Quest Alumni Journeys Series

Memories That Stay

For Rena Ng, Class of 2011, Queenstown Secondary School was more than a place of lessons and examinations. It was where friendships were formed through shared laughter and everyday moments. She recalls afternoons spent at Dawson Mall with friends, enjoying simple lunches from 7-Eleven after school. One memory still makes her smile. A stray football once shattered a glass panel, and the entire school jokingly “booed” the culprit from their classroom windows. “The whole school then got scolded during assembly the next day,” she laughs.

Rena’s time at Queenstown was also defined by determination. As Valedictorian and Top Scorer of her cohort, she remembers the friendly competition among classmates and the teachers who constantly encouraged them to aim higher. One moment stayed with her. “I once texted my Chemistry teacher, Ms Chee, quite late at night with a question, not expecting a reply. But she responded almost immediately with a detailed explanation. It wasn’t required of her, but I appreciated it deeply.”

Returning as a Teacher

Years later, Rena returned to Queenstown, this time as a relief teacher. Standing on the other side of the classroom gave her a new perspective on the work educators do each day. “I realised how difficult it is to manage a class of 40 students, to build rapport and keep them engaged,” she reflects.

Time spent in the staffroom also revealed the unseen side of teaching. Conversations between teachers often revolved around how best to support their students. That experience deepened her respect for the educators who once guided her.

Her connection to Queenstown has remained strong over the years. Beyond returning as an educator, Rena has also come back as an alumna and speaker, inspiring students at graduation ceremonies. She continues to give back as a volunteer, supporting efforts to promote the QUEST Alumni Association among fellow Queenstownians.

The bonds she formed in school have endured. Rena still keeps close to her community, travelling with one of her closest friends and meeting her former form teacher for dinner from time to time. She also remains in touch with teachers who shaped her journey, including Mr Sairi and Ms Chee.

A Calling in Special Needs Education

Today, Rena is a special-needs educator and Head of Department (Arts) with APSN. Her path into the field began unexpectedly, through her work as an instructor in a music programme for students with special needs.

“I was surprised by how capable many of the students were, and by the programmes available to develop their potential,” she says. The experience inspired her to make the switch.

What she finds most meaningful are the quiet victories. Progress may be gradual, but every small step matters.

“Seeing students grow in areas we’ve worked on, even in small ways, is incredibly rewarding. I also enjoy finding opportunities to stretch their potential and watching them rise to the challenge.”

Yet she speaks honestly about the realities of the profession. “It is tiring and quite a thankless job. Students can present challenging behaviours, and improvement can take a long time. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.”

Patience, persistence and belief are essential. Greater awareness of special education, she believes, will help people better understand both the challenges and the possibilities. “Many of our students are very capable. If more people recognise their abilities and give them opportunities, it will inspire others to step forward and make a difference too.”

Music as a Language of Growth

Alongside education, music has always been a guiding force in Rena’s life. She believes that music belongs to everyone, regardless of ability.

“Every student can learn and enjoy music if lessons are scaffolded and their interests are taken into account,” she says.

Too often, music is seen purely through the lens of talent or examinations. Rena hopes people will recognise its deeper value. Listening to music, discussing its background and exploring its emotional qualities can develop empathy, critical thinking and communication.

“When we ask questions like why a piece of music feels happy or sad, students begin to understand how music creates emotion. Once they grasp that, they can start experimenting on their own. That’s when things become exciting.”

Lessons in Patience and Courage

One student in particular has left a lasting impression on her journey. Rena has taught students from Secondary One to Four. Though capable, the student struggled with behavioural challenges. Instead of reacting only to the behaviour, Rena chose to listen and understand.

Through their conversations, she discovered the fears, insecurities and loneliness behind those actions. “I’m grateful that she sees me as a trusted adult. Because of that trust, she is more open to sharing her thoughts, and that makes guiding her easier.”

Her message to current Queenstown students is simple. “Always do your best and keep an open mind. Take opportunities when they appear. Keep learning, no matter how good you already are, and build strong relationships with the people around you.”

For Rena, teaching is not only about knowledge or grades. It is about understanding others, nurturing potential and helping every student find their voice. In classrooms filled with patience and music, she continues to quietly shape lives, one step at a time.