Cultural Immersion Programme 2009/2010

View More Photos at Picassa

2010-07-24T22:52:00.001+08:00

Hi all, you may want to follow the following links for more pictures captured during the inbound trip from 11th to 18th July 2010

Universal Studio

Marina Barrage

Singapore Discovery Centre

Welcome Ceremony

D&T & HE Lesson

Heritage Trail

Welcome at Changi Airport + Dinner

1507 Day 5 Universal Studio

2010-07-21T23:00:00.001+08:00

The day everyone is waiting for... UNIVERSAL STUDIO!!! Here We Come...

1407 Day 4 Marina Barrage/Merlion/Singapore Flyer

2010-07-21T22:59:00.001+08:00

1307 Day 3 Home Econs lesson

2010-07-16T16:29:00.000+08:00

The pupils also had an opportunity to show off their culinary skills. Ms Danz Tan taught them how to prepare curry puffs

Full concentration

The teachers also try their hand at making the curry puffs

Ms Danz Tan helping our friend

Be careful!

1307 Day 3 D&T lessons

2010-07-13T22:18:00.000+08:00

Our friends had D&T and Home econs lesson today. It is quite refreshing to them because they do not have D&T in vietnam. However, most of them picked up the skills very fast.

Mr How and Mr Jumari teaching the pupils the steps

Listening attentively

Mr How showing the pupils how to hold the chisel

Hard at work

The interested teachers observing closely

'This is how you do it ...'

'A bit more ...'

Look at my project!

Our final product

Mr Phuc trying his hands at D & T

12 July Day 2 Arrival of Vietnamese to NVSS

2010-07-13T06:58:00.000+08:00

The CIP pupils came early to prepare for the arrival of the Vietnamese. The school has prepared a welcome assembly for them. The lower sec were in the hall to wait for their arrival. After which, there were performances from the Malay Dance, Chinese Dance, Indian drummers, Samuel from 4A1 playing a solo piece on the piano and the Vietnamese themselves.

Nathalie? Are you there?

They have arrived!!

Tradition Malay Kompang performance to welcome them

Settling down in the hall, waiting for the welcome ceremony to begin

11 July Day 1 Dinner at Sengkang

2010-07-11T22:03:00.000+08:00

We brought our Vietnamese friends to have a taste of our local culture by bringing them to a kopitiam to have dinner.

Catching up on old times ...
The teachers who came this time round are actually new to this trip except Mr Phuc

Group photo after the meal

Can you spot our pupils?

11 July 2010 Our Friends Are Here!! : )

2010-07-11T15:25:00.000+08:00

Our Vietnamese friends arrived today at about 11.40am. We were there at Terminal 1 to welcome them

Group 1 + some other members from other groups present at the airport

So excited to see them!

Group photo

Lending a helping hand to our tired friends

Walking towards the coach

This will be their personal transport for their next 8 days

Videos will be uploaded later

Final Instructions for Hosting of Vietnamese Students (11 - 18 July)

2010-07-08T04:38:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

Well, it's just a few more days before our Vietnamese friends arrive and we know that you're really excited about it. Do take note of the following instructions so that you will also be prepared for it! :)

1) Welcoming Vietnamese Friends at the Airport

Those who are not officially involved in the welcome at the airport on 11 Jul (Sun), but would like to do so, are to inform Ms Danz Tan latest by 10 Jul (Sat), 5pm.

2) Morning assembly on 12 July (Mon)

On the morning of 12 Jul, you are to join your class for the flag raising ceremony in the parade square. After that, all except groups 3 and 4 will proceed to the back of the hall quietly and sit in two rows behind the last class. Groups 3 and 4 will wait at the concourse to welcome the arrival of the Vietnamese friends (please pass your bags to those going to the hall). The welcome ceremony will last from 8 - 8.30am and the lower secondary pupils will be part of the audience.

3) Swapping of Duties Between Group 2 and Groups 3 & 4

Please take note that Group 3 & 4 will be down for duty on Monday while Group 2 will be down on Tuesday instead. This is because Discovery Centre is not open on Monday.

4) Missing of Lessons

You have already been informed of when you are down for duty and would be missing lessons. Please ensure that you inform your respective subject teachers about it and get a buddy to collect assignments for you. It is your responsibility to find out what you have missed during the lessons. Those who are still unsure of the timings, please refer to the information below.

All students (including the three 4A1 pupils) will be away from class on

· Day 1 (12^th July) from 0730 – 1045,

· Day 3 (14^th July) from 0900 – 1000 and

· Day 4 (15^th July) from 0900 – 1630.

Groups Which Will Be Out of Class

- Group 2: Day 2

- Groups 3 & 4: Day 1

- Groups 5: Day 3

See you on Monday!

Mrs Ong :)

Meeting 29th June on Com Lab 3

2010-06-30T08:00:00.000+08:00

Dear boys & girls,
just some videos on you playing game and singing song in yesterday's meeting....

Sunday's high tea @ North View Secondary School:
Participants: All CIP members and hosting parents, NGTHS students & teachers
Time: 3pm (*There will be a farewell ceremony in the AVA after the high tea session)
Date: 18th July 2010, Sunday
Attire: Casual smart
p/s: (bring lots of tissue papers)

Shining Star

2010-06-29T23:45:00.000+08:00

Hi people,

I've uploaded the song onto the blog.
Please try to memorise the lyrics to the song.
And lets try to hit 5000 target before your friends are here!

