergartens.

One challenge all agreed they faced was the ability to communicate the message of the love of God to children of different faiths in a way that is appropriate and sensitive.

Another challenge was to recruit teachers who could support the Catholic ethos of the kindergarten. The principals called for more gatherings of this type where they could share their ‘best practices’ and support each other.
During the afternoon, resources were displayed and made available from Catholic bookshops, the ACCS and the Singapore Pastoral Institute.

The event was organized by the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools.

ACCS Chaplaincy Team Training

2009-07-02T10:49:00.022+08:00

From June 23 to 26 2009 an interesting mix of participants gathered to explore the meaning and work of a chaplaincy team in a school. Also known as “Campus Ministry”.
Facilitating the training was Fr Ron Bagley a priest of the Congregation of Jesus and Mary which is an order founded by St John Eudes. His priestly life has been a rich weave of experiences in pastoral ministry in schools, parishes, prisons and pastoral centres. He was for many years running a centre for the development of Ministry. He is currently working with seminarians and priestly renewal in the diocese of Imus in the Philippines.

Through this training and follow up, the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic schools aims to provide a model of working in our Catholic schools as a team of persons who can support the Catholic activities and nurture the Catholic character of the school.

As Catholic teachers are very bogged down with their own subjects and generously provide time for coordinating Catholic activities, this will be a welcome development in our schools.

This team consisting of Priest, Religious and Lay persons also provides what is called a ministry of ‘presence’ or ‘hanging out’ as our young people would say. Giving a listening ear in our fast paced society. The training consisted of an overall understanding of ministry and the component parts of ministry to children and young people. In the short time that he had Fr Ron could only focus on a few areas where some particular skill or expertise will be needed. For example in liturgy, listening actively and providing spiritual care for people of all ages in the school.

The ACCS will be providing ongoing training and support so that all Catholic schools will be able to profit from this.

Review: Recollection: "called to teach & build"

2009-06-10T17:30:00.037+08:00

13 Catholic teachers from various schools attended the Recollection: "Called to Teach & Build" over the weekend (5 - 6 Jun 2009) held at the Ignatian Spirituality and Counseling Centre. Br Dominic Yeo-Koh facilitated the 5 sessions throughout the retreat, during which he guided the teachers to reflect on their spiritual wellness and invited them to renew their commitment as Christian educators.

Br Dominic quoted from Parker Palmer, Martha Finney, Deborah Dasch, Steve Jobs, etc. They listened and contemplated on the call of Abraham, Moses, Samuel, Jeremiah and Mary in Scripture, and were invited to look at their own vocation and personal call by God.

Here are some of the feedback recieved:

"Sharing was great. Time for prayer and reflection was well spread. Good to have time for this."

"Sharing from other participants was inspiring. It was enriching - nice environment & able to relate closely to God."

"Recollection invited us to focus on the objectives of teaching."

"Those who did not want to stay overnight were also welcome. Sharing and intereaction between teachers are the most valuable."

"Br Dominic's rich and helpful insights, together with all the great & meaningful sharing of all the teachers are valuable."

Recollection: called to teach & build

2009-05-05T14:52:00.032+08:00

ACCS invites Catholic educators to a recollection with the theme,

'Called to Teach & Build'

Date: Fri 5 June (check-in at 7pm) / Sat 6 June (check-out at 6pm)

Where: Centre for Ignatian Spirituality & Counselling (8 Victoria Park road, S266492)

Fees: $35 per person (Non air-con) / $55 per person (air-con)

Remarks: Meals included

Facilitator: Bro Dominic Yeo Koh

The retreat will focuss on helping teachers reflect on the role they play in building up a school community, that is centered on and celebrating the Good News.

Please register with Louis at tel 68587085 or email: louis_oo@catholic.org.sg

Communio - 2nd gathering 2009

2009-04-03T10:35:00.023+08:00

ACCS warmly invites Teachers, Educators to:

The 2nd session of Communio 2009 on Friday, 24 April at St. Stephen’s School (20, Siglap View S455789).

