Hi Guides!
Today, we had our first Patrol Activity of the year! Some patrols spent this PA revising their necessary skills, such as the square and diagonal lashes, or training skills, while others held patrol bonding activities such as sing-along-sessions and Outdoor Cooking.:)
There will be no 集合 on Friday as it'll be............(drumroll)
Chinese New Year!!!:D Enjoy your weekend collecting 红包s, eating goodies and visiting your relatives!:))
27 January 2014
25 January 2014
Leadership Training by the YAs, 24th Jan
Hi Guides!
Yesterday, the Young Adult (YA) branch - Guides in the Senior High section - conducted a leadership training for us. At 1430, we 集合-ed at the GSL area. After marking attendance and attire check, we had Patrol Corner to set ground rules and patrol goals for the year ahead. Around 1500, the YAs arrived.
We were then given 15 minutes to mass change into our OJ kit, pack our 配背 and lay out our logistics on the road outside the GSL area. Afterwards, we had 10 minutes to go up to the 6th floor of Block F (the block we were in) and come back down while running one round on each storey as we went up. Afterwards, we were briefed on the stations we were supposed to go to and with which patrol(s) before setting out.
The first station was directly outside the GSL area. In this station, each patrol had to build 3 bashas and 1 shoerack in 15 minutes. However, everyone except the PL was to be blindfolded. This was to test the PL's communication and manpower allocation skills.
Station 2 was on the second storey of Block F. Each patrol was given 14 minutes to tie 2 tripods. At any given point in time, only 3 patrol members could come up, and they could only stay there for a certain amount of time before they had to return to their patrol. For people tying a tripod lash, they had 3 minutes, while people tying square lashes only had 2 minutes and 15 seconds. Meanwhile, the rest of the patrol had to 顶 in boy's style pumping position. After a quick debrief, the YAs would give each patrol the respective forfeits they had to do, such as wheelbarrow, crabwalk, star jumps and planking.
In Station 3, which was at the PLTC'09 campsite, each patrol was given 15 minutes to build a structure that would get a netball up onto the second storey. No one was allowed to go up to the second storey. We exercised our creativity and tried to get the ball up, though only a few patrols managed to complete the task. The suggested answer was to tie a pulley knot on a black spar and tie the ball to the other end of the 麻绳. This method would only take less than 5 minutes to accomplish the task, and it is relatively easy as well:O
The last station was at the 6th floor of Block G. Unlike in the other stations where everyone in the patrol worked together, the Year 4s were separated from the Year 2s and 3s in this station. At the Year 2s and 3s' side, they were supposed to build a Roman Chariot within 5 minutes. As there was insufficient spars, they had to learn how to adapt to the changing surroundings and find the hidden spars to build their structure. In addition, there was also a First Aid component, where they had to treat a sprained wrist. Meanwhile, at the Year 4s were given a proposal of a drawbridge which they had to replicate using gadget poles. After 3 minutes of discussion, they were then given 15 minutes to build their structure. Halfway, the YAs gave us another task: separate 3 different types of beans by colour in 2 minutes. This side task was meant as a distraction from our main task, which tested our leadership skills.
When all of us 集合-ed back at the GSL area, the Station Masters debriefed us again before we were dismissed. Here are some reflections:
A Year 4 - This 集合 was different in the sense that we were doing the activity with our juniors instead of planning them. It was great to be able to be able to join my patrol for such activities again, and from this I was able to find out if my skills have improved or simply stagnated. While my hard skills remain up to standard, I still cannot communicate effectively, and this can be a very costly mistake as I would have to waste time explaining myself to others, reducing the amount of time we have to complete the task. Through this OJ, I realised that there are still some basic mistakes that I tend to make, thus I have to pay more attention to them in future to avoid making them again so that I can set a good example for my juniors and maintain the high standard that our Company upholds.
