EXPEDITION TO GUNUNG LAMBAK

MCI (P) 163/05/2014
ISSUE 5
A bi-annually publication of Rainbow Centre Singapore
EXPEDITION TO
GUNUNG LAMBAK
On 16 April, 10 students from Structured Teaching for
Exceptional Pupils programme at Rainbow Centre Yishun
Park School (RCYPS) embarked on an expedition to
Gunung Lambak – a mountain which stands 1673ft above
sea level – located in Kluang, a small town in Johor,
Malaysia. They were accompanied by the Principal,
teachers and a parent volunteer.
The four-hour trail to the summit began at the foothill
where the team trekked along the asphalt road. The
concrete walkway was replaced with wooden steps as the
team ascended to the summit. As the trail became steeper
and increasingly difficult, the team relied on a fixed rope
that was anchored to assist trekkers in movement over
difficult terrain. Despite the physical demands faced by the
team during the expedition, they maintained a consistently
positive attitude to overcome the many challenges and
WORLD AUTISM
AWARENESS WEEK 2014
A TRUST FUND FOR YOUR LOVED
ONE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
obstacles to reach the peak of Gunung Lambak.
Mrs Angela Lee, Principal of RCYPS said, “Our
mission is to enable our students to achieve their fullest
potential. By providing opportunities for them to learn,
train and grow, they will gain experiences to help them
navigate their way through life’s challenges and achieve
their best.”
“I am very proud of each and every member in the
team as they had clearly displayed our core values –
teamwork and excellence to accomplish this expedition,”
she added.
Dr Chan Joon Yee, a parent who volunteered as the
medical officer of the expedition recalled the moment
they reached the summit, his son shouted ‘yay’ to
express his sense of accomplishment.
He shared, “I see many more ‘yays’ to come.”
TEMASEK CARES-INTEGRATION SUPPORT
PROGRAMME FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS WITH AUTISM
IN CONVERSATION
A BEACON OF CHANGE
‘In order to make a difference, you need to be the agent of that change’ is the
evocative mantra that best narrates the life of Mrs June Tham, Executive Director
of Rainbow Centre Singapore (RC).
Even with an illustrious career in the social service sector spanning over three
decades, she has never deviated away from the core belief that got her started in
the first place – to place the needs of others before that of her own.
The Times They Are A Changin’
As a qualified teacher in a mainstream government school, she spent 10 years plying
her trade as a full-time educator before deciding to divert her focus on her family.
Ever the challenge-seeker, she rejoined the workforce in 1982 – this
time, applying for a teaching position to teach children with special needs at
the Association for Educationally Subnormal Children (AESN), now known as
Association for Persons with Special Needs. Her passion and dedication paid off
as she rose quickly through the ranks, first in 1983 when she was promoted to the
role of Principal and then in 1985 when she became AESN’s first Executive Director.
Her exemplary leadership skills and infectious work ethic didn’t go unnoticed
as the National Council of Social Service headhunted her to front their watershed
project, the Margaret Drive Special School (MDSS) in 1989 for children with
multiple disabilities and an early intervention programme for children with a
1989
The Margaret Drive Special School
was the first special school
in Singapore to introduce a
programme for children with
autism from two years to
12 years old.
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RAINBOW NEWS
1992
"Be an inspiration
to yourself and
others will be
inspired by you."
Mrs June Tham
Executive Director
Rainbow Centre, Singapore
1997
Co-edited by Professor (Dr) Lee
Eng Hin, Dr Kenneth Lyen and Mrs
June Tham, Rainbow Dreams (First
Edition) was published to provide
comprehensive information on
the development of special
education in Singapore.
The Margaret Drive Special School
became autonomous from the
National Council of Social Service
and came under the umbrella of
Rainbow Centre Singapore,
which was established and
registered with the Registry
of Societies.
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
IN CONVERSATION
diverse range of special needs. To further herself with the
knowledge and skills in special education and management,
she pursued and completed the Master of Education with the
University of Sheffield (UK) and Diploma in Management Studies
with the Singapore Institute of Management.
As Executive Director and Principal of MDSS, she identified
the needs of the school and garnered the support of anxious
parents and her staff to work as a team to address the issues
of long wait list for early intervention programme and improving
staff morale, facilities and operating systems. In addition, she
was involved in the initiative to start a programme for children
with autism, which was introduced in 1989, the founding of RC
in 1992 and the development of the second school, Balestier
Special School in 1998 which moved to Rainbow Centre Yishun
Park School in 2008.
