Standard Training Camp, 24 June 2019

Hello Guides! :)

It is a big day for us, as the Year 1s are being enrolled, the Year 2s are receiving their patrol roles, the Year 3s are becoming the 领导层 and the Year 4s are passing down. During this year's STC, us guides bonded as a batch and within patrols, as well as becoming closer as a whole 团! It also gave us an opportunity to reflect on our guiding journeys thus far.

STC began with batch activities, which facilitated bonding and allowed us to realise each batch's area of improvement.

Year 1 Batch Activity

The batch activity was planned based on what the batch needed to improve on, which was mainly improving on hard skills and mastering the basics. Learning to tie a tight and neat lash will not only allow it to look better visually, but also help the overall stability of the structure. Year 1s practised the tying of square and diagonal lashes, as well as aiming to complete them within the standard timing. It is important that everyone is able to tie the basic lashes, as this ensures that all patrol members can play a part, such as contributing by tying a lash when building a structure. The Year 1s were timed while tying their lashes, so that their progress could be measured, which allows them to set clearer goals, for example, tying lashes within a standard time.

Next, they had to put their lash-tying skills to the test by building a baggage rack, which is a standard structure that is built using gadget poles. Although it may sound simple, there are many details to take note of when building a standard baggage rack, such as tying proper 顶角s to ensure it is stable.

Reflection from a Year 1:

For batch activity, we did the tying of square and diagonal lash to revise the lashes. We also tried to tie a baggage rack, however there was no time to complete the baggage rack. We were supposed to learn how to do Guides rafting, but there was no time as we took a long time to tie the lashes. Despite that, I felt that I had a good recap on how to tie the different lashes and learnt what was the standard timing for tying the lashes. As it was the first time without the seniors, we often forgot to cheer and 报时 frequently. However, I learnt to work under pressure and to be mindful of my logistics.

Year 2 Batch Activity
The Year 2 batch was split into 3 different groups, and each group had to complete an escape room! Within the escape room itself, there were tasks that they were required to complete in order to escape. This allowed the Year 2s to bond with batch mates outside their patrol and to learn to communicate well with one another. They had to solve riddles and puzzles inside the escape room, which helped them to cooperate by discussing among themselves to find the answer which would lead them to the code that allows them to escape. There was a wide variety of questions asked, as some of them were funny riddles, while others were related to Guides knowledge. This batch activity let the Year 2s have some fun and bond in the escape rooms, while also working to complete a task within a given time limit.

Reflection from a Year 2:
For batch activity, we did 3 kinds of escape rooms which was interesting and very engaging. It was very exciting to find clues hidden around the classrooms and using our thinking hats to crack the puzzles. It was also a great time for us to bond with our batch mates. The escape room was also very innovative and they managed to put our Guides, Mathematics and Scientific knowledge to use. It was very rewarding to be able to escape within the given time slot and it was also thrilling to compete with the different groups to see who would be able to solve the escape room within the quickest timing. It was a fulfilling experience for us to put our minds together to solve the puzzles and riddles whilst keeping track of time and we really appreciated it.

Year 3 Batch Activity
During batch activity, the Year 3s learnt how to tie a butterfly lash, which is used on flagpoles that are built using spars. This is especially important, as being the 领导层, the Year 3s will have to build the flagpoles during Guiding events or camps, such as Annual Training Camp (ATC). The tying of the lash is demonstrated by Year 4 seniors, after which the Year 3s are split into 3 groups:

Group 1: Patrol 1 and Patrol 2
Group 2: Patrol 3 and Patrol 4
Group 3: Patrol 5 and Patrol 6

Each group then practised tying the butterfly lash. There are some things to note when tying a butterfly lash to ensure it is tight, such as keeping tension while tying and 抽 in 2 directions when frapping. Though these may seem like small details, it is important when tying a standard butterfly lash.

Reflection from a Year 3:
We learnt how to tie a butterfly lash during the batch activity. Firstly, there was a demonstration of how it should be tied by the seniors. Whilst showing us how to tie the butterfly lash, they also gave us tips on how to keep the lash tight and using tools such as a thin metal wire to pull the 麻绳 through small gaps. Then, we tried it in groups consisting of 2 patrols each. Just one butterfly lash took us quite a bit of time, as we found it difficult getting it right the first time round. However, with the guidance of the seniors, we eventually got the hung of it and started to focus on tying it tightly by keeping tension. Overall, I think this was a very enriching experience, especially since we had just learnt how to tie a new lash, the butterfly lash, as a batch.

After completing batch activities, we then started mass games. Each patrol had to complete various stations in the classrooms. At one station, there would be 2 patrols competing against one another. Outside the classrooms, there were Year 4s that were supposed to chase us, and if we were caught, we would have to proceed to the General Science Lab (GSL) area to answer a few questions to test our Guiding knowledge. The Year 4s would wear bells so that we would be able to hear them running from afar.

When we did well at a station, clues were given, which lead us to discover that we could earn points by tearing off the small wristbands worn by the Year 4s chasing us. There were a few colours for the wristbands, and each colour rewarded a different number of points.