The afternoon’s presentation, discussion and fellowship begins at 2pm and will end by 5pm.

The speaker for this session is Bro Michael Broughton. He will speak on a topic many us have asked questions about --“The Relevance of Catholic Education Today.”

Bro Michael’s many years in Catholic education, as a teacher and school leader, have led him to reflect on this topic deeply. His insights and views can offer us food for thought as we go about providing relevant and meaningful Catholic education. Bro Michael is presently the Brother President of SJI-Independent and SJI-International

Please register your attendance with Mr Louis Oo at 68587086 or louis_oo@catholic.org.sg by 21 April at the latest

*picture: dlibrary.acu.edu.au

Workshop: “Walking with Jesus”

2009-03-23T14:20:00.012+08:00

ACCS is organizing a training workshop for Teachers & Volunteers on:

"Walking with Jesus" - A Bible Programme for children in Catholic Primary Schools

Date & Time: 26th March 2009 from 2.00 to 5.30pm.
Venue: Maris Stella Primary School – 25 Mount Vernon
Presented by: Wendy Louis (editor of the series)

Topics:
How is the Bible used in this programme
How is RE different from other subjects?
Practical hands on teaching practice.
The Music in the Walking With Jesus programme.

Please register with: Shirley accs@catholic.org.sg or contact her at 68587080

Note: This workshop can be requested at your school

The 24th World Youth Day - Palm Sunday 5th April

2009-03-13T15:19:00.006+08:00

The Message of Pope Benedict XVI brings a smile to our faces – he speaks of hope that can not be crushed by our present sufferings or worries.

“Youth is a special time of hope because it looks to the future with a whole range of expectations. When we are young we cherish ideals, dreams and plans. Youth is the time when decisive choices concerning the rest of our lives come to fruition.

Perhaps this is why it is the time of life when fundamental questions assert themselves strongly:

Why am I here on earth?
What is the meaning of life?
What will my life be like?
And again: How can I attain happiness?
Why is there suffering, illness and death?
What lies beyond death?

These are questions that become insistent when we are faced with obstacles that sometimes seem insurmountable: difficulties with studies, unemployment, family arguments, crises in friendships or in building good loving relationships, illness or disability, lack of adequate resources as a result of the present widespread economic and social crisis.

We then ask ourselves: where can I obtain and how can I keep alive the flame of hope burning in my heart?”

Please click Picture on left for the full message

Lent: a time for spiritual training and discipline.

2009-02-25T16:54:00.007+08:00

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday February 25th

All of us love holidays. They give us a chance to catch up with family members or to clean out the clutter in our homes or we get a chance to get away from the normal rhythm of life to recreate our energies and minds.

Lent is a little like holidays even though it does not sound like it. In many religious traditions there are periods of time for ‘catching up’ through spiritual exercises. In the Christian tradition, the 40 days of spiritual training is linked to the 40 years of the people of Israel in the desert on their way to the Promised Land.

Lent begins on Feb 25 this year with Ash Wednesday. It’s called ‘Ash’ Wednesday because Catholics receive ashes on their forehead to remind them that life here is only temporary. Lent helps us remember that God’s power “dispels all evil, washes guilt away, restores lost innocence, brings mourners joy, casts out hatred, brings us peace and humbles earthly pride” (taken from the prayer of Easter Vigil).

The main elements of this time of spiritual training are present in most religious traditions – 1. Almsgiving 2. Prayer and 3. Fasting.

Almsgiving
All of us can shed some fat, both in the amount of stuff we have in our homes or the weight we carry on ourselves. Almsgiving is about shedding some of the fat so that our lifestyles become leaner and we find it easier to focus on the important things or persons in our lives.

Prayer
Strengthening the relationship with God or praying as a community to witness to the greatness of God is essential for our well being in the short and long term. If we simply drift from day to day without a sense of direction, or worse still, if we are running towards a dead end, we really need to stop and check our directions. Take a look at a good map and redirect, refocus. Prayer can help us do this. Silence brings great surprises.