Always one to scale new horizons, she spearheaded
proposals to the government and successfully gained support
and approval for special facilities and revised space norms
for purpose-built Category II special education schools, and
collaborated with organisations to organise fundraising projects
to build two purpose-built special education schools at Margaret
Drive in 1998 and Yishun in 2008. Recognising the need for well
trained teachers and allied health professionals in special needs,
and training for caregivers, she instrumented the establishment
of a training and consultancy arm within RC to contribute to the
training and development in the field of special education locally
and regionally.
to leave the office. Her days are occupied with meeting up
with her team, planning, strategising directions and projects,
guiding financial and human resource matters, communicating
with the Board and other stakeholders and attending external
meetings and seminars.
When asked what motivates her in spite of the heavy
responsibilities, she said, “Giving every child an opportunity to a
quality of life. To many, the quality of life is having the possession
of wealth and going for holidays. At RC, I have seen how our
programmes have helped to give the children a sense of dignity
and quality of life. For example, we had a child with weak head
control when he was first admitted into RC. To this child, his world
was only the area under his chin. After intensive intervention
and working with the family by our team, he is able to lift up his
head. Now his world has expanded as he is able to lift up his
head and see everything around him. To me, we have helped
him to a quality of life which he is able to enjoy. This experience
and many other heartwarming experiences are my motivation
despite heavy responsibilities and challenges.”
Of her career highlights, she reminisced, “There were many
highlights and memorable moments in my career. The two
experiences that I did not expect were my attendance of the
Strategic Perspectives in Non-Profit Management Programme at
the Harvard Business School in Boston, USA under the Toteboard
2012
Rainbow Centre Singapore
celebrated her 20th anniversary on
15 September 2012 with a twokilometre walk within the Yishun
estate and a carnival at
Rainbow Centre Yishun
Park School.
1998
2008
The redevelopment of
the Margaret Drive Special School
project was completed in June
as the first purpose-built
Category II special school
in Singapore.
Rainbow Centre Balestier School
was established as the second
special school in 1995. It moved
to the new premises at Yishun
Street 61 and was renamed
Rainbow Centre Yishun
Park School.
This was no easy feat considering the low take-up rate for
jobs in the social service sector. She understood the dichotomy
of the situation and set out to create opportunities for career and
professional development of the staff under her. As a result, senior
management positions were created to support the expansion and
rising demands for services were met effectively. Scholarships
were also established with support from Foundations and private
sector with the aim to build a local pool of professionals for RC.
Tough Times Don’t Last, Tough Women Do
As Executive Director of RC, her key focus lies in the leading,
managing and directing of different activities and various projects
to ensure its reputation and relevance for the community at large.
She also oversees and directs all operating units to ensure the
long term viability of RC within the guidelines established by the
Board and the Code of Governance.
A day at work begins before 8.00am especially if there are
scheduled meetings in place, and she is usually the last person
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
Scholarship, and my personal involvement in hosting the visit of
Prince William and Catherine to Rainbow Centre Margaret Drive
School on 12 September 2012.
Heralding A New Era
As she prepares for the transition at the helms, Mrs June Tham
is confident that the new leadership team will be able to retain
the core values of RC and the organisational culture while
conquering new heights.
While she admits that funds remain a crucial part in ensuring
the sustainability of the centre, she ascertains that the quality
of people behind the scenes as well as those at the frontline
remains the fundamental reason for the many successes and
achievements thus far and hereafter.
When asked for words of wisdom to encourage the new team,
she replied with a quick wit and dose of enlightenment – “Be an
inspiration to yourself and others will be inspired by you.”
RAINBOW NEWS
| 3
SCENE & HEARD
WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS WEEK 2014
ARC, Autism Association (Singapore) as well as the symphonic
performances by WindWorkz. These performances led to ‘Light
It Up Blue’ where a number of iconic landmarks in Singapore –
ION Orchard, Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore Flyer,
Helix Bridge, St. Andrew’s Cathedral and Marina Bay Financial
Centre were lighted blue. With the support of MediaCorp, a
video on autism was screened on the jumbotron at ION Orchard.
A seminar for healthcare professionals from the public and
private sectors was held at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
on 5 April. Over 200 healthcare professionals and guests from
the special education sector attended this seminar to learn more
about autism. They commended the organising committee for the
well-organised seminar and informative programmes.
