Could you introduce yourselves? What made you motivated to run for your position?

Jacob: Being a long-time member of the Student Council, I could see its success and where it fell short over the years. I ran this year to promote the change people wanted to see with this knowledge of the council and its problems. 

Lucas: I am Lucas Gargiulo; I am the former Student President and the current Student Vice President for the European section. My original goal was to run for a second term as President to finish the projects I had started and expand what I had already completed. Ultimately, I became Vice President instead, but I still plan to assist the new Presidents in completing both ongoing projects as well as their own goals. 

Vrinda: I come from India before moving to Singapore in 2022 and joining GESS in Grade 3. I enjoy spending time with friends, reading, writing, and playing tennis. Although I failed to become class representative in Grade 3 and 4, I persisted and was elected Deputy Class Rep. Inspired by this, I ran for Primary School Captain to make GESS a place that every student’s voice was heard, thrive academically and enjoy fun activities. 

Joanna: My name is Joanna Khalimov. I am 10 years old, half German and half Indonesian. I came to Singapore when I was 4 years old. I like to play badminton, games, and write stories. I also like to play piano and clarinet. My motivation to run for Primary School Captain is to improve my leadership skills. I also want to be the voice of primary students, listening to their ideas and communicating them to the school. My goal is to bring about changes that will make our school an even better place. 

Congratulations on being elected as Student Council Presidents! What are your main goals for this year, and how do you plan to achieve them? 

Jacob: We need to start at the basics. How are decisions made? How are the students involved? We need to get it done and make the council work for the students. I think transparency is key for this and the dedication of the wonderful Student Council members, some of whom I have encouraged to run for Class Reps or Committees because I see their leadership ability. ability. I think we need to work as a team and be bold in trying our very best and nothing less to achieve our goals and make the school better. 

As Vice Presidents, how do you see your role in supporting the Presidents and the Student Council? 

Lucas: As a former President, my experience is important in advising and assisting the new Presidents. I support my Presidents not only through the advice and know-how I provide them, but also by assuming their duties when they are indisposed. This means attending meetings they cannot, leading the Council if they’re unavailable, and writing texts they do not have time for. 

Annika: I see our job as being an additional voice in the Student Council, one that is actively involved in the issues and projects of the SC in a leadership position but can also take a step back and work more closely with Committees to support them and the Presidents that way. We are there to voice both support and concerns on topics the Student Council deliberates on.

Taking on the role of the Primary Captain is a big take – what part of the position are you most excited about? 

Vrinda: I am most excited about being able to collaborate with many other people and planning events to make school more fun for kids so that every day, they have something to look forward to.

Joanna: The part that makes me excited is when I can share my ideas and be part of the changes that happen in the school.

How do you plan to collaborate with the other committees to enrich the school community?

Jacob: We have a strong lineup of new and old Committee heads this year. I trust that coordination alongside them will be a breeze. They make the Student Council special. Each one of them with their own unique mandate. I fully trust each one of them.

Could you share some of the activities that you and your team have planned or are working on? 

Lucas: There are many things in the works. Our Council is still young, and we await approval to begin our most expansive projects. For now, we are mostly in a transition period. That means deciding on what previous projects we plan to continue and what projects we plan to drop. Personally, I hope that some of last year’s almost completed projects are given the attention they need to come to fruition, but that is up to the Council, not me. I do not know exactly what the future holds for the Primary. I hope we can increase cooperation between the Student Council and the Primary SRB Team. Previously, we did not meet the Primary Captains. This must change if we are to properly represent the interests of the primary school. 

Annika: Well, the Committees definitely have some neat projects planned this year, like working to reduce the food waste at school. We’ve also jumped right into talking about improving the SC’s transparency and promoting the Student Portal as a space where students can access all the resources they need. We’re gearing up for a school year full of opportunities to improve student life at GESS! 

Vrinda: This year we are considering holding polls in each class taken by the representatives with approved ideas from the Student Council. There is also the works on our new school Garden taking place in the plaza to create an eco-friendlier environment. Although the idea was that of the senior School Council, the structure and plan was made by the students, as we held a drawing contest to find the best design. 

Joanna: Together we have planned for events that took place in the school such as Halloween and Deepavali, and currently we will be involved in the Christmas Market that will take place on 30th November 2024. 

What advice would you offer to future student leaders about the challenges and rewards of this role? 

