Tanglin marked a major educational milestone this week with the official launch of the Highlands Programme – a pioneering four-week immersive learning experience for Year 9 students at the school’s newly opened 15-acre campus in Gippsland, Australia.

Craig Considine, CEO of Tanglin Trust School, welcomed the founding cohort of Year 9 Highlanders and their families at a special launch event. Also in attendance were distinguished guests including Ms Lucy Hughes, Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission; Mr Ashley Brosnan, Climate Counsellor, Australian High Commission; Mr Poh Chun Leck, Director of School Operations Policy, Ministry of Education, Singapore; and Mr Neil Tottman, Tanglin Governor.

In his opening remarks, Mr Considine said, “Today, we celebrate not just the formal launch of the programme, but the realisation of an educational vision born in extraordinary times. The Tanglin Highlands Programme demonstrates our collective belief in the power of adaptation and innovation in education.”

The Highlands Programme is based at Tanglin Gippsland, where students will continue their core curriculum studies in a low-tech, nature-based environment. Living together as a community, students will take part in outdoor pursuits, adventure-based challenges, and independent living experiences – all designed to foster personal growth and deeper connections with the natural world.

In her speech, Rebecca James, Head of Year 9, reminded students that the Middle School values – Community, Curiosity, and Confidence – would underpin their time at Highlands: “Community, because together we will build connections that support and uplift each other. Curiosity, as we take our learning to the outdoors. And Confidence, because with this foundation, each of you will step forward boldly into the future.”

Year 9 students Sammy H and Ameya S shared their thoughts on the Highlands Programme. Sammy said he was looking forward to outdoor adventures, the fresh weather, and most importantly, hoped there would be enough food!  Ameya said she was ready to challenge herself with this new experience, although she admitted that the thought of not having a phone would be a little daunting to begin with.

Each student was then presented with a Highlands journal on behalf of their fellow students. These journals are significant part of the programme as they will provide a personal space for reflection, creativity and recording their unique journey.

In a symbolic moment, a Centenary papercut artwork was unveiled, along with copy of a historical photo of Miss Griff looking out onto the Malaysian Highlands where Tanglin originally had a boarding house in the 1930’s – both items will be permanently displayed at Tanglin Gippsland as a cultural connection to Singapore. The opening ceremony concluded with the traditional sounding of a gong by Mr Neil Tottman, officially marking the start of this new Tanglin chapter.

Mr Mark Cutchie, Tanglin’s founding Head of Campus in Gippsland, spoke to the students about the importance of ‘adventurous spirit’. “It’s about having the courage to try something new, and the perseverance to keep going when things get tough.”
His message reflected the programme’s core philosophy – stepping beyond comfort zones and learning through life experience.

As the first group of Highlanders arrive at Tanglin Gippsland on ANZAC Day, we wish them every success as they embark on this new educational experience.