Submission of Songs and Itinerary

2010-06-21T13:40:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

Please submit your songs and itinerary to nvssvietnam@gmail.com instead. Deadline will still stand as 23 Jun (5pm). For those who have submitted to the other email account, no worries about it, you do not need to submit again.

Thanks! Enjoy your hols while it lasts! :)

Regards,
Mrs Ong

Video that was supposed to show

2010-05-26T21:58:00.001+08:00

Hi parents,

Thank you for your attendance for this evening's briefing... Apologise for the technical problems during the briefing, resulting in not being able to show the video as planned...

No problem, we have uploaded here :)

As for the pupils, let's revive the memories last November in Vietnam... Enjoy!!!

Rehearsing the International Friendship Song in Vietnamese

2010-05-26T11:09:00.000+08:00

Hmnn....alot of us forget the tune.....never mind, we can do it better during the next rehearsal...this song brings back sweet memories.....

Meeting @ Com Lab 3 25th May, Tuesday 2.45pm -4pm

2010-05-26T11:03:00.000+08:00

Absent with apologies: Mr. Leong, Jia Qin, Ruelia and Hari

Topics that were covered during the meeting:

Updating of contact list

Pairing of NVSS and NGTHS students

Hosting List

Itinerary of Exchange period 11^th – 18^th July 2010

Assignment to be carried out prior to the exchange programme

Rehearsing the International Friendship Song in vietnamese

Deadlines of given assignment:

By 27^th May, Thursday à Information regarding parents’ attendance on Sunday farewell lunch (18^th July)

By 16^th June, Wednesday à One chosen song per CIP group (information to include song title, music and lyrics)

By 20^th June, Sunday à Planned Itinerary on 15^th – 18^th July per CIP student (information to include dates, time, meals, places of interest and activities)

By 28^th June, Monday à To inform Ms Danz Tan if you are going to send your buddy off at the airport after the farewell lunch and also if you are unable to attend any of the required activities during the hosting period due to competition etc. (only valid reasons apply)

By 2^nd July, Friday à To inform your CCA teacher regarding the attachment of your Vietnamese buddy on the CCA day 16^th July, Friday

Alive and Kicking!!

2010-05-13T23:01:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

Its been a while since the last posting. So lets get ready to get this blog alive again because your Vietnamese friends will be here very soon!!

For a start, we need to meet all of you.

Please spread the message

When : 25 May (Tuesday)
Where : MR1
Time : 2.45pm

Please also remind your parents that there will be a briefing for them on 26 May (Wednesday) at 7pm, AVA room.

Happy New Year From ALL of US!!

2010-01-08T12:50:00.000+08:00

Hello!! Here's wishing you a happy new year!

Can't wait to see you in July!!

Happy New Year to All

2010-01-03T12:31:00.000+08:00

A happy 2010 New Year to ALL. In case you missed the count down party at the Float, here's a short clip on the earlier segment of the firework. The firework lasted about 8 minutes during the party......

More memories...

2009-12-15T23:19:00.000+08:00

Departing for Vietnam, remember???

2009-12-15T15:23:00.000+08:00

"Makan" Cheer

2009-12-15T14:27:00.000+08:00

Creating our "Bowls" at Minh Long

2009-12-15T13:27:00.000+08:00

Farewell Ceremony Video

2009-12-01T10:26:00.000+08:00

Hi all, the video for the farewell ceremony during our stay in Vietnam has been uploaded. Enjoy.

We felt like Top of the World

2009-11-30T14:58:00.000+08:00

On their last night, the pupils and teachers went to a cruise dinner. The pupils put on their best attire. And really, the joy coming from them on that night was so spontaneous as they sang Top of the World. It really reflected how they felt at that moment.

Our Masterpieces - What We Learned

2009-11-29T09:29:00.000+08:00

Remember the visit to Minh Long Ceramics Factory? We were given a very short time to complete the bowl. It really brings the creativity out of us.

So, we must bear in mind that in life, sometimes we do not have the luxury of time e.g. when it comes to your studies. We can't wait till the last minute to revise for exams, it should be a consistent effort throughout the year.

It also shows that if we put our heart and soul to doing something, the end result is worthwhile and rewarding.

Modest 5000 Target

2009-11-28T15:19:00.000+08:00

Hi all, we've inserted a counter to this blog to track the number of visitors.

Its good to see some of you (esp those in the 2008 batch) are still very active in this blog.

We intend to hit the magical 5000 visits or more by next July when your Vietnamese friends are here. Let's spread the message (tell your Vietnamese buddies and those who went for the CIP) to keep this blog alive.

After spending more than week together, the pupils have fostered a closer friendship

Happy Teacher's Day to our Vietamese teachers

2009-11-20T23:20:00.000+08:00

Today is Teacher's Day in Vietnam...

From all the staff and pupils in North View Secondary School, we wish all teachers in Nguyen Gia Thieu High School "A Happy Teacher's Day"

We Are Back in Singapore!!!

2009-11-18T01:20:00.001+08:00

Hi Everyone

We have landed safely in Singapore at 1030 pm (Singapore time)... Thank you to pupils and staff of Nguyen Gia Thieu High School for sending us off at the airport...

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the pupils, teachers, vice-principals, principal and parents in Nguyen Gia Thieu High School for their kind hospitality during our immersion programme. You have given us a new perspective of Vietnam, we will never forget your warmth, friendliness and joy. Let's keep this friendship going, do not stop the communication, and let us reconnect next July in Singapore!

