2025 PAT Finalist feature:
The Joy of the Journey:
How a Career in PE Awakened My Teaching Soul
by Mdm Lee Siok Kwan

Despite coming from a family of teachers, I had no aspiration to pursue teaching as a career. However, my father encouraged me to give teaching a try. I applied to the then College of PE (CPE) and was accepted. It was a turning point as the 2 years sparked a profound and enduring passion for the teaching of PE.  It was a dream come true as the world of exercise and sport science ignited my curiosity and fuelled my love for PE further. After graduation, I was posted to my alma mater, St. Hilda’s Primary School. I had the opportunity to work with my former teachers who were warm and wise, often going the extra mile to ensure that I was supported in and out of the classroom.  In my 3 years there, I learnt more about classroom management, organising Sports Day, mass workouts and conducting what was then called Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs) such as Track and Field where we participated in NSG and road runs.  I was even given the opportunity to learn sailing and introduced it as a new ECA.

After completing my first 3 years bond, I pursued my undergraduate studies in Loughborough University in the UK. It was a significant milestone as the 2 years took me further along in my PE and sports science journey. I was taught by the leading researchers in the fields of sports psychology, sports nutrition and special needs and I experienced the joy of learning once again, bringing much purpose and fulfilment into my life.

Upon my return, I was posted to Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Primary School. Despite my lack of experience, I was entrusted with the sports secretary position.  It was a steep learning curve. Thankfully again I was guided by the steady and nurturing hands of my fellow Key Personnels (KPs) and colleagues. After a year, I was officially appointed as the HOD PE/CCA. It was a privilege to lead a driven and capable team of PE teachers who had the dare-to-try spirit and always game to try new things eg. Sports Carnival and Community Run. We bonded through our love of PE and creating new, exciting experiences to engage and motivate our students. I also attended Work Improvement Teams (WITs) and leadership courses to help me develop my leadership capabilities.

After 3 years, my then Principal offered me the chance to start a new school with her. I gamely agreed  setting off for Yew Tee Primary School with other fellow KPs. I assumed the dual responsibilities of HOD PE/CCA and HOD English (Covering). The experience opened my eyes to the challenges of working with a small staff on a shared premise while helping to oversee the construction of our school. It was also the beginning of my mentoring journey. I mentored Jobholders (JHs), trainee teachers and colleagues. The experience awakened the true essence of my teaching soul. Things took an interesting turn when I was appointed HOD English and completed the Diploma in Departmental Management (DDM). Aided by my SH English, I embarked on another learning journey which was filled with leadership opportunities and growth. I realised that my strengths and passions towards teaching and working closely with students. I felt that the teaching track was a better fit for me, and which would allow me to contribute more meaningfully in terms of classroom practice, student development and mentoring of colleagues.

I then went on No Pay Leav (NPL) for 5 years to spend more time with my young family. Even then I continued to learn and upskill. I used the time to obtain my coaching and life- saving qualifications in swimming.

Returning to teaching felt like a homecoming. With the implementations of PERI subsequently, teaching PE only was a dream come true! I revelled in the excitement of sharing the joys of learning through play and playing to learn with my students. Currently, beside PE, I also teach PAL and contribute as the Assistant Year Head Co-ordinator (Lower Primary), Teacher-in-Charge of Scouts, Teacher-Counsellor and Wellness Ambassador.