Fasting
Fasting is a great ‘therapy’ for getting in shape mentally, spiritually and physically. The danger is that we might consider ourselves as really virtuous and better than others because we are fasting. The idea is that we ‘fast’ from the things that are holding us back from being more loving and generous. For example, fasting from gossiping or from terribly long telephone conversations that are not necessary. We could fast from computer games once or twice a week and fill the time with good conversation with our family or friends. It’s all about refocusing. Fasting helps us feel some solidarity with those who are hungry every day. We can do so many things if we only have time to reflect and work things out for ourselves. Fasting from TV or window shopping might create that time for us.

Every good wish and blessing for a good season. Remember, a good Lent or time of training means a great finish. Easter will be so much more meaningful. We will move from darkness to light as promised.

Reflection by Ms Wendy Louis, Exec Director, ACCS

Workshop: Sexuality Education, the teacher and the Catholic School

2009-02-18T15:01:00.008+08:00

ACCS and Catholic Medical Guild will be presenting a one day workshop, “Sexuality Education—the teacher and the Catholic School: Why? What? How?” This will take place on Saturday, 14 March (9.00am to 5.30pm) at The Training Centre, Catholic Junior College.

In this workshop, teachers will learn more about several aspects of the Catholic Church’s teachings on sex and sexuality. They will also be invited to reflect on and discuss ways a Catholic school can teach it. In addition, there will be presentations on the roles educators and parents play in forming the young person to be a sexually responsible individual.

Among the workshop speakers are:

Fr David Garcia, Dominican priest
Dr John Hui, Catholic Medical Guild
Mr John Ooi, parent, educator and edu-preneur
Mrs Michelle Soliano-Liew, a Family Life educator and trainer
Bro Paul Rogers, Principal, Catholic Junior College

This workshop can help educators better respond to the Church’s call that Catholic schools teach sexuality education in ways that are based on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the wisdom of the Church. In this way, educators in Catholic schools can better impart knowledge and skills to students that will help them to make responsible and discerning choices that respect life.

The cost per person to attend the workshop is $30, inclusive of materials and meals.

For more information and to register, please contact Ms Shirley Louis at 68587080 or shirleylouis@catholic.org.sg.

Recollection (6-7 March): Called to teach and care

2009-02-09T11:02:00.010+08:00

ACCS invites Catholic educators to a recollection with the theme, Called to teach and care.

Retreatants will be invited to reflect prayerfully on the ministry of teaching as a ministry of forming and caring for students.

This will be held on Friday 6 (7pm) to Saturday 7 March (6pm). The venue will be Canossian Lifespring Spirituality Centre and the facilitators are Canossian Sister Elizabeth Tham & Marist Brother Robert Teoh.

The cost of the weekend per person is $55 (aircon) and $35 (non-aircon).

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Communio: 1st gathering for 2009

2009-02-02T11:32:00.004+08:00

ACCS will launch the 2009 Communio series on Friday, 20 February with a presentation on "Character Education in Catholic Schools."

It is timely for schools to reflect on this theme. The present realities challenge Catholic educators, and the larger Catholic community, to reflect on the quality of the character education we provide to help our students live and work better in today's world.

This is open to all school leaders and educators in Catholic schools and Catholic teachers in government schools.

The presenters will be Mrs Regina Lee, Principal, CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) and Mr Charles Surin, Principal, Hai Sing Catholic, and their staff.

The venue will be at CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh). The presentation and discussion will be from 2 to 5pm.

Kindly contact Mr Louis Oo at louis_tin_maung_oo@catholic.org.sg or 68587085 to confirm your attendance.

Picture courtesy of CHIJ OLN

Principals Commissioning 2009

2009-01-29T13:51:00.035+08:00

The annual Commissioning of Principals and Service of Commitment by school leaders was held at the Church of St Ignatius on Saturday, 24 January.

