File - Christ Church National Police Cadet Corps

July 2015
Reflection of the Passing Out Parade
& Overall experience in CHRNPCC
The 4 years spent in NPCC has definitely taught me
many things and has also moulded me into a better
person. Out of all the many values, I've learnt, I would
like to talk about perseverance, responsibility and
forward-looking.
To have perseverance, one has to be persistent in
doing something despite of challenges. There were
many times I felt like giving up during drills/trainings
but the constant encouragement from my CIs,
teachers, officers and squad mates made me
persevere on. "With great power, comes great
responsibility." I am really thankful for the role as a
chairman and also being promoted to a Station
Inspector. Being a chairman was not easy and I did
struggle a lot with the heavy responsibilities on me. I
feel that as a chairman, we have to be a good role
model for others to follow, do what is right and be
responsible for our decisions/actions made.
Being a leader, one has to constantly think ahead.
He/she has to be prepared to face difficult situations
and to come up with solutions to solve them. I feel that
these are the 3 most valuable things I've learnt in
NPCC and I'll always remember the wonderful 4 years
journey in NPCC with my awesome Squad STEEL!
Reflection by: SI (NPCC) Debra Lee
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
July 2015
Reflection of the Passing Out Parade &
Overall experience in CHRNPCC Part 2
During the beginning days in NPCC, I never expected myself to be where I am standing now. I've
gone through so much through hardships and determination. I participated in the drill competition
from the NPCC Headquarters in Sec 2. My drills were considered the worst in sec 1. But after all the
trainings for the competition, I could say I am pretty good at drills, something I never thought I could
have achieved.
Four years of my life in NPCC was truly fruitful. We went through reprimands, disappointments and
sadness. But we overcame it together as a squad, as a team. I understand that we all may have
different ideas than the other; however, that is where we grow and become better leaders.
So many obstacles came across our way, but we stood together as one to overcome them and
persevere in our endeavours. During the Passing out Parade, I could not believe that my NPCC
journey has come to an end. Time flies when we are making full use of what we have. I was having
mixed feelings; sadness, happiness and nervousness. All these thoughts were running through my
mind. When we finally passed out, I felt that something was not complete. Feeling the pain of
having to part ways was definitely the hardest part. I never regret putting in my time and effort for
my CHR NPCC Family!
Reflection by Ssgt (NPCC) Agnes Heng
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
3
July 2015
I attended the Christ Church Secondary National Police
Cadet Corps Secondary One Orientation Camp 2015. We
played a variety of games such as the much awaited
amazing race. In that activity, we had to go to various
places of the school according to the clues given to
complete an objective.
Such activities enabled us to familiarise ourselves with the
school even better. Most importantly, we learnt how to
work with one another through the many stations. We had
to communicate with one another to effectively overcome
myriad of challenges in the obstacles.
This camp gave me an opportunity to get to know my
squad mates even better. We got to know one another’s
names and even know more about them such as where
they studied previously in primary school and also why
they joined NPCC as their CCA. I think this orientation
camp was indeed an enjoyable experience.
If given an opportunity to go for such camps again, I would
definitely go for it! After that camp, I decided that I would
join NPCC as my CCA as my cousin is currently in this
CCA as well. We can share and exchange different ideas
and methods and help one another the process. I am
looking forward to more exciting programmes in the
future!
PTE (NPCC) Xavier Lim
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
July 2015
MacRitchie Hike 2015
Christ Church Secondary School NPCC Unit organised our very own Macritchie Unit hike this year in 2015
with our Cadets, Cadet Inspectors and Officers. This is a large scale event that involves the whole unit and I
was glad to see many cadets, persevering and overcoming through the various obstacles along the way.
This activity breaks the monotony of weekly trainings and gave us the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility
amongst the hustle and bustle of city life. Thus, an important lesson came into play here. We ensured that
each and everyone of us were aware of our surroundings by always speaking softly to one another when we
needed to pass a message.
This opportunity also and inculcates a sense of appreciation to our natural environment and widened our
knowledge of the various flora and fauna in the area. The bracket fungi, mahang plant as well as the giant
forest ants were some of the many interesting flora and fauna that we had observed. Our physical education
lessons and NPCC physical training sessions came in handy during this hike as we trekked along the path.
