Written by Joshua Lee, Josh Goh, Bryan Quan, Edited by Kaden Teo and Chey Jedd Throughout the first school semester, the Troop went through a series of 集合 related to camp development; to raise the camping standard of the Troop as well as to prepare us for the upcoming June Training Camp. This camp development module had many phases, each meant to build upon the previous to ensure the effective learning and understanding of the Scouts. Knots Phase We first began with knots; revising what we learnt last year and learning new ones respective to our syllabus for the Sec 2 and 3s, as well as being a simple warm-up to introduce scouting skills to the Sec 1s. Knotting would be the foundation of many of our upcoming projects, henceforth it was important to ensure that each Scout is well versed with the knots in their respective syllabus. Basha Phase Afterwards, it was basha training. For each 集合, the Ventures prepared different challenges for us to test our adaptability and forward-thinking. One that was very memorable to me was having to build 1 additional basha for the total number of Patrols there were. This one simple addition made a huge difference in how we planned and coordinate our manpower as the majority of Patrols did not have the manpower to spare. Initially, we did not manage to accomplish this task as we underestimated it, sending Scouts to build the final one only when the Patrol finished theirs, resulting in too many Scouts crowding one spot to build a basha with little time left. It was only through communication amongst the different Patrols and helping each other to accomplish the bashas did we overcame this challenge; this was achieved not through the teamwork of a Patrol, but the teamwork of the Troop. Gadget Phase Then we moved on to gadgets, where the Ventures first went through with us basic gadget design theories. Afterwards, different Patrols were given different gadget designs to construct; exposing us to a greater variety of gadgets typically found in camps and the diverse ways one can be built. At the end of each 集合, we were made to reflect on the gadgets' design and how it impacts the gadgets' difficulty, functionality, durability, etc. It made me realise that each little change could make the gadget turn out differently; one additional bamboo for extra stability can lead to more knots and a heavier load to carry during camps. Pioneering Phase We ended the entire module off with pioneering, applying everything that we learnt from previous 集合 into it. As stated before, knotting is the foundation which allowed us to build these structures and the quality of our knots ensured our safety and prevented us from wasting time retying loose ones. Teamwork and communication learnt during the basha 集合 helped us coordinate the construction of the structures amongst many small teams, where different sections were built concurrently and the timing to complete each section must be hit down to the seconds to ensure efficiency and smooth running of the activity. Gadget theory and construction tricks learnt previously could also be applied to pioneering albeit upscaled. This camp development module was insightful and fruitful, not only training our skillsets but also allowing us to understand the significance of each skill and the connections between them as we progress. The Patrols would soon have the opportunity to test the skills they had developed when they compete with one another during the upcoming June Training Camp.

Written by Daniel Ong, Edited by Chey Jedd As Ventures and vanguards of the Troop, we constantly test our physical and mental capabilities. On 30 April 2022, my fellow JC1 Ventures and I embarked on our Pioneer Exploration Assessment (PEA) hike, a key milestone in our journey as Ventures. Below is my reflection on the journey my batch took to complete PEA. Knowing ourselves, Understanding the Terrain In preparation for the PEA hike, we regularly practised our orienteering skills such as area survey and map sketch, getting insightful comments and tips from the Rovers who had experienced and knew the standards of PEA. We also went on frequent mock hikes that were modelled after the actual PEA hike. These mock hikes serve two important functions. Firstly, it gave us the opportunity to better gauge our own abilities and condition ourselves for the physical demands of the hike. We were able to catch weaknesses and areas of improvement early on and rectify them so that we would not be caught surprised during the actual hike. For example, we were able to track our average hiking pace and the time spent doing the sketches so that we know which area needs to be done faster and could then better plan our time during the actual hike. Secondly, when planning the mock hikes, the Rovers ensured that we travelled at least once in each direction; North, South, East, and West. This was to allow us to have some experience with each area so that we would need to refer to the map less during the hike. It was also a learning experience for us to understand which roads we can take as being in the area physically lets us learn which roads can be used and which are highways that we should avoid. PEA Hike On the day of the hike, we began with a Zoom inspection where the examiners asked us to show specific items, namely our bottles of water as well as our first aid kit. We were then given the MGR and a clue about our checkpoints to plan our route. After confirming the