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Updated: SPEA Newsletter 2024 Issue No. 1 (June/July)
As the Singapore Physical Education Association (SPEA) celebrates five decades of dedication to the advancement of Physical Education in Singapore, we reflect on the contributions of key individuals who have shaped its journey. One such figure is Dr Quek Jin Jong, whose leadership and vision left an enduring legacy on the association and the wider PE fraternity.
Dr Quek’s involvement in SPEA spanned more than a decade of committed service. He served as Chairman of Research and Publications and Vice President from 1989 to 2000, while also contributing as the Editor of the SPEA Publication from 1995 to 1998. In these roles, Dr Quek was instrumental in strengthening SPEA’s scholarly output and fostering a culture of research-based practice among PE professionals in Singapore.
His appointment as President of SPEA from 2000 to 2006 marked a period of growth and renewed direction for the association. Under his leadership, several pivotal initiatives were launched to raise the profile of Physical Education and support the professional development of its educators.
One of Dr Quek’s signature contributions was initiating the inaugural Outstanding PE Teacher (OPETA) Award. This national recognition aimed to spotlight and celebrate the excellence of model PE teachers who exemplified dedication, creativity, and positive impact in their practice.
He also worked tirelessly to promote continuous professional development among SPEA members. He strongly encouraged teachers to attend and present at local and international PE conferences, urging them to seek grants to support their participation in these valuable learning platforms. His belief in lifelong learning helped inspire many PE teachers to explore research and share their findings with the wider community.
As Dean of the School of Physical Education (SPE) at the National Institute of Education (NIE) during his presidency, Dr Quek forged a meaningful collaboration between SPEA and NIE. This partnership gave rise to a well-regarded public lecture series delivered by visiting PE professors. Hosted under SPEA’s patronage, these lectures enriched professional discourse and brought global perspectives to local educators. In addition, Dr Quek made it a point to encourage graduating student PE teachers to join SPEA, ensuring a continuous renewal of passionate and professionally grounded members.
Today, Dr Quek continues to inspire with his advice to younger PE teachers. His message is a timely reminder of the core values and responsibilities of the profession:
Stay true to our calling as PE professionals by safeguarding curriculum time and advocating for the subject’s rightful place in education.
Make every lesson count – by designing PE experiences that are engaging, relevant, and enjoyable for today’s students.
Never stop learning – constantly seek opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills through professional development.
Be proactive in attending and contributing to professional sharings, seminars, and conferences.
Dr Quek Jin Jong’s legacy is a testament to the spirit of SPEA: a community built on dedication, growth, and the collective advancement of Physical Education. As we celebrate 50 years of SPEA, we honour his contributions and continue to build on the strong foundation he helped lay.
Article written by Mr A Murugapa, member pf the Publication and Publicity sub-committee, member of the management committee of SPEA.
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