We will definitely going to miss NGTHS and of course, Vietnam!!!

Cam On !

Thank You Teachers, Parents & Pupils of NGTHS, Hometsay Buddies, Thank You HCMC!

2009-11-17T10:12:00.000+08:00

The pupils of NVSS would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation to their buddies who hosted them.

Message From all of Us!!

2009-11-17T00:47:00.002+08:00

Hello parents, your kids made a video on 161109 to remind you about their arrival tomorrow (171109)

Day 8 - 161109 Cruise Dinner

2009-11-17T00:47:00.001+08:00

As it was the group's last night in HCMC, the pupils and teachers went to a special dinner on board a boat. There were live singing and a lot of music. Dinner was served first and soon after, the boat set off.

The highlight of the night was we suprised our November birthday babies with a big birthday cake. we tricked them into leaving the dinner table so that their friends can get ready to sing the birthday song for them.

Towards the end, Mrs Ong and the pupils sang 'Top of the World'

The birthday cake for Indira, Xuan Qi and Qiao-min

Day 8 - 161109 School for the Blind

2009-11-17T00:46:00.000+08:00

The pupils went to the School for the Blind. There are 3 Schools for the Blind in Vietnam and one of them is located in HCMC. This school does not only teach the blind the basic reading and writing skillls but they also train them to be independent and survivor skills. They will slowly integrate themselves into society.

Our pupils listening to the principal

The principal for the School for the Blind

The school is like a typical mainstream school. Look at the levels.

Small class class number like this is very normal. This is to ensure the kids receive the most attention. Parents volunteer their services in this school

Our pupils taking a photo with the cute children

Look closely, can you see anything?

They are actually braille which allows the children to read

Some of the pupils in the school are not totally blind, some can't see very well. Therefore they need the lights to help them.

A thank you card made by a pupil

To make learning easier for them, the teachers embossed diagrams onto textbooks to reinforce what they have taught

No, they are not sleeping but listening to stories in the library

The machine that print all the textbooks

The local pupils performinng for us. And they are really good.

Our pupils and teachers enjoying the performance
Presenting souvenires to the local pupils

Group photo

Imagining being in the life of a blind person

They are very happy and they love to sing

This boy was being videoed but he should realise this and went up the staircase very quickly

Playing like normal kids

Reflections on HCMC

2009-11-16T01:23:00.000+08:00

Our pupils grew up in Singapore which is already developed with modern and advanced technology. If they observe HCMC through bus journeys everyday, they can imagine Singapore like this about 40 - 50 years ago. This is because they must not forget the efforts of our forefathers in building what Singapore is today.

They must remain humble and learn from our Vietnamese friends

This scene is still very common on the road of HCMC. Sometimes you have 4 persons: 2 adults and 2 toddlers.

Wires and more wires. These wires looks very unsightly but it keeps the city going

Roadside stalls are very common. People will just sit down by the road and eat their food. Notice the short tool they sit on.

Every where you go, you see stalls like this is and it is very common.

An old lady carrying fruits, trying to sell them while going from one place to another. This is what we call food delivery.

Half hatched egg...

They boil the egg when the duckling is going to be developed.

Day 7 - 151109 Handicapped Handicraft Centre

2009-11-15T21:53:00.000+08:00

After Cu Chi Tunnel, the pupils went to a Handicapped Handifrafts centre.

These duck eggshells are used to make the paintings. Duck eggshells instead of chicken eggshells are used because duck eggshells are thicker.

Worker using the crushed duck eggshells to piece up the painting

This piece of painting won a prize in one of the competition in Vietnam. Does it look like a painting? If you look closely, it is made up of pieces of duck eggshells.

Day 7 - 151109 Cu Chi Tunnel

2009-11-15T20:52:00.001+08:00

Cu Chi Tunnel shows how adaptable and creativity the Viet Congs are during the Vietnam War. In order to prevent the Americans from taking over the village, Viet Congs dug tunnels and set up homes inside the tunnel. The tunnels are very complex but are very neffective in stopping the Americans. The tunnel can go as long as 50km!

The pupils got a chance to walk for 80 metres inside the tunnel.

Sandals made of tyres. Used tyres were cut up into pieces and brought down to the tunnel. Then the local women will start to make the sandals. One interesting thing about the sandal is that it can be worn 2 ways. One is to mislead the Americans e.g. if the Viet Cons want to go north, they may want to reverse the way they wear their sandals to trick the Americans they are going South!

These empty shells were left behind by the Americans when their army bombed Cu Chi Village. The Viet Congs collecteed them and make them into deadly weapons to fight against the Americans

First you don't see it...

...now, you do. Tunnels dug by the Viet Congs. They are just big enough for the smaller size Viet Congs to fit in.

Group photo in front of a destroyed American tank.

One of the many ingenious traps made by the Viet Congs to kill thier enemies.

Xuan Qi coming out of the tunnel

Finally, Ruelia is out too.

Shufang demostrating how to get into the tunnel

One of the many deadly traps set up by the Viet Congs

Making of rice paper

Day 7 - 151109 On the Way to Cu Chi Tunnel

2009-11-15T20:38:00.000+08:00

After one night back at the hotel again, the pupils have a group photo before setting off to Cu Chi Tunnel.
Photos taken on the coach during the trip. Not all photos are here because some of them were sleeping and in very unglam position : )

Homestay photos

2009-11-15T20:17:00.000+08:00

Some of the photos taken by the pupils during their homestay
Parent of one of our pupil's buddy

Each house has very steep staircase

Shu Hui and Annabel with their buddy and sister

The sprialling staircase

Most houses are at least 3 levels high

3 computers in one room...

