Living a Life of Fun and Purpose 

"Why do you want to be a PE teacher?" This question was frequently thrown at me by my friends, students, colleagues and even by my parents. To me, it was a no-brainer. You get to wear t-shirts, shorts, and sneakers to work and get paid for engaging in sports, being outdoors, and doing what I love. Of course, you get to impact and influence young lives on the importance of a healthy lifestyle, but that’s a higher calling I would leave for another conversation.

But what really influenced my decision to sign up as a PE teacher was the view that PE teachers were a really ‘cool’ lot. They seemed to be having lots of fun relaxed and chill about most things and passionate about what they do. Being in school, watching my PE teachers, and also having a stint as a relief PE teacher after my ‘A levels’ cemented the idea that this was a vocation that was shouting out to me.

No regrets about my choice to be a PE teacher. From the get-go, it was a fun ride all the way. Days spent at the School of Physical Education (SPE) were fun-packed, and I am sure many of us will remember our time spent at CPE/SPE/PESS. At my first school posting, I was blessed with wonderful mentors, the privilege of experiencing many new areas and the opportunity to implement different programs. Back then, we organised mountain trekking trips, sea kayaking expeditions, biathlon races and even started a scuba diving enrichment activity. These activities excited students and encouraged them to develop a love for the outdoors; I believe these also helped mould their character.  Working with legends like Mr Goh Ek Piang, Mr Harry Tan, Mr Chan Jim Kee, Mr Ismail Taha and many others helped reinforce the message that, as PE teachers, we carry a heavy responsibility in ensuring the development and well-being of our charges, it is important that we have joy in doing what we do.

As PE teachers, we are in a very privileged position. We see students in a different environment, outside of the classroom. We have the opportunity to build relationships with our charges in a more informal setting and push them out of their comfort zones.

To this day, hearing of my ex-students who have gone on to have careers as PE teachers, sport coaches or even just still being involved in sports brings me lots of joy.