4 new principals, Mr Wee Tat Chuen (Assumption Pathway School), Mr Terry Theseira (Canossian School for the Hearing Impaired), Mr Andrew Tan (Montfort Secondary School), and Dr Koh Thiam Seng (St Joseph's Institution, Independent) were commissioned by His Grace, Archbishop Nicholas Chia.
70 principals and vice-principals then recited a prayer as a sign of their committment to lead and serve their schools.
In his homily, Archbishop Chia commended school leaders for their good work. He reminded them of the sacred task they are called to, leading students and staff to know and experience the good news that Jesus preached -- the Kingdom of God is here and alive!

He also addressed parents, urging them to cooperate with schools and parishes to provide an all round education for their children. To the wider Church community, he encouraged them to be active partners with schools and parents in the enterprise of Catholic education.

A simple reception capped the evening. To see more of the commissioning, kindly click on the picture.

FPE 2008-2009: a new year

2009-01-22T15:28:00.018+08:00

On Friday, 16 January, ACCS welcomed back the 8 participants of the Formation Programme for Educators (FPE) 2008-2009 -- Aldrin, Agatha, Amanda, Preston, Ian, Wendy, William and Cynthia -- for the first session of their second year of studies.

This year they will study modules on Philosophy of the Human Person, Human and Spiritual Development, Prayer II, Social Teachings, Theology of Dialogue, Moral Theology II, and Salvation History.

The prayer session commenced with Jeanette inviting the participants to reflect on their personal journey with God and to pray for the grace of faithfulness. They then proceeded to light a candle and offered personal prayers. The prayer ended with a community song, "Christ be Our Light".

New Appointments to Catholic Schools

2009-01-09T14:05:00.009+08:00

ACCS would like to say,

to the following newly appointed leaders in our schools:

Principals:

Mr Wee Tat Chuan, Assumption Pathway School
Ms Terry Theseira, Canossian School for the Hearing Impaired
Mr Andrew Tan,Montfort Sec School

Dr Koh Thiam Seng, SJI Independent

Vice-principals:
Mr Chee Chit Yen, Catholic High School
Mrs Yap Dai Jee,CHIJ St Nichlas Girls' School
Mrs Sim Swee Yeong, Maris Stella High School
Ms Genevieve Chye, Montfort Junior School
Mr Timothy Goh, St Anthony's Primary School
Ms Pang Wee Mian, St Stephen's School
Ms Ng Foong Meng, Assumption English School
Mdm Jeanne Ho, CHIJ St Joseph's Convent
Mdm Chan Lai Chun, CHIJ St Theresa's Convent
Ms Lena Seet, Hai Sing Catholic School
Ms Valerie Goh, Assumption Pathway School
Mr James Muthiah, Assumption Pathway School

Assistant Principals:
Mrs Jenny Leong, SJI Independent
Mr Dominic Ang, SJI Independent

We also congratulate Mr Benjamin Lui on his appointment as Director, SJI Independent, and Mr Christopher Neo as Executive Director, Assumption Pathway School.

May God bless you in your new roles and work!

New Appointments in ACCS

2009-01-06T15:18:00.015+08:00

ACCS would like to welcome Ms Wendy Louis (Executive Director) and Mr Louis Tin Maung Oo (Formation Course Leader).

Wendy may be familiar to many of us as she has worked with schools from 1988 to 2004 while holding her responsibilities with the Singapore Pastoral Institute. She was also instrumental in the development of the “Walking with Jesus” programme which was commissioned by the Catholic Education Council in 2001. Wendy is available part time as Director as she has a second responsibility with the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), Office of Laity, coordinating the training and resources for Small Christian Communities for dioceses in Asia.

Louis will be in charge of formation programmes and the course leader for the Formation Programme for Catholic Educators (FPE).

We welcome them and look forward to their contributions to build up the Catholic Character of our Catholic schools.

Seminar: Philosophy of the Human Person

2009-01-02T12:19:00.016+08:00

ACCS invites you to attend the Philosophy of the Human Person seminar by Adrian Danker, SJ.