...another 3 in another room.

This house has 6 computers!!

Shijie's and Hari's buddy and family

A view from outside

A typical house

Wee Siang with his buddies

Spacious room

Wee Siang, Ding Heng and their buddy's family

Day 6 - 141109 Coming Back from Homestay

2009-11-15T17:38:00.000+08:00

Our pupils camee back from their homestay on Saturday. The teachers picked them up from NGTHS in the afternoon and went for dinner straight from there.

Bonding Performance

2009-11-15T02:22:00.000+08:00

Our pupils put up a performance for their Vietnamese friends. pupils from the 2 schools sang songs which they have learned during their stay together.

Back from Home Stay, Back to Hotel

2009-11-14T18:25:00.000+08:00

Dear parents

The pupils have reached their hotel after their home stay. Below are their new room numbers from today till departure.

Vien Dong Hotel

Tel: (84-8) 8368941

Room 401 Mrs June Ong, Ms Danz Tan & Ms Chan SY

Room 510 Mr Leong WP & Mr How

Room 405 Norrasydah & Shu Fang

Room 417 Shi Hui & Annabel

Room 516 Ruelia & Indira

Room 403 Sheryl & Jia Qin

Room 416 Allie & Saranya

Room 407 Qiao-min & Jian Hui

Room 517 Xuan Qi & Shu Wen

Room 415 April & Pei Zhen

Room 504 Shi Jie & Hari

Room 404 Ding Heng & Wee Siang

Room 402 Zen Hoe & Kenneth

Room 410 Dominic & Amirul Akmal

Room 406 Ameerulddin & Amirul

Room 704 Wei Xhan, Justin & Xuan Zhao

Room 711 Tour Agent, Kenny

Day 4 - 121109 Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP)

2009-11-13T03:04:00.000+08:00

The pupils went to the VSIP in the afternoon. Once you reached the VSIP, you suddenly feel like you've come to to Singapore because inside the industrial park, the surrounding is so similar to Singapore in many ways e.g. the ornamental trees and plants by the roadside, the clean area, properly laid roads. We even noticed a truck moving slowly watering the roadside plants - typical Singapore style!!

The park is very huge - about 150 hectares.

The pupils went to a shoe factory inside the industrial park to see the production of a shoe

The sign telling us we have arrived at VSIP

The entrance: from here onwards, you see a lot of things which are very similar to Singapore

The pupils looking at workers in the assembly line

Cutting out tthe mould

Heating the glue to make melt

Almost done

End product

Ready for export

Day 4 - 121109 Minh Long Ceramic Plaza

2009-11-13T02:58:00.000+08:00

The pupils arrived at Minh Long Ceramic plaza after their lunch. We expected to see a run down factory but instead we saw a huge building with modern facilities. The whole place sells ceramic stuff. It was told that whenever the president of Vietnam decides to visit another country, he would get the company to do a ceramic sounvenir as gifts to the other country.

The pupils were given the opportunity to design and make their ceramic bowl

Day 4 - 121109 Maths Lesson

2009-11-13T02:52:00.000+08:00

In the morning , the pupils attended a maths lesson conducted by their teacher. The standard of maths was as high as Singapore and the 2 sets of pupils actually helped one another to try to solve the maths problems.

Day 4 - 121109 Reflection on 1st Night of Homestay by Pupils

2009-11-13T00:17:00.000+08:00

Shuwen: Me and my buddy could communicate but could not understand her sometimes and she would always repeat her sentence without getting angry. Her family members treat Xuanqi and me super good and let me feel so warm and welcome : ) and her bed which we sleep were big and the bathroom was wow!!! were as big as a room HaHa : ) !!! I will and I would enjoy myself and will ask them about their culture and more.

Jesslyn: My buddy's parents are very friendly towards us. They also explain their family's background to us. They are also thoughtful as they took the trouble to prepare towels and even ask us to treat the house as our own. Yesterday's activities were quite fun, although they made me feel tired.

Xuan Qi: We had a lot to chat; like we would talk forever like that.. My buddy and her family were so friendly towards us. I have her bed, is quite big and nice to sleep... hehe!!! I had sweet dreams when I sleep on her bed. Her bathroom is SUPER BIG!!! Arghhh..... as big as a room.... haha!!! :)

Justin: My buddy treats me pretty well. His parents warmly welcomed me to their house. After we had reached, we had some bonding. We played badminton together. They also introduced us to their neighbours. My buddy's mum is a nurse and dad is working close to the sea. His dad only returns home after 2 weeks. I enjoyed myself in the first day of home stay. I can't wait to know what exciting stuff going to happen the following day

Peizhen: I think my buddy's family is very friendly. She gave up her room to me and my partner. She even prepared everything for us. Her parent were very kind. It was a nice experience as it's my first time having a homestay

Wee Siang: I think my buddy and his family me very well. When they do something, they will always thought of us. His family also prepared everything in the room. Even the food, they always ask us before they prepare. Lastly, we can communicate very well. Overall, it is quite a good experience for us.

Xuanzhao: I feel quite a stranger to the house as it is very big with 3 storeys high. My buddy also treated me very well with care and concern. His parents were also the same as they keep asking me what I wanted to do and do I enjoy doing this etc...

April: The dinner was really awesome and fun. I made more friends too. My buddy and her parents were really nice and the house is really huge. Though yesterday's activities, I made a lot of Vietnam friends.

