When Ziplines Turn into Sliplines: A Bumpy Tale from Singapore Schools
It all started in February at Concord Primary School in Choa Chu Kang. A bright-eyed Primary 4 student hit the ground hard while attempting a zipline—yes, the one that should have been a thrilling adventure, not a slapstick routine. The little mishap sent shockwaves through the Ministry of Education (MOE), prompting a flurry of responses and a new safety playbook.
MOE’s “Slide‑Into‑Support” Response
- Acknowledged the incident on Feb 9 and pledged full support for the student and family’s medical treatment.
- Prohibited all height‑based activities in schools, extending the ban until January. Covid‑19 complications nudged this extension further.
- Removed the instructor involved from MOE’s registry and barred them from offering services to any school.
Coverage of the Safety Net
MOE’s spokesman emphasised that student safety tops the list—no slackers here. They conducted a process review and amplified safety protocols. The updated playbook kicked in on Jan 5 and is mandatory for schools with zipline setups.
- Now an extra instructor checks the safety checklist before any student hops on.
- Only certified instructors (e.g., Outward Bound Level 2 or ACCT Level 2) can be hired for these activities.
- Each site must host at least one certified rescuer, ready to flutter into action if an emergency hits.
A Tragic Twist at Anglo‑Chinese School
Earlier in the month, on Feb 3, the grim reality hit home when 15‑year‑old Jethro Puah succumbed to a high‑element mishap at Safra Yishun.
- While engaging in a perilous activity at 2 p.m., Jethro slipped and was left hanging in the air—his harness strung over the mid‑air.
- He lost consciousness, and paramedics endeavoured to revive him on the spot.
- Despite their valiant efforts, Jethro was taken to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and later passed away.
Immediate Response
All schools postponed outdoor activities involving heights with an immediate effect from Feb 4. The national education board is now scrambling to tighten standards and ensure no future “zip‑rip” tales.
Bottom Line
These incidents are stark reminders that adventure should never outpace safety. The MOE is rolling out stricter safeguards, training, and emergency readiness. School kids can keep dreaming of swooping adventures—but with heads held up and safety checks in place, every zipline will stay just that: a glide, not a fall.