Jacob: Do not be scared. It might be intimidating at first. Meetings and meetings… and more meetings. Remember why you are there. You have a mandate. You have a job. It’s to represent the students. Getting stuff done and seeing change will be incredibly rewarding. I look forward to all that we can do in the next 6 months. 

Vrinda: I would tell them that if they set their mind to something, it can be achieved. Also keep in mind that everybody’s voices and ideas count to make a difference. Along with the recognition, it can be tough, so you must always be ready to receive a short-notice project. When you’re in charge, try your best to be calm and confident and include everybody in the project. 

Joanna: My advice is to be confident in yourself. As Primary Captain, there are responsibilities you have to carry. Speak your mind and share your ideas. When the school becomes a better place, that’s when you can be proud to be part of the changes. 

Chairman – Maxim Timchenko

For families new to GESS, my name is Maxim Timchenko. With Eastern-European roots, my family spent over 20 years living in Istanbul, Turkey – where both my children were born. I studied in the UK (A-Levels, BSc in Business Management from Kings College London and MSc in Shipping, Trade and Finance from Bayes Business School) and I am a Fellow of Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, London.I started working in Singapore 11 years ago as a director of a shipping company. Having joined GESS more than four years ago, my son is currently in 9th grade and my daughter in 5th grade of Euro Section. In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to podcasts, cycling, playing tennis and board games with my family. But our favourite family pastime is still relishing my wife’s dessert creations – she is a Le Cordon Bleu honours-graduated Pastry Chef.

I thank my fellow parents for re-electing me and I am very much looking forward to my fourth year as Chairman of the Parents’ Committee.

Treasurer – Gayatri Shankar 

My name is Gayatri Shankar. My twins are in Grade 5 and this is our first year in GESS. We are from India but have been living in different Asian cities such as Guangzhou, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh since 2007. We moved to Singapore in 2022 and continue to enjoy travelling as it helps us understand different cultures and taste different cuisines.

I have volunteered to undertake the role of treasurer as I wanted to be part of Parents’ Committee. I observe GESS parents are very actively involved in the school, and together, we want to build a strong, supportive and best community for our GESS children. I am looking forward to contributing in all ways possible, and I will do my best in this role. Hope to meet more wonderful people through this role!

Preschool Parent Representative – Nicole Kraft 

Hi, I’m Nicole. Helming from Clearwater, Florida in US, my husband Shaun and I lived in Hong Kong for five years, prior to moving to Singapore just before COVID – glad to say that we have been enjoying life here since restrictions eased. A lawyer by profession, I have worked at financial institutions and a law firm until recently. We have a daughter in her third year at GESS Preschool, and another girl in 1st grade of Euro Section. I count cooking, fitness, fashion and food among my passion!

Primary School German Section Parent Representative – Jasmin Schwintowski

My name is Jasmin Schwintowski, and I moved to Singapore in February 2023 with my husband and son. I volunteered as Parent Representative for the German Primary School for two reasons: curiosity and a desire to contribute. Alongside my position at the school, I am currently completing a master’s degree in global environment and sustainability. When not engaged in school matters or academic work, I enjoy spending time with my family exploring Singapore and surrounding areas. Additionally, I am passionate about dancing, reading and food.

Primary School European Section Parent Representative – Bhawna Sen 

My name is Bhawna Sen. My family and I relocated from India to Singapore just last year. I was born and raised in Delhi. In India, I worked in the corporate sector, specialising in HR, administration, and event management. In my free time, I enjoy travelling, spending quality time with my family, shopping, and organising community engagement activities.

We have a son in Grade 5, and he is thrilled to be part of GESS. Last year, I served as the parent representative for Grade 4, and I have volunteered again this year for Grade 5. I’m also an active member of the GESS Events Team, which I thoroughly enjoy as it aligns with my professional experience in event management. Over the past year, I have led and participated in several school initiatives, including organizing the Diwali event, as well as other class and grade-specific activities. I’m excited to represent the families of the Euro Primary Section in the Parents’ Committee, working towards positive outcomes by sharing my learnings and experiences from last year. I am committed to fostering collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators, and committee members. Looking forward to making a meaningful contribution in this role.

Secondary School German Section Parent Representative and Deputy Chairperson of the Parents’ Committee – Andreas Klein  

I am Andreas, and this is an extension of my role as Secondary School German Section Parent Representative, while also double hatting as Deputy Chairperson. After living in Santiago de Chile for six years with my wife and two daughters, we moved to Singapore in July 2022. My daughters currently attend grade 8 and 11 at GESS German Section. After living for many years abroad, I believe GESS’ international orientation and German curriculum make an ideal bridge back to Germany for my family.

