The Ministry of Education (MOE) drives Singapore’s education system, focusing on excellence, innovation and holistic student development. It plays a vital role in empowering young learners with the knowledge, skills and values needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

In this regard, individuals entrusted to deliver quality education through MOE must possess exceptional capabilities, unwavering dedication and a remarkable drive. Gerlynn Yap Lin Ge, a recipient of the MOE Teaching Scholarship, exemplifies these qualities and more.

The MOE Teaching Scholarship opens doors for passionate individuals like Gerlynn to pursue a rewarding career in teaching. It provides comprehensive support and offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on young minds.

With the support of the MOE Teaching Scholarship, Gerlynn pursued her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Imperial College London, United Kingdom, in 2015. Deepening her knowledge and expertise, Gerlynn then completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Secondary) at NTU-NIE a year later. These rigorous academic programmes provided her with a solid foundation and the necessary skills to excel in her teaching career.

Today, Gerlynn serves as the Subject Head of Science at Nanyang Girls’ High School. She is responsible for improving the Lower Secondary Science curriculum, enhancing scientific research skills programmes and leadingvarious initiatives within the Science department.

We sat down with Gerlynn to delve into her inspiring journey to her current role, as well as explore the deep significance her work holds for her.

What inspired your decision to pursue a teaching career, and why did you choose to specialise in Science education?

My mother is a teacher and since I was young, I have seen how she cares for her students and comes up with innovative ways to teach and engage them. Through her, I realised that teaching is something that I also enjoy.

I chose to teach Science because as a child, I was always fascinated by how things around me worked. My teachers constantly encouraged me to think critically and creatively to solve problems, and I really enjoyed the process of doing so. Hence, the scientific spirit was something that I wanted to also pass on to my students through various learning experiences.

That’s fascinating! Why did you decide to take up a scholarship with MOE?

Since I had already made up my mind to pursue teaching, the offer of the MOE Teaching Scholarship provided the perfect opportunity for me to kickstart my teaching career. It also gave me the opportunity to complete my university education overseas, which was a huge plus point for me!

Speaking of your overseas education, how do you think the scholarship enhanced your academic experience?

I got to meet many other young adults who had similar passions in teaching, with whom I could discuss issues in education in more depth. The scholarship also provided many platforms for networking with other education professionals, which allowed me to broaden my perspectives.

I also had the chance to do an attachment at Swiss Cottage Secondary School during one of my summer breaks. It was a good experience as I was able to tag along with an experienced teacher, observe lessons and try teaching a few lessons of my own. It gave me a preview of what to expect after I completed my university studies and returned to Singapore to start my journey as an educator.

Gerlynn Yap Lin Ge

Could you tell us about a typical day in your life as a Subject Head?

As the Subject Head for Science, I mainly oversee the Lower Secondary Science curriculum in the school. This includes responsibilities such as monitoring and reviewing the enactment of the curriculum, as well as reviewing existing resources and programmes to strengthen the teaching and learning of not only Science but also research skills. I work closely with my Head of Department to guide the Science department in the formulation, implementation and review of work plans and initiatives within the department.

Besides lessons with my classes, a typical workday would also involve a few meetings with various teachers to discuss and review our plans. There may also be consultation sessions before and after school with students who require additional support.

What is your most significant career achievement so far?

I had the opportunity to organise the Singapore Science and Engineering Fair during my stint at MOE Headquarters (HQ). It was a massive annual event attended by more than a thousand students. Hundreds of scientists and professionals were involved as judges. During the Covid years, we had to think out of the box to come up with a plan that would allow the event to be held virtually. It was challenging, but we managed to pull it off successfully.

Given your evident passion, what would you say is the most meaningful aspect of your job?

Being able to shape the minds of many young people, sparking curiosity and the joy of learning in my students and impacting their lives in one way or another is incredibly fulfilling to me.

What are the prospects for scholars working at MOE?

There are opportunities for MOE staff to experience teaching in different schools or working in policy-related fields at MOE HQ. Interested teachers could also take up more challenging key personnel roles that would allow them to work with more teachers and have a greater impact on their students’ learning experiences.

Do you have any parting words of advice for individuals who are considering a career in teaching?

It is a rewarding career, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Consider taking up an attachment or internship stint with a school before making the decision to join the teaching profession formally.