Synopsis: Who or what is the human person? Why does he exist, and for what ends?

Philosophy of the Human Person is a critical reflective seminar that aims to help educators consider the human person - his nature and unique existence.

It provides foundations for a deeper understanding of what he is, who he is and what it means to be fully human.

It ends by inviting participants to consider how the human person's search for meaning finds its fulfillment in a quest for the Absolute.

It will be held at St Luke's CAEC, No 2 Highland Road S549102 and over 4 Friday afternoons: 16 Jan (4-6pm), 23 Jan (3-6pm), 30 Jan (3-6pm) & 6 Feb (3-5pm)

Contribution at $50 per person and please register by Wed 14 Jan with Raymond at 68587087 or email raymondlee@catholic.org.sg

Called to be Teacher: a retreat for Catholic educators

2008-12-04T11:05:00.006+08:00

Called to be Teacher was the theme of a retreat for Catholic educators from 28 to 30 November at Montfort Centre.

15 Catholic and Christian teachers and leaders from kindergartens, schools and polytechnics spent the weekend reflecting on their vocation and work as educators.

The dynamics of the semi-silent retreat included prayer and reflection, contemplation and meditation and sharing. Retreatants were also invited to reflect using their creativity and imagination in kinesthetic and aesthetic exercises.

The retreat began with an appreciation of names and how each is the unique and gifted person God calls to be teacher. Retreatants then reflected on their respective calls to be a teacher and the journeys they have taken since responding. Using the life of St John Baptist de la Salle, patron saint of teachers, as a model, retreatants were also challenged to reflect on the inter-relationship of faith and teaching in their lives. An aspect of being teacher is recognizing one’s own vulnerabilities and expectations; reflecting on these helped them understand the importance of honesty and openness to mature as teachers. The retreat ended with an invitation to "imagine" God "re-moulding" them through the weekend to be his handicraft, the Christian teacher.

Retreatants found the weekend of prayer, reflection and fellowship enriching, insightful and fulfilling. Some of their comments are:

“Learning from one another’s sharing, listening to God’s prompting and knowing that my journey as a teacher is purposeful.” – Stephanie Mak

“The retreat helped me to see how God is recharging me with his grace.” – Natalie Loo

The retreat was valuable for “the time and space for quiet contem plation and reflection and getting the courage to ‘break’ the mould of oneself. It was a humbling experience.” It “helped us have a sense of the common mission and calling” and “provided a space to support each other.” – Germaine Kwan

“Being a Catholic teacher is a call from God. It is good to take time off to be with our Master, to listen to Him. God will give us strength to continue to persevere in our vocation to teach.” – Elizabeth Teo

“A source for thirst-quenching, soul-searching for burnt out teachers, especially at the end of the year.” – Lillian Law

This retreat was co-organized by ACCS and Catholic Teachers’ Movement (CTM). For more pictures of the weekend, please click the photo to your left.

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This retreat is part of the Spiritual Wellness for Catholic Educators’ programme. The next event is a Day of Prayer and Recollection on the theme, Called to Teach and Care. It will focus on teaching as a ministry of forming the child. It will be held at Lifesprings Canossian Spirituality Centre from Friday, 6 March (7pm) to Saturday, 7 March (6pm). For more information, please call Shirley at 6858-7080.

Principles of Religious Education - a workshop

2008-12-01T10:30:00.006+08:00

21 teachers and catechists from the Catholic schools and parishes attended a 3-session workshop on Principles of Religious Education. This was conducted by Mr. Arthur Goh, Associate Director of Singapore Pastoral Institution. It ended on Friday, 28 November.

In the first session, participants were introduced to the Nature, Purpose and History of Christian Religious Education. Arthur also presented and facilitated discussions on education as experience, the ends of education, religious education and sensitivity to historical context.

The 2nd session focused on Dialogue and the Pluralist context and the 3rd session on Curriculum and Classroom: Shared Praxis.

