From the Principal's Desk
When we closed school in March, we had a reasonable belief, like many others that we will return to our physical building in June sometime. That has not happened but what has happened is a tremendous amount of upskilling and relearning by all educators in the system.
The Shiv Nadar School leadership has met more frequently than ever before to take stock of the situation and strengthen our collective vision to ensure that the Standard and Quality of Shiv Nadar School Education will remain uncompromised.
This one hiccup year in the legacy of our school, is just that, a hiccup.
I promise you that we are here to re imagine school education, even before Covid-19, and build tenacious, robust children, with lifelong learning skills, adaptability, emotional resilience and a combativeness that will stand the test of time.
To find the synergy between technology, curriculum and pedagogy has been our key area of focus in these past weeks. Much of the training has centred around striking that harmony in teaching online.
As we progress ahead, I would like you to notice the connected learning thread that we weave across different subjects so our children can make real time connections, make meaning of the body of knowledge and process concepts, experiences, online discussions and more.
Our People, Our Strength
Turbulent times test the bedrock of relationships. I would like to share with you that in our institution each one works doggedly with an unflinching assurance that their jobs are safe.
No one has been dismissed or sent away on half salary, leave without pay and such like, which is the trend of the times at present. We are flowing against the tide because to flow with it, is radically against our values and ethics.
On Another Note
The entire Faridabad team raised money to provide dry rations to our 130 strong support staff, the bhaiyyas, didis, conductors, guards, janitors and more. I attach a few pictures in case you missed seeing them. We plan to support them for the next 3 months, each one of those families and then see how to raise more money to take it till the end of the year for sure.
We are the World
I hope you enjoyed the symphony of over a 100 children, teachers and parents singing the iconic song together. In case you haven't heard this in house production of Faridabad School, its time you did. It will fill you up with surging optimism and love.
Hiring for Talent
I have inducted more than 20 teachers in the Faridabad team, in the recent weeks, all talented, competent and aligned to our philosophy. This trend to hire is clearly different, you would agree. But we believe that great teachers make great learners. And we will make no compromise to continue to provide the cutting edge education to our children in these unprecedented times.
Technology
The Institution has made massive investment in upgrading the technological frontiers of the school. Veracross, is one example of the same. This deep and incredible learning Management System is now embedded across grades 1 to 10. It will soon be populated in Early Years too. The pathway to understand and use it will be steady and staggered and we will keep you informed of the continued progress and availability of new functions.
Webinar on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Parents
We launched our first in the series of the said webinar on Thursday,4th June. Parents of grades 7 to 10 were the invitees and we addressed several questions on how to cope with the stress, children's whimsical behaviour, family and work pressures and such like. The panellists comprised, Manisha Massey, our senior school counsellor, Mamta Sharma, our parent and certified psychologist, and myself.
Or next is in the series is round the bend and we will let you know of the date and the year group. Our plan is to cover all age groups and offer this opportunity to all parents.
Assessments in Middle School
We conducted our first marked assessments with the novel use of technology for grades 6 to 10 before the summer break. The children did us proud. I believe when we assume the best intentions of people they rise to their best. Our children conducted themselves with honesty and sincerity to do the tests remotely. My gratitude to all the parents too who were our co invigilators in this process.
My Conversations with You
I have met almost 500 parents in the last 2 weeks. It was wonderful for me to see you and converse with you. I do hope that you felt equally good to connect and hear what we are doing and thinking. I certainly will meet all our parents in the days to come. It is my fortune to see the tremendous attendance for our conversations. Let’s keep it going.
Online Classes Resume Today (15h June)
As we stand at the intersection of uncertainty and strong resolve, we are luminously clear that a shut school building will not shut out the learning of our children. If anything, it will only incrementally raise it to adapt to phenomenal change, increase the reservoir of empathy and compassion in their hearts and embrace reimagined processes, skills and knowledge.
Enjoy the Experience. Feel free to connect with me to share your thoughts.
Stay Safe Stay healthy and Stay Indoors as we fight this together.