A Year 3 - It was a fun experience which trained our leadership skills and physical fitness. Although the Year 4s led the patrol all the way through, there was a station where the Year 3s had to lead the Year 2s. This OJ also reminded us to be prepared and to be familiar with the Guides notes. Throughout OJ, the morale was kept high which is really good. Overall, this OJ was really fun and a good reintroduction into having Guides every Friday.
A Year 2 - I personally feel that my performance was not good enough as I should have been more prepared. However, I am quite satisfied that I persevered throughout the various stations without falling out, which is a great achievement to me. It was definitely heart-warming to see patrol mates cheering together during PT which was probably what gave me the strength to continue. I also think that I would have done much better if I had taken more initiative in helping my patrol mates and lead cheers constantly, which is always something that slips off my mind. Physical stamina is also a thing that I should work on as through this 集合, it is evident that my physical stamina is still lacking. On a whole, I suppose that I should work harder as there is lots of room for improvement.
Rest well Guides, and enjoy your weekend!:)
Yesterday, the Young Adult (YA) branch - Guides in the Senior High section - conducted a leadership training for us. At 1430, we 集合-ed at the GSL area. After marking attendance and attire check, we had Patrol Corner to set ground rules and patrol goals for the year ahead. Around 1500, the YAs arrived.
We were then given 15 minutes to mass change into our OJ kit, pack our 配背 and lay out our logistics on the road outside the GSL area. Afterwards, we had 10 minutes to go up to the 6th floor of Block F (the block we were in) and come back down while running one round on each storey as we went up. Afterwards, we were briefed on the stations we were supposed to go to and with which patrol(s) before setting out.
The first station was directly outside the GSL area. In this station, each patrol had to build 3 bashas and 1 shoerack in 15 minutes. However, everyone except the PL was to be blindfolded. This was to test the PL's communication and manpower allocation skills.
Station 2 was on the second storey of Block F. Each patrol was given 14 minutes to tie 2 tripods. At any given point in time, only 3 patrol members could come up, and they could only stay there for a certain amount of time before they had to return to their patrol. For people tying a tripod lash, they had 3 minutes, while people tying square lashes only had 2 minutes and 15 seconds. Meanwhile, the rest of the patrol had to 顶 in boy's style pumping position. After a quick debrief, the YAs would give each patrol the respective forfeits they had to do, such as wheelbarrow, crabwalk, star jumps and planking.
In Station 3, which was at the PLTC'09 campsite, each patrol was given 15 minutes to build a structure that would get a netball up onto the second storey. No one was allowed to go up to the second storey. We exercised our creativity and tried to get the ball up, though only a few patrols managed to complete the task. The suggested answer was to tie a pulley knot on a black spar and tie the ball to the other end of the 麻绳. This method would only take less than 5 minutes to accomplish the task, and it is relatively easy as well:O
The last station was at the 6th floor of Block G. Unlike in the other stations where everyone in the patrol worked together, the Year 4s were separated from the Year 2s and 3s in this station. At the Year 2s and 3s' side, they were supposed to build a Roman Chariot within 5 minutes. As there was insufficient spars, they had to learn how to adapt to the changing surroundings and find the hidden spars to build their structure. In addition, there was also a First Aid component, where they had to treat a sprained wrist. Meanwhile, at the Year 4s were given a proposal of a drawbridge which they had to replicate using gadget poles. After 3 minutes of discussion, they were then given 15 minutes to build their structure. Halfway, the YAs gave us another task: separate 3 different types of beans by colour in 2 minutes. This side task was meant as a distraction from our main task, which tested our leadership skills.
When all of us 集合-ed back at the GSL area, the Station Masters debriefed us again before we were dismissed. Here are some reflections:
A Year 4 - This 集合 was different in the sense that we were doing the activity with our juniors instead of planning them. It was great to be able to be able to join my patrol for such activities again, and from this I was able to find out if my skills have improved or simply stagnated. While my hard skills remain up to standard, I still cannot communicate effectively, and this can be a very costly mistake as I would have to waste time explaining myself to others, reducing the amount of time we have to complete the task. Through this OJ, I realised that there are still some basic mistakes that I tend to make, thus I have to pay more attention to them in future to avoid making them again so that I can set a good example for my juniors and maintain the high standard that our Company upholds.