Comments from participants include:

It is a good course, one of the most engaging lessons I've had in recent memory.

Enjoyed the course...it challenges my mindset.

There is a lot of food for thought....

I really learned a lot and it was really quite exciting.

Sex Education: Are we on the Right Track?

2008-11-17T14:16:00.002+08:00

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are on the rise among teenagers. This has led to recent calls in the newspapers for sexuality education to include the teaching of condoms and contraceptive use. Is this sound advocacy? What do these calls mean for Catholic parents and educators? The Catholic Medical Guild (CMG) responds to these calls and explains the Catholic perspective on this issue. CMG's article can help Catholic parents and educators better educate our young. Please click the picture below to read full article.

* Picture courtesy of mfa

Formation Programme for Educators 2008 (FPE)

2008-11-11T14:20:00.035+08:00

On Friday, 7 November, Msgr Eugene Vaz presided at a Thanksgiving Mass for the teachers who have completed Year 1 of the ACCS initiated two-year Formation Programme for Educators (FPE).

In his homily, Msgr Vaz challenged everyone to respond to God’s call to discipleship. He also provided insights on the role of Catholic educators in shaping the lives of young students. He commended the teachers for their generosity in taking the time to learn more about our Catholic faith amidst their busy schedules.

At the end of the Mass, William from St Gabriel's Secondary shared with everyone the positive impact this formation programme has had on his life. It has enriched his personal life and enliven his spiritual growth in daily life. He also suggested that the programme be available for every teacher in the Catholic schools. He ended by saying that he looks forward to the second year of the programme.

The teachers on the FPE have completed studies in the following modules for 2008: Anthropology of the Christian Vocation (Psycho-spirituality), Prayer, Principles of Religious Formation, God (a philosophy seminar on the question of God), Contextual Theology and Moral Theology.

In 2009, the following topics will be offered to these teachers:

1. Philosophy of Being Human
2. Anthropology of the Christian Vocation II
3. Prayer II
4. Social Teachings
5. Theology of Dialogue
6. Moral Theology II
7. Salvation History

The FPE resumes in January 2009. For now, the teacher-participants are on a well deserved break!

A note:

The Formation programme for Educators (FPE) is a 2 year programme for school leaders and teachers, who are open to learning and growing in their vocation as educators in Catholic schools. The FPE is especially useful those who are active leaders in the areas of religious education, character development and values education, and are committed to serving their school.

* Picture courtesy of CHIJ OLN

Communio: a report on the 3rd gathering

2008-11-03T14:48:00.110+08:00

50 educators from our primary and secondary schools gathered at our 3^rd Communio session to learn about the social teaching of the Catholic school. Also present were some NIE students.

This session entitled The Catholic Church’s Social Teachings: a foundation for Catholic Schools? was facilitated by Fr David Garcia, Sr Maria Lau and Mr Henry Tzen from Caritas Singapore Community Council.

Fr David began by sharing with us the history of the social teaching of the Church. He then introduced the various principles of Catholic socia l teaching. He illustrated these with everyday examples. Participants appreciated this as it helped them to see how the various principles are very much part of the way we live and work.

After his presentation, Sr Maria invited participants to reflect on their schools to see how and to what extent these principles are part of the school community. Some participants shared about various programmes that involved student and staff participation. They felt this highlighted the principle of participation. Others pointed how the philosophy of Catholic schools – focused as it is on the child – was evidenced in the efforts schools make to reach out to the lost, least and forgotten among their students. And this, they recognize demonstrated the principle of human dignity. Others spoke about respecting the different levels of administration and work in school, where with respect and support each was enabled to carry out his responsibilities. Here the principle of subsidiarity was at work, they acknowledged. The sharing enriched the participants. It also provided them with new ideas for the classroom and school.

Some responses from participants at the end of the afternoon included:

“We are now more aware of how to communicate to our students the Church’s Social teachings. We can better integrate them into our school programmes.”

“The session is relevant to our schools – they offer good Catholic ways to live, teach and learn as a school.”