locations with the examiner, we set off on our hike. The hike was an arduous one. The need to move at a quick pace to meet the time limit of the hike constantly conflicted with our need to move slowly so as to record as much information as possible for our route map. While I initially struggled to juggle these two tasks, I was able to strike a balance as time passed. Similarly, the map sketch and area survey also required us to be able to work under immense time pressure so as to produce sketches that were both detailed and specific. This greatly tested our situational awareness as well as the orienteering skills accumulated over our years of scouting. More notably, this hike tested our mental resilience. The distance as well as the need to produce high-quality sketches and complete the hike in time meant that we were under immense pressure to succeed. Personally, this pressure acted like a parasite, attacking me from the inside and discouraging me from completing the hike. Thankfully, with sheer willpower and support from my companion, we forged ahead and completed the hike. Post-Hike The next few hours after the hike was then spent resting as well as sending our draft sketches to the examiners. Although largely unpolished, these sketches were detailed enough to show that we were in the areas physically and had taken note of their key features and landmarks. Afterwards, we all worked tirelessly until 8 a.m. the next day to do our final sketchbooks. Despite having to touch up 3 route maps, a map sketch, an area survey, and write the captions for our checkpoints and reflection on the hike, we were not daunted by this challenge. We were committed to submitting quality sketchbooks as this was the standard we expected of ourselves as Catholic High Ventures and as ambassadors of the Troop. My Experience While this hike may seem like just another test of our mental resilience, one part stood out a lot to me - my second checkpoint. This was at Pandan Reservoir, along the South-West coast of Singapore. I recalled a great sense of relief and happiness upon reaching this checkpoint. While I initially attributed this to the end of the hike being in sight, I have now come to realise that it was the reservoir itself that gave me this feeling. Situated between an HDB estate and industrial sites, the reservoir provided a bubble of peace and tranquillity, where all the ache and tiredness temporarily vanished. I was able to admire and take in the beauty of the reservoir. With this feeling, I am reminded of the ever-urbanising Singapore. In the pursuit of economic development, Singapore has been willing to deforest and destroy. The BKE (Bukit Timah Expressway) for example, split the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, literally cutting a forest into 2, to allow for more efficient transport. At the same time, the authorities have given the green light for the upcoming Cross Island MRT line to cut through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. With such rapid urbanisation, it is very likely that Singapore will be different from the Singapore of today in the next decade. Perhaps the next generation will follow my route and fail to see the various trees and forests as I saw them, but as concrete, steel and glass trees. The Pioneering Exploration Assessment hike was a physically and mentally demanding challenge, however, with ample preparation and support from the Leaders and Rovers, we were able to overcome this challenge. This hike was also an eye-opening one for me. It allowed me to put my orienteering skills to the test, challenged my ability to think ahead and reminded me about the need to protect the little green spaces that we have left.

Written by Daniel Ong, Edited by Chey Jedd On 19 March 2022, the Troop gathered to commemorate the formal induction of the new Level 1 Scouts into Catholic High Scout Group. This would be the first time the Level 1s get to be with their Patrols. To safeguard the Scouts from the ongoing pandemic, each Scout was spaced out appropriately with a wider gap between Patrols. Gaining strength, Solidifying commitment During the ceremony, our ASL Siauw Yu Hern called upon each individual Patrol. Afterwhich, the Level 1s stepped forward with their Patrol Leader. The Patrol Leader then led them to the front of the 马蹄, where our GSL Mr Andrew Chua donned the national scarves on the Level 1 Scouts, formalising their commitment to themselves, their Patrol, the Troop and the nation. The presence of the PL also highlights his responsibility of taking care and nurturing his Patrol members. Afterwards, the currently-invested Scouts placed their left hand on the Troop flag. As the left hand is the closest hand to their heart, this is a sign of their loyalty and commitment to the Troop. Then, they raised their right hand forming the Scout salute and recited the Scout Promise. During which, the rest of the Troop recited alongside them, signifying the unity and brotherhood of the Troop - where every Scout, regardless of rank and seniority, stands together as one. The Scout Promise is integral as it is a commitment of discipline and moral values that we as Scouts must uphold - not just when we don our uniform, but every single moment of our lives. The formalisation of the investiture ceremony is crucial as it sets an example for the Level 1 Scouts. As the first major milestone in their scouting journey, this ceremony instils in them the attitude