To conclude this year’s campaign, a roving exhibition on
autism from early years to ageing out was set up between three
public libraries – Jurong Regional Library, Tampines Regional
Library and Woodlands Regional Library – and Duke-NUS from
1 April to 27 June.
To find out more about World Autism Awareness
Week 2014, visit autismawareness-sg.webs.com and
www.facebook.com/Sg.autism?ref=stream
Photo: Photos on this page courtesy of Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School.
World Autism Awareness Week is an annual campaign to
commemorate World Autism Awareness Day. Jointly organised
by Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore (Duke-NUS),
Rainbow Centre Singapore (RC), St. Andrew’s Autism Centre
(SAAC), Autism Resource Centre (ARC) and Autism Association
(Singapore), the objectives for this year’s campaign were to reach
out to a wider audience in raising awareness and encouraging
acceptance of people with autism in Singapore.
With the theme ‘Celebrating The Colours of Life,’ the organising
committee launched a roadshow on 4 April at ION Orchard.
Professor Ranga R. Krishnan, Dean of Duke-NUS graced the
occasion as the Guest-of-Honour.
Of the collaboration, he said, “I am heartened to see our DukeNUS students and the main autism centres in Singapore come
together in a united spirit to champion the cause of people with
autism. World Autism Awareness Week is not just about promoting
awareness and acceptance, but also about dedicating the unique
talents and needs of people with autism. Through these efforts,
we hope that people with autism will be integrated into society
so that they can live, learn and work with equal opportunities.”
The roadshow showcased various performances from
children and youths of all ages and abilities from RC, SAAC,
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RAINBOW NEWS
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
SCENE & HEARD
Photo: I Am Speciable Movement
BE AWARE! BE ON TWO!
Held at the Padang on 16 March, Be Aware! Be on Two! was a
charity bike ride organised by the I Am Speciable Movement to
increase awareness about people with special needs as well as to
raise in-kind donations for children and youths at Rainbow Centre
Singapore (RC) through sales of event tee shirts.
This charity bike ride saw 50 cyclists of all ages cycling through
the city skyline for over 4km and 100 merrymakers supporting the
occasion. Mr Sham Latiff, Public Relations and Communications
Director of I Am Speciable Movement said, “Ever since our
success in organising the first ever charity cycling ride with a group
of avid cyclists back in 2012, we have been motivated to keep the
momentum going. It is a good avenue for cyclists to come together
and not just clock their regular miles on their bicycle but to ‘turn
the cranks’ for a good cause.”
PROMOTING INCLUSION FOR EARLY
INTERVENTION STUDENTS AT
YISHUN PARK CAMPUS
As part of her efforts to foster social interaction between
children enrolled in early intervention programme and
mainstream pre-schools, Rainbow Centre Early
Intervention Programme at Yishun Park invited students
and staff from Praiseland Child Care & Learning Centre
to her campus on 22 April. In addition, this collaboration
also aimed to promote an inclusive learning journey for
children from both centres through various learning activities.
The journey started with snack time where students from
both centres were encouraged to interact with one another.
They were also involved in an art and craft activity where
they weaved a paper basket and pasted paper fruits on it.
Ms Ja’izah Embek, EIP Manager of Rainbow Centre Early
Intervention Programme at Yishun Park said, “It was a
wonderful experience to observe the interaction between
students from our campus and Praiseland Child Care &
Learning Centre. As the new activity was overwhelming
for one of our students, she soon walked away to selfregulate but was seen participating in the group activity
shortly after.”
Ms Anne Lau, Principal of Praiseland Child Care &
Learning Centre added, “Thanks for the invitation extended
to our students, to share and have meaningful interactions
with their peers from Yishun Park. They enjoyed the
interaction and activity and I believe these experiences
are contributing factors for children to build confidence
and grow into compassionate adults.”
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to
Praiseland Child Care & Learning Centre for their support and
efforts in making this collaboration a memorable experience
for our students and we look forward to more collaborations and
partnerships in the near future.
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
He added, “The ride has been scheduled in March every year
to mark two occasions – the founding of the Movement and of
course the birth month of its founder, Kashif Edwards. As for me,
I hope that the yearly ride organised to promote awareness
towards the disabled will be further developed to include more
participants, sponsors as well as becoming a regular staple
event in the cycling annual calendar.”
Other highlights of the charity bike ride were the brilliant
performance by Ms Faridah Ali Chang from Rainbow Centre
Training & Consultancy who sang ‘We’re All the Same’ and a
series of acoustic performances by a guest band.