I signed up for the Parents’ Committee as I believe my life and school experience in Germany and abroad can contribute to the development of the school’s learning environment. I pride myself on being hands-on and am open to suggestions and putting ideas into practice.

Secondary School European Section Parent Representative – Ivana Sikic

I’m Ivana. Since leaving Europe in 2018, I have made Singapore home for my family. A proud mom of three kids – all part of the GESS community – my eldest son graduated last year as the first GESS alumnus in the family, while I have a daughter in Grade 8 and a son in Grade 4 now. I have been an active member of the GESS community, building strong connections with teachers and fellow families, as a parent representative for my daughter’s class. I was also proud to share my Croatian heritage by organising the country booth at July’s Summer Festival, giving everyone a taste of my home country. I still remember how welcomed my family and I felt when we first joined GESS, we had the chance to be featured as GESS advocates in Expat Living magazine in 2022, and have since been helping new families navigate their choices for international schools.

After a fulfilling banking career in Europe, my focus now is on my family and bringing my skills and enthusiasm to GESS. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new cultures, trying different foods, staying active, and enjoying Singapore’s international vibe.

Christian is a promising sportsman from Grade 5 in German Section. His proficiency in a variety of sports makes his future as bright as it is interesting. We had a chat about the sports he trains in and the goal he’s striving for.

Hi Christian! You’ve been described as someone who trains in multiple sports. Tell us more about the sports you train in.

Right now, I’m training hard in football, boxing, and taekwondo. I also used to train in swimming as well as track and field, but right now I just focus on the sports I mentioned.

Which one of those sports is your favourite now? Could you tell us why?

My favourite sport right now is football. I started it at a young age, and it’s also where I get to hang out a lot with my friends. It’s a lot of fun for me too, so that’s the reason it’s my favourite.

How often do you train for the sports you play?

I train 4 times every week, and I have a game every Sunday, so I would say my sports calendar is quite busy. I train in football every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. For boxing, I train every Thursday and Saturday, and I train in taekwondo only on Thursdays.

That sounds like a lot to deal with. How exactly do you balance your schoolwork and life with your training?

It’s a difficult thing to do, but I have been managing by maximizing the free time I have, getting my homework done and still studying for any tests. If I arrive early at my training centre, I also make a habit of doing my homework then.

To anybody who’s thinking of picking up a sport, but is hesitant to do so, do you have anything you want to say to them?

My advice would be to just try it if you think you’re interested. If you like it, stick with it, don’t give up when it gets hard. Also listen to your heart when there are people who keep putting you down or focus on your mistakes – accept the positive criticism.

Over the course of the AY2023/24 GESS Wildcats sports season, one team particularly stood out. During a stretch lasting from December to May, our Wildcats’ senior boys basketball squad went on a 15-game unbeaten run, capturing three separate championship trophies in the process. This included the Athletic Conference of Singapore International Schools (ACSIS) 19U Division 3 – with a team featuring just three true 19U players, while the rest were part of the successful 16U Division 1 season. In May 2024, the team crowned their year with the 3rd Annual GESS Invitational Tournament trophy.

We spoke with some of our team members to learn more about their experiences on the court, while donning the Wildcats jersey!

Describe the past season in three words.

Benedikt (Position: Centre) – “Fun, exciting, exhausting”

Daniel (Position: Forward) – “Dominant, professional, unprecedented”

What was your most memorable moment of the season?

Filip (Position: Guard) – “I feel like our best moment this year was definitely winning both gold in 16U and 19U, as well as it being one of our final years with the core players we’ve known for quite a while now. It feels like a great send-off for us before most of us move up to 19U this upcoming season.”

Daniel (Position: Forward) – “Our second-to-last 19U game was very cool actually. It was originally supposed to be just another average home game, against DCIS on a Wednesday afternoon, as expected, the spectator crowd is usually thin! But that game went perfectly for us, we ended up breaking the 100-point barrier with a couple of minutes left – something that really doesn’t happen that much outside of professional basketball. I think we finished with exactly 101…”

What was your personal highlight of the basketball year?