of discipline and maintaining the highest standards. At the end of the ceremony, the Level 1s took photos with their new Patrols. Bonding After the investiture ceremony, the very first Patrol activity for the Level 1s began. The Scouts engaged in VOJ games that tested their teamwork, communication skills, and ability to think out of the box. For example in one of the stations, the Scouts had to think of a way to pull down a piece of rope dangling above them. Some simply chose to unsuccessfully attempt to swing a stick at it while the Scouts who were able to think creatively applied their knotting skills and tied a marlinspike on a piece of bamboo that was used to grab and pull down the rope. Each VOJ game may seem simple in execution, but the objectives and lessons behind them are varied beyond what was already listed above. For instance, one station requires the Scouts to complete certain goals like stacking a card tower or placing an object at the highest point possible within a limited duration. To succeed, not only must manpower be distributed effectively, each Scout must have a clear objective and prioritise the correct actions. Some Scouts were too tunnel focused and prioritised actions which were not harmful but consequently did not contribute to achieving their goals. Now as I start upon my chosen way Although the pandemic has hindered much of our everyday lives, the Troop is still able to adapt and overcome, allowing the legacy of Catholic High Scout Group to be passed down to future generations. As the Level 1 Scouts join their Patrols, they will be placed under the wings of their seniors, where they will learn countless skills from knotting to first aid to orienteering. They will go through countless tough and brutal training sessions that will hone both their skills and discipline. Moreover, they will forge unbreakable bonds with their batchmates and Patrol mates that will last them throughout their scouting journey and beyond. With the beginning of their journey, these young 13 year olds will rise to the challenge and eventually lead their own batch of juniors as the seniors of the Troop. Above: Photos by Venture Scout Chey Jedd

By Lucas Kong and Chia Qi Xing Updated: 31 December 2021 Today on 27 March 2021, the Level 1 Scouts officially joined Catholic High Scout Group. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions and safeguards were put in place during the ceremony. However, this did not dampen their mood as they were all excited to officially become Catholic High Scouts. Investiture Ceremony The investiture ceremony signifies the induction of the Level 1s as Scouts and the start of their scouting journey in Catholic High Scout Group. The Patrol Leader of each Patrol accompanies and leads their respective Level 1s during the ceremony. This is to show their full support to the Level 1s who they will lead in their Patrols. When the ceremony began, our ASL Kaiser Koh called forth the Patrols to be invested, starting with Pigeon Patrol, followed by Eagle Patrol, and so on. The PLs marched forward proudly, leading their new Level 1s Patrol mates behind them. The Level 1s marched forward with their heads held high, excited to become members of the Troop. The Level 1s placed their left-hand (side where the heart is located) on the Troop flag, signifying a promise of loyalty and dedication to the Troop. They then raised their right-hand in salute and recited the Scout promise and Scout law. They pledged to uphold the values and meaning behind the Scout promise and Scout law, acting as model citizens both during and outside of training, to be of service to our community. Afterwards, our GSL Mr Andrew Chua, put their national scarves on for them, officially welcoming them as Scouts recognised by the Troop. Mr Chua is the highest-ranking Scout Leader in the Troop who has dedicated many years to the Troop. He has invested numerous batches of Level 1s into our scouting legacy and it is an honour to be recognised as a Scout by him. This ceremony also symbolises the growing strength of the Troop with the arrival of a new batch of Scouts. Moving forward After officially joining the scouting movement and the Troop, the Level 1 Scouts would have to endure arduous training for the next 3 years and emerge as true Catholic High Scouts. Their mental resilience, fortitude, and spirit would be tested during each training. Learning under their experienced seniors through theory and hands-on lessons, they would grow and develop their skills, knowledge, and strength. As the Level 1 Scouts continue to grow, they would have many opportunities to display their skills and challenge themselves through scouting competitions and events. The Troop strongly believes in the importance of holistic education. The Level 1 Scouts would have the opportunity to develop various soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and discipline amongst many others during training and camps. These would be stressed upon during training. When they become seniors in the future, they would get the opportunity to lead their own Patrol and develop their leadership, communication skills, and many more. Ending off To end off the investiture, the Level 1 Scouts took a photo together to commemorate the joyous occasion, etching the memory in their minds for time to come. This marks the start of their scouting journey as they grow in both body and mind alongside their fellow Catholic High Scouts.

