The Art of Coaching

At HCI, professional learning is most meaningful when it is driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to learn from one another. Through the SPARK³ Professional Learning Series, staff are empowered to take ownership of their professional growth by sharing expertise, exploring new ideas, and engaging in conversations that enrich both personal and professional practice.

In this reflection, Mr Ang Shi Da shares his journey towards becoming an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach, the lessons he learned along the way, and how coaching has shaped his perspective on leadership, growth, and empowering others.

Written by: Mr Ang Shi Da (Subject Head/Student Development)

In August 2024, as my secondment at Hwa Chong Institution (HCI) was drawing to a close, I found myself at a crossroad, seeking clarity about the next chapter of my professional journey. During this period, I signed up for a complimentary two-hour coaching conversation offered through the Public Service. The experience proved transformative. My coach listened deeply and reflectively, helping me uncover not only a clearer sense of career direction but also a deeper understanding of how my aspirations aligned with the choices and trade-offs I was making.

Inspired by the impact of that conversation—and with some SkillsFuture credits due to expire—I enrolled in an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach (ACC) Level 1 training programme. There, I met my mentor coach, Ms Janice Lum (PCC), whose unwavering support and encouragement inspired me to persevere throughout the certification journey.

The path to certification demanded significant time, commitment, and discipline. While balancing my professional responsibilities, I completed Parts 2 and 3 of the rigorous training programme in June and December 2025 respectively. Along the way, I had the privilege of engaging with leaders from diverse industries, including forward-thinking professionals from both the public and private sectors, as well as entrepreneurs seeking to transform their organisations.

One of the greatest challenges was learning to practice active, non-judgmental listening and shifting from a mindset of solving problems for others to empowering them to discover their own solutions. This process became a catalyst for personal growth, teaching me the importance of patience, presence, curiosity, and deep reflection. After months of learning, practice, and dedication, I passed my certification assessments on 2 June 2026 and officially became an ICF Associate Certified Coach.

Looking ahead, I hope to serve as an internal coach within HCI, offering students and colleagues a powerful complement to traditional forms of support—one that focuses on unlocking potential and enhancing personal effectiveness. More importantly, I aspire to contribute to a coaching culture within our community, where individuals feel genuinely heard, valued, and empowered. By fostering a caring and non-judgmental environment, we can continue to build an even stronger and more supportive Hwa Chong for all.

Spark@HCI Session, 11 May 2026

I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the colleagues who attended the Spark@HCI sharing session to learn more about coaching conversations. My heartfelt thanks go to Ms Thian Wan Eng, School Staff Developer, for encouraging me to embark on this journey and for providing the opportunity to reflect on my growth as an ICF Associate Certified Coach.