Leaders’ Resolution and Appreciation Night

On Friday, 30th August 2024, student leaders and teachers gathered at the school to host the Leaders’ Resolution and Appreciation Night, a special event dedicated to celebrating a year of diligence and teamwork. The event was meticulously organised by the school’s Head Boy, Head Girl, Assistant Head Boy, and Assistant Head Girl, with guidance from teachers and staff.

The evening began with a warm welcome to the school principal, Mr. Janidi Jingan, and deputy principal, Mr. N. M. Mubarak, followed by an engaging ice-breaking session that set the tone for the night. Enthusiasm filled the room as student leaders eagerly participated.

Jed Ng Xiang Zhe, the school Head Boy, delivered an insightful talk on leadership, emphasising that true leadership is about leading by example. He also highlighted the critical role of communication, noting that effective communication can make or break a team. Following this, the school Head Girl, Malinda Joseph, spoke about the importance of time management and decision-making, noting that these skills are essential for responsive and strategic leadership.

After the inspiring talks, the student leaders were divided into six teams for the first activity of the night. The challenge was to stack cups into a pyramid using only a rubber band and strings, promoting collaboration and enhancing hand-eye coordination. Next, in the hula hoop game, teams held hands and passed a hula hoop along the chain, fostering teamwork, patience, and trust. The following game, 'Capture the Flag' — in this case, capture the balloon— focused on strategy and synchronisation, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. To close the first half of the activities, the student leaders played charades, improving non-verbal communication skills and strengthening relationships.

Another highlight was a talk on ethical leadership by Assistant Head Boy, Nathaniel Silvestre, who praised the leaders for their attentiveness in taking notes. His talk emphasised the importance of leading by example. The final talk of the evening was given by the Assistant Head Girl, Kaitlin Leong Yng Sze, who discussed building effective teams by focusing on team dynamics, roles and responsibilities, and conflict resolution.

The most anticipated part of the evening began with the principal presenting certificates of appreciation to the heads of the student body and school prefects, followed by the deputy principal awarding certificates to class monitors. The school principal then delivered a brief talk, commending the collaborative efforts of the student leaders and teachers who organized the event together. Student leaders then gathered to receive a special souvenir, which was a piece of the student logo, symbolising their shared commitment and collective achievements throughout the year.

Later, everyone assembled in the school compound for a group photo session, followed by a lively game of charades to keep the energy high. Both student leaders and teachers participated enthusiastically, enjoying the experience. The final challenge tested the students’ active listening and critical thinking skills. The test consisted of 10 riddles, with instructions to carefully read the entire question paper. The twist? A small, nearly invisible line at the bottom of the page that read, “If you see this, do not answer any of the questions. Whisper to me and keep quiet.”

The evening concluded with a delicious and well-deserved dinner prepared by the student heads and teachers. The student leaders extended their heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported this memorable and gratitude-filled event, ensuring its success.

On Monday, 26th August 2024, St. George’s School successfully hosted its second annual Entrepreneurship Day. Held from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM on the school compound, this event, organised by the Humanities Department, provided an excellent platform for students to showcase their entrepreneurial talents.

The event was enhanced by the presence of Japanese delegates, comprising of students and teachers from Kanto Gakuin Mutsuura Junior Senior High School, who added an international flair to the occasion. The day featured 26 dynamic stalls run by enthusiastic groups of students from the Upper secondary classes (Year 9, 10, and 11). These stalls offered a variety of accessories, foods, and drinks, highlighting the creativity and business skills of the young entrepreneurs. Each group, consisting of up to four students, contributed to a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

Heartfelt thanks are extended to the parents, community members, teachers, current students, alumni, students from other schools, and our esteemed Japanese guests, for their support and participation. Their involvement was crucial to the event’s success. The school looks forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating the students' entrepreneurial achievements in the years to come.

The BBA basketball court at Batu Bersurat was buzzing with excitement today, Sunday, 10th August 2024, as students, parents, and basketball enthusiasts gathered for the highly anticipated qualifying round of the school basketball competition. The atmosphere was electric, and since the game was taking place during the school holidays, it ensured a large and enthusiastic crowd.

St. George’s School faced off against Maktab Duli (MD), a formidable opponent known for their composed and well-coordinated gameplay. Despite the challenge, the home team, St. George’s, displayed remarkable determination and spirit from the very start.

The game began with intense action from both teams, showcasing their skills and strategies. St. George’s players, though facing taller and more experienced opponents, fought valiantly. Among them was a standout young player from Year 7, Cedric, who quickly became the crowd favourite.

Cedric’s performance was nothing short of inspiring. Despite his young age, he demonstrated exceptional skill and composure on the court. The opposing team, recognising his potential, showed great sportsmanship by supporting and encouraging him throughout the game. Cedric’s moment of glory came when he scored 2 points for St. George’s, earning thunderous applause from the spectators.