A Year 3 - It was a fun experience which trained our leadership skills and physical fitness. Although the Year 4s led the patrol all the way through, there was a station where the Year 3s had to lead the Year 2s. This OJ also reminded us to be prepared and to be familiar with the Guides notes. Throughout OJ, the morale was kept high which is really good. Overall, this OJ was really fun and a good reintroduction into having Guides every Friday.
A Year 2 - I personally feel that my performance was not good enough as I should have been more prepared. However, I am quite satisfied that I persevered throughout the various stations without falling out, which is a great achievement to me. It was definitely heart-warming to see patrol mates cheering together during PT which was probably what gave me the strength to continue. I also think that I would have done much better if I had taken more initiative in helping my patrol mates and lead cheers constantly, which is always something that slips off my mind. Physical stamina is also a thing that I should work on as through this 集合, it is evident that my physical stamina is still lacking. On a whole, I suppose that I should work harder as there is lots of room for improvement.
Rest well Guides, and enjoy your weekend!:)
23 January 2014
Orientation'14: Tie a Knot, 18th Jan
Hi everyone!
On the 18th of January, the Dunman High Year 1s had their CCA Orientation, a day for them to take a look at what the different CCAs have to offer them before they choose their CCA. With a smaller Year 1 population this year, all the CCAs were vying with one another to attract the Year 1s to join them. At the MRL (Media Resource Library) area were the Uniformed Groups: National Police Cadet Corps, St. Johns Ambulance Brigade, our CCA Girl Guides, and the Boy Scouts. The Guides and Scouts had combined to put up various exhibitions, namely Outdoor Cooking, Gadgets, Kitchen Shelter, Gateway and Mini-games. There were also the committees which put up a performance for the Year 1s when they arrived: the Guides' 绳桥, Scouts' 挂领 and the combined Scouts-Guides Fireman's Ladder. Last but not least was the Deco committee which made the decorations for the exhibitions and souvenirs for the Year 1s. During the holidays and in the first two weeks of school, we had preparation sessions to get ready for this day.
This year's theme for the Scouts and Guides Orientation is Tie a Knot, referring to the knots of friendship between us and the other UGs:)
At 0730, we 集合-ed outside the MRL in our full Guides uniform. After a quick briefing and some words of encouragement by Jing Ying, our Company Leader, we broke off into our respective committees to do some last minute touch-ups on our structures.
Close to 0900, the first group of Year 1s finally arrived!
Following the Lion Dance was the Guides 绳桥, where Guides have to climb across the rope to get to the other side. The other Guides have to support the structure carefully for her to make it across safely.
Next up was the Scouts' 挂领. While the rest of the Scouts support the spar, one would climb up and hang his scarf on the supporting spar.
Last but not least was the Fireman's Ladder performed by both Scouts and Guides. They would take turns to climb up the ladder and flip to the other side while the others support the ladder.
After the performances from all UGs had ended, the Year 1s were split into different groups to visit the respective booths on a rotational basis. Scouts and Guides ushers brought them around the exhibitions to ensure that they got to see most of them in the limited time.