Mrs June Tham, Executive Director of RC graced the
occasion as the Guest-of-Honour. In her speech, she said,
“Seeing Kashif today as a young adult and the I Am Speciable
Movement that he has founded to promote awareness and
support for people with special needs, I am very proud of his
passion and his wish to help others. I recall fondly Kashif’s days
in our Margaret Drive Special School where he was a student
receiving early intervention and special education. All of us have
dreams. For Kashif, his dream has become a reality, and he
is living his dream. Together with my colleagues and students
of Rainbow Centre Singapore, we would like to express our
heartfelt gratitude to Kashif and his family, relatives, friends
and supporters for organising the fundraising event to raise
awareness of people with special needs, and selecting Rainbow
Centre Singapore as the beneficiary. I would specially like to
thank Kashif’s parents for their support, love and care for Kashif,
and believing in their son and being in this journey with him.
They and Kashif have earned our admiration as role models.”
THE GREAT EGG-VENTURE
Sketches that were designed by students from Rainbow
Centre Margaret Drive School (RCMDS) were selected
to be painted on two giant eggs, measuring 1.5m by 1m
for The Great Egg-Venture, an inaugural egg hunt activity
organised by Sentosa HarbourFront Business Association
(SHBA) at Sentosa HarbourFront precinct.
Sri Raghavendra and Muhammad Naufal, the two
student artists began painting their creative interpretations
of High Five and Happy Face together with their peers
and teachers from RCMDS, and family members on 12 April.
Happy Face by Sri Raghavendra was represented by a
bright yellow painted face with a happy smile, while High
Five by Muhammad Naufal was represented by a giant
size handprint on two sides of the egg with vibrant colours.
Ms Siti Marliza, the teacher-in-charge of Arts Alive
programme at RCMDS said, “Sri was very pleased when
he was informed he will be painting his sketch on a giant
egg at Universal Studio Singapore.”
Ms Aw Choi Yin, a teacher from RCMDS who attended the
painting session added, “It was an enriching and meaningful
event for the families. I was delighted to see fathers of our
students actively participating alongside their children.”
During the closing ceremony of The Great Egg-Venture
on 11 May, a Certificate of Participation was presented to
Ms Fauziah Ahmad, Principal of RCMDS. Congratulations
to our student artists and thank you SHBA for giving our
students the opportunity to showcase their talents.
RAINBOW NEWS
| 5
SCENE & HEARD
RAINBOW CENTRE YISHUN PARK SCHOOL
UNVEILS RAINBOW COTTAGE
On 14 March, Rainbow Centre Yishun Park School (RCYPS) unveiled
the new activities daily living room – Rainbow Cottage. Aimed to
benefit students with special needs in the areas of adaptive living
skills, Rainbow Cottage was designed as a simulated two-room
flat comprising a bedroom, living room, kitchen and toilet.
The room is installed with assistive technology devices
targeting self-help and housekeeping skills. These devices include
the Environmental Control Unit (ECU) and a customised kitchen
workstation. The ECU enables students with mobility impairments
to operate everyday appliances and mechanisms such as lighting
and electronic curtain rails by remote control. The customised
kitchen workstation comprises a counter top with legroom to
enable a student on wheelchair to prepare food without
compromising his or her posture. There is also a food preparation
system to facilitate the process of preparing sandwiches
independently by students who have difficulties in gripping.
Mrs Angela Lee, Principal of RCYPS shared, “With these
assistive technology devices, students will be able to learn how
to function independently and we hope this heightens their selfesteem and confidence level. It also empowers our teachers to
better enskill the caregivers of students with high support needs.”
Rainbow Centre Singapore would like to thank Temasek
International for funding this project.
ROWING FEAT FOR STUDENTS FROM
RAINBOW CENTRE MARGARET DRIVE SCHOOL
Since 2013, Rainbow Centre Margaret Drive School (RCMDS)
has collaborated with Gan Eng Seng School (GESS) through
various activities to build an inclusive community for her students
with special needs.
In commemorating the 129th anniversary of GESS Founder’s
Day on 14 March, a group of students from RCMDS were invited
to participate in Row-for-a-Cause, a 1.3km dragon boating activity
along Marina Reservoir.
Mr Mohidin Shaniz Malik, Sports Coordinator for RCMDS said,
“At the beginning of the dragon boating activity, our students were
hesitant. Gradually, they got used to the rocking motion of the boat
and they began to row faster. They were so enthusiastic that they
challenged other nearby dragon boats.”
He also shared that students from RCMDS had fun rowing to the beat
of the drum despite the strenuous demands of dragon boat paddling.