Best Regards
Anju Wal
Principal
Shiv Nadar School
Faridabad
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Inter-House Debate Competition
An Inter-house debate competition was organised in the middle school in Shiv Nadar School, Faridabad as the culmination event for the ongoing Literary week. The students battled with their wits on 29 August 2019, where there were two categories: Grade 6 and 7, and Grade 8 and 9. The theme for Grade 6 and 7 was ‘Social media is manipulating young minds,’ while Grade 8 and 9 had to express their opinion on the motion ‘Article 370 was revoked in a just manner.’ Since both the topics require rigorous research and preparation, the contestants were seen in deep discussions with their mentors, or working and reworking on their speeches. With so much intensity in the air, the competition began with a three panel jury.
The judges included a teacher Mrs. Surbhi Maini, a parent Mrs. Kundu, and also the literary in-charge of the junior council Sana Bose. Grade 6 and 7 began first, with each student trying to put up strong arguments with clever perspectives being wielded, where the points ranged from how much our decisions are influenced by social media to how social media is like any other tool we have, whether we use it for good or bad is for us to decide.
The winners in this category were Saiansh from 7 Gir Lion House for the motion, and Neeyati from 7 Corbett Panther House against the motion. The second position was bagged by Harjas from 7 Gir for the motion, and Ivanna from 6 Sariska who was against the motion. The debate between the students of Grade 8 and 9 was on such a politically charged and sensitive topic, that the atmosphere was tense with anticipation. They deliberated on the motion, contested each others’ points of view, and finally presented some astute points from all sides of the spectrum.
The ideas put forward ranged from a Constitutional explanation of how this action was completely democratic hence just, to grave questions being asked on whether the end can justify the means, to the matter of the importance of free speech. The speeches were so enthralling that the result felt almost like an after-thought. Ria Singh of 9 Gir Panthers house beat the competition and stood first for the motion, and Lakshita of Grade 8 Leopard house stood 2nd. Against the motion some strong points were put forward, laced with emotions; and among these students Gurnoor Kaur of 9 Gir Panthers house overcame the contention to stand first, while Mansi of 9 Gir Leopard House bagged the 2nd prize. The day was impactful, and left not just the students but also the teachers with much to think about. It was hailed a success, and has set the bar high for the students in the upcoming events.
Sharing a glipmse of the same.
Source: https://youtu.be/xKCSWD7CbtE
EVS Culmination of Grade 5 - Government Systems
Students of grade 5 as a part of their current EVS theme of Government Systems studied about various forms of government and their advantages and disadvantages. As a part of their culmination, a debate competition was held to share their take on the motion - India adopts a Presidential form of government or continue with the Parliamentary form of governance. This also helped them build a global connect and helped them understand the various forms of governance across the world.
Our judging panel included a student, Neeyati Saini of Grade 7 Corbett, Teacher Ms. Yamini and Parent Ms. Nupur Amarnath.
INTER HOUSE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT: 2019
INTER HOUSE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT: 2019
Our students presented exemplary performances and team spirit during the Inter-House Football competition held from 9th July 2019 – 15th July 2019.
On Day 1- (9th July 2019)
The First match was played amongst Lion House and Tiger House; Lion the house won 3 -1.
The Second match was played amongst Leopard House and Panther House; the match was a Draw 1-1.
On Day 2 – (10th July 2019)
The First match was played amongst Lion House and Leopard House; Lion house won 4 – 0.
The Second match was played amongst Tiger House and Panther House; the match was a Draw 2 – 2.
On Day 3 – (11th July 2019)
The First match was played amongst Lion House and Panther House; Lion house won 5 – 0.
The Second match was played amongst Tiger House and Leopard House; Tiger House won 3 – 0.
The Final was played between Lion House and Tiger House on 15th July 2019. Lion House came out as champions and won the match 4 – 2.
WALK THE TALK
Chef Bhasin started the session with showcasing an interesting video about cooking techniques which are used in the Hotel Industry to create different cuisines and food shapes. He introduced children with the fact that Everything about a professional kitchen (even an educational one) is easily 100 times more intense than your home kitchen. Knives are sharper, stoves are hotter, space is tighter, and everything moves at a sprintlike pace. Even simple tasks like turning on a stove are much more difficult, and you'll be expected to figure everything out very quickly.