Sheryl: At first I felt afraid but, after some time, I think its nice because the host treated me very well :) It is so kind of my buddy, to give the bed with my partner for sleep. I had a time of fun with her.

Shufang: Its quite scary because each of us sleep in one room, but overall it is still ok :) The people in the house is very friendly. They treat us very well. They are very understanding and caring people. They take care of us very well. I felt rather guilty because me and my buddy each have one room and for the other family members, they have to squeeze in one room.

Amirul: I felt nervous because I am going to sleep at my buddy's house. It is my first time to sleep at my friend's house. They even had a puppy but I am lucky that they had a cage for it. His family is so friendly.

Saranya: I felt nervous at first as I have never been to a homestay. But all my afraid-offs were gone when I went to their home. Their parents were so kind and loving towards us. They always checked on us if we were doing good and also were kind enough to clear up 1 room with towels, toothbrush just for us. I am looking towards for the next few days and that we will bond more together.

Qiao-min: They are very friendly and very hospitable and I like being there a lot. =D But also feel abit awkward because of communication and not knowing my buddy very well. I'm living in a hotel which is owned by one family and the uncle manages it and he is very very helpful and friendly to us =D

Ding Heng: I think my host family is very friendly and very hospitable. I felt very safe there as I know they would not steal anything from us

Dominic: The host family is very friendly. I feel very warm and safe there, almost like I'm out home. I also feel a bit misunderstood due to communication. Overall, I think this is a great experience.

Zen Hoe: The host family is very friendly. I felt very welcome by them. The first thing that they asked is that what we want to eat for breakfast for tomorrow. And I had a great communication with them.

Hari: The first thing is that when I stepped into their house, I found out that their house was really big. I felt scared and uneasy as this is the first time staying with the host family. I hope that I could get along with them

Shi Jie: When I first step foot into my buddy's house, I was partially afraid because I wasn't really familiar with the place, but even this and despite the fact that I'm afraid, I won't hesitate to know his family and him better.

Allie: "Home-stay" when I thought about it, I was quite nervous and worried as it is my first time. I was lucky to have a good buddy, host who is friendly to me, treating me the best as possible. The house is nice and the family members are very friendly.

Indira: My first night was very nice. My buddy and her parents were very friendly and caring towards me and my partner (Ruelia). They offered us fruits and instead of just giving us food for lunch, dinner, etc they bothered to ask us what we would like to eat what we preferred to eat. We even had a room for ourselves. I had a great time.

Ruelia: The first night was super good. Firstly they showed us our room then I noticed that the house was quite big. I and my partner (Indira) are using the room in the second floor. We are sharing a Queen sized bed. After we had our bath yesterday, the mother of the buddy served us mango. The mangoes were very sweet and nice. The mangoes to me represented their sweet hospitality towards us and how bright they are.

Jia Qin: I felt nice and welcomed when we live in her grandparents house. Her family are very friendly. Her grandmother helped me to dry my hair using the hair-dryer and I felt really warm.

Rasyidah: I was nervous to stay there. But I guess after yesterday night, I guess it should be okay. My buddy's mother was also friendly. She talked to me about various things and never fail to give a amils :D

Day 3 - 111109 Reflections

2009-11-12T09:23:00.000+08:00

School buses lined up waiting for the dismissal of the pupils

The pupils are bonding well with their new friends. Although they tend to go back to their own Singaporean friends after e.g. lunch, they are quick to reaquaint with their Vietnamese friends once activity starts.

The homestay will provide ample opportunities for them to foster a closer relationship.

Vietnamese love to sing, from the very young to the old and they will sing at the slightest opportunity. They enjoy singing. And they show it when they are singing.

Singaporean kids also love to sing but they do not show it. Thay are more concern about their face - whether people are laughing at them or not.

In Vietnam, we see that our pupils singing without such inhibitations. Although some still have reservations but a lot of them are very forthcoming.

We have also seen pupils who are very shy and quiet beginning to open up, even leading!

Day 3 - 111109 Van Thanh Resort

2009-11-12T07:59:00.000+08:00

Our hosting school brought us to this beautiful resort for dinner. The parents of our pupils' buddies were also present. After the welcome and thank you speech by their principal, the whole night turned into a night of celebrations with songs and dance. Everybody enjoyed themselves.

Later in the night, our pupils went home with their buddy to begin their first night of homestay.

The setup at the resort was very grand

Xuan Qi performed a piano piece to get the whole evening started

A buffet spread

Day 3 - 111109 Dam Sen Amusement Park

2009-11-12T02:31:00.000+08:00

After the war remnants musuem, to lighten up the mood, the pupils and teachers went to Dam Sen Amusement Park - a very much toned down version of Downtown East. However, it was a guided tour - the pupils went through the rides, 3D animations, bumper cars from point to point.

So... thats where our monorail from Sentosa is now

Luckily April hasn't got her licence yet

Day 3 - 111109 War Remnants Museum

2009-11-12T02:23:00.000+08:00

After lunch, the pupils went to thwe war remnants musuem. It chronicles the Vietnam War which lasted for 13 years.

The photos brought back a lot of unhappy memories and the cruel effect of war.

A replica of a prisoner captured during the war. Notice how his leg is chained up.

North View and Nguyen Gia Thieu School pupils

Day 3 - 111109 More Bonding

2009-11-11T11:03:00.000+08:00

Mrs Ong conducted a lesson with pupils from both schools. After the lesson, Nguyen Gia Thieu school conducted some outdoor activites followed by a very lively music lesson by their teacher.