Maks (Position: Guard) – “My personal highlight of the basketball season was having over 20 points in a game as a 13-year-old playing in an age division several above my own. I am very happy with the process I have made, especially having the chance to play at a higher level, that being U16 and U19, with my older brother!”

Heathe (Position: Forward) – “I feel like my favourite moment of the season was when I had to make a bet with my dad where if I got over 25 points, I would get $50, but if I got under, I would get a buzz cut hairstyle. I had the 25 points by half time, if you were wondering!”

As a higher-grade student-athlete, how do you manage to balance your school and sports life without them affecting each other?

Filip (Position: Guard) – “As an IBDP student, my schedule is quite heavy anyway, so I make sure I start with properly organising myself. I have extra practice on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and weekends, so this adds on a lot to my schedule. One tactic I use – FOCUS – when I study, I put my complete focus onto studying for however long it takes, and when I play basketball, my head is only focused on basketball, nothing else. Usually, before school practice on Wednesdays and Fridays, I have a 1-and-a-half hour time slot where I finish all my work to make sure I’m not behind.”

Duc (Position: Guard) – “This is my first year as a DP student, and my schedule has gotten tougher. Even from last year, I started feeling like I had quite a bit of work to do. I managed my school life and sports life by creating a plan for myself, to follow and finish certain tasks in a certain amount of time, and to give myself time for other things as well. Obviously, basketball did sometimes get in the way of my studies, but my grades turned out quite decent, so not too bad!”

Which teammate do you think was the most instrumental to the success the team had?

Frederick (Position: Guard) – “Definitely Heathe, because as soon as he gets the ball, he’s able to drive to the basket or get an open shot. If he can’t, he won’t try to force it and will just pass the ball with his pretty insane court vision to the most open team member. That’s also really the reason why he’s our captain.”

Why or how did you choose the jersey number you wear?

Duc (Position: Guard) – “I chose the number two due to a part of it being my birthday, but also as a homage to two players that I have looked up to, being Sharife Cooper and Kyrie Irving from the NBA. I try to model my playstyle after Sharife, inspired by him being an undersized point guard like me, having to find crafty ways to get to the rim and score, as well as finding my teammates to give them wide open shots.”

What are you looking forward to achieving with the team next season?

Heathe (Position: Forward) – “I am looking forward to leading my team to hopefully win U19D1 this season, as we have finally been able to rise the ranks to the highest division. We’ve been working hard towards this goal ever since ACSIS competition resumed post-Covid, so it’s good to finally be in the position to fulfil this goal.”

How do you think the basketball programme at GESS can collaborate with Proform Basketball Academy to continue and expand, towards long-term success?

Jonas (Position: Guard) – “I feel GESS and Proform will continue to have a very successful partnership in the years to come. Proform has definitely played a big part in strengthening basketball culture here at GESS, even going so far as to guide talented, young student-athletes towards joining our school. I fully believe that this partnership and collaborative relationship can continue to win accolades for GESS and make our programme even more dominant into the future.”

The new school year 2024/25’s Wildcats senior boys’ basketball season started with the GESS ALBA Berlin 3×3 Basketball Tournament on 14 and 15 November, followed by the start of regular season in December and a special international tournament in Thailand in January 2025. The team is constantly looking forward to welcoming new fans checking out our home games at GESS Sports Hall, and we strive to deliver spectacular, fast-paced sports action. Follow GESS social media for regular updates!

How long were you at GESS and where did your family move?

Gabriella: My name is Gabriella. I am 16 years old. I attended GESS for 6 years. Since then, I have moved to the Netherlands to continue secondary school and hopefully study at university there, too.

Alexander: My name is Alexander Burgers. I have been at GESS for 6 years. Since I moved away from Singapore, I have started going to another IB school in the Netherlands and I am now in grade eight.

What was your favorite memory of GESS?

Gabriella: My favourite memories of GESS are related to the time at the Junior School Campus at Jalan Jurong Kechil. The monkeys from the jungle next door had come into school and we couldn’t get to our lessons without passing them. I remember the teachers running up to the floor with the monkeys and spraying them with water guns to ward them off. It was entirely hilarious, and this is the school experience I won’t forget.

Alexander: My favourite memories from GESS were the after-school activities and being part of the swimming team. I also enjoyed spending time with all different types of grades in the old campus and playing tag with all of them during lunch.

What do you miss most about your time at GESS?

Gabriella: Compared to my new school, I miss all the facilities GESS had to offer. I miss having access to so many machines in the design lab, an Olympic-sized pool, gymnastics equipment, and musical instruments (and soundproof rooms).