Post the video introduction, he briefly talked about Hotel Management and different streams it offers. He shared his journey, experiences, challenges and various opportunities that came his way of becoming an Executive Chef. He talked about the role & responsibilities one needs to take up to survive in Hotel and Tourism Industry and also mentioned about one clear Rule - ‘Customers First’ Chef Bhasin referred himself as a chef who gives emotions to the ingredients to reach the heart through the stomach. He motioned that "Visual appeal and presentation is key to a cuisine and a concept's success as we do eat with our eyes and first impressions are everlasting," He talked about cross culture culinary experience with some real life example to relate with our students.
The icing on the cake was the live demo where he prepared ‘Watermelon and Feta Salad’ for our audience.
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Launch of Chandrayaan 2
The children of Shiv Nadar School from Grades 1 to 9 were shown the launch of Chandrayaan 2 yesterday.
Sharing a glimpse of the same.
Source: https://youtu.be/pO2e97TH6XI
Junior/Senior Student Council - 2019-20
John. F. Kennedy rightly said that “Leadership and Learning is indispensable to each other”, and it was epitomized in our Junior and Senior Student Council Elections. The students took ownership of the process from the very first day. After long conversations with peers, parents, teachers, they were able to reflect on their strengths and shortcomings which helped them submit nominations for the suitable positions. But the path to glory had just started! The next day, all the candidates sat through interviews where they expounded on their motivations for the specific posts. It was clear to the committee that these students came with a lot of passion, solutions, and zeal to make world a better place; but only a few could move to the next round. Now, the agendas were to be communicated to their peers. The stood before the audience and spoke about their beliefs and logos with such poise and grace! We also witnessed fantastic teamwork in the campaigning of the candidates, their friends coming together to shape the public opinion and intelligent voters engaging the candidates in conversation. Parallelly, IT faculty of the school was busy creating a software which would facilitate paper- free voting. It was an ambitious task but the school’s promise to the environment and sustainable living culminated with the electronic voting taking place and the results being announced the next day. This election saw the true amalgamation of technology and human will at Shiv Nadar School Faridabad.
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June Immersion - UNSC Simulation
The MUN workshop for 19 students of grade 7 was held in Shiv Nadar School, Faridabad from 24 June to 28 June 2019. It was a simulation of the UNSC i.e. United Nations Security Council. It was conducted by Emily Wood and Rose Cyburt who were from Alma in Michigan. It was ably facilitated by Anna and observed by Ms. Meenakshi, Ms. Sapna, Ms Prerna, Ms Tina and Ms Yamini from Shiv Nadar School, Faridabad. The duration of the workshop was from 9 am to 3 pm with tea break and lunch break at 10.30 am and 12.30 pm respectively.
The first day of the workshop started off with the screening of a documentary movie on climate change named-An inconvenient Sequel-Truth to power. After watching the documentary, the students discussed their concerns about climate change and asked probing questions. The students were then explained about the roles and responsibilities of the Security Council. The students were told about the other agencies of the UN that play an important role. They were also apprised of the formal procedures that are in practice in the UN.
On the second day, the students were introduced to the terminology and academic vocabulary that they needed to use while being a part of MUN. The students were made aware of using formal language and how to address the Chairperson while in session. The students were told to do research about the climate change policies of their respective countries which they had already been assigned. The mentors gave a list of trusted links that they could use for research. The students did thorough research on their laptops and wrote a resolution paper.
The third day of the workshop was a simulation of UNSC. The students came prepared and had brought their well-researched papers. Their transition from students of grade 7 to delegates was smooth and laudable. They read out their papers in front of the other delegates. The speeches had to adhere to the time limit of 90 seconds.
The fourth day saw the students deeply engrossed in more research. The delegates had informal sessions with delegates of other countries which shared their views. Groups of like-minded countries worked towards making a resolution that would be workable.
The last day of the workshop was the cherry on the cake when the delegates presented their final resolution papers. The formal process of voting and abstaining was followed and the resolutions with maximum votes were passed.
It was indeed a very enriching experience and a riveting session. The students shared that the workshop had not only helped them build their confidence but also honed their public speaking skills.
Principal, Ms. Anju Wal gave away the certificates to the students and expressed her thanks to the two mentors and Anna. Special thanks to Ms. Meenakshi Sharma for her continuous support and guidance to children.
