STEP Students enrolled at the Mayflower Secondary School were thrilled to meet Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance and Manpower, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, on 24 August 2011.

STEP pupils from the Creative Math programme enjoyed showing DPM Tharman how fun Mathematics was by making clocks and learning the basics of reading time. The Creative Math programme which was launched last month develops positive attitudes towards learning and increases students’ interest for Mathematics subjects through exciting hands-on activities and games. Currently, this programme is offered at 11 STEP centres and 5 Project Teach schools for Primary 1 and 2 pupils.

Recently, the kids enjoyed learning about weights by having a go at reading real weighing scales that were brought to their classes. Students curiously experimented by weighing their personal belonging on the scales. Later on, they compared the weights of various items around them.

Pupils also learnt how to apply Mathematics concepts taught in practical situations through the programme which will be conducted during students’ STEP or Project Teach curriculum at a nominal fee of $5 only.

The fee covers the costs of worksheets and teaching materials that will be used to teach pupils over the next 9 weeks.

The secondary school students from the “I am Motivated” Programme also had a fruitful discussion with DPM Tharman during his visit. They spoke on various matters ranging from their favourite subjects to areas for self improvement. The programme aims to nurture responsible self-motivated individuals through holistic learning.

Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who is also the Chairman of SINDA’s Board of Trustees visited other classes and interacted with students and their parents on various education matters. The interaction session served as a valuable platform for invited guests to also exchange views and seek feedback from parents and tutors on matters concerning the education of Indian students.