Alexander: I really miss having the cafeteria for food as now I have home-prepared food which is really nice, but it was also nice to have a bigger variety of options for lunch and snacks.

What do you miss about Singapore?

Gabriella: What I miss most about Singapore, are all the friends I’ve made there. I did have some favourite places in Singapore, but they aren’t there anymore.

Alexander: In Singapore, I miss the food and temperature as they are both very different here in the Netherlands. I didn’t really have any favourite spots or places to go to in Singapore as I was young and did not go out much also due to COVID.

Do you think your time in Singapore and your time at GESS had an impact on your future life? What did you learn at GESS that you especially value today?

Gabriella: Singapore and GESS impacted my life today as both gave me certain expectations of what to expect in the world. The best thing GESS taught me was how intercultural the world truly is and that the world we live in is so diverse.

Alexander: I learned a lot about how to play basketball, which I enjoy, and it really helped me become better now. But I also remembered learning special skills like the ATL skills and how to present presentations properly and gain information that is relevant. I think GESS is special in such a way that nothing really changes learning but the fact that you have so many choices really makes it more special.

Is there any piece of advice or any experience you would like to share with current GESS students?

Gabriella: My advice to current GESS students is to appreciate the access to all the amazing facilities and to make good friends and connections in the mixing pot of culture that GESS is. It’s what makes GESS special.

Hi Enfei, introduce yourself, and tell us what are some of your hobbies in and out of school.

I’m a DP student in Grade 12, European section, and I started my GESS journey all the way back in Grade 1. Academically, I love all my classes, especially physics, math and chemistry, which are my Higher Level subjects. Outside schoolwork, I engage in creative hobbies throughout the week: oil painting, aerial silks circus dance, and theatre. This year, I’m one of the choreographers for our high school musical Spongebob!

We know you are an avid painter. Share with us how you got started on this, and what inspires you?

I started painting before I could write, inspired by observing the world. Now, I’m focusing on extending my fine art foundation to different styles and send messages important to me. I’m constantly inspired by everyday occurrences, interactions, relationships, and what they reveal about the human condition. I believe the most effective art is universal.

Two of my works are in an international digital exhibition (Almenara Art Prize) and recently entered the semifinals for the ARC international realism competition. Another one will be exhibited at the Ngee Ann City Atrium from the 7th to 20th of October (2024 edition of the TRCL Art Prize). Additionally, I’m organizing an art exhibition at a senior home, made up of artworks by young artists at GESS. These opportunities bring me confidence and joy as I strive for my art to resonate with others in the school, local, and international community.

Not only do you paint well, we see that you have been participating in a number of things at GESS. How do you manage so many interests and pursuits, alongside your school work?

It is important to enjoy everything you do or be able to derive meaning from it. I try to immerse myself fully in all opportunities that come my way and aim for growth above excellence. This outlook, combined with developing my time management skills and hard work, helps me manage it all without feeling burdened. In stressful periods, it can be hard to engage with other activities or remain positive. During these times, discipline and purposeful prioritization are crucial to keep going, which is difficult!

You are in Grade 12 now. How is this graduating year different from the past? What are your main challenges in school, and how do you manage them?

In the final year of IB, there is more pressure on test scores, deadlines, thinking about the future, yet simultaneously more opportunities in my extracurriculars. Therefore, the main challenge is balance. Having a positive support system of family, friends, classmates, and teachers helps us all cope with this challenging time.

What kind of support do you feel GESS gives you, in terms of your schoolwork and also your pursuit of interests? What are some of the things you enjoy about school life at GESS?

The teachers are extremely understanding and supportive of our learning, always ensuring that each student is valued and can succeed. For example, the extra DP support lessons, university guidance, and how each teacher is willing to provide help after lessons. Throughout my time here, I have always been able to engage in different opportunities with no barrier to entry, such as science fairs. I love how students’ interests and initiatives are also accommodated. For example, the theatre club at GESS supported me to perform aerial silks for the Addams Family musical last school year!

Lastly, what would you say to other young people in GESS about optimising the opportunities available here?

Don’t be scared to try something new, or to create something new. Only by trying your best in every endeavour can you discover your passions.

Hi Kiran, tell us about yourself.