A very interactive lesson conducted by Mrs Ong

Blind man's bluff - catch me if you can

Mr Hy, their music teacher was able to get the whole auditorium to sing along with him

Day 2 - 101109 An Dong Market

2009-11-11T10:19:00.000+08:00

After the temple visit, the pupils were given some time to SHOPPPPP at An Dong Market.

Think Chinatown in Singapore during the 50s and 60s, its 95% similar. It has 5 levels of shops cramped very close together. Its extremely stuffy and hot.

A typical building in Vietnam. Vietnamese houses are very narrow and tall. So a house can be as high as 4-5 storeys high. No wonder they are so fit!

Roadside stalls selling fruits

Their main mode of transport

Trying to be cool. XZ, Zen and SJ bought shades.

Inside the market. Isn't it huge?

Our baby of the group-Kenneth has the privilege to take picture with our 3 female teachers

Day 2 - 101109 Temple Visit

2009-11-11T10:04:00.000+08:00

The pupils went to a chinese temple in the city which was built in 1774!!

These incence will bring you luck if you write some wishes on the red paper. It will burn for a week.

Day 2 - 101109 Panaromic View of HCMC

2009-11-11T09:48:00.000+08:00

A very beautiful view of the city scape of this wonderful city

See those endless streams of moving things? They are not ants, they are the motorcycles.

2009-11-11T01:52:00.000+08:00

Day 2 - Reflections

2009-11-10T23:26:00.000+08:00

Rasyidah: So far, the trip was great (: The food ?? Hehehhhh. Love the cyclo ride. Interesting & Scary.. Well, met new friends. They're friendly. And ive just discovered that some of them ADORES Super junior. hahah ! :D

Shufang: Another tiring day has past..... Its been great but the weather is very hot!!!Must drink water~ we have vistied the temple and learnt about the history of the ''lady'' . in the morning we went to school and join the vietnam student for lessons and after that we went to visit the memorial place and then my favourite part!!! shopping ahhhhhh so fun we just cant stop buying~ hahas gtg byebye=)

Day 2 - 101109 Getting to Know Our Friends Better

2009-11-10T10:52:00.000+08:00

The pupils are getting used to Vietnam now which explains their better appetite for their meals especially during breakfast. This is a good sign as we want them to have the energy to last the day.

The pupils arrived at their hosting school at about 8am. The local pupils were already waiting for them in the auditorium.

Kenneth and Zen posing with their friend. Errr... Indira? Where is your friend?

Shijie and Ruelia bonding with their friends

Dominic eagerly showing his autobiography to his 2 friends

Shuwen explaining some things to her friends

Peizhen telling her life story .Zzzzz.

Amirul showing off his gift

Xuan Zhao listening to his friends

Justin sharing some quiet moments with his friend : )

From the teachers in Vietnam

2009-11-10T10:44:00.000+08:00

First of all, we'd like to thank the parents for your moral support. It has really encouraged us a lot especially when we found out that so many of you are logging in to check the progress of the trip.

Your kind understanding and trust in us have also allowed us to carry out our task without a hitch.

In general, we felt that the pupils are very well-behaved, thanks to their parents.

They behaved very well and they have not spoilt the image of Singapore and North View yet.

Thank you very much parents!

A BIG THANK YOU!!

Day 1 - 091109 Reflections

2009-11-10T08:16:00.000+08:00

Our visit to Nguyen Gia Thieu school made us realise that simple things in life can be so wonderful. Our host's warm gestures and hospitality (the extent that they go to to make us feel welcomed) made us feel that in our effort to achieve higher standard of living, we have convenietly brushed aside these timely gestures which we have taken for granted.

We hope that our pupils can learn something from our host. Their country may not be as developed as us, but I believe in terms of character development - we can learn a lot from them.

Motorcycle lots in Singapore? No, these are motorcycles of the teachers who rode to school for work.

Noise? What noise? Lesson still continues despite the school being located just outside a busy and noisy road. There are always constant horning of vehicles and presence of pollution. Mmmm...wonder how some parents will react if this happens in Singapore.

Their humble canteen. They have no certification from NEA but their kids are all healthy and fit.

Our pupils are spoilt for choices when it comes to stationeries. They don't even blink an eyelid if they lose one. Perhaps not for the Vietnamese kids.

Tidbits are banned in all Singapore school canteens. They still sell them in their schools. Yet, our BMI and obesity rate is higher than them.

Education to some Vietnamese is a luxury. Yet Singaporean pupils take their education for granted.

Cultural Immersion? We believe its more than that - our pupils can learn a lot from their Vietnamese friends in this trip : contentment in life, warmth, friendliness, social skills ...

Day 1 - 091109 Before the Cyclo Tour

2009-11-10T08:06:00.000+08:00

Taking a group photo in front of the statue of Father of HCMC - Mr Ho Chi Minh.

We were not allowed to use our banner - that is the kind of respect the Vietnamese have for this great man.

Day 1 - 091109 Cyclo Tour

2009-11-10T07:13:00.000+08:00

A very close up view of the traffic condition in Vietnam. This is as close as we can get to the real thing

Watch this video carefully-Do you see:

1.bicycle going as fast as the motorcycle?

2. Motorcycle carrying more than 2 passengers?

3. The skillful riding skills of the motorcyclists?

The cyclo ride enables the pupils to see HCMC Vietnam close up

A warm welcome from our host

2009-11-09T23:45:00.000+08:00

The pupils and staff of Nguyen Gia Thieu School welcomed us warmly by making the whole school to wait for our arrival

A warm reception from our Vietnamese host

Pupils from both schools listening attentively

Eager parents hosting our pupils attending the ceremony

Mr How delivering the speech on behalf of NVSS. Mrs Ong translated in Vietnamese

Seated (From right to left): current VP, former VP and the current P of Ngyen Gia Thiu School

The handshake

Let the performance begins!

Allie and Shufang introducing the history of the dikir barat

Day 1 - 091109 Videos

2009-11-09T23:23:00.001+08:00

Our pupils with their host family

2009-11-09T23:03:00.001+08:00

Reflection from Us - the pupils

2009-11-09T22:50:00.000+08:00

Annabel: today went to our twin school, & it was ultra grand with all the students there welcoming us. they are super friendly, and they are very kind. though there is a language barrier, we had lots of fun :D

Pei zhen: the cyclo ride was fun. it was quite a nice experience as we seldom see it in singapore.

Wee Siang: WOWW! today is the first day .. it is very interesting n funn! u will always see me always sweating! :D tat's all..

April: im enjoying myself here because there are alot of ang-mohs & they're hawtttt :D & im staying put to marry one of them.
its great here, the students from the vietnam sch are also friendly and yeah, almost everything is great.

the traffic seemed scary and dangerous but after the cyclo tour, i relised the traffic is not that bad after all. Though the people here does not follow the rules, they give way to each other, a lot of tolerance level. The cyclo tour was great though the air was polluted.
the food is great too!
see ya.

Shi Jie: Its the 1st time im , having an exchange programme , its been quite meaningful so far , but i do hope to learn more from the trip!

Kenneth: i am so happy that im in vietnam,i am glad that i am here wif all my friends=)
in vietnam there is a great difference from singapore because there is like
85 MILLION people here...whoa =) In vietnam their main transport vehicle is motorcycles..
They say that by traviling by motorcycles it is easier to move around..
I am so happy i made alot of vietnam friends,especially my room mate...
I am looking forward to a great time in vietnam...thats all =)

Qiao-min: am glad i came to vietnam even though i find that it is around the same as singapore to me. The traffic here is quite wacky. There are alot of people here who uses motocycle as a form of transport cause its cheap. And they even drive on the pavementsXD.I am looking forward to sch tomorw cause i have no idea why either.just got the feeling:) i really look forward to homestay and the rest of the days here in vietnam (:

Day 1 - 091109 At Nguyen Gia Thieu School

2009-11-09T14:35:00.000+08:00

Day 1 - 091109 Morning Traffic

2009-11-09T14:18:00.000+08:00

See the number of motor-cycles!!

How to cross the road? Very very slowly

Check out the morning traffic!

Day 0 - Debriefing, Reflection and Zzzzz

2009-11-09T01:51:00.000+08:00

Dear parents, we'll be updating the post when we have any available time so that you stay updated. The title for each new post will be as follows: Day ___ (which day) - ________ (the activity for the day). This will help you in following your child's activities for the day..

Deep in thoughts

Reflecting on what they experienced on their first day in Vietnam

Practicing dikir barat at the hotel lobby

Xuan Qi sharing her thoughts with the group

Earning some extra money : ) their performance attracted quite a crowd.

Day 0 - Dinner Time @ 7.30pm

2009-11-09T01:22:00.000+08:00

We're famished!

Where's our dinner?

What a spread!! and more to come!!

Our Muslim pupils' packed food

Saigon 3 - That's the restaurant we had our dinner.

Day 0 - Water Puppet Show

2009-11-09T01:00:00.000+08:00

Taking group photo outside the theatre

All waiting excitedly for the show to begin

The water puppet

The puppeteers

Are the fish real? Guess.

Day 0 - We have arrived!! On the Way to Hotel

2009-11-09T00:44:00.000+08:00

Our 2nd home for the next 10 days

Prepaid Card Mobile Number

2009-11-09T00:26:00.000+08:00

Dear Parents

The following are our Vietnam mobile phone numbers. You may wish to contact them directly between 9 pm to 10 pm (10 pm to 11 pm, Singapore time)

Mr How	01229091544
Mr Leong	01229091876
Ms Tan	01229091429
Ms Chan	01229091142
Mrs Ong	01225909320
Shi Hui	01229645451
Annabel	01225739691
Ruelia	01225739897
Indira	01225750094
Norrasyidah	01225740122
Shu Fang	01225740133
Allie	01225740163
Saranya	01225740168
Qiao-min	01229645071
Jian Hui	01229645076
Xuan Qi	01229645091
Shu Wen	01229645178
Sheryl	01229645465
Jia Qin	01225909365
April	01225909368
Pei Zhen	01225737849
Ding Heng	Did not bring his phone, may want to contact Wee Siang instead
Wee Siang	01225737966
Zen Hoe	01225738638
Kenneth	01225738791
Shi Jie	01225739480
Hari	01225909348
Dominic	01229091620
Justin	01229091786
Amirul Akmal	01229091561
Ameerulddin	01229091275
Amirul	01225909274
Xuan Zhao	01229091826
Wei Xhan	01229091365

Departing for Vietnam

2009-11-08T16:36:00.000+08:00

The 5 accompanying teachers

One shot before departure

Boarding pass

Flight SQ 178 bound for Vietnam

View from the plane before landing

We Have Arrived Safely in Vietnam

2009-11-08T16:24:00.000+08:00

Dear parents

We have arrived safely in Vietnam... The following are the details of the Hotel and our room numbers. The students will be receiving their individual SIM card, we will update the telephone numbers by 9 pm (10 pm, Singapore time).

Vien Dong Hotel

Tel: (84-8) 8368941

Room 504 Mrs June Ong, Ms Danz Tan & Ms Chan SY

Room 510 Mr Leong WP & Mr How

Room 514 Norrasydah & Shu Fang

Room 515 Shi Hui & Annabel

Room 405 Ruelia & Indira

Room 406 Sheryl & Jia Qin

Room 407 Allie & Saranya

Room 414 Qiao-min & Jian Hui

Room 410 Xuan Qi & Shu Wen

Room 403 April & Pei Zhen

Room 402 Shi Jie & Hari

Room 401 Ding Heng & Wee Siang

Room 715 Zen Hoe & Kenneth

Room 714 Dominic & Amirul Akmal

Room 710 Ameerulddin & Amirul

Room 404 Wei Xhan, Justin & Xuan Zhao

Room 717 Tour Agent, Kenny

BIG Day

2009-11-08T05:16:00.000+08:00

Yep, today's is the day! In a few hours time - 2 hrs 45 mins to be exact, the pupils will need to SMS Ms Danz Tan to let her know that they are awake.

Lets have a safe journey...

...and make this a fruitful experience.

Communicate Back Home Online Via Web Cam

2009-11-05T22:38:00.000+08:00

We will be bringing webcams along with us, so it's possible to do video conferencing for free with loved ones back home.

Pre-requisites:
--------------
(a) Computer with webcam
(b) Skype software for video conferencing (free download)

It works just like MSN. First, you'll have to download Skype for free here: http://skype.com

After installation, create a new account. Once you're logged in, you can search for your family's Skype accounts.

Once you have added them, you can do video calls with them. Even without a webcam, you can still do instant messaging with your family. It's free, compared to a phone call, and for most cases, it's just as effective as a form of communications.

We hope to be connected by the first night from 9 pm to 10 pm (Singapore time). Look out for our Skype names: nvss_cip_01

Some reminders before the trip - Aren't you excited?!

2009-11-04T06:58:00.000+08:00

Before 8th Nov 09 (anytime from Wed - Sat)

1. Drink lots of water

2. Cross out the items when you've packed them in your luggage-this will make sure you do not miss out anything (Bring extra plastic bags for dirty clothes)

3. Your medicine should be in your hand carry luggage (if possible, separate them and put one in the check-in luggage as well)

4. Remember your last group project in S'pore - take lots of photos with your camera phone to show your buddy in Vietnam - A picture speaks a thousand words

On 7th Nov 09 (Sat - One day before the big day)

1. You're very excited, we know, but sleep early

2. Drink lots of water

3. Do a last minute check on your packing

On the morning of the trip (Sun, 8th Nov)

1. Yeah, the day is finally here!

2. SMS Ms Danz Tan - Format: Good morning, Ms Tan, _________ is awake between 7am - 8am.

3. Do another last minute check

4. Important documents - passport, personal medications etc

5. Off to airport!!

At the airport (Sun, 8th Nov)

1. Meet @ Row 11/12 @ T2

2. Group leaders to account for your members-report strength to Mr Leong

3. Farewell kisses and hugs to/from parents *muacks muacks*

4. Vietnam Here We Come!!

Post: 9th Meeting

2009-11-03T13:03:00.000+08:00

Finally, we had our last rehearsal this morning at North View...All members were present except for Shi Jie, Allie, Jian Hui, Shu Wen & Amirul Akmal.

*The boys singing the song: 朋友.
*Checking themselves out using the mirror

A few items were discussed this morning:

1) All groups were assigned some topics to be covered. Take a look at the picture to check out the topics that your group is being assigned. Every group is required to brainstorm for 6 terms regarding their topic and to find relevant pictures on each term to share with their Vietnamese buddies.

2) Remember to SMS Ms. Danz between 7am - 8am on 8th Nov, Sunday using the format: (your name) is awake.

3) To meet at Row 11/ 12 Changi Airport Terminal 2 by 9.45am on 8th Nov, Sunday.

4) To bring a pad lock for your check-in luggage. No sharp objects and liquid in your hand carry luggage.

5) To bring along all essential medical supplies such as panadol, inhaler and anti-histamines.

6) To pack donation items such as stuffed toys and food stuffs (e.g. biscuits and candies) into proper packaging for easier distribution.

7) To bring CIP file (remember to file in all worksheets such as autobiography, reflection worksheets & field trip worksheets.)

Lastly, do have enough rest and fluid for the next few days. We will see you soon on 8th Nov, Sunday and happy counting down with one another...............

Members looking ready to fly off to Vietnam. Vietnam, here we come!!!!!

Ms. Danz

Final rehearsal

2009-10-31T11:24:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone,

Hope you are enjoying the first day of your school holidays.
However you are reminded to come back to school for your final rehearsal before we set off for Vietnam. Some of you have been counting down the days and getting excited, I hope all of you are looking forward to this trip.

Final Rehearsal : 3 Nov 2009
Time : 9.30am
Venue : Dance Room

Those of you who still owe us things e.g. forms, passports etc pls remember to bring them during the rehearsal.

Leaders pls remind your members.

Have a nice weekend
Mr Leong