The Secondary 3 Cadet Leaders stepped up to lead their respective groups. We checked with our group at
various points to see if everyone was doing fine and also reminded them to drink sufficient water to hydrate
themselves. The weather was very warm and this tired everyone out fast. We rested at various points to take
a short break as well as to enjoy the environment around us. As we moved, we as Cadet Leaders ensured
that we do not move too fast, as there will be some who might have difficulty in catching up. Hence, we
constantly monitored our pace to ensure no one is left behind- ‘One for all & All for one’
We reached the Tree Top Walk at approximately 11am. The Tree Top Walk is a 250m suspension bridge
between the two highest points of Macritchie. The panoramic views there was breathtaking and the long hike
there was totally worth it! This was a great bonding session amongst my juniors, squad mates,
cadet inspectors and officers. We are definitely looking for another trip like this soon!
Written by: SGT
Wong Cheng Hon and
(NPCC) Valerie Chee
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
(NPCC)
SGT
4
5
July 2015
On the 8th to 10th of June, CHR NPCC held its annual camp to allow our cadets to
strengthen the bond among one another. The camp was filled with fun activities like
100 tasks, mud obstacle course, and ‘splash splash’. There is saying, “Good friends
are hard to find, harder to leave, impossible to forget.”
For the first day, the cadets from the Sec 1 to 3s are required to fall in at the parade
square by 7.45am to commence the camp. The early time tests the cadet’s
punctuality, crucial in every aspect of our lives. We started the day with our first
activity, some simple ice-breaking games to get each group member familiarise with
each other since they will be attached together throughout the camp. It is heartening
to see the quieter cadets step out of their comfort zone, battling their fear and
introducing themselves.
On day two, we started the day with some physical training to ensure cadets get a
good work out. The day continued with our game called the ‘100 tasks’ where each
group member would have to cooperate with one another to complete a given list of
100 tasks. Such activity allows the cadets to grow deeper in understanding of their
strengths and weaknesses, giving them the ability to understand themselves better.
Another highlight of day two would be the passing-out parade (POP) where the
Sec 4s officially leave the unit, not forgetting memories and experiences that are
etched in their hearts for a lifetime. It was a time filled with tears of joy, keeping in
mind the fact that they might not be able to come together again as a squad. The
atmosphere was solemn with a hanging air of gratitude as the juniors watch each
Sec 4 step out to receive their awards and medal of recognition for their service.
Afterwards, everyone helped themselves to a hearty meal of pizza for dinner.
However, the day does not end there; everyone was prepared and hyped up for
campfire. The mood was festive as everyone enjoyed themselves fully while
watching the performances put up by each of the 8 groups and the surprise
performances by the Sec 3s and 4s. As the fire burned down, the tone grew mellow
as we came closer to the end of the campfire. Having exhausted all our energy,
everyone ended the day on a high note however tiresome they felt.
The third day of the camp was another one that we had been looking forward to.
The first major event we had was the obstacle course. The Secondary 3 Cadet
Leaders woke up half an hour earlier to prepare the field. The cadets were
required to crawl under benches and make their way around the field. With a sure
spirit, everyone plucked up the courage to do it.
As for washing up, we integrated that with ‘splash splash’; an activity that fosters
active communication as each team use their feet to hold up a bucket of water, if
someone puts in too little or too much effort, the bucket will tilt over and soak
everyone. This activity taught the cadets the importance of communication and
teamwork. Even though some might be tired, they still persevered as a team to
complete the task.
Ending on that note, everyone went home with a light heart and memories that
shall never be forgotten. As for the Sec 3 seniors, it was their first time taking
over the whole unit for such a major event. The success of the camp is attributed
every single Secondary 3 cadet. Staying back countless of days before the
actual camp to meticulously plan each activity together with constant feedback
from our Sirs and Mams to help us improve. From the logistics to activities
planning and preparation to the administration, every role is significant. Each of
us had a role to play in this annual camp in making this a successful one. Having
been part of this camp, I must say that it really thought me a lot about myself and
how I handle datelines. It opened my eyes and widened my horizon.
I am grateful to the teacher for giving all of us this opportunity to lead the juniors,
we went in head first and never turned our heads back. This camp made a deep
impact to each and every one of the cadets, where everyone got to know their
unit mates better and refreshing their passion for NPCC.
