By Amelia Tan

A TIME-OUT programme begun at Outram Secondary School by its principal has won her praise from Education Minister Ng Eng Hen.

Speaking at the 11th appointment ceremony yesterday for principals, Dr Ng said the programme, initiated by Madam Choy Wai Yin, had helped turn many lives around.

Madam Choy, 43, was among several principals praised by the minister yesterday for the leading role they play in Singapore's education system.

Said Dr Ng: 'Education is all about tending and nurturing, and the principal is the chief gardener.

'As we provide even more autonomy and resources to schools in the next few years, I am confident that more principals will create unique programmes that will add value to their students.'

Madam Choy began the time-out programme for her school to help students who have disciplinary problems, such as those who are caught smoking or playing truant.

They are not allowed in class, but are sent to the programme and take part in activities designed to help wean them off their bad habits.

They also participate in community involvement projects at homes and organisations for the intellectually impaired, and learn about teamwork through activities like rock climbing and starting a business.

Teachers are also on hand to coach them in English, maths and science.

Once they show improvement, they are sent back to class, and school counsellors and teachers then follow up by meeting the students regularly.

The programme was so successful that it was extended to the other four schools in the South 4 Cluster last year.

Said Madam Choy: 'I feel that as far as possible, students should be kept in the school setting where they can be supervised...Some of them just need an adult mentor who can provide them with support and show concern.'

Another principal hailed for her use of innovative teaching methods was Ms Tham Yoke Chun of Jurong Secondary School, who expanded lessons beyond the classroom.

Biology lessons, for example, came alive for students when they worked with the JTC Corporation to look at how extensive use of the Jurong Lake Park can affect the growth of flora and fauna.

For history lessons, students explored the Taman Jurong neighbourhood and interviewed residents.

'The students are more engaged. It is fulfilling to see them motivated to ask questions and find out more for themselves,' said Ms Tham.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on December 31, 2008.