Each Therapist work with the client to set personal goals for their therapy- e.g. what they really want to do once they are discharged from the hospital or programme. Caregivers are also assessed during this early stage. Therapists would submit values for overall assessment into their system and outcome measures are submitted to higher authorities/agencies to be tracked.

Idea for NLS-Team Assessment of at-risk students could be done on a single platform so we are all literally and figuratively on the same page.

Values or attributes may be assigned for different assessment items and individualised/stretch goals of students could be tracked. Students' overall/holistic assessment and progress could be tracked.

I notice parallels in the way in which we go about our work in NLS, especially in the pastoral aspects of listening, counselling and offering hope. As NLS educators, we sometimes have to work with our students through their personal circumstances, be it their parents' pending divorce or incarceration, students getting into vices with social consequences, their lack of immediate basic needs when parents suddenly lose their income etc. If we could, I'm certain we all want to help them take away their problems or change their situation, but often that is beyond us. At times, the best we can do is help them reframe, encourage them, care by offering them ways to think positively or express gratitude, while we listen and counsel them. Our work in NLS is often pastoral in nature. While we try to help them, sometimes we too can be emotionally drained. We have to also take care of ourselves so that we can give our students our full presence, time and attention when they need it.

Just as the Pastoral carers at MAH PCU are blessed to journey with their patients to provide them hope and comfort, likewise we at NLS are blessed to provide hope and holistic care for our students.

https://forewordcoffee.com/

One key trait is learned helplessness expressed in the form of self-pity on family situation and over-reliance on the school support.

There is a similar observation of wildlife saved in ACRES. Some wildlife were injured when they enter the sanctuary. Not all but some of the animals grew to over rely on ACRES support (not ideal) and this affects their natural ability to survive in the world.

Similarly, NLS students ability to survive in the real world can be jeopardised if there are overdependencies.

Suggest to build in elements of the Real World in NLS.

Simple Example:

Students to be in charge of School Cleaning as versus served by cleaners.

Vocational Examples:

ICT Representatives (Students) run the school instagram & other youth-centric social media accounts under the guidance and supervision of ICT, MBS and IT Club teachers.

Facilities Representatives (FS Students) repair the broken door knobs, fire extinguishers, lightings, etc under the guidance and supervision of FS teachers.

Retail Representatives (Students) run the LifeShop and NLS Supermarket like a cooperative society under the guidance and supervision of Retail teachers.

Hospitality Representatives (Students) run the cafeteria to serve food for the whole student population under the guidance and supervision of Hospitality teachers.

ComCare Representatives (Students) run the first aid services for the school especially for the manageable cases like panic attacks, hyperventilation and small cuts under the guidance and supervision of ComCare teachers.

The expectations work as they are easy to understand for both the staff and the children and are especially effective in forming routines.

Keep things simple: There's no need for 15 expectations which nobody can remember anyway. All the qualities that we want our NLS students to possess can be subsumed under one of the 3 simple expectations.

Teachers will refer to the images of good practices whenever the students misbehave and reaffirm the positive behaviour.

The process of creating ideas without any boundaries initially and then narrowing them further which are relevant and feasible at the last step will enrich our students in realising that they can be creative and do not involve any complicated steps.

From 12 Nov 2024, Daniel, Kwan, and Hamdan embarked on an unforgettable 2-day work experience at Mitsubishi Electric, a pioneering leader in innovative technologies. This exciting opportunity provided a comprehensive insight into the company's rich history, dating back to 1921, and its cutting-edge products.

Day 1: Company Tour and Product Exploration

The first day began with a fascinating company tour, showcasing Mitsubishi Electric's impressive portfolio of products and solutions. The highlight of the day was the Robot Making Coffee Station, which seamlessly integrated AI technology to craft the perfect cup. This hands-on experience demonstrated the company's commitment to innovation and automation.

Day 2: Training and Familiarization of New Aircon System with R32 refrigerant.

On the second day, the group participated in an engaging training session focused on Mitsubishi Electric's newest air conditioning system and refrigerator technology, featuring the eco-friendly R32 refrigerant. This interactive session provided valuable knowledge on the latest advancements in HVAC and refrigeration.

An Eye-Opening Experience

This 2-day work experience was an eye-opener, showcasing Mitsubishi Electric's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence. Daniel, Kwan, and Hamdan left with a deeper understanding of the company's history, products, and commitment to shaping the future of technology.

Testimonials

"The robot coffee station was amazing! I'm impressed by Mitsubishi Electric's innovative spirit." - Daniel

"The training session on R32 refrigerant technology was incredibly informative." - Kwan

"This experience has inspired me to pursue a career in technology and innovation." - Hamdan

This work experience not only broadened their knowledge but also ignited their passion for innovative technologies.

On 15 November, our group embarked on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Changi Airport's Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. This enlightening experience showcased the airport's innovative design, architecture, and technological advancements.

Terminal 2: Aircon System Exploration

We delved into the intricate backend design of Terminal 2's air conditioning system, discovering its impressive capabilities:

- Massive heat exchanger systems

- 2-stage filtration systems

- Intelligent detection and monitoring systems

- Huge blower fans

The system, comprising 4 chillers and over 24 Air Handling Units (AHUs), automatically adjusts to meet the terminal's dynamic heat load demands.

Terminal 4: Electrical Design and Innovation

Next, we explored Terminal 4's electrical design and concept, featuring:

- Advanced USB charging ports with safety protections

- Redundancy systems ensuring seamless airport operations

- Customized design considerations for ICA, check-in counters, baggage handling, and more

Changi Airport's commitment to innovation and passenger safety is evident in every aspect of its design.

Key Takeaways

- Changi Airport boasts one of the most advanced air conditioning systems globally

- Attention to detail in electrical design ensures passenger safety and convenience

- Redundancy systems guarantee uninterrupted airport operations

This work experience tour left us in awe of Changi Airport's cutting-edge infrastructure. With its relentless pursuit of innovation, Changi Airport solidifies its position as one of the world's best airports.

Fun fact: the thousands of heavy glass panels that made up the external roof covering of the Greenhouse at Jewel Changi as well as the Esplanade were stuck on their s/steel frames with 3M tapes!