Station 1
The first station was chicken fight! This game requires the Guides to lift one leg, and hop around to eliminate members of the other patrol. Members are eliminated when both their legs touch the ground, or they step out of the boundary. Each round of chicken fight lasted a total of about 5 minutes, and we played 2 rounds of the game.

Station 2
At this station, we played table tennis. However, there is a twist to it: There were no table tennis bats provided, and we could only choose from items given:

1. Spoon
2. Spatula
3. Wok cover
4. Sock
5. Badminton racket with no strings

Station 3
The third station was a game where we had to use a pair of tongs and different balls such as ping pong balls and tennis balls. The goal was to bounce the ball on the ground, and catch it midair with the pair of tongs given.

Reflection from a Year 3:
Mass games allowed my patrol to bond, especially with my Year 1s. The games such as chicken fight made it fun, as we got to go against other patrols and let loose a little. I think mass games was made more fun, as we had to run from the Year 4s chasing us while we were moving from station to station, which made it more fun. Although some stations were challenging, such as playing table tennis using unconventional items as bats. Having the mass games let us spend more time with our patrol members and I appreciated being able to get to know my juniors better.

After completing our mass games, we mass changed into our Guides Uniform. Then, we had lunch together in the canteen. After finishing our lunch, we went to the senior high classrooms, where we were given paper and an envelope to write a letter to or future selves. The Year 4s also wrote letters to the Year 3s that were going to take over their role after the Passing Down Parade. This allowed us to reflect on what we have done in Guides thus far, and how we aim to improve by the time we read the letters in the future. Once we had sealed the envelopes, they were passed to the Guiders for safekeeping.

Finally, we proceeded to the area outside the Media Resource Library (MRL) for internal patrol passing down, where Year 2s receive their patrol roles from the Year 3s, who will soon be the 领导层. Next was roll call, where our Patrol Leaders and the Assistant Company Leader checked our attire to ensure it was up to standard. We then started the enrolment ceremony, where Year 1s will officially be enrolled into the Girl Guides Company and they will receive their enrolment badges. Then, the Passing Down Parade began, where the Year 4s passed down their roles to the respective Year 3s.

Reflection from a Year 1:

The enrolment was truly memorable. It was my first time being enrolled into Guides and it was very meaningful. It marks the start of my Guiding journey where I will be able to grow into a better person. I will make full use of this golden opportunity to grow and consistently try to improve myself and sharpen my skills. This would also be the perfect time for me to bond and get to know my fellow batch mates and seniors better. I believe I will be able to stretch to my fullest potential in my future days in Guides. I will remember the promise I made during the enrolment and abide by the Guides Law. I believe this is the start of my beautiful journey in Guides.

Reflection from a Year 2:

For the Passing Down Ceremony, it was a sad event as it was time to see our beloved Year 4s step down. However, it was also exciting for us to find out who would take over the new company and patrol roles. We also got our patrol roles as a Year 2, and we were all glad with the roles we were given and it made us feel an instant responsibility as a senior in the patrol as well as for the 小队箱.

Reflection from a Year 3:

As my batch was becoming the 领导层, I felt excited but also nervous for what was to come in the future, and whether we would be able to be good seniors. However, I think that if we all put in our best effort, we can lead the 团 well. It was also very sad as our Year 4s passed down and we would miss them very much as they were the seniors that taught us patiently and were the closest to us. I hope we will be able to make them proud and continue to do our best.

Finally, it was time for the performance! We were all excited, as we had spent quite some time in our batches preparing for this performance. We changed out of our Guides Uniform and into our performance attire and headed to the Music Atrium.

Reflection from a Year 1:

For the performance item, even though we might not have done as well as during our practice, I felt that it was still quite meaningful. The performance allowed us to express our gratitude towards the seniors, especially the Year 4s. They have been with us for almost 6 months and have taught us many valuable skills that we can apply. I will definitely remember what they have taught us. We will not give up and continue to work, and improve together as a batch.

This marks the end of this year's STC! To our beloved Year 4s, thank you so much for the kindness and patience you have shown us from the very first day we joined Guides, up till now. We will try our best to do you proud, and thank you for all that you have done for us :)

Published by:

Heather

51st Batch Secretary

VIA at Good Shepherd's Student Care Centre, 3-4 June

Hello Guides!

On 3 and 4 June, we had Values in Action (VIA) at Good Shepherd’s Student Care Centre!

Day 1

On the first day, Patrol 6 conducted baking activities in the morning, while Patrols 1 and 4 organised the Children’s Carnival in the afternoon!

For the baking activity, we got hands-on with the children at the centre as we worked together to bake delicious treats that they could bring home! It was definitely a fun experience guiding the children and helping them throughout the baking process.

During the carnival, there were different stations such as Jenga, Stacking Cups, and using chopsticks to pick up green beans. For every game they won, the children would receive a stamp and a prize such as snacks! Once they had all the stamps from the stations, they could then collect a special prize.