With this activity, students from both schools formed greater
mutual understanding of different needs and forged new friendships.
Thank you GESS for giving our students the opportunity to participate
in the Founder’s Day celebration.
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RAINBOW NEWS
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
SCENE
SPECIAL
& HEARD
FOCUS
A TRUST FUND FOR
YOUR LOVED ONE WITH
SPECIAL NEEDS
Incepted in June 2008, the Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC)
is the only non-profit trust company in Singapore providing
affordable trust services for people with special needs.
Jointly supported by the Ministry of Social and Family
Development (MSF) and the National Council of Social Service,
SNTC was conceived to safeguard the welfare and financial
security of people with special needs upon the demise of their
caregivers. The trust service is provided by a dedicated SNTC
team with Case Managers trained in social work, and supported
by other professionals from the legal, medical, financial and social
services. To give greater assurance to parents, the principal value
of the trust funds is guaranteed by the Government.
Ms Lau Lee Fang, a mother of a child with autism said, “We
often hear of children squandering off wealth and left in financial
doldrums – so what about our children who can’t even manage
themselves as well? Setting up a trust for our special needs
children is pertinent, and it should be a must now as SNTC has
made it really affordable.”
She recounted the process to set up the trust fund was simple.
“The staff that assisted me was most helpful. What needed work
or planning were the services and care for Caleb after my death,
and who I can trust to wisely oversee these things. In other words,
it took me a longer time than them to set up the trust.”
SNTC General Manager Esther Tan added, “Our objective is
to ensure that with the given funds that caregivers leave behind
for their loved one with special needs – he or she will receive
the best quality of life possible and we act in their best interest.
Each Case Manager from SNTC works with the caregivers to
execute the best possible care plan, taking instructions from
the caregivers and taking the legal, social and financial aspects
into consideration. We believe that with good forward planning,
it is possible to provide for the needs of our loved ones with
special needs”.
SNTC continuously strives to innovate and step up to serve
the special needs community. Understanding the kinds of financial
strain that parents and caregivers are faced with, SNTC has
successfully advocated for the MSF to subsidise the set-up and
activation fees.
TYPE OF FEES
One-time Set-Up Fee
Fee (S$)
1,500
Subsidy by MSF
90%
After Subsidy (S$)
150
ANNUAL PRE- ACTIVATION Fee
Fee (S$)
250
Subsidy by MSF
100%
After Subsidy (S$)
0
ONE-TIME activation Fee
Fee (S$)
400
Subsidy by MSF
90%
After Subsidy (S$)
40
ANNUAL POST-ACTIVATION FEE
Fee (S$)
400
Subsidy by MSF
90%
After Subsidy (S$)
40
Source: Special Needs Trust Company
Note: Activation of a trust is upon the demise of a parent/caregiver who sets up the trust.
HOW TO SIGN UP FOR SNTC TRUST FUND :
•
•
•
Meet up with SNTC Case Manager to develop a Care Plan and set out your wishes for your loved one in a Letter of Intent.
Act on the Care Plan and set up an SNTC Trust to give your loved one the infrastructure to receive future gifts under your will,
insurance and CPF nominations.
After you have set up the trust fund, proceed to draw up your will and make your CPF and insurance nominations to gift your assets
to the trust fund for your loved one.
For more information on SNTC Trust, please contact the SNTC hotline at 6278 9598 to make an appointment with an
SNTC Case Manager or visit www.sntc.org.sg
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure that the information on this page is accurate and up to date, Rainbow Centre Singapore makes no warranty, representation or understanding
whether expressed or implied, nor does it assume any legal liability, whether direct or indirect, or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information on this page. Information
on this page must not be construed as endorsement or recommendation and Rainbow Centre Singapore shall not be liable or responsible for the services provided by Special Needs Trust Company.
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
RAINBOW NEWS
| 7
HEALTH & WELLNESS
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH MATTEO DALL’ ARMI
Rainbow Centre Family Life Services was privileged to host Matteo
Dall’Armi from Bolzano, Italy, on his second visit to Rainbow
Centre Yishun Park School and Rainbow Centre Margaret
Drive School (RCMDS) on 8 April and 15 April respectively.
Matteo’s session attracted both parents and staff from the two
special education schools as he shared his insights on growing
up in a positive and supportive home environment.