In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship, the victorious MD team lifted Cedric onto their shoulders, celebrating his efforts and highlighting the spirit of fair play and camaraderie that defines school sports. The crowd erupted in cheers, acknowledging the young player’s contribution and the positive atmosphere of the game.

The final score saw MD emerging victorious with 114 points, while St. George’s scored 54. Despite the loss, the students of St. George’s held their heads high, proud of their performance and the unforgettable experience.

Top Scorer for St. George’s School: Prince from Year 9B, scoring an impressive 23 points. Cedric from Year 7B also made a notable contribution.

The team for this year was managed by Teacher Luxman and Teacher Amirah. A special thank you goes to Mr. Anderson Yu, also known as Coach Buboy, who has taken a special interest in training the team and motivating the students.

Today’s game was a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together, fostering teamwork, and creating lasting memories. Congratulations to both teams for their outstanding efforts and to Cedric for his remarkable debut! We look forward to more thrilling matches in the upcoming rounds!

On Thursday, 25th July 2024, a group of 55 Kindergarten Two students from St. George's School visited the Angkasa Oud Agarwood Factory in Tanjong Maya, Tutong, for a field trip. The primary goal was to learn about the production of natural products, including perfumes, traditional medicines, and consumable items made from oud wood.

The students engaged in making their own natural bath bombs from scratch and participated in a wood chip sorting activity. Overall, they enjoyed the activities and were delighted with their bath bombs.

On the morning of 3rd July 2024, Year 11 students gathered in Parish Hall for a special career talk. This event, hosted by JPMC College of Health Sciences, aimed to enlighten and inspire students about the dynamic and rewarding field of nursing.

The session began with an introduction by Dr. Rachelle Garcia, the college dean, who emphasized the importance of exploring various career options before making a final decision. She highlighted how nursing, in particular, is a profession that not only offers stability and growth but also provides a profound sense of fulfillment.

Dr. Rachelle began by sharing her own journey, recounting how her fascination with science and a desire to help others led her to pursue healthcare. Her story resonated deeply with the students, many of whom are at a crossroads in their own career choices. Dr. Rachelle provided an overview of the nursing profession, explaining how nurses can work in various settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community health centers. She remarked that nursing is not just a job; it is a calling, and it offers endless opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.

The presentation also included insight into the admission process and concluded with a Q&A session. Students eagerly asked questions about the day-to-day responsibilities of a nurse, the challenges faced in the profession, and the impact of technological advancements on nursing practice. The session concluded with a motivational message from Dr. Rachelle. She urged the students to consider nursing not just for its job security and financial benefits, but for the unique opportunity it offers to make a tangible difference in people's lives.

The talk by JPMC College of Health Sciences had not only provided valuable information but also ignited a spark of inspiration among future healthcare heroes.

Calling all budding innovators!

Our exciting new 3D Design and Printing program kicked off on Friday, July 5th, welcoming a diverse group of students from Year 7 all the way to Year 11! Led by the fantastic Ms. Wiwi H.T., the program kicked things off with a dynamic introduction to the world of 3D design and printing.

Ms. H.T. expertly demystified the basics of both 3D design and the printers themselves, ensuring everyone was on the same page. Then, things got hands-on! Students delved into the user-friendly TinkerCAD application, learning the ropes of designing their own creations. As a first project, everyone got to personalize their very own keychains – the perfect way to put their newfound skills to the test!

The energy in the room was electric for the entire 1.5-hour session. Students, both girls and boys, brought their A-game, with some utilising their own laptops ("BYOD"* for the tech-savvy!) while others took advantage of the school's computer lab, equipped with WiFi vouchers to access TinkerCAD.

This is just the beginning for our 3D design crew! Stay tuned for updates on their amazing creations and the exciting projects they'll be tackling next.

* BYOD - Bring your own device

In an effort to develop knowledge of cultural customs in Brunei Darussalam, students of the secondary section of St. George's School participated in various exhibitions, activities and fun games organized by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Culture and Arts Division. This event was also jointly organised by the Language and Library Council (DBP), the 
Department of Brunei Museums and the Youth Development Center (PPB).

A cultural event by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports introduced Brunei traditional music instruments and Brunei dance. The Year 7 and 8 students also had the opportunity to participate in the dance gymnastics session held that morning.

Students also had the opportunity to play traditional Bruneian games such as congkak and pasang as well as other games organised by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka with the aims to give knowledge and introduce these traditional games to students. There was also the sale of Brunei history books, story books, cookbooks and others.

In addition, the students also had the opportunity to get to know some types of Brunei desserts. This section was organised along the corridor by the Youth Development Association (PBB). Students were shown how to make Brunei desserts, one of which was kuih cacah. Our St. Georgians could try their hand at making it at that time itself.

With events like these, it is hoped that students will become more interested in knowing the cultural customs that exist in Brunei Darussalam.

