The writer as a kindergartner (second from the front, right-hand row) during one Sports Day. — EVELYN LOO YING HUI
MY time at St Pauline Kindergarten in Ipoh, Malaysia, remains one of the most treasured periods of my life. I still look back fondly on those days of simplicity, joy, and wonder.
It was a place where I not only learned the basics of reading, writing, and numbers but also developed social and emotional skills.
Laughter, creativity, and lasting friendships made my early years incredibly memorable.
From the moment I stepped through the gates, I felt a sense of security and excitement.
The school grounds were vibrant, decorated with bright colours and playful designs. Classrooms were filled with children’s drawings, posters, and shelves stacked with toys and learning materials.
Learning never felt like a task but an adventure. The teachers were patient and kind, always encouraging us to explore and question the world around us.
One of the best aspects of St Pauline was the variety of activities. Every day brought something new – arts and crafts, story time, music, or outdoor games.
I vividly remember our teacher gathering us for storytelling, reading beautifully illustrated books about animals, friendship, and courage.
These stories not only entertained us but also taught valuable life lessons. It was during these moments that my love for reading was born, a passion that remains with me today.
Arts and crafts were another highlight. I was always excited to see what materials we would use – crayons, coloured paper, glue and glitter. From simple drawings to handmade cards and paper animals, these creative projects sparked my imagination and gave me a sense of accomplishment.
The pride I felt in showing my work to classmates and teachers is something I still fondly remember.
Beyond creativity, the friendships I formed at St Pauline were equally special. We learned to interact, share, and navigate friendships.
Some of my closest childhood friends came from those early years. We spent hours playing hide-and-seek, tag and pretend play, imagining ourselves as superheroes, explorers, or animals on grand adventures. The laughter and joy of those games are among my happiest memories.
One of the most important lessons I learned at St Pauline was the value of cooperation and teamwork.
Group activities like solving puzzles, playing in teams, or working on art projects helped me develop communication and negotiation skills. These experiences built my confidence and instilled a lifelong appreciation for collaboration. I also learned to write my full name there – a small but significant milestone in my early education.
Academically, St Pauline provided a strong foundation. While the focus wasn’t on rigorous studying, our teachers nurtured our curiosity.
We learned the alphabet, basic counting, and early science concepts. More importantly, they encouraged us to ask questions and explore the world.
This approach made learning enjoyable and set the stage for my later academic success.
I remain grateful for this early education, which shaped my lifelong love for learning.
Growing up in Malaysia, cultural diversity was part of my kindergarten experience. My classmates came from different backgrounds, and through them, I was exposed to various languages, traditions and customs.
This early exposure taught me openness and acceptance – values that continue to guide me today.
At St Pauline, I learned both English and Malay, enhancing my communication skills from a young age.As I reflect on my time at St Pauline, I realise how deeply those early years influenced my growth. The school not only prepared me academically but also shaped me into a compassionate and creative individual. It laid the groundwork for my ability to form lasting friendships and my understanding of kindness and cooperation.
The memories of those days remain with me, and I will always be grateful for the incredible teachers, friends and experiences that made my time at St Pauline so special.
More than just a school, it was a place that shaped the foundation of my life.