After the first group of Year 1s left, there was some time for us to tighten the lashes on our structures and have a quick break before the second group came. After our break, we lined up along the MRL facing both sides of the gateway, ready to welcome the second group of Year 1s:)
After doing the Adiji Yell to welcome them as they entered, the second round of performances started, before our ushers brought them around the exhibitions again. Enjoy the pictures:D
Reflection from Year 3 -
Hope that everyone has learnt new skills, made new friends and gained new experiences through this. Let's all gear up for the new year ahead!:D
Shout out to the Year 1s: Join Scouts and Guides!! #fun #adventure #camaderie #family :D
On the 18th of January, the Dunman High Year 1s had their CCA Orientation, a day for them to take a look at what the different CCAs have to offer them before they choose their CCA. With a smaller Year 1 population this year, all the CCAs were vying with one another to attract the Year 1s to join them. At the MRL (Media Resource Library) area were the Uniformed Groups: National Police Cadet Corps, St. Johns Ambulance Brigade, our CCA Girl Guides, and the Boy Scouts. The Guides and Scouts had combined to put up various exhibitions, namely Outdoor Cooking, Gadgets, Kitchen Shelter, Gateway and Mini-games. There were also the committees which put up a performance for the Year 1s when they arrived: the Guides' 绳桥, Scouts' 挂领 and the combined Scouts-Guides Fireman's Ladder. Last but not least was the Deco committee which made the decorations for the exhibitions and souvenirs for the Year 1s. During the holidays and in the first two weeks of school, we had preparation sessions to get ready for this day.
This year's theme for the Scouts and Guides Orientation is Tie a Knot, referring to the knots of friendship between us and the other UGs:)
At 0730, we 集合-ed outside the MRL in our full Guides uniform. After a quick briefing and some words of encouragement by Jing Ying, our Company Leader, we broke off into our respective committees to do some last minute touch-ups on our structures.
 |
After settling the Year 1s down in front of the MRL, the emcees from each UG gave a short introduction to their CCA. Then came the long anticipated performances!:D First up was the Scouts' Lion Dance.
 |
| unraveling the banner from the gateway:D |
Next up was the Scouts' 挂领. While the rest of the Scouts support the spar, one would climb up and hang his scarf on the supporting spar.
After the performances from all UGs had ended, the Year 1s were split into different groups to visit the respective booths on a rotational basis. Scouts and Guides ushers brought them around the exhibitions to ensure that they got to see most of them in the limited time.
After the first group of Year 1s left, there was some time for us to tighten the lashes on our structures and have a quick break before the second group came. After our break, we lined up along the MRL facing both sides of the gateway, ready to welcome the second group of Year 1s:)
 |
| entering the UG exhibition through the gateway |
 |
| gladiator fight! |
Although it was tiring, the experience was an enjoyable one. Here's what some of our Guides have to say:
Reflections from a Year 2 -
During Orientation Prep, I found it very tough due to the lack of manpower. Also, on the first day, some of us appeared to be unsure about our lashes, so our ICs had to spend time checking that we knew our lashes and teaching us. During the last OP, however, everyone did their best, worked together quickly and we managed to finish on time in spite of the unprecendented difficulties. On the actual Orientation day, I think everyone's spirits were quite high, and we worked as hard to attract as many Year 1s as possible. We worked together with no problem, helping each other. I remember encouraging Year 1s to join Guides and Scouts together with some Scouts, trying to show how fun Guides was, and laughing with the Scouts. I believe we did quite a good job this year.Reflection from Year 3 -
Throughout the Orientation preparation, I was able to lead the juniors in my committee and practice on my lashes. I have learnt of the importance of guiding the juniors in the process of tying the structures and taking the initiative to speak up and voice my opinion when I sense something is amiss. I feel that the latter is very important as sometimes, one could make a mistake without knowing and it is better to do it once and do it right, then to redo it over and over again.
Orientation day was fun and enriching. Morale was high that day and the Year 1s seemed to have enjoyed the exhibition. In the two sessions, I was able to introduce to the Year 1s more about Guides even though I was not an usher and it was really exciting. I gave them a tour round the exhibition, introducing the structures to them and filling them with all sorts of information. In conclusion, I am really satisfied to see the fruits of our labour - the magnificent structures and wonderful performances presented after many rounds of practice. I am also glad being able to bond with the different seniors and juniors through Orientation and Orientation preparation. It was really an amazing, fun-filled experience.
Hope that everyone has learnt new skills, made new friends and gained new experiences through this. Let's all gear up for the new year ahead!:D
Shout out to the Year 1s: Join Scouts and Guides!! #fun #adventure #camaderie #family :D
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