The 32-year-old young man with Down syndrome charmed
the audience with his ability to interact wonderfully with people
of all ages. He greeted them with firm handshakes, cheek to cheek
kisses and even hand kissed with a bow. When asked by a parent if
he had any advice for her on how to manage her son’s behavioural
issues, he pulled his chair forward, seated himself and as he held
her hands to his face, he replied, “This is a serious matter and
I must sit next to you. Treat him gently and do not be frustrated
with him.”
Michela Dall’Armi, Matteo’s elder sister and a volunteer with
the Siblings That Are Really Special Club at RCMDS shared
about her experience growing up with him, “My parents do not put
emphasis on his special needs and they spend as much time
with me as they would with him. If they spank me, they will spank
him too. The message is clear to me that we are treated and
disciplined equally.”
Despite his special needs, Matteo is very independent.
He works as a barista in a cafe that employs people with special
needs and rides his bike to work. He travels far and wide and is
actively involved in physical activities such as rock climbing and
hip hop dance.
Ms Valentine Andriyani, a mother of a child with austim, who
attended the session said, “Matteo has given me hope and he
inspires me to do more to help my son to reach out into our world.
Michela has also proven that support and unconditional love from
family members are important elements in raising our children with
special needs.”
SANDCASTLES DAY OUT
Held on 15 March, Sandcastles Day Out was a family bonding
activity organised by Rainbow Centre Family Life Services
(RCFLS) to strengthen family relationships and promote
interaction amongst families.
The activity at East Coast Park saw more than 22 families
building sandcastles and sculptures with help from facilitators
from Castles Can Fly™ programme, alongside volunteers from
Barclays and Markit Asia Pte Ltd.
Mr Marcus Heng, a participant of sandcastle building said,
“I got to learn the ‘fine art’ of sandcastle building and it was fun.
It also allowed me to bond with my daughter. Overall the activities
organised for this outing were fun and we enjoyed ourselves at
the beach.”
Another highlight of the afternoon was an hour of Zumba
for the mothers. Ms Ang Ching Ling, a participant of Zumba
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RAINBOW NEWS
shared, “It was really a great workout and it helped me to clear my
mind. The instructor was fantastic and entertaining and I enjoyed
myself during the session. It was a good time out from my
caregiving responsibilities.”
“Many parents feel that organised activities such as sandcastle
building and Zumba are good opportunities for them to spend time
together as a family. Moreover, these activities provide them with
the opportunity to meet up with other parents of children with special
needs who they can share their experience and draw support
from,” added Ms Veronica Lim-Lowe, Senior Family Life Educator
from RCMDS who organised Sandcastles Day Out together
with her team.
For more information on family bonding activities conducted by
RCFLS, please email Veronica Lim at [email protected]
or Zoe Tan at [email protected]
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
TEMASEK CARES-INTEGRATION
SUPPORT PROGRAMME FOR
PRE-SCHOOLERS WITH AUTISM
With appropriate intervention and support, a child with autism below seven years
old will be able to lead an independent and productive life – one that is integrated
with his family and community. Initiated in August 2013, Temasek Cares-Integration
Support Programme for Pre-schoolers with Autism (Temasek Cares-ISPPA) is
offered in collaboration by Rainbow Centre Training & Consultancy (RCTC) and
Asian Women’s Welfare Association (AWWA), and is administered by the National
Council of Social Service.
Funded by Temasek Cares for two years, this pilot programme is designed to
provide transition support for children with autism at different transition points during
their pre-school years. The training teams from RCTC and AWWA will collaborate
with pre-school teachers to manage the core needs of children with autism and
facilitate the implementation of support strategies.
Mr Manoj Pathnapuram, Deputy Director of RCTC said, “There are multiple
outcomes to this transition support programme. Pre-schools who come on board
will benefit through staff empowerment, parent involvement, tips for adaptations in
learning activities and environments, individualised education plans and ultimately
higher success rates in transiting children with autism into mainstream settings.”
To find out more about Temasek Cares-ISPPA, please email Tan Yi En
at [email protected] or Siang Zhining at zhining_siang@
awwa.org.sg
HONING SKILLS AND EXPERTISE THROUGH WSQ ADVANCED
CERTIFICATE IN TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT
Rainbow Centre Training & Consultancy (RCTC) is committed to enhancing the quality of lives of people with special needs through
training of educators, professionals and caregivers in Singapore and Asia-Pacific Region.
To ensure trainees continue to meet the needs of employers and people with special needs, the training team at RCTC attended
the WSQ Advanced Certificate in Training and Assessment (ACTA) from November 2012 to March 2014 provided by the Institute of
Adult Learning. The intensive competency based training programme comprises six modules – Interpret the Singapore Workforce
Skills Qualifications System, Apply Adult Learning Principles and Code of Ethics Relating to Training, Design and Develop a WSQ
Facilitated Training Programme, Prepare and Facilitate Classroom Training, Develop a Competency Based Assessment and Conduct
a Competency Based Assessment.
