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Fairfield Methodist School (Secondary)
2024 Term 2

Breaking Barriers: Secondary 2's (FL)-EXciting Journey of Embracing Diversity

15 May 2024

Secondary 2 students explored diversity and inclusion through hands-on activities, from sign language workshops to family role-play games. Read on to find out how this FLEX week shaped their understanding of different abilities and family harmony.

by Mikaela Faith (Sec 2C), Erica Ng (Sec 2D), Fayth Wai (Sec 2D), Goh Yu Qian (Sec 2H) and Sarah Goh (Sec 3E)

The Weighted Assessment season for the Secondary 2 students has finally come to a close! Now, what lies ahead for these students? Fear not, as the Secondary 2 students embarked on three core events packed with various activities that were focused on appreciating different abilities and fostering family harmony from 15 May to 17 May 2024.

The first event aimed to broaden their understanding of diverse capabilities. In an era often marked by high expectations, the ‘diff-ability’ workshop stood out as highly relevant. It offered experiences ranging from group games with unique sound effects simulating the challenges faced by individuals with autism, to learning sign language for the deaf and crafting fidget cubes for those with ADHD. Among the exercises, seated volleyball left a lasting impression, where students experienced mobility impairments by using only their upper bodies, gaining profound insights into the daily hurdles faced by individuals with cerebral palsy. Each station deepened their empathy and awareness of 'diff-abilities'.

A wide-angle group photo of Secondary Two students, teachers, and Partners-in-Education parents gathered in a spacious school hall during a FLEX week event. In the foreground, numerous adults dressed in vibrant orange polo shirts kneel and sit on the wooden parquet floor alongside teachers. Behind them, a large group of students in yellow school sports kits are seated across the hall. The background features a large main stage with maroon curtains and a projection screen displaying an orange "FamChamps FamQuest" logo. A prominent curved wooden arch above the stage reads a religious scriptural verse, with a Christian cross mounted on the wall to the left.

Day 2 dawned with the arrival of FAMQUEST, a role-playing activity where students formed 'families' to navigate life's pivotal choices. This interactive experience revolved around maneuvering through stations representing significant decisions impacting family dynamics. These choices, symbolised by physical currency denoting 'love', 'joy', and 'wisdom', were crucial for achieving victory. Building harmony within the 'family' proved vital to overcoming challenges, fostering teamwork and breaking down social barriers among students. FAMQUEST not only strengthened class bonds but also instilled a shared understanding of the importance of harmony in real-life family settings.

On the same day, each Secondary 2 class embarked on immersive learning journeys like dining in the dark to simulate blindness, thereby applying their newfound knowledge from the workshops on 'different abilities'. In particular, Secondary 2C visited a home for individuals with autism. Upon arrival, students were warmly greeted by the residents, who engaged them in drawing activities. The students learned to draw a flower from the instructor, before guiding residents through the process. The warmth of their interaction lingered long after reluctant goodbyes were exchanged, leaving a lasting impact on both groups.

Throughout the week, the Secondary 2 students showcased resilience as they tackled challenges and laid strong foundations for their understanding of individuals with different abilities, acknowledging their often-underestimated strengths and daily hurdles. As the week drew to a close, the memories of these transformative events remained vivid. Strengthening bonds and deepening insights, the Secondary 2 students wholeheartedly immersed themselves in a week brimming with laughter, curiosity, and profound learning experiences, exemplifying excellence in their endeavours. This FLEX week will undoubtedly be cherished as an unforgettable journey for all involved.

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