Interview with Ms Tan Lian Eng, former teacher of HPPS and first Honorary Member of HPPS Alumni Association was conducted by her former student Low Sze Wee (Graduating class of 1982) in June 2006.
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LSW: What do you think are the key contributing factors to the school's success today?
TLE: We had understanding and compassionate leaders, dedicated and cohesive staff, supportive and appreciative parents, faithful ex-students, strong alumni members, the SAC, the HPPA that helped to run activities like golf, ice-skating, tae-kwondo and the scouts, and parent volunteers who helped in various school functions.
LSW: What are the special qualities about the school/ its students/ its teachers (if any)?
TLE: Besides good academic performance, the school also stresses character-building. The “Character First” programme was first introduced by the former principal Mr Richard Lim. The revamped character-building programme has four values:- Respect, Integrity, Care and Excellence.
LSW: Do you still keep in touch with any of your former students? Why and how?
TLE: I still keep in touch with many of my ex-pupils, even some of those who left in 1979 – my first batch of Primary 6 pupils. A few of their children are studying in Henry Park now. I have attended a few weddings too. I also recently met up with pupils who left in 2001. One particular batch of pupils never fails to visit me during Chinese New Year. It gives me great pleasure to see the changes in them but at times, I could not remember their names, which is rather embarrassing.
LSW: How did you feel about retiring after teaching more than 20 years in the same school?
TLE: I have mixed feelings, both happy and sad. Happy because I can have more time for myself, pursue hobbies and also give quality time to my mother. Sad because the school is like my second home.
LSW: Now that you have retired, what are your plans for the future?
TLE: I plan to relax for the first two years, doing things at my own leisure, taking courses such as calligraphy and oil-painting, going away for holidays during non-peak periods and doing voluntary service in church and old folks’ home.
LSW: Which primary school did you attend? Do you still keep in touch with your primary school classmates or teachers? Why and how?
TLE: I was in Singapore Chinese Girls School and am still in touch with many of my classmates. In fact, about eight of us have been meeting regularly to celebrate our birthdays for more than 20 years. It is important to have friends. This regular contact helps to strengthen our friendship.
LSW: I will always remember you as a very sporty teacher. When did your interest in sports begin and what do you like about it?
TLE: It began in Primary Four when I represented my school in athletics and netball up to Secondary Four. I continued to represent my college and the Singapore Teachers’ Union in netball. I also participated in other CCAs like badminton and gymnastics. Through competitive sports I made many new friends from other schools and all walks of life. The positive aspect is that it has built up my stamina and physical fitness and I can still walk up to the seventh floor much faster than my pupils. However, at this age, I’m beginning to feel the strain and stress at the joints, especially at the knees.
LSW: If one of your students were to tell you that he/she wants to be a teacher, what would be your advice to them?
TLE: I would strongly encourage him or her to take up this vocation as it is challenging and demanding for we are responsible for moulding the citizens of tomorrow. However, though it may be a noble profession, one important point to remember is that he or she must have the passion for teaching.