“Much of what we do as a school community is in line with the various principles of the Catholic social teachings. Good to know!”

“The session was informative and educational.”

“Useful. Helped us to establish and nurture ethos of the Catholic school.”

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With this session, Communio comes to an end for 2008.

Next year, 4 talks are scheduled, one per term, as part of the 2009 Communio series. Watch out for the calendar of these talks that will be posted online shortly.

photos: courtesy of CSCC

Communio: 3rd gathering for 2008

2008-10-15T13:17:00.005+08:00

All Catholic educators and educators in Catholic schools are warmly invited to this month's COMMUNIO.

The theme for this month's session is "The Catholic Church’s Social Teachings: a foundation for Catholic Schools?"

This will be held on Friday, 31 October 2008 @CHIJ Kellock.

It will be facilitated by Fr David Garcia, OP, Sr Maria Lau, IJ and members from Caritas Singapore Community Council (CSCC).

The aim of the workshop is to help educators understand the Catholic Church’s Social Teachings and their relevance to the Catholic education enterprise of forming students to be men and women for others.

It also invites educators to look into ways to incorporate these teachings into the school and classroom.

The Programme will begin at 2.00 and end at 5.30pm. It will include presentations, sharing and time for reflection and prayer.

Those interested to participate should contact Shirley at 6858-7080 or accs@catholic.org.sg.

This gathering is jointly hosted by CHIJ Kellock & Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools (ACCS).

artwork by speakingoffaith

Spiritual Wellness for Catholic Educators (November Retreat)

2008-10-03T11:30:00.004+08:00

You are warmly invited to Called to Teach, a Spiritual Wellness for Catholic educators programme. This programme is organized by ACCS & Catholic Teachers' Movement. The first event in this year-long programme is a retreat this November. Details are below.

A Time to Rest in the Lord in 2008 (Retreat)
In this retreat, educators will be helped to recall, appreciate and celebrate their teaching vocation and ministry, God’s gift to them and their students.

Theme: Called to Be Teacher
From: Friday, 28 Nov (check-in at 7pm)
To: Sunday, 30 Nov 2008 (12pm)
Place: Montfort Center

Cost: $125 per person
Remarks: Meals included, Limited places.
Places still available!

To register or for more information, call Shirley at 6858-7080 or email accs@catholic.org.sg

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Coming Next Year: Days to Rest and Revive in 2009
These days with the Lord offer Catholic educators rest and renewal. Each day focuses on an aspect of Christian teaching: teaching as caring for the child; teaching as serving the community; and teaching as renewing the world.

Religious from the Canossian, Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, Gabrielite, Infant Jesus, Lasalle, Marist and Good Shepherd congregations will facilitate these days.

Theme: Called to teach and care
From: Friday, 6 March (check-in at 7pm)
To: Saturday, 7 March (6pm)
Place: Canossian LifeSprings
Cost: $55 per person (aircon) or $35 per person (non-aircon).
Remarks: Meals included. Limited places.
Please register by 13 February 2009.

Theme: Called to teach and build
From: Friday, 5 June (check-in at 7pm)
To: Saturday, 6 June (6pm)
Place: Canossian LifeSprings
Cost: $55 per person (aircon) or $35 per person (non-aircon).
Remarks: Meals included. Limited places.
Please register by 15 May 2009.

Theme: Called to teach and renew
From: Friday, 28 August (check-in at 7pm)
To: Saturday, 29 August (5pm)
Place: Center for Ignatian Spirituality and Counselling, Kingsmead Hall
Cost: $55 per person (aircon) or $35 per person (non-aircon).
Remarks: Meals included. Limited places.
Please register by 7 August 2009.

To register or for information, call Shirley at tel 6858 7080 or email accs@catholic.org.sg

Childrens' Day 2008 - CHIJ Kellock

2008-10-02T11:09:00.009+08:00

Yesterday 1st October was Children's Day. CHIJ Kellock, together with The Business Times and The Little Arts Academy, played host to 1000 economically distanced children in Singapore. In the spirit of enabling chilren to reach out to other children, the 3 partners came together to plan, stage and celebrate a very unique, special and memorable Children's Day event at The Singapore Flyer for there Children.