Written by: CPL (NPCC) Alwin Moo
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
6
July 2015
Mount Belumut, standing at 1010 metres, is located in the state
of Johor, Malaysia. 8 students from NPCC, students from other
Uniformed Group as well as the Outdoor Activities Club
students were selected to climb Mount Belumut. I am very
grateful that I was given this opportunity to climb Mount
Belumut. It was a memorable trip for all of us!
There’s a saying, “Nothing comes easy without effort”. I truly
understood this saying after the trip. Before the Belumut
Expedition, we had several trainings to train us physically and
mentally in preparation for Mount Belumut. The training
sessions were physically draining as we were informed that
Mount Belumut wasn’t going to be that easy. All of us
understood the importance of attending the trainings, so that we
will be prepared in facing our actually challenge in time to
come.
We began the climb on the 3rd of June at about 9am and
reached the base at 6.30pm. The whole climb took us about 10
hours. There were four checkpoints we had to pass by before
we eventually reached the summit. We faced many difficulties
and challenges throughout the entire duration of the climb.
However, these challenges taught us about teamwork,
endurance and perseverance. Some of us were on the verge of
giving up but our squad mates encouraged and motivated each
other to press on and persevere. There were obstacles we had
to overcome to get to the summit. Branches, rocks, steep stones
and trees were in the way. I saw insects that we rarely get to
see back in Singapore. We had to use the branches or trees
around us to pull ourselves up. Some trees had thorns so
unknowingly, as we pulled ourselves up, we would get cut by
these thorns.
The most challenging part of the climb for me was from the third
The most challenging part of the climb for me was from the third checkpoint to the fourth checkpoint. The stones
were most steep at that part and of course, climbing up wasn’t an easy task. We used ropes and the help of my
squad mates to pull myself up. It felt like I was rock climbing, just that there wasn’t any safety harness or whatsoever.
Even though it was the most challenging part for me, I had the most fun progressing from the third checkpoint to the
fourth checkpoint. Finally, most of us reached the checkpoint at 2pm after climbing for 6 hours. When I reached the
summit, I felt a sense of achievement and the feeling just cannot be described. We felt so accomplished and proud of
ourselves for being able to reach the summit.
The next challenge we all faced was returning to base. I had thoughts in my mind, ‘How are we going to make our
way down? Climbing down is definitely worse than climbing up.’ We had a short break at the summit, munching on
the chicken burgers that were given before the climb. After 45 minutes, we started our trek back to base. I was more
motivated in returning to base. We took about 4 hours for our trek back to base. Fatigue started to kick in after the
second checkpoint onwards. My legs were shivering and my muscles were aching badly. That slowed down my pace
and at a point, I felt like giving up. My friends constantly motivated me encouraged me to persevere and that I could
do it. It was indeed a challenge returning to the base but our effort paid off. We finally returned to base at around
6.30pm. All of us were ecstatic that we completed this arduous journey, which tested us physically and mentally. All
the difficulties and challenges along the way really applied to this quote, “It is not the mountain we conquer but
ourselves.” What an experience it was!
Written by: CPL (NPCC) Valerie Chee Ziwei
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
7
July 2015
“I ask not for a lighter burden, but for broader shoulders”
would be the phrase to summarise my experience in the
88th Cadet Inspector Basic Training Course (CIBTC)
organised by the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC)
Head Quarters. The 6 weeks spent in Home Team
Academy has surely taught me many lessons, ranging
from sword drills to persevering through the toughest of
days. The biggest challenge every June course trainee
experiences would be juggling between school and
CIBTC.
Lesson plans had to be done throughout the week and
not during Residential Camp itself, making school nights longer and sleeping hours shorter. Another difference
would be the lack of time we faced as we were only limited to 4 sessions of 10 hour modular courses (MCs), one 5
Day Residential Course and 1 Adventure Training Camp (ATC). This gave us lesser time to get to know our squad
mates but still required us to work together as though we knew each other for years.
Every trainee’s experience in CIBTC would differ from one another. For me, this CIBTC journey was very demanding and tough. Having to find the balance between assignments and NPCC homework was the most tedious task.
Being a person with not the best time management skills, I found myself getting drained out more easily as the
days went by. Moreover, I was losing faith in myself as I felt that I was not as deserving as the other trainees. I felt
very inferior and the urge to give up and pretend that CIBTC never existed was kicking in.