Here are some thoughts from the Year 3s on their experience!
Baking

On 4th June, for our VIA at Good Shepherd Student Care Centre, my patrol did baking. Initially, I was a little nervous because firstly, I do not really know how to bake but thankfully, the instructions were printed out and I could work with someone else which made it much easier for me. I was also a little worried that I would offend one of them unintentionally at first, but after some interaction, I realised that they were quite easy to talk to, and are mostly enthusiastic about this baking session, which I was really happy for. The whole session overran but when I saw their happy and excited faces upon receiving a muffin, I felt that all our effort was worth it. This VIA, like every other years, was extremely meaningful and fulfilling. I learnt to be appreciative of what I have, learnt to be patient and learnt to communicate with others better. On top of that, I had gotten a chance to bond more with my juniors and seniors. Hence overall, despite finding it challenging in the beginning, I eventually had a lot of fun and learnt a lot from the VIA.

Carnival

We had VIA at Good Shepherd Student Care Centre. My patrol was assigned to conduct a mini carnival together with P4. I was at the station where the kids had to throw or bounce a ping pong ball into red cups and they would be rewarded with sweets if successful. It was an activity that trained by multitasking skills as there were many children there and we had to constantly switch between marking their slips of paper, giving instructions and picking up the ping pong balls. It also trained patience and communication as the majority of the children there were quite young and we had to be able to deal with them in an efficient but gentle way. This activity was very meaningful as we were able to contribute some of our time to give back to the community.

During our VIA at Good Shepherd, my patrol was in charge of the booths for the carnival we held. I was stationed at the Jenga booth, where the children played a game of Jenga together to win sweets and snacks. I learnt a lot during this VIA as I got to interact more with the children and talk to them. It also required some patience and understanding as we had to explain the rules of the game. The children were very attentive and eager to play the games, which encouraged us. When the carnival first started, we had them line up at the booths to wait for their turn at the game. The Jenga booth was quite popular, so we tried to talk with the children while they were waiting in line. I felt that this was a very good opportunity to interact with others of a younger age group. Overall, I think this was a good experience especially because the children at the centre had fun and enjoyed themselves, which made me feel glad that the activities planned had put a smile on their faces. 

Day 2

On the second day, the Arts and Crafts activities were held by Patrol 3 in the morning, while Patrols 2 and 5 were in charge of team building activities in the afternoon.

For Arts and Crafts, the children were given an empty book to decorate, filling each page with different tasks from each stations such as "My Achievements". Personalising the look of their own notebook made it even more special!

During Team Building Activities, the children bonded with one another as well as us Guides by playing all sorts of games such as Mafia, Cup Stacking, and Broken Telephone! Most of these required some level of teamwork and cooperation, which helped us and the children improve on our communication skills!

These are some takeaways from the Year 3s about their experience during the Arts and Crafts activity!

During the Arts and Crafts Activity, the children got to decorate their very own personalised books! There were a total of 5 stations, with each station filling up a different part of the book, for example, "My Goals" and "My Achievements". The children were to go to the different stations and fill up the book! We had a lot of fun interacting with the children and helping them. Although some were shy at first, they eventually opened up and shared about what they had written on their books with us! This activity allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of why it is important to reflect and look back on our achievements even at a very young age, as it encourages and motivates us to keep trying. Even though I am quite awkward sometimes, being around the friendly children allowed me to initiate conversations with them more easily. I'm sure the children had a lot of fun decorating the pages with bright colours and drawings too!

Here are some reflections from the Year 3s on their experience with team building activities!

For the VIA, we were to do team building activities. Before the children arrived, we cut 3 pictures into 24 pieces each to hide around the hall for Treasure Hunt, the first activity. They were quite good at finding the pieces and we did not need to hint them much. Another group of older children played Mafia. When both groups were done we split all the children into 9 groups in order to form teams. We then were assigned to a team and we lead them to play games where they had to stack cups and whichever team finished first would get more points. They mostly enjoyed the cup stacking game. The next item they had to do was the Broken Telephone, where they had to relay a sentence down the line. They were quite distracted so we had to find ways to engage them. However, they still managed to do the activity but were quite bored. We got an opportunity to interact more with the younger children and learnt how to better interact with them as well as understand them more. We got valuable feedback on how to improve the activities we would hold there in the future.

My patrol was in charge of teamwork building along with P2. We had the children find some puzzle pieces that were scattered across the school hall. There were three pictures to be completed, and all the pictures depicted teamwork. After that, the children were split by levels, and they all played different games. The group I was in charge of played stacking cups first, where the children had to stack ten cups in a triangle shape and everyone had to take turns to build while they were being timed. The second activity is message passing. The first child at the front of the line were to pass down a message to the person behind her, and the last child was to tell us the sentence she heard. We played two rounds of this game, and both ended up with sentences that were quite funny. All the children were very nice to interact with, and I was surprised by their energy level and enthusiasm when they were finding the puzzle pieces as they ran around the entire hall for long periods of time. I had fun interacting with the children and resolving any problems they faced with each other, and this had increased my confidence level in interacting with people whom I do not know.

Although there may have been some worries during the VIA, it was ultimately a success! Hope that the Guides gained a lot of experience from this and that it was an enjoyable time for all!

Published by:

Hoong Yu Ning

50th Batch Secretary