Mr Manoj Pathnapuram, Deputy Director of RCTC shared, “Upon completion of the WSQ ACTA, our trainers embarked on reviewing
the instructional design for teacher trainings, thus applying skills gained from this competency training programme.”
The Advanced Certificate in Training and Assessment was awarded to all our trainers in recognition of successful completion of
the competency training programme on 5 March. Congratulations to all for their success.
FEEDING FOR ASD:
A MULTIDISCIPLINARY
PERSPECTIVE
Course participants will learn about the different factors that
lead to feeding issues in children with autism, as well as
identify children with oral, sensory and motor issues who
may benefit from Oral Placement Therapy. They will also be
guided to recognise some of the sensory and motor issues
that impact feeding.
Recommended for
Parents and caregivers of
children with autism
Date
18 July 2014
Time 7.00pm-10.00pm
Fee
$68
Venue
Rainbow Centre - Margaret Drive School
Level 1, RCTC Training Room
501 Margaret Drive, Singapore 149306
Closing Date for Registration
11 July 2014
Visit rainbowcentre.org.sg/index.php?id=117 for registration details and training information. For enquiries, please
contact Mabel Wong at 6472 7077 ext 252 or email her at [email protected]
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
RAINBOW NEWS
| 9
TALKING POINT
HEAR WHAT OUR COLLEAGUES AND
PARTNERS HAVE TO SAY
In the last 25 years, Rainbow Centre Singapore has made significant progress in
the areas of early intervention and special education. With the passing of baton
from the Executive Director to the new Leadership Team, what are your hopes
and aspirations for the organisation?
1.
“RCMDS has been CAAS’ adopted charity for the
past six years. Our staff volunteers have found it
fulfilling in supporting various activities at RCMDS.
They have seen first-hand how the programmes
have positively impacted the lives of the students
with special needs. We look forward to many
more innovative initiatives by RCMDS to
provide greater opportunities for the
students to learn and flourish.”
Peter Wee
Director of Human Resource / Director of Corporate Development
Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore
2.
“I hope the new leadership will continue to attract,
nurture and support the careers of dedicated teachers
and therapists who work with children with special
needs. Dedicated individuals like Mrs June Tham and her
colleagues are rare gems in our society who we should
value highly in order that more may be inspired to this
field of service. I also look forward to Rainbow Centre
taking the lead in developing innovative approaches that
develop the full potential of each special needs child
and provide evidence-based better practices that other
regional and international centres will adopt.”
Professor Kon Oi Lian
Division Head of Medical Sciences
National Cancer Centre Singapore
1
2
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RAINBOW NEWS
3.
“Mrs June Tham has been
a phenomenal leader for so
many years. I’m sad to see
her leave and I wish her all the
best in future undertakings.
My hopes and dreams for
the organisation will be the
focus on providing more
opportunities for our students
in co-curricular and sporting
activities so that we could
help them discover their
hidden potential.”
Ahmad Raziff
Special Education Teacher
Rainbow Centre - Yishun Park School
4.
“To remain passionate and
committed to our mission in
enhancing the quality of life of
children with special needs and
to stay relevant in the rapidly
changing early intervention and
special education landscape
in Singapore and AsiaPacific region.”
Eunice Kang
Senior Early Structured Teaching for
Exceptional Pupils Teacher
Rainbow Centre Early Intervention
Programme (Margaret Drive)
3
4
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
TALK SHOP
1
2
3
NURTURE OUR TALENTS
Have you ever purchased items designed by
children and youths with special needs? Here is
your chance to support and provide opportunities
for them to develop their talents and skills.
6
4
5
1.Tote Bag
S$5.00
4.Foldable Water Bottle
S$5.00 (per bottle)
2.Notebook and Pen
S$6.00 (per pack)
5.Sticky Memo Pad
S$3.00 (per piece)
3.Plant Card
S$2.00 (per card)
6.Sticky Note Kit
S$3.00
To purchase these items, please email Phek Muah Woon at
[email protected]
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
RAINBOW NEWS
| 11
WAYS OF GIVING
Your support makes a difference to the lives of our students with special needs. If you would like to contribute to
our cause, here are the various ways of giving:
Buy Our Products
We have a wide variety of products which are designed
by our students. Browse our online catalogue at
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg/index.php?id=59 and buy
products such as bags, stationery, coasters, and cards as
personal or corporate gifts.