The school witnessed a nostalgic return by Encik Azmal Mahmud and his wife on 20th May 2024. They flew from Johor Baru to Miri and hired a car to Brunei just to visit St. George’s School. Encik Azmal left St. George’s School in 1970 while attending Primary 4. His 2 younger siblings had also studied in the school. His late father was a government teacher in the 1960’s and left in 1970. 

Encik Azmal also brought a copy of his original Leaving Certificate, which he proudly showed to me and other staff in attendance. Even within the short period of a few years of study, he said that he had made and carried with him memories of the school, teachers, and students. His wife explained that they had been to Brunei twice but it never came across her husband’s mind to visit the school until this trip. According to his wife, Encik Azmal has always mentioned the school. So, this trip was to fulfill his longing desire to pay a visit to the school. A tour was taken round the school and he was amazed with the changes since then. Encik Azmal noted that while the structure of the school stayed the same, and the canteen was situated in the same place, the assembly grounds looked very different to him, as in the past, it was a grassy compound. 

It was heartwarming to see the former student who had come all the way from his country of domicile  just to visit the school. Encik Azmal is one whose heart is for this school. Best wishes to Encik Azmal and others who have previously made visits to St. George’s School, and not to forget, our former students from Brunei. Thank you, all! Stay healthy and stay safe.

St George’s School proudly congratulates three Year 11 students who have received the prestigious Cambridge Outstanding Achiever Awards for the Year 2023. These exceptional students were honored for their remarkable academic performances at the Student Excellence Award Ceremony held on 29 May 2024, Wednesday, at the Plenary Hall, International Convention Centre of Brunei Darussalam. The certificates and prizes were presented by Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Md Salleh, the Minister of Education of Brunei Darussalam.

Miss Mabel Sim Jie Yi, from Year 11B (2023) was recognized for her outstanding performance in Mathematics, securing a “Joint Tenth-place in the World” for the Mathematics Syllabus D, Cambridge International O Level Examination October-November 2023.

Meanwhile, Miss Nur Afiqah Elisha Binti Abdullah Lam @ Elisha Reese, from Year 11A (2023) achieved the “Top in Brunei” for History, Cambridge International O Level Examination October-November 2023.

Last but not least, Mr. Ayan Ahmed Zakai, from Year 11B (2023) was honored with the “Best Across Seven” award, achieving third place in Brunei for his exceptional performance across seven subjects in the recent October – November 2023 Cambridge International O Level Examination.

These awards highlight both the teachers’ and students' dedication and hard work, as well as the support and quality of education provided by St George’s School. The school community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mabel, Nur Afiqah, and Ayan on their impressive achievements and wishes them continued success in their academic journeys.

The school’s annual Cross Country race took place on March 9th, 2024, turning the Eco-corridor of Bandar Seri Begawan into a vibrant hub of excitement and school spirit. Kicking off at 8 AM, the event saw every student giving their all to earn points for their respective houses.

This year, the event was even more special with St. George's School Chairman, Mr. Anthony Liew, joining as the guest of honour. Alongside him, our Principal, Mr. Janidi Jingan, walked the race, showing their heartfelt support and enthusiasm for this cherished tradition.

The race was filled with incredible displays of talent and determination. In the Under 15 Girls category, Afeefa Rizwan of Blue House secured first place with an impressive time of 30 minutes and 17 seconds. Blue House celebrated another victory in the Above 15 Girls category, with Swara Sachin Pingle also finishing first in 31 minutes and 14.26 seconds.

The boys races were equally as thrilling. Luke Cyrus Aduna Villanueva from Green House took the top spot in the Under 15 Boys category, completing the race in a swift 24 minutes and 32 seconds. Nathaniel Silvestre of Yellow House dominated the Above 15 Boys category, crossing the finish line in just 20 minutes and 29 seconds.

The excitement carried over to May 6th, when the top 10 runners from each house were honoured during a special school assembly. Our Principal and Deputy Principal handed out medals and certificates, celebrating the students' dedication and outstanding performances.

This year’s Cross Country race not only showcased our students' amazing athletic abilities but also brought our school community closer together, filling the day with house pride and camaraderie.

And the fun doesn’t stop here! Mark your calendars for June, when the school’s secondary sports meet will take place. We are looking forward to more riveting competitions and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned!

St. George's School is pleased to announce the installation of a new water vending machine on school grounds, conveniently located in front of the school library. This initiative aims to promote healthy hydration habits among our school community, especially for our beloved students. 

The vending machine provides quick and easy access to fresh, filtered ready-to-drink water, ensuring everyone, including parents, stay hydrated throughout the day. By encouraging the use of refillable bottles, we reduce single-use plastic waste, supporting our commitment to sustainability. The cost of 1 litre of water starts from 10 cents, a more affordable alternative to purchasing bottled water, making it a budget friendly option for students.

Our school believes that adequate hydration is essential for cognitive function and overall well-being, which will enhance all our St. Georgians to stay focused and energised.