‘Mistakes & setbacks are never treated as failures’ – Mum Of Artistic Swimming Champion Twins

Yahan and Yarun are twins who recently clinched gold medals at the 19th Open Singapore Artistic Swimming Championships. Their mother and coaches share what the journey was like, and how their school, North London Collegiate School (Singapore), supported their passions.

“From the very beginning, we never had winning in mind as they simply enjoyed the sport and had fun,” Yahan and Yarun’s mother shares, adding that the twins started artistic swimming at the age of 7. “In 2019, in the 14th Singapore Open Artistic Swimming Championships, they won their first medals, which was a real breakthrough, and their success has grown steadily since then, winning many more medals in more competitions.”

So, how do two 10th graders balance school with training, championships, and extra-curricular activities? Nurtured and encouraged by their parents, coaches, tutors and teachers, Yahan and Yarun are two out of the many students who thrive with North London Collegiate School (Singapore)’s pastoral care. Read on to find out how the school supports students to achieve both in academics and their passion, and how Yahan and Yarun are tackling the world of competitive artistic swimming.

Growing with confidence beyond the classroom

“Artistic swimming has meant a great deal to Yahan and Yarun personally,” the twins’ mother explains. “They have also developed the ability to work in a team. The sport has allowed them to grow both as athletes and individuals. Balancing school with training and competitions wasn’t easy for them,” she said, adding that the twins train five times a week, two hours each session. Through this, the twins have developed strong discipline and time management skills.

“Their coach has also been incredibly encouraging and kind throughout their journey,” Yahan and Yarun’s mother says. “Even after mistakes and setbacks during performances, she has never treated it as failures. Instead, she helped them reflect and improve for the next competition. Her support has been fundamental in shaping their resilience and confidence.”

Likewise, the twins’ tutors have nothing but praises for them. Yarun’s tutor shares, “She is an excellent student who consistently demonstrates maturity, ambition and a strong commitment to her learning.” Outside of the pool, Yarun is also part of Mercuri.X, the school’s STEM Racing team, which won the Singapore Nationals 2025 and will represent Singapore at the World Championships.

In-house tutor programme & specialist support

Students like Yahan and Yarun are two of the many thriving individuals attending NLCS (Singapore). At this school, supporting every student goes beyond academics. That’s why students here benefit from pastoral care, which helps them juggle academic ambition and personal passions. From an Emotional Guidance Counsellor who helps students navigate anxiety, friendships and confidence, to Learning Support Professionals who offer tailored academic support, students enjoy well-rounded support and guidance as they evolve and learn what they are truly capable of.

Yahan and Yarun are just two of many students who thrive at NLCS (Singapore). If you’re looking for a school that will equip your child for success beyond academics, this is it. With a rigorous academic curriculum, supportive pastoral care programme and a plethora of co-curricular opportunities, NLCS (Singapore) offers everything your child needs to reach their full potential. Book a tour to experience their warm and welcoming community for yourself!

NLCS (Singapore), 130 Depot Road, Singapore 109708, www.nlcssingapore.sg