Written by Seah Zhang Qi, Edited by Chey Jedd The investiture ceremony is an important annual tradition in Catholic High Scout Group where Scouts are recognised, empowered and rewarded for their efforts and dedication towards the Troop, as well as towards scouting. It is the passing of the torch from the seniors to the juniors, the responsibility of carrying the Troop, guiding the juniors younger than them, setting an example for others to follow. As the roles of the seniors are passed down to the juniors, the complete trust in carrying out their duties to the fullest is also placed on their shoulders. The Troop gathered on 19 February 2022 for our annual investiture. This year, we had pushed the date of investiture back by 1 month to allow the PLs of each Patrol to have more time to handover their Patrol affairs to their juniors, as well as allow the Leaders to have 1 extra month to assess the batch of Scouts who would be stepping up to take over. This also allowed for the new batch of Secondary 1 Scouts to witness this important ceremony for their first time, having a taste of the bonds formed, characters developed, and experience gained through joining our Catholic High Scout Group family. The Troop assembled to commence with one final 升旗 led by our 2021 SPL Law Jia Jun before the Secondary 4 Scouts step down from their leading roles or promote to become Venture Scouts. After 1 hour of drills training, the investiture ceremony began. Shouldering responsibilities The Secondary 2 Scouts who were invested marched up with their PLs, placing one hand on the flagpole and forming the Scout salute with the other to recite the Scout Promise. The rest of the Troop put their hands up with the Scout salute as well, all reciting the Promise in unison with the newly invested Secondary 2 Scouts. As the newly invested Scouts took off their red national scarves and had the Troop scarves put over them by our Group Scout Leader (GSL) Mr Andrew Chua, it embodied the Troop's recognition of them as Catholic High Scouts and faith in them to always put the Troop at the top, putting in their best to serve the Troop. For the SPL, ASPLs and 8 PLs who were invested, along with the numerous other appointment holders who were recognised and invested, the investiture signified the trust bestowed upon them to lead the Troop to continuous success and glory. With this strengthened trust, the appointment holders are reminded to maximise their potential with the chance they have been given to guide the Troop to an even better version of itself. This year, 12 new Ventures were promoted, bringing the overall strength of the Venture unit to an impressive 22 Ventures. This investiture symbolised the heightened trust in the newly appointed Ventures to pave the way for the Troop, guiding the Scouts, planning, training and running activities to ensure a smooth running of the Troop behind the scenes, ensuring a steady progression for the Scouts. Above: Video by Venture Scouts Loh Feng Ryan and Law Jia Jun Celebrating 2021 Last but not least, the investiture ceremony capped off with the Prize Presentation. Over the course of the year, there were many ups and downs and sudden changes to training formats, with the biggest obstacle being Circuit Breaker. In spite of this, the Troop remained strong against adversity. With the support of our Venture unit, a new form of June Camp was created; June Challenge, where everything was moved online. With different activities and side missions testing the Scouts to the best of their abilities through a blended format, it allowed for intense inter-Patrol competition even during Circuit Breaker. The Patrols did their best and competed ferociously to gain as many points as possible. With the ranking of June Challenge taken into consideration, as well as the Patrols’ performance throughout the rest of the year, the Patrol that came out above the rest, and was named the Overall Best Patrol of 2021 was Cobra Patrol. Congratulations to Cobra! After the ceremony, the Troop gathered for 降旗 led by our new 2022 SPL Joshua Lee. On my chosen way Investiture is an important event for every Catholic High Scout, being a recognition of efforts, a strengthening of trust, a renewal of commitment and so much more. Each Scout, Venture, Rover, and even Leader reflects on their scouting journey thus far and what they can do to push themselves higher. As 2021 has come to a close and a new year has arrived, this event marks the beginning of a brand new year of scouting in Catholic High Scout Group. A year riddled with challenges, primed with obstacles, but destined for progress.

Written by Josh Goh and Joshua Low, Edited by Chey Jedd On 22 February 2022, the Troop enthusiastically celebrates World Scout Day. This is a good opportunity to reflect upon our scouting experience and what future steps to take on this journey. Our ASPL, Josh Goh, and ASL, Joshua Low, shared their scouting experience with us and how it has changed their lives. Josh Goh(2022 ASPL, Tiger PL) Scouting has motivated me to strive for continuous improvement in my life. It is through scouting that I have many opportunities to experience new things which allowed me to reflect and discover new aspects about myself that I have never noticed before. I feel that to improve, I often look back on the Scout Law for inspiration. As such, I will be referencing one Scout Law that I apply often in my daily life. "A Scout makes friends, establishes and maintains harmonious relations." Making friends in scouting is inevitable. It allows for more communication between peers and for better coordination or chemistry between one another as we complete tasks more effectively. In my patrol, Tiger, I feel that everyone has a strong sense of trust in each other through our shared experiences. One time, I remember when my Patrol was tasked by the Ventures to break some codes. We managed to effectively split our workload and when someone was struggling, someone who was free would try to help him. It is the little things that we do that contribute to team bonding and spirit. In the past, I used to be introverted as I did not feel the need to express anything. However, through my 3 years in Catholic High Scout Group, I have gained the confidence to be able to talk to more people. Now that I am an ASPL and PL, I hope to foster closer bonds with everyone in the Troop and create an environment where everyone is friendly and trusting of one another. Joshua Low(ASL, Chief Webmaster) When I was 16, I made the commitment to stay on as a Venture Scout instead of stepping down and retiring like my friends in other Co-Curricular activities. Many of my peers asked, “Why stay on? Is it not a waste of time?” The perplexity of others got me thinking, "Why scouts?". Scouting has become an integral part of my life, developing me into a better person. The 5 Scout Laws, the Scout Motto, the simple guidelines which form the backbone of scouting have become my own moral compass which influences my thoughts. “Be prepared”, the motto of scouting. This value has been integrated deeply into my life, the ability to react in any situation to anything, to be in whatever predicament I am in, to be able to take control of the situation and thrive in it. ​深谋远虑, as the Catholic High Venture Unit’s motto of having foresight expands on, allows me to prepare for any foreseen situation, and when an unforeseen problem arises, be able to adapt and push through it. The countless VOJ and SRIT training in Scouts have sharpened my mind to think faster, to take quick decisive action as in the usual first aid situations we are thrown into, immediate action is crucial. Immediately allocating manpower, giving clear instructions, being quick and decisive, VOJ has strengthened my ability to work under pressure. The value of the skills shows as it reveals itself in every aspect of my life, no matter how small. Be it in the leading of school projects, where we put in our best efforts to produce outstanding results or in simple everyday decisions, our skills are allowed to shine. Scouting was never my first choice, yet it has become such an integral part of my life. Looking back, starting my scouting journey in Catholic High Scout Group is one of the best decisions my 13 year old self had made, I would not change a thing.

