In this series of chats with our staff, we get up close and personal. They share about things like their favourite drinks, to their experiences and motivations at work.
Hi! Could you introduce yourself?
Hi, I am Priscilla, the Principal at Bethany. I have been in the EC industry for about 22 years.
What aspects of work/your role do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in children’s lives, collaborating with a dedicated team, and continuously learning and growing in my faith and profession.
What is a pick me up that you need to keep you going in a day?
My traditional Kopi O!
What are some hobbies you have outside of work?
I like to eat, especially pastry and desserts.
What are the most important values you uphold as a teacher? As a teacher, the most essential values I uphold are showing respect to the children and treating them with love.
What is your view of a child?
Children are precious gems of God, entrusted to us to care for and nurture so that they can experience and understand God's love.
What are the greatest challenges at work that you recall?
The greatest challenges I recall at work include administrative tasks, personal development within limited time frames, and fulfilling my role as a mother. I recall a time at work when I nearly left the early childhood (EC) industry to pursue my dream in design. I felt utterly drained, disappointed with the industry, and believed that I wasn't good enough. I remember sitting at my desk one evening, overwhelmed with disappointment and exhaustion.
But in that moment of despair, I heard God’s calling, reminding me of my purpose in life and assuring me that I am His chosen one. Many times, when I felt tired and drained, God would send little angels to bring a smile to my face. These little angels—my students—would come up to me with bright smiles and spontaneous hugs, reigniting my passion and reminding me why I chose this path.I am grateful to God for walking this journey with me and shaping me into the person I am today. I believe God will be the canopy over our center, showering all the children with His love.
But in that moment of despair, I heard God’s calling, reminding me of my purpose in life and assuring me that I am His chosen one. Many times, when I felt tired and drained, God would send little angels to bring a smile to my face. These little angels—my students—would come up to me with bright smiles and spontaneous hugs, reigniting my passion and reminding me why I chose this path.I am grateful to God for walking this journey with me and shaping me into the person I am today.
What are some heartwarming moments at work that you recall?
Some heartwarming moments at work that I recall include receiving hugs from my students and seeing their big smiles when I arrived at the centre.
As a teacher, what do you look forward to most for the rest of the year?
As a teacher, I look forward to witnessing the continued growth and progress of my students academically, socially, and emotionally.
What is your approach/leadership style as a leader?
I lead with an affiliative leadership style, with a focus on building personal connections.
Why do you serve in a Christian organisation?
I serve in a Christian organisation because I am passionate about aligning my work with my faith and values. It allows me to make a meaningful impact while fulfilling my spiritual calling to serve others in the name of Christ.
Leading your team, what do you look forward to most for the rest of the year?
Leading my team, what I look forward to most for the rest of the year is nurturing them to become strong team players who support and assist one another. Additionally, I aim to mentor them so they can confidently take on leadership roles