I was at a crossroad and I was very unsure of what to do. That was when the phrase came in. During our final
squad debrief for Residential Course day 5, my Squad Instructor Wei Ming decided to share with us a short quote“I ask not for a lighter burden, but for broader shoulder”. He then got us to close our eyes and reflect on why we
decided to attend CIBTC. It was then when I realized that I had forgotten what had motivated me to come for this
course and that was the main reason why I felt like giving up. I had almost forgotten about the unit that had guided
and moulded me to be person I am today. The unit that taught me many values and helped me gain several
experiences and life lessons that I would never trade for every gem in the world. I wanted to give back to the place
that had strengthened me and given me so much, that was my motivation to pull through CIBTC.
CIBTC was meant to mainly reinstate our knowledge in NPCC and teach us how to guide our future cadets but I
can confidently say that CIBTC was done more than that for me. It taught me to stay strong, to be confident of
whatever lies ahead of me. It taught me to be brave and has taught me how to endure and persevere through
hardships. If given the opportunity to reconsider my decision to join the 88th CIBTC, I would stick to my choice of
attending it. Thank you Christ Church NPCC Unit for giving me such an amazing opportunity and I look very
forward to bringing the unit to greater heights!
Written by: P/CI (NPCC) Jazprith Kaur
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
Written by: P/CI (NPCC) Jazprith Kaur
Edited by: SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram
8
July 2015
Christ Church Secondary School NPCC Unit volunteers from Secondary three had an opportunity to participate in
the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) Rainbow 50 project, held in conjunction with SG50. This
experience enabled us to serve, make a difference in the lives of the families and also to give back to our community. The Rainbow 50 project was started by SINDA to create a more conducive living environment for the families.
Teenagers and youths from all walks of life came together to help clean the houses of those in need,
especially those who are physically disabled as well as our elderly residents.
On the 12th of July, 2015, we headed down to SINDA headquarters at Beatty Road for our briefing session with our
Officer in Charge and Cadet Inspector. During the orientation, we learned about the house we will be visiting for the
day and read up on the family's background on what areas we can assist them in. We were each given a SINDA
Rainbow 50 T-shirt for easy identification during the home cleaning project.
As I made our way to our allocated house, thoughts were flowing through my mind. Many of us often have our
parents or maids to help us clean our rooms and house. However, there are people who have difficulties in doing
these tasks because of many reasons. It can be difficult for those who have injuries, having to bend down to pick
up litter, or to sweep the floor. Having to dust the top of the walls and to pick up things to shift from one place to
another are many things we at times take for granted. Hence, we had this mind set to do the best we can to help
the family members and give them a more conducive living environment.
The boys and girls in my group were split into two groups. The boys went to get new cabinets for the family, and
the girls started to clean up. We worked together as a team, hand-in-hand, together with our fellow volunteers from
other walks of life. Armed with our masks and gloves we stepped into action, following the family’s instructions very
carefully. We shifted items to the respective areas and arranged items neatly and conveniently so that the family
members will have easy access to it. We also discarded items which the family member’s did not need any more,
thus, freeing up more space. We also assisted them in sweeping and dusting areas, especially where it may be
difficult for them to reach.
I have also learnt something important in this project which is empathy. We did come across insects such as cockroaches and lizards during the home cleaning session. We had to think very carefully about what we say; as even
the smallest of things may hurt people. Hence, putting ourselves in their shoes is vital. The storage boxes that we
bought also greatly helped the family member’s store their clothing in an organised and convenient manner, enabling them to find their clothes easily. At the end of the day, we thanked the family greatly for inviting us into their
home to contribute in whatever way we could to make someone happy at the end of the day.
Helping one another and making a difference, even though it might be small is something that I have learnt through
this great experience. To end off, a noteworthy quote by Sir Winston Churchill; ‘We make a living by what we get,
but we make a life by what we give’
Written by: Sgt (NPCC) Nicholas Ng Zhi Yong & Sgt (NPCC) Berlynn Ong
Edited by SCI (NPCC) VISHNU RAM
Written by: SGT (NPCC) Nicholas Ng Zhi Yong & SGT (NPCC) Berlynn Ong
Edited by SCI (NPCC) Vishnu Ram