At Huitong, we believe every student possesses unique potential. Our mission—and the distinctive strength of our curriculum—is to help each child discover their passions and support them in pursuing those interests without limits.
Today, we are delighted to introduce our Grade 6 student, Cici: a young mathematician whose intellectual curiosity stretches far beyond numbers, thriving on challenges that inspire her to think deeply and without boundaries.
Mastering time management is one of the key secrets behind Cici's academic success. She operates with a meticulously planned and constantly optimised schedule, allowing her to move seamlessly between academic classes, Signature Programme, and Studios Programme at Huitong. For Cici, organising her day with precision isn't just routine—it's a genuine pleasure. At the start of each week, she quickly scans the weekly lunch menu, identifies her preferred dishes, mentally calculates the most efficient route through the dining hall to collect them, then leisurely enjoys her meal while saving valuable time otherwise spent queueing.
Teachers and classmates fondly refer to Cici as the "ultimate structured achiever"—though to her, it all seems perfectly natural.
Mathematics: From Classroom to Competition
Cici's connection with mathematics began blossoming after she joined Huitong in Grade 3.“I transferred here in the second semester of Grade 3. Before that, in my previous school, the focus was on balanced performance across Chinese, English and Maths. Although I did well, I hadn’t actively looked for or developed my strongest subject. Huitong’s emphasis on ‘strength-based growth’ helped me realise that maths is where I truly excel. Here, I receive more support—and I’ve come to enjoy maths more and more. Interestingly, my English and Chinese have improved alongside.”
In an environment designed to nurture students’ strengths, Cici’s mathematical talent has been fully recognised and supported within the academic programme. In maths lessons, her teacher encouraged her to attempt advanced exercises and tackle extension problems. Thanks to her strong in-class performance, she has also become a “little teacher,” supporting her peers during lessons.
Recognising her strong interest and potential in mathematics, her teacher suggested she begin exploring Grade 7 content while continuing to diligently complete Grade 6 assignments and assessments. This tailored approach suited Cici’s organised nature perfectly.
“When learning new concepts, I often absorb knowledge while taking notes. I love number theory and using the Pythagorean theorem to calculate area—everything about maths fascinates me. Thanks to my teacher’s support, I’m able to further pursue my passion.” Beyond the Signature Programme, Huitong’s extended mathematics offerings opened up a whole new world of discovery for Cici. She now deepens her passion twice a week through these enriched opportunities. It all began in Year 3 when she joined the Mathematical Thinking Club, where she was introduced to mathematical games and challenging problems—and took part in her first Kangaroo Maths Competition. “I really like how the questions are designed—they’re fun and never boring.”
From Grade 4 to Grade 5, Cici participated in the American Mathematics Olympiad (AMO), winning two bronze medals. She also consistently achieved gold in the SASMO Singapore maths competition and earned the Achievement Roll award in the AMC8. Upon entering Grade 6, her teacher—noticing Cici’s sustained enthusiasm—initiated deeper communication with her parents and recommended she join the school’s maths competition team. Now, as a member of the Year 6 squad, she trains weekly, takes part in regular assessments, and continues to nurture her pure love for mathematics.
A Stage for Diverse Interests: The Studios Programme
Though deeply passionate about mathematics, Cici's interests are wonderfully varied. Her weekly schedule is thoughtfully filled: Monday for maths contests, Tuesday for sculpture, Wednesday for drama, Thursday for table tennis, and Friday as her library day. This diverse routine reflects the rich opportunities offered through our Studio Programme.
Fridays at the library are a special personal time for Cici. "That's when I can fully immerse myself in books I love—Sherlock Holmes, popular science, and more. I also really enjoy the activities the library organises."
Her explorations extend further, encouraged by teachers to take part in various academic events and competitions:
English & Debate: She participates annually in Huitong's English Declamations, progressing from finalist to champion, discovering her talent for public speaking along the way. On her teacher's recommendation, she joined the WSDA Bay Area Debate, winning first prize.
Drama & Art: She performed in Pride and Prejudice and rehearsed Hamilton within six days during a musical theatre camp. She also enjoys sculpture, creating expressive pieces from foil, fabric, and cotton under Mr Matt's guidance.
Science: In Grade 4, she won gold at the Huitong Young Inventors Fair, but takes greater pride in still remembering every scientific concept clearly a full term later.
Chinese: She competed in Huitong's Poetry Contest for three consecutive years, reaching the top three each time. During "Fei Hua Ling" verse challenges, she skilfully drew from her classroom learning, demonstrating both depth and agility with the language.
Embracing School Life: Cici actively involves herself in a wide range of school activities, from hosting events to coordinating and supporting her peers. She finds deep satisfaction and a strong sense of purpose through social engagement and serving the student community.
A Journey of Step-by-Step Exploration
From mathematics to cross‑subject competitions, English debate to artistic creation, each of Cici’s achievements reflects a continuous and structured process of exploration, supported by the diverse platforms Huitong provides. In her growth, we see a beautiful embodiment of the Huitong educational vision: The Academic Programme builds a solid foundation, Signature Programme deepens her inquiry, and the Studios Programme unlocks her creative potential. Cici represents an ideal picture of youthful development—equally at home in the logical world of mathematics and the free flow of varied interests. To her, learning is never a burden, but a curiosity‑fuelled journey. She thrives on the thrill of competition and treasures the shared moments on stage with her peers.
At Huitong, she has found her own unique path to grow—confident, motivated, and endlessly curious.
