CNA | Don't Call Us Beaten | E01: Second Chance Schools

Summary

This documentary takes a close look at the lives of students in Singapore who face challenges after not performing well in the PSLE, a key examination. It highlights the unique approach of schools like Assumption Pathway and Northlight, which offer a second chance to students with special needs or learning difficulties. Through personalized support, mentorship, and a focus on emotional well-being, these schools help students rebuild their confidence, develop skills, and navigate their academic and personal growth. The story emphasizes the importance of nurturing hope and perseverance, even in the face of adversity, offering a raw and inspiring look at educational resilience.

Takeaways

• 😀 The PSLE (Primary School Leaving Examination) in Singapore is a pivotal exam that significantly influences students' academic futures.
• 😀 Assumption Pathway and Northlight schools cater to students who may not perform well in the PSLE, offering them alternative educational paths.
• 😀 Failure should not be a label for any child. Education should be about learning at one's own pace, not about comparison to others.
• 😀 Teachers at Assumption Pathway, like Mr. Liu, not only focus on academic growth but also guide students through personal challenges and life lessons.
• 😀 Emotional regulation is essential for learning, and Assumption Pathway addresses this by offering psychological support to students.
• 😀 Northlight and Assumption Pathway aim to boost students' self-esteem and provide vocational education that supports future career opportunities.
• 😀 Attendance is critical for students' success. Even late arrivals at Northlight are supported and encouraged to continue their education.
• 😀 Some students, like the girl considering dropping out of Northlight, face significant challenges, and sometimes the best approach is giving them time to explore other options before making decisions.
• 😀 At Assumption Pathway, teachers like Mr. Liu share their personal life stories to build deeper connections with students and offer them real-world guidance.
• 😀 A large number of students at both Northlight and Assumption Pathway have learning needs, with ADHD being a common challenge among them.
• 😀 Practical activities, such as interactions with horses, are used to teach students character building, confidence, and self-regulation, especially for students like Joash who struggle with behavior and self-esteem.

Q & A

What is the PSLE, and why is it important in Singapore?

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a major exam in Singapore that determines the academic track students will follow in secondary school. It plays a significant role in shaping the next few years of a student's life, impacting their opportunities and educational trajectory.

What are the main challenges faced by students who fail the PSLE?

Students who fail the PSLE may face societal stigma, as they are often perceived as less intelligent than their peers. This can lead to emotional struggles and a sense of failure. Schools like Assumption Pathway and Northlight aim to address these challenges by offering alternative educational paths and emotional support.

How does Assumption Pathway School support students who are weaker academically?

Assumption Pathway School focuses on providing extra attention to students who are academically weaker. This includes offering additional support through teachers and programs to improve literacy and focus on emotional well-being to help students learn at their own pace.

What is the role of teachers like Mr. Liu at Assumption Pathway?

Mr. Liu, a former Air Force navigator, plays a pivotal role in guiding students, particularly through tough academic situations. He uses a combination of discipline and mentorship, pushing students to work hard and make progress despite challenges.

What challenges does Miss Chin, the Educational Psychologist, face at Assumption Pathway?

Miss Chin works with students who have learning difficulties, such as ADHD. Her role is to understand and address the emotional and cognitive barriers that hinder their learning, while also fostering a relationship with students to improve their engagement and academic performance.

Why do some students at Northlight and Assumption Pathway experience emotional and behavioral challenges?

Many students at these schools have learning difficulties, such as ADHD or emotional regulation issues. These challenges can stem from personal circumstances, including family struggles, trauma, or past failures, which significantly impact their ability to focus and engage in learning.

What is the approach taken by Northlight School to improve student attendance?

Northlight emphasizes understanding the reasons behind late attendance, providing support and encouragement to students instead of punishment. The school believes that fostering open communication with students can help them feel more motivated and supported in continuing their education.

How does Northlight address the issue of students wanting to drop out of school?

Northlight takes a compassionate approach when dealing with students who wish to drop out. The principal, Martin Tan, works with students and their families to explore their concerns and motivations, sometimes allowing them to experience the working world before making a final decision about school.

What role do extracurricular activities, like the horse interaction sessions at Northlight, play in student development?

These extracurricular activities aim to rebuild students' self-esteem, teach patience, and help them regulate their emotions. Interacting with horses provides an opportunity for students to gain confidence, develop character, and learn about responsibility in a non-academic setting.

How does Northlight encourage students to persevere even when faced with challenges?

Northlight encourages perseverance through events like the Sports Day, where students are motivated to do their best regardless of whether they win. The school focuses on the importance of trying, building resilience, and showing determination, rather than solely emphasizing academic or athletic achievements.