Josephians Picnic Under the Stars

On Friday, 7 March, Picnic Under The Stars (PUTS) 2025 brought together Year 5 and 6 students in a vibrant setting filled with laughter and camaraderie. Jointly organised by Beacon and Astronomy CAS, this annual event offers IB students a meaningful opportunity to forge new friendships and deepen existing bonds through an evening of stargazing and shared conversation.

The evening unfolded with a series of live classical performances by Year 6 students, whose music lent a sense of serenity to the occasion. After weeks of intense examinations and submission deadlines, participants appreciated the opportunity to unwind through music. The event also unveiled the hidden musical talents of their peers—an often-overlooked dimension of the Josephian community, now brought into the spotlight.

Beyond an evening of relaxation and connection, PUTS embodied the values of service and generosity. All groups of participants purchased picnic baskets with all net proceeds donated to Balibabyhome, a non-profit organisation and foster home for abandoned infants and mothers at-risk in Bali, Indonesia. As students gathered under the moonlight, singing along to familiar melodies, they reflected on the impact of their contributions in supporting children in need.

The success of PUTS 2025 was indeed in the spirit of community it fostered – in a single evening, friendships were strengthened, talents were celebrated, and the Josephian commitment to service was made tangible. The event stood as a testament to the lasting difference made by Josephians in the lives of others, reminding us that even a simple gathering under the stars can contribute to a brighter future for children around the world. -- by Alycia Goh (FN603), Vice-President of Beacon 2024-25