Written by Damien Kang We are proud to announce that a record of 7 Venture Scouts from Catholic High Scout Group has been conferred the President’s Scout Award on 8 December 2021 at the Istana. The President’s Scout Award is the pinnacle award that Venture Scouts can attain, and is awarded to Venture Scouts who have displayed relentless commitment to the Scout movement and the community, outstanding leadership and exceptional skills. The Venture Scout are, according to alphabetical order: Alex Chien Jun Hao Cheng Lin Kai, Joash Damien Kang Jun Heng Jann Lim Yi Lun Joel Lim Yuet Heng Ooi Lee Seng, Michael Wong Zheng Tat The journey to attain the President’s Scout Award consisted of many components, such as community service, and many courses that put our Venture Scouts’ skills to the test. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated the process of obtaining the award. However, despite the setbacks, our Venture Scouts displayed resilience and persevered to obtain the award, and to put Catholic High Scout Group at the top. In the words of the Scout Hymn, “To be the best, the best that I can be!” Congratulations to the 7 Venture Scouts for their outstanding achievement and they will continue to serve in Catholic High Scout Group as role models and mentors to their juniors.

Written by Rayn Tan and Chey Jedd, Edited by Lucas Loh If there was one quote to embody our spirit for the past year, it would be to "Never let a good crisis go to waste". On 22 January 2022, the Troop gathered to celebrate its 74th anniversary, for our annual 团庆. While many other Scout groups may see such an event as a birthday celebration, 团庆 to us is far more than a commemoration of our age and survival as a Scout group. Just as every past 73 iterations, 团庆 is an event where we challenge ourselves and prove that we, the Scouts of today, are worthy of carrying the legacy that rests upon every one of our shoulders. Raising the Stakes One such challenge is the annual raising of the 五层旗杆(Five-Storey Flagpole), roughly 13m tall. This year, however, we upped the ante even more as a poetic defiance to the belief that COVID has made us weaker or softer. We decided to raise a 七层旗杆(Seven-Storey Flagpole), towering at 18.34m. In truth, many of us were daunted by such an absurd challenge, since it had almost been a year since we had even raised a 3-storey flagpole. But Catholic High Scouts only lift each other up, and with intense preparation and teamwork from everyone in the Troop, we came together and accomplished the task. When all was said and done, there stood our flag flying high and proud, taller than even the neighbouring classrooms. Many of us were honestly astounded at its sheer height, being even taller than we had expected. In truth, we see ourselves in this flagpole in many ways. Brazenly defying the odds, outperforming our own expectations, built on the innate strength and spirit of Catholic High Scouts. The reach of its guylines stretching far and wide, just as the number of lives Catholic High scouting has impacted. We would also like to take this opportunity to wish our GSL a very happy belated 92nd Birthday, serving as our Troop's unwavering anchor through his many years of experience and wisdom. Celebrating 2021 Catholic High scouting has been around since 1948; the concepts are not new, yet still very relevant in today's context. While keeping to our traditions and practices, we did not depend on yesterday's weapons to fight the battles of today. A good example of this was June Challenge, an inter-Patrol competition where Scouts were tasked to learn the scouting modules themselves and come together as a Patrol to overcome fun scouting-related challenges. This was an improvement to the TCP-based modules in 2020 as the Scouts got more opportunities to interact and bond together as a Patrol despite being heavily restricted from meeting each other. Our Webmaster Council had also been very busy that year, managing our online and technological resources while establishing new online platforms. Our Troop Instagram was established early that year, working alongside our Troop Facebook as a tool to keep our community up-to-date on the Scouts' activities and show the wider public what Catholic High scouting is. New software was created in-house, such as MARGO, a hike deliverable generator thought up and created by our Lead Rover Lucas Loh with assistance from VC Ryan Loh that would streamline and improve how orienteering training would be done in CHSG. As CHS Scouts, we believe that there is always room for improvement. This includes previous online scouting tools done by us like the Interactive Topo Map which was upgraded to be more interactive with new functions that would greatly benefit our Scouts during hikes. Our Venture unit also took the time during the holidays to create new scouting notes and revamp existing ones, ensuring the content is relevant and up-to-date. Although the number of scouting competitions was drastically reduced amidst the pandemic, CHSG still gained many new achievements to our name. We saw 8 of our Scouts achieve the Chief Commissioner's Award and 7 of our Ventures the President's Scout Award, the greatest milestone in their scouting and venturing journeys respectively. These talented Scouts not only brought pride to the Troop, but had also left a legacy that inspired many junior Scouts in the Troop to set their sights on reaching their level. Hence, the Troop gathered on this day to celebrate our success in 2021, reflect on what we can do better, and welcome new opportunities available in 2022. Troop Spirit After 升旗, we proceeded with the games comprising of 追踪 and Tug-of-War. These games allowed Patrols to work together, promoting values such as teamwork. Moreover, they also allowed the Scouts to bond with their Patrol mates and others from the Troop, fostering Patrol spirit and a sense of Troop identity. The games also inculcate soft skills like awareness and leadership, important skills needed in a Scout. This was followed by a photo-taking session as well as the distribution of the cupcakes to celebrate 团庆. Finally, we ended things off with 降旗 lead by our 2021 SPL Law Jia Jun. As the Scouts proudly recited the Scout Hymn and shouted a harmonious "公教" during BERSURAI, this marked the end of our journey in 2021 and paved the way to a new exciting year in 2022.

Written by Law Jia Jun and Kaleb Phoon, Edited by Chey Jedd As the new year came along, a new batch of Level 1 students joined CHS, which means that we would soon be welcoming a new batch of Sec 1 Scouts to our Troop as well. In order to recruit strength for the Troop, we are determined to put up a good show during CHS's annual CCA Showcase to give the Level 1s a glimpse of Catholic High scouting. Below is a brief introduction to some of the scouting modules. Troop Values A brief introduction to our Troop’s values is key to understanding why we do things a certain way and also helps to layout the journey in which a CHSG Scout will take. Catholic High Scout Group has three core values; 智，仁，勇, which stand for Wisdom, Benevolence and Courage respectively and are the symbolic framework for our Troop. Each value is also endowed with a specific colour, Blue for Wisdom, White for Benevolence and Yellow for Courage. Campcraft Campcraft is a core scouting activity that we commonly carry out either in school or during camps. Leading up to this year’s CCA Showcase, our Scouts worked together to build an entire campsite to showcase to the Level 1s. Our campsite consists of a gateway, a clothesline, a shoe rack, a Kitchen Shed, a Pounders Tent, as well as fencing to act as boundaries for our campsite. These pieces of equipment help to ensure basic standards of living during camps. For example, the clothesline can hang dirty clothes to ensure that they are air-dried before packing them back into our rucksacks. Pioneering Pioneering is an essential component in scouting and in CHSG, we always strive to build the grandest of structures which allow us to look wide and go further. For this CCA Showcase, we built a tower, a bridge, and 2 catapults. Each and every structure that was built was carefully thought out and well-planned. This was to ensure that not only does the building process go smoothly, but that every Scout was also safe during construction. Bushcraft As Scouts, we learn bushcraft as a way to survive in the wilderness using any resources we can scavenge. For example, using natural materials to craft a bow and arrow which can be fired at will. Within CHSG, we strive to produce Scouts who are able to adapt to any challenge and bushcraft is an example of this. In the wilderness, not many materials will be at hand and it is up to our Scouts to rise to the challenge and make do with whatever they have. First Aid First aid is an important skill in scouting, with CHSG Scouts going through different first aid training and courses to be qualified as certified First-Aiders. Scouts learn a wide variety of first aid skills, including treatment for sprains and strains, insect and animal bites, burns, abrasions, frostbite, heatstroke and much more. During training, we learn how to adapt on the spot and improvise with whatever materials and manpower we have. It is through these training sessions that our Scouts hone their on the ball thinking and also their mastery of first aid.

This article is part of the Undisrupted series, a series of articles detailing our Troop's response to the current COVID-19 situation, allowing training to continue even when physical CCA sessions have been postponed showing that our Troop is truly prepared and unwavered even in the face of the pandemic. By Lucas Loh Updated: 3 January 2022 In the previous article, it was highlighted how effective our Troop's Proficiency Badge Elective System is in providing the necessary structure and scaffolding to help our Scouts bring glory to our Troop. In this article, the spotlight will be on two of these electives, the Naturalist and Conservator badge, to illustrate how our PBE program has managed to allow our Scouts a deeper understanding of their respective topics in pursuit of their badges. For both badges, our Ventures identified the key lacking areas where the Scouts' learning can be improved upon. The first key lacking area was the time scope of both badges. In the Conservator badge, a survey of 2 different areas was required with map sketches and discussions on the past and present land utilisations. This is a key focus as urban development in land-scarce Singapore often puts urban planners in conflict with conservationists. Hence, the badge requirements were extended to focus on Chek Jawa and Pekan Quarry in Pulau Ubin specifically to allow Scouts to exemplify the history of Pulau Ubin from a mining town, to a target for development, before finally achieving its status as a conservation area in Singapore. For the Naturalist badge, a study of the natural history (i.e. plant and animals) for at least 3 monthsof either a piece of seashore, sand dune, rocks, garden, or vegetation. However, such a short timeframe is often not sufficient for observable changes to landforms to occur in the geological timescale. Hence, the Troop came up with additional requirements in order to ensure that this learning objective was met by extending the study using satellite images over years and decades. By allowing our Scouts to understand how the environment itself was shaped before it shapes the flora and fauna around it, they were able to form a more holistic picture of the interactions between the environment, biosphere, and man. Hence, the use of Google Earth not only broadens our spatial perspectives, but also temporal perspectives, two key dimensions all geographers must be able to make use of. A quote from the reflection of one of our Scouts, Audric Tan from Rhino Patrol. In addition, even in the relatively large expanse of untouched nature that is our Nature Reserves in Singapore, many landforms often experience muted development as many processes such as erosion and deposition are disrupted by the nearby urban environment through factors such as the Urban Heat Island effect, channelisation of rainwater and concretisation of urban fringes. By allowing our Scouts to study globally, they are able to better appreciate the natural processes first by seeing how the absence of man produces different patterns in nature, as compared to the highly artificial environment we are used to in nature such as Bishan River. In these ways, both the Conservator and Naturalist badge elective program allows our Scouts to be better geographers and gain a much deeper understanding of complex ideas such as environmental injustice, inter and intragenerational equity, and many ethical considerations through a topic as simple as rivers or plants. A mindmap produced by one of our Scouts, Audric Tan from Rhino Patrol. Furthermore, these badges have allowed an avenue for a deep mentorship experience between the Ventures and the Scouts as intellectuals and informed Scouts of this world, especially since many of them were stretched in their understanding of geography. Left: An excerpt from Joshua Low's Naturalist Report, from Tiger Patrol. Under the guidance of our Venture Mentors, many Scouts were not only able to write academically competent reports but also link their learning back to what they know in Scouts so that they are able to apply their knowledge. For the Conservator badge, guidance was provided in the form of many conceptual frameworks and understandings to start off the Scouts' research, in order to help them categorise and organise their research. For example, the geological aspect of the report, requiring an understanding of soil type and soil erosion, was especially challenging since the badge required 5 types of soil, despite the fact that all soil is on a spectrum between the 3 major types of abiotic sediment (clay, silt, sand) and peat. By helping them to integrate this understanding, the Scouts were able to direct their energies better in the research project, reaching academic standards 2-3 grades above their current age. For the Naturalist badge, guidance was provided in the form of theory lessons to allow the Scouts to understand the prevailing theory of meandering rivers, before being challenged to find their own meanders and apply their learning to the real world. They also studied the impact of human activities in depth, gaining a balanced view of the world, such as the environmental harms of "clean energy" from dams and ethical issues surrounding transboundary rivers. By first learning the theory before applying it on their own, the Scouts were able to reach higher-order critical thinking skills expected only at the JC level. An annotated sketch of the various meandering processes by Zavier Ng, Cobra Patrol Overall, through the PBE, our Troop has managed to achieve excellence in academic standards from theory to application, far surpassing the Proficiency badge standards expected from 13-16-year-old Scouts. This is only possible through an efficient and effective training structure that provides only the guidance needed, without impeding their ability to learn and discover independently.

