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With over 28 years of rich academic and administrative experience, Padmini Sambasivam has made an indelible mark as an educator and leader. She has successfully steered some of the most prestigious institutions in India and abroad, combining vision with transformative action. A Zoology graduate from Stella Maris College, she holds advanced degrees in Environmental Toxicology, Genetics, and Education, reflecting her deep commitment to interdisciplinary learning and excellence.

Padmini’s illustrious career includes pivotal roles at renowned organisations such as The Krishnamurthi Foundation, Bala Vidya Mandir, Arsha Vidya Mandir, The Peevees Group (KSA), and The Welham Girls’ School, Dehradun. As a forward-thinking instructional leader, she has consistently championed innovative pedagogies, holistic education, and the integration of arts and sports into mainstream academics. Her expertise lies in 21st-century education practices, child welfare, and mental well-being.

A staunch advocate for experiential learning, Padmini is currently the founding principal of Shiv Nadar School, Chennai, where she is involved in setting up an IB school where learning through inquiry forms the foundation of academic and personal growth. She believes in nurturing education “by design rather than by default,” creating environments where students thrive academically, creatively, and emotionally.

Beyond academics, Padmini’s interests are vast and inspiring. As a former NCC Air Wing cadet and trained solo pilot, she represented Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry in Republic Day celebrations. Her adventurous spirit has seen her trek the Himalayas and Mount Kailash, raft the Ganges, and explore the African wilderness. A passionate debater and public speaker, she also has a love for performing arts and community service, which she embraced wholeheartedly as a student and continues to champion today.

Padmini’s dedication to education and leadership has been widely recognised with awards such as the ‘School Leader of the Year,’ ‘Distinguished Service Award,’ ‘Exemplary Leadership Award,’ and ‘Best Teacher Award.’ Guided by the philosophy of “thriving, not just surviving,” she approaches challenges as opportunities to push boundaries, unlock potential, and inspire excellence in herself and others.

Welcoming Our First Middle School Cohorts

 

July 2024 marked a historic milestone at Shiv Nadar School, Chennai as we proudly welcomed our first-ever Middle School cohorts to campus! The MY1 and MY2 students embarked on their exciting new journey with a day packed with fun, discovery, and connection.

To help them familiarize themselves with their new surroundings, the students participated in a thrilling treasure hunt, exploring the campus spaces with curiosity and excitement. The day continued with engaging team-building activities, where students bonded over challenges and laughter, forming new friendships along the way.

Adding to the fun, students posed for quirky photos at the vibrant photo booth, creating keepsakes of their memorable first day. They also indulged in delicious treats, making the celebration even sweeter.

The warm and welcoming atmosphere helped ease the transition for students coming from different schools, turning what could have been a daunting first day into a joyful and memorable experience. With laughter, camaraderie, and new connections, the students felt right at home, ready to embrace their Middle School adventure with excitement and confidence.

 

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Celebrating Milestones: EY3 Graduation Day

 

Graduation Day is always a moment of pride, reflection, and new beginnings. As our EY3 students stepped forward to mark their transition to Primary School, the celebration was filled with warmth, gratitude, and a sense of togetherness.

The event began with a heartwarming sight—parents eagerly waiting with balloons in hand, ready to welcome their little graduates. Their excitement mirrored the joy and pride of the moment, setting the perfect tone for the day.

Instead of the traditional graduation cap, each child received a handcrafted angavastram, adorned with the handprints of their teachers and their own—a deeply personal keepsake symbolizing the guidance, learning, and bonds they have formed. This meaningful gesture reflects the values of respect, mentorship, and lifelong learning, making their graduation truly special.

The ceremony was made even more heartfelt as students, in pairs, shared what they loved most about their friend before stepping onto the stage together to receive their angavastram. Their words of appreciation were a beautiful reminder of the friendships and connections they had built.

The event culminated in a touching performance of On My Way, as the little graduates sang with excitement and confidence, ready to embrace the adventures ahead.

As the ceremony concluded, students joined their parents under the shade of the majestic banyan tree for a delightful snack—a moment of togetherness, reflection, and quiet celebration before embarking on their next adventure.

With hearts full and memories made, our EY3 graduates stepped forward, ready for the exciting journey that lies ahead!

 

Education For Life ,

Our Founder, Mr. Shiv Nadar Graces Our Campus

 

We had the distinct honor and privilege of welcoming our esteemed founder, Mr. Shiv Nadar, to our school recently—a truly momentous occasion that left an indelible mark on our entire community.

Mr. Nadar was greeted with heartfelt warmth and enthusiasm by our students, who performed the uplifting Maithreem Bhajatha song in his honor. The beautiful and moving performance set a touching tone for the rest of his visit.

During his time on campus, PY4 students had the extraordinary opportunity to interact with Mr. Nadar. He engaged them in a lively and insightful conversation, answering their questions with his signature quick wit and charm. The exchange was inspiring and delightful, leaving the students energized and motivated.

As a gesture of appreciation, we presented Mr. Nadar with “Chennaiyin Kadhaigal”, a heartfelt chronicle of our school’s milestones and achievements, symbolizing the pride and gratitude we hold for his vision and leadership.

Mr. Nadar’s visit was a powerful reminder of the values and ideals that form the foundation of our school. His presence reaffirmed our commitment to nurturing a community of excellence, compassion, and purpose, inspired by his remarkable legacy.

 

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Joy of Sharing 2025: A Celebration of Community, Creativity, and Compassion

 

At Shiv Nadar School Chennai, Joy of Sharing is more than just an annual event—it is our heartfelt tribute to the birthday of our founder, Mr. Shiv Nadar, whose vision of inclusive education and community upliftment continues to inspire everything we do.

This year’s edition of Joy of Sharing Fete was a vibrant tapestry of experiences, with students, educators, and parents coming together in a shared spirit of giving and joy. From classic games like toss-the-ring and tambola to lively activities such as karaoke, puppet-making, and a community drum circle, the campus was buzzing with energy. Student-led stalls selling lemonade, baked goods, and hand-crafted items brought out their entrepreneurial and creative best.

The event also featured a bustling book sale, an art auction, and hands-on workshops. A highlight was the active participation of parents, who curated 13 engaging and diverse stalls, from handmade gifts and wellness products to home-cooked delights. Their presence not only added richness to the event but also deepened the bonds between school and family.

Joy of Sharing is where learning extends beyond classrooms. Students take ownership, collaborate, express, and contribute—all while having fun. Parents and educators step in as facilitators, performers, and co-learners, helping shape a truly immersive learning experience.

But perhaps what makes this day most special is its purpose. Every smile, every shared moment, and every rupee raised on this day contributes to a larger cause, reflecting Mr. Nadar’s belief that education must serve the greater good.

As we look back, we are filled with gratitude for the people, the purpose, and the joy. The Joy of Sharing isn’t just an event. It’s a reminder of what becomes possible when a community comes together, with heart.

 

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PYP Exhibition 2024-25

 

The PYP Exhibition at Shiv Nadar School, Chennai was a remarkable celebration of learning, creativity, and action, marking the culmination of the Primary Years Programme journey as a candidate school. This significant milestone showcased the skