Rafflesians produced stellar results at the 2015 GCE ‘A’ Level Examinations. Four students scored distinctions in all their nine subjects, while 344 students (28 per cent) achieved a perfect University Admissions Score of 90.

These achievements are testament to the holistic pedagogy that Raffles Institution (RI) provides its students with. While the school places emphasis on academia, it also strives to groom students into well-rounded individuals. This makes the RI journey a lot more fun and enriching for students.

Just ask Justin Tan Tse, who professes that his RI journey was one of self-discovery. Indeed, he was given plenty of opportunities to step out of his comfort zone.

Besides guiding prefects in the Prefectorial Board, Justin also had the opportunity to launch several initiatives. For instance, he initiated the provision of towels at the school gym, after listening to feedback from his peers. With support from his teachers, Justin also did attachments at the Bedok Police Division and Central Division. He shadowed seasoned police officers and handled various tasks, such as responding to emergency calls. These experiences cemented his decision to join the public service. “It’s a very hands-on role, and I get to interact with people from all walks of life. Beyond that, it’s about enacting change in our society,” muses Justin.

Justin hopes to have a hand in safeguarding the country through the Singapore Police Force Scholarship.

Fellow Rafflesian Paul Keh Sze Keat is also passionate about making a difference.

Paul’s two-week internship at the Land Transport Authority – an opportunity made possible by RI – gave him a taste of what public service is all about. “RI students are constantly given a myriad of opportunities for exposure. It also helps that we have nurturing and helpful teachers to guide us,” quips Paul.

Apart from taking on leadership roles, he also had the opportunity to partake in the Raffles Academy programme. The programme offers an in-depth curriculum for students with interest and higher capabilities in specific subjects. As a geography enthusiast, Paul was pleased to learn about real-world cases and earthquake-resistant buildings.

Paul intends to study Geopolitics or International Relations in university, and is currently eyeing two prestigious scholarships, namely the Public Service Commission (PSC) Scholarship and MINDEF Scholarship.

Shermaine Ng, who is also considering the PSC Scholarship, thanks her teachers and peers at RI for supporting her passion to serve.

Through Raffles Interact, Shermaine had the opportunity to participate in community service projects and volunteering initiatives.

Shermaine volunteered at Sunlove Home, where she got to interact with dementia patients.

“It was challenging at first. People with dementia may not have control of their emotions, and it’s easy to feel like you caused their bout of sadness. I learnt to detach myself from such situations and instead focus on smaller, more manageable things. Ultimately, it’s about lending a listening ear and connecting with patients,” says Shermaine with a smile.

In addition, she got to meet many dedicated occupational therapists, who have inspired her to join the healthcare field. While she is keeping her options open, Shermaine is also keen on taking up a scholarship by MOH Holdings Pte Ltd.

Do you have a passion to serve? Take the first step by applying for a scholarship on BrightSparks!