This article is part of the Undisrupted series, a series of articles detailing our Troop's response to the current COVID-19 situation, allowing training to continue even when physical CCA sessions have been postponed showing that our Troop is truly prepared and unwavered even in the face of the pandemic. By Lucas Loh Updated: 25 December 2021 Above: Some products of the Knots Chart Project from Scouts. For the past 4 weeks, the Ventures had ensured continued training of the Scouts as the COVID situation brews on, covering many areas including first aid, knots, orienteering, and Static Fitness, with many more modules coming up on camp development, astronomy, terrain and climate, and cooking, to name a few. These resources were being amassed and created each week, growing our Digital QM of knowledge faster than ever. These resources will continue to stay and be put to use even after the COVID-19 situation subsides, ensuring an elite standard of training for years to come. Through these past weeks, the Scouts had trained many of their skills in novel and engaging ways, such as floorplan sketching as a replacement for map sketching, as well as covered approximately half of the CHSG first aid syllabus. The Scouts had also been highly self-directed and self-disciplined in their own training, such as in the Knots Chart Project, where Scouts learnt and documented 4 new knots every Jihe, under the successful leadership of the PLC. Many of the modules had also been designed to not only ensure the weaker Scouts are able to keep up, but also ensure that the stronger Scouts are not held back. Some modules are even structured to scaffold a Scout's pursuit of badges, such as the climate modules for the Meteorology badge, the astronomy module for the Astronomer's badge to name a few. The leadership of the PLC has also been put to the test as they coordinated and managed their own Patrol members' learning, as they lead their Patrol to score the most points, at the same time elevating the skill level of the whole Troop and putting the Troop at the top. Many Scouts have also outdone themselves in striving to do their best for their Patrol. For our Pushup Fitness Challenge, the top 3 Scouts for the number of unassisted situps in 1 minute are: AUDRIC TT TAN TENG HAN (RHINO SEC 3): 50 FANG XUHUI (TIGER SEC 2): 45 LOW SHAO JIE, JOSHUA (TIGER Patrol LEADER): 41 For our first aid Quizzes, uploaded on Student Learning Space, our top three scorers for Chapter 4: CIRCULATORY SYSTEM AND DISORDERS are: GARETH TAN JUN REN (RHINO SEC 1): 35/36 YUOH ZHI YONG ELIOTT (EAGLE SEC 1): 29/36 LI YIFAN (DOLPHIN SEC 1): 29/36 Our top six scorers for Chapter 5: SHOCKS are: SEAH ZHANG QI (SENIOR PATROL LEADER): 15/16 CHIA QI XING (COBRA PATROL LEADER): 14/16 NG CHEN FONG (COBRA SEC 3): 14/16 LAW JIA JUN (RHINO APL): 14/16 KAISER KOH JUIN HONG (WOLF PATROL LEADER): 14/16 ONG SHENG YANG DANIEL (SHARK PATROL LEADER): 14/16

This article is part of the Undisrupted series, a series of articles detailing our Troop's response to the current COVID-19 situation, allowing training to continue even when physical CCA sessions have been postponed showing that our Troop is truly prepared and unwavered even in the face of the pandemic. By Lucas Loh Updated: 25 December 2021 Badges are one of the most prominent features in scouting, and as far as we know, has always involved the process of a Scout Leader evaluating and approving the Scout's merit before awarding the Scout the badge. However, this often involves the use of a hardcopy report or proof of merit, as well as a physical signing and passing of a certificate. In addition, the Scout Leader has to meet up with the Scout in-person to evaluate his merit. However, with frequent supply issues of blank certificates and in view of conserving both time and resources involved in the printing of certificates, our Troop has pioneered the first of its kind online Badge Management System (BMS). This will allow us to achieve both speed and efficiency in managing the Troop's badges. Speed As Scouts no longer need to wait for an opportune window to apply for badges, the Troop is able to process and award badges much faster than usual. In addition, the Leaders will have access to the submitted proof of merit documents, making it easy and quick to evaluate a Scout's progress from one centralised system. This also avoids the issue of having to wait for the Troop to obtain hardcopy certificates and badges, as well as the Leaders having to physically sign and return the certificates, reducing the wait time for approval. Efficiency The BMS allows Scouts and Ventures (the whole Troop) to submit softcopy documents and apply for both their Tier badges (Scout Badge, and Discoverer, Explorer, Voyager Awards) as well as Proficiency badges within the Scout Scheme anytime, anywhere. This removes the need for the Scout to wait for physical training to submit his report, saving time in the process of Proficiency badge applications. On the Leaders' end, they are also able to view all applications, past and present, in one system to keep track of Scouts' progress. This will save valuable Jihe time as our Scout Leaders no longer need to review the applications in-person. Scouts can then use the digital certificate to purchase badges from the Scout shop, eliminating the Troop as the middle man between the Scouts and the Scout shop. This also encourages independence and self-management as Scouts are responsible for their own progress. This BMS is part of the Catholic High Scout Group mentality of speed and efficiency, in everything we do and all trainings we conduct, to build strength for the troop.