Grant A Wish
Grant a wish to our students by donating items which would
make significant improvements to their lives. Wish granters
will be provided a wish list, with specific description of items,
quantity and estimated cost. Please contact our Head Office
at 6475 2072 for a discussion about making in-kind donations.
We request that all items are donated in good condition,
preferably new and with existing warranty if available.
Host A Fundraising Event
Host a fundraising event of your own with Rainbow Centre
Singapore as the beneficiary. The proceeds will go to support
our building project which will serve a total of 500 students
in our early intervention and special education programmes.
This event could be an anniversary celebration, marathon,
golf tournament, annual dinner and dance, exhibition, or
concert, among many others. Please contact our Head Office
at 6475 2072 if you would like to consider making us your
beneficiary or adopting us as a charity.
Make A Donation
Your donation enables our students to continue receiving
quality education and training to enhance their development
and potential, and supports specialised training for our staff.
You can channel your donation to us via SG Gives
at www.sggives.org/rainbow or GIVEasia at giveasia.
org/movement/rainbowcentre. Alternatively, you can
make a cheque payable to Rainbow Centre Singapore
with your name, mailing address, NRIC, FIN or UEN and
contact number on the reverse side of the cheque. Please
attention the cheque to the Deputy Director of Corporate
Services and mail it to Rainbow Centre Singapore at
501 Margaret Drive, Singapore 149306.
All donations to Rainbow Centre Singapore are
eligible for income tax exemption in accordance with the
Singapore Income Tax Law.
Volunteer With Us
Come share your time, skills, and energy with us as
a volunteer. Volunteer opportunities include helping
teachers in classroom and outdoor activities, carrying out
administrative tasks, fundraising and event organisation,
and offering professional services such as dentistry,
medical consultation and hairdressing. Visit our website
at rainbowcentre.org.sg/index.php?id=83 for more
information and to sign up as a volunteer.
ABOUT RAINBOW CENTRE SINGAPORE
Established in 1992, Rainbow Centre Singapore is a registered charity with the Registry of Societies and is approved
as an Institution of a Public Character under the Charities Act.
With a mission to enhance the quality of life of children with special needs through education and training,
the programmes and services at her early intervention centres and special education schools offer a holistic intervention
curriculum in the domains of language and communication skills, social and emotional skills, fine and gross motor
skills, cognitive skills and adaptive daily living skills. These programmes are provided by a multi-disciplinary team of
trained special education teachers, early intervention teachers and allied health professionals such as speech language
therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, music therapists, art therapists and social workers.
The parents and caregivers are also supported with a comprehensive programme including training and support groups.
Rainbow Centre Training & Consultancy, her training and consultancy arm, provides customised training and consultancy
services for professionals, caregivers and volunteers in Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region.
PUBLISHER
Rainbow Centre, Singapore
501 Margaret Drive
Singapore 149306 t. +65 6475 2072
f. +65 6473 9739
w. www.rainbowcentre.org.sg
EDITORIAL
Contributors
Managing Editor
Tan Sze Wee
Angela Lee
Cynthia Lee
Ginny Low
Ja’izah Hj Embek
Manoj Pathnapuram
Mohidin Shaniz Malik
Sub-editor
Zaq Omar
If you would like to find out
more about Rainbow Centre
Singapore and how you can
make a difference in the lives of
children and youths with special
needs, visit our website at
www.rainbowcentre.org.sg or
scan the QR code.
Member of
Najmunnisa Shaik Alawooden
Serene Ang
Siti Marliza Mohamed Ali
Swapna Mitter
Theresa Ng
Veronica Lim
Zaq Omar
Zoe Tan
We welcome contributions of
stories, subject to relevance and
editing. If you have something
newsworthy to share, please email the
sub-editor at [email protected].
sg. The Managing Editor reserves the
right to publish and the publisher accepts
no responsibility for the return of
manuscripts, photos or artwork submitted.
Supported by
Rainbow News is a bi-annually publication of Rainbow Centre Singapore. The views and opinions in Rainbow News are those expressed by the writers and/or contributors and do not reflect the official views
of Rainbow Centre Singapore. While every effort has been made in the collection, preparation and presentation of the material in this publication, no responsibility can be taken on how this information is
used by the reader, for any change that may occur after publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form, for any reason or by any means,
without the prior permission in writing from the publisher.