Inter House Painting Competition
On 14th May, 2019, an Inter House Painting Competition was organized at Shiv Nadar School, Faridabad. The students of grade 3 to 9 participated, started at 9:10 am post breakfast and worked till 10:30 am. Homerooms of Grades 3 to 9 were lively with creativity and artistic expression with the help and supervision of subject teachers and homeroom incharges.
Practicing, contemporary artists Ms. Sunita Mendiratta and Mr. Sanjay were invited to be the esteemed judges for the Inter-House Painting Competition to be held in school on 14th May. Ms. Geetika Jatta from career counselling cell was also part of the jury. They arrived and were welcomed at 10 am, they were taken on a round to see the artistic pursuits of the students following which the jury started the selection process which took about an hour.
Topics were given and judgment was made in 3 groups,
Group A - Class 3-4 – ‘My Home, My Family’ OR ‘The Underwater World’
Group B - Class 5-6 – ‘My School, Where I Belong’ OR ‘The Future World’
Group C - Class 7-9 – ‘My Favorite Indoor/Outdoor Sport’ OR ‘The Portrait of my Idol’
Results of the Competition:
After a very tough judgment, 5 positions were given in each Group.
Group 3-4: Shivansh Grover – 1st Position
Suhana Jain– 1st Position
Aaliya– 2st Position
Avik Agrawal– 3rd Position
Anaya Mittal– 3rd Position
Shaurya– 4th Position
Aarna Edke–4th Position
Vihaan S–5th Position
Arnav Modi – 5th Position
Group 5-6: Delphea Tanwar-1st Position
Vardaan – 1st Position
Manthan – 2nd Position
Devkaran- 3rd Position
Edwin- 3rd Position
Rahini- 4th Position
Simar- 5th Position
Aanya Singhal – 5th Position
Group 7-9: Devanshi- 1st Position
Rashmita – 1st Position
Swinzal – 2nd Position
Yagna – 3rd Position
Manaasvi Vij – 3rd Position
Gurnoor Kaur – 4th Position
Shreya Garg– 5th Position
Leopards stood first with ten positions.
Grades 3-4: Aaliya
Grades 5-6: Delphea Tanwar, Vardaan Sethi, Manthan Varshney, Edwin Ajish, Rahini Anand, Aanya Singhal
Grades 7-9: Devanshi, Rashmita Gandhi, Shreya Garg
Tigers stood second with 6 positions.
Grades 3-4: Aarna Edke, Suhana Jain, Shaurya, Arnav Modi
Grades 5-6: Devkaran Sidhu
Grades 7-9: Yagna Gupta
Panthers stood third with 5 positions.
Grades 3-4: Avik Agrawal, Shivansh Grover,
Grades 5-6: Simar Sharma
Grades 7-9: Manaasvi Vij , Gurnoor Kaur
Judges were very happy being part of our Competition, and appreciated the students a lot. Post the results, judges were presented by a token of thanks in the form of children’s paintings from Principal ma’am.
All in all, Inter House Painting Competition 2019-20 went really well where over 400 students participated and joyfully expressed their ideas through art.
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Poetry Slam
After month-long preparations and immersion into the realm of poetry, the school buzzed with excitement as it welcomed 10 schools from across Delhi-NCR, for its annual celebration of the art called poetry- Poetry Slam@Shiv Nadar School, Gurugram. The Wild Cats Hall and the Senior Library witnessed pure poetic expression as young adults from grades 9-12 participated in the 3 events: 'Slamming Solo', 'Slamming Duet' and 'Pour It on Paper'.
An event extraordinaire, it was adjudged by pertinent slam poets in the poetry circle in Delhi-NCR, while the Chief Guest was noted slam poet, Ms. Harnidh Kaur. The day culminated with 22 scintillating performances and 66 pieces of beautifully woven poetry. Khushi Soni, of Shiv Nadar School, Gurugram, was declared the winner of the 'Slamming Solo', Aaruni and Dhriti, from Scottish High School, were declared the winners of the 'Slamming Duet', and Ashutosh, from Scottish High School, was declared the winner for 'Pour It on Paper'. The rolling trophy was handed over to Scottish High School, as they were adjudged the Overall Winner of Poetry Slam, 2019.