Hi, my name is Kiran and I am in Grade 10. I have studied at GESS for 6 years now and my favourite subjects are PE and Languages. I have been playing on the school team for the last 3 years. I play football for Barça Academy and I train 6 times a week. I also enjoy playing badminton for fun with my uncle.

Your opportunity in May 2024 in Spain sounds so exciting. Tell us more – how did this come about, how long were you there, and what did you have to prepare before joining them?

My coach at Barça Academy saw potential in me and is good friends with one of the trainers at Girona FC so he told him about me. A few months later, they contacted us and gave me an opportunity to go and train with them for a week. Months before my departure to Girona, I received a document with a training plan, which included a sleep schedule, nutrition recommendations and exercise routines to be in the best shape to perform well. On top of training with Barça Academy, school, and my personal coach, Dave; I also followed the daily training recommended by Girona FC.

What does football mean to you – when and how did you get started on this passion? Where do you see yourself going in this field?

I started playing football at the age of 3. It started with me kicking the ball with my grandfather and that’s how the passion started. He was a big football fan. At the age of 5, I joined my first club when I lived in São Paulo, Brazil. I haven’t stopped playing since then and don’t intend to stop anytime soon. My goal is to become a professional football player.

You are in Grade 10 now. How is high school different from your past years? What are your main challenges in school, and how do you overcome them?

High school is definitely more challenging and demanding than middle school. The main challenge is to manage my time at home as I am always at football training. I am trying to maintain an effective study schedule and organise my time wisely. Ms O’connor, my Grade 7 homeroom teacher, gave me the best studying strategy – which is to take breaks every 20 minutes and do kick-ups with the football. This helps me to this day to stay on track with my studying and homework.

EducatePlus Excellence Awards – category Alumni or Community Impact

Kirsten Moench received the award on behalf of GESS

With excitement, GESS’ BeyondClassrooms programme has secured its second international accolade. Following our 2023 CASE Circle of Excellence Awards, we were honoured in September 2024 with the EducatePlus Excellence Awards, in the Alumni or Community Impact category. This prestigious recognition highlights the programme’s exceptional role in connecting students with real-world learning opportunities beyond traditional classroom walls, offering them unique experiences that prepare them for their future careers. 

The BeyondClassrooms Programme, which partners corporations & organisations, is designed to give GESS students a deeper understanding of industries and professions through internships, site visits, expert talks, workshops, career support and performance opportunities. These experiences are invaluable in fostering growth, curiosity, and a sense of global citizenship among our students. 

As we celebrate this award, we are also excited to introduce new partners who onboarded our network in the past months, expanding the scope and reach of BeyondClassrooms even farther. 

Brunel, a workforce and project solutions company, will participate in the annual Grade 11 Career Information Exchange event, offer mock interviews for students, and share career-related insights through career talks.  

German Centre German Centre Singapore will be providing our students with invaluable industry talks, organising site visits, offering internship opportunities, and participating in career information exchange events. 

LBBW (Landesbank Baden-Württemberg) – A leading German financial institution, LBBW will provide GESS students with insights into the world of finance and banking, offering internships and expert talks from industry professionals. 

Bosch Rexroth – A global leader in drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth’s involvement will give our students exposure to cutting-edge technologies and innovative engineering practices through site visits and hands-on workshops. 

 Alba Berlin and ALBA Group Asia – known for their excellence in basketball and sustainability – support our students through visits to ALBA’s recycling facilities, exciting sustainability lectures, participation in the Basketball & Culture Camp in Berlin and individual support for talented basketball players. 

We are proud of how the BeyondClassrooms programme continues to grow and provide meaningful opportunities for our students. These partnerships will further enhance our ability to offer a diverse array of learning experiences. We look forward to the incredible contributions these new partners will bring to our vibrant community

What’s Next?  

To further develop the BeyondClassrooms programme, we plan to introduce additional innovation initiatives, enhance our career support offerings, and place greater emphasis on service learning, to enrich our students’ overall BeyondClassrooms experience. 

With these and more in the pipeline, BeyondClassrooms stays committed to providing a holistic education, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and values needed for the future. 

Together, we are shaping the future, one experience at a time! 

For more information or partnership inquiries, visit our Parent Portal page or contact Kirsten.moench@gess.edu.sg 

Hi Kumar, hi George, could you introduce yourselves and the team behind you please? 

[Kumar] 

I’m Selva Kumar, I have been in GESS for 6 years and 2 months. There are 4 of us, George, Subra, Azlan, and myself.