This special event was also in aid of The Straits Times Pocket Money Fund and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund. To find out more about the event, please click the picture below.

Workshop: Principles of Religious Education

2008-09-29T11:50:00.002+08:00

ACCS has invited Mr. Arthur Goh, Associate Director with the Singapore Pastoral Institute to conduct a series of formation sessions on the Principles of Religious Education in November 2008.

Course Description: Principles of Religious Education explores issues foundational to religious education in the school. The course situates religious education in a historical, social and cultural context. It describes the nature and purpose of religious education and engages the educator in a process of analyzing philosophical, theological and educational assumptions that lead to distinct perspectives.

Participants will explore conceptual frameworks for religious education within which foundational questions are asked. They will be engaged in conversation about the nature, purpose, process, and consequence of educating religiously.

The course provides an opportunity for religious educators to reflect on their role as formators in a diverse community, and acquire deeper appreciation of the importance of religious education in the total formation of every person.

This course is offered to:

DipRE 2006/07 Graduates
Teachers teaching the RE/CMECS Programme in Catholic Secondary Schools
Catechists teaching in parishes

Details of the course:

3 Friday sessions: 14 Nov 08 (2 to 5pm), 21 Nov 08 (2 to 5pm), and 28 Nov 08 (1 to 5pm)
at No 2, Highland Road, Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre, S549102
a contribution of $75 PER PERSON is appreciated

Closing date for registration is on Fri 31 Oct 2008

For enquiries, please contact Raymond at 68587087 or email raymondlee@catholic.org.sg

CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel - Official Opening of New School Building

2008-09-25T10:11:00.005+08:00

CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel celebrated their official opening ceremony on Friday, 5 August 2008 with the theme “OLGC Heart Beat, Be the Light , Be the Hope, Be the Joy”.
In conjunction with the opening ceremony, the school's National Education gallery was opened by Mr S Iswaran, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry prior to the main event. The Guest of Honour, Mrs Lim Hwee Hua, Senior Minister if State, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Transport, was given a warm welcome by the Grade 1 Ballerinas.

The day began when the school prefects conducted a "tour of the school" for the guests. The blessing service ceremony was celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Nicholas Chia. They also made arrangements to obtain Papal blessing from Pope Benedict XVI (from Rome) for the school. There were speeches from the school Principal, Mrs Catherine Seah, Sr Celine and Mrs Lim Hwee Hua. Guests were treated to a musical, “The Bee Attitudes”, which was tailored to suit the theme of the Opening Celebrations. It ended with a mass dance by the P3 pupils, "The Celebration of Lights”.

The school management team were delighted and warmed by the support given by the IJ sisters, the board of management, fellow IJ Principals and Vice Principals, cluster Principals and Vice Principals, friends and parents, who turned up to share in the celebrations and joy. With the new building, the school looks forward to providing more and better quality programmes for the pupils.

reported submitted by CHIJ, Our Lady of Good Counsel

You are invited to...

2008-09-24T10:14:00.003+08:00

There will be a seminar-dialogue session on "Why Teach in a Catholic School?" on Friday, 10 October at 12.30pm at the National Institute of Education, LT6. This is open to all NIE students and those interested to teach in a Catholic school. For more information on the session, kindly click the poster.

Catholic News: Catholic educators celebrate Teachers' Day

2008-09-17T15:00:00.001+08:00

SINGAPORE – The ministry of teaching is prophetic. It professes good news, challenges one to a new life and invites all to mission, said Archbishop Nicholas Chia to 254 Catholic teachers and principals during a Teachersʼ Day celebration held on Saturday Aug 30 at St. Josephʼs Institution (SJI) International..............

To read the full text (Catholic News: September 14 issue), click on the picture, cheers!