[George] 

Hello, I’m George. Since starting my journey with Gess in 2000, I’m now the Supervisor of a team that includes 4 internal officers, Kumar, Subra, Lan and me as well as external officers from a Security Agency. On a daily basis there’s approximately about 11 officers on site, including both day and night shifts.

What does your team do on a day-to-day basis?

[Kumar] 

On a day-to-day basis, my team managed the gantries, with me stationed at one of them, as well as going on patrols and security duties. 

[George] 

My role involves regular foot patrols to deter and detect unauthorized activity, checking IDs, issuing visitor passes, monitoring CCTV for suspicious behaviour, and securing all entry points. I also document incidents, respond to alarms, and assist visitors. My day often starts at 7am and can extend to 7pm or later during events. I oversee external officers and manage ad-hoc deployments when needed, with peak periods occurring during student drop-offs and dismissals. 

What are some of your challenges at work, and how does your team overcome it?

[George] 

Coordinating the deployment of external officers in the morning can be quite challenging, as we often receive the final headcount at the last minute due to unexpected absences like personal emergencies or sick leave. Additionally, managing confrontations with difficult individuals and addressing the concerns of distressed visitors can be demanding. However, I’m proud to say that we have never had to call in the police to resolve any incidents on campus. Unfortunately, I’m unable to share details about what happens behind the scenes. 

You have been in GESS for so long! Can you share your most memorable moment at GESS so far?

[Kumar] 

This is my first experience working in a school environment and navigating a new building. It’s also my first time engaging with such a diverse range of cultures within a school setting. 

[George]

Not all memories are positive. During my time at GESS, I’ve seen many people come and go, but one of the most profound losses was a staff member who tragically perished in the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. He was a kind and friendly person, always greeting us with a warm smile each morning. His loss was a shock to our community. Yet, it was truly heartening to witness how the GESS community came together in support of one another during such a difficult time. On a brighter note, one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here has been watching students grow up and eventually return to GESS with their own families and children; it’s an incredible experience that makes this journey so special.

What is your favourite part about working in GESS?

[Kumar]

Engaging with students and parents, along with our annual facilities team bonding activities. 

[George]

Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds broaden your perspective and deepens your understanding of different cultures. Exchanging ideas and experiences with people from various cultures also stimulates innovative thinking and effective problem-solving. For example, parents often share their travel experiences with me, highlighting the dos and don’ts of their journey. These conversations not only expand my cultural awareness but also help me plan my own travels more effectively.

From when to when did you study at Deutschen Schule Singapur?

I studied from 1988 to1991 from Pre-school to Second Grade of Primary School.

Learning journey after Deutschen Schule Singapur?

After returning home to Klagenfurt (Austria) after 3 years in Singapore, I finished Primary school in Klagenfurt. After that, I also attended High School (Gymnasium) in Klagenfurt. I moved to Graz (Austria) after graduating to attend the “Technical University Graz“ where I got may Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development and Business Management. After that, I moved to Nijmegen (Netherlands) and attended Radboud University Nijmegen where I got my Master’s Degree in Information Science.

What is your Occupation?

I am a Principal Engineer at Infineon Technologies, a German Semiconductor company. I work as a Solution Architect and am responsible for the software architecture of applications that enable high automation in our factories.

From 2019 to 2020 I was lucky to be sent on assignment to Singapore by Infineon. So I could also show Singapore to my wife and son.

What is your favourite memory of Deutschen Schule Singapur?

There were several: I remember that there were monkeys that used to chase us away from the outdoors sports field and it was right next to the forest. We used to have sleepovers at our classroom with all my classmates. I can still remember Mr. Roberts, the main bus driver and Mrs. Oppenheimer, my teacher.

What do you miss most about your time at Deutschen Schule Singapur?

The great effort that was taken to make education fun.

Do you have any favourite spots in Singapore?

• Newton Food Centre
• Tekka Centre
• Orchard Road

Do you think your time at Deutschen Schule Singapur had an impact on your future life?

Absolutely! I have learned a lot at a young age during this time. My English has always been great without learning any grammar or vocabulary during my entire school time. Also, being in Singapore at this young age has helped me to always have an open mind and accept everyone as he/she is, without prejudice.

Is there any piece of advice or any experience you would like to share with current GESS students?

Live your dreams. Don’t let opportunities pass by without making the most of it.

What makes GESS special?

From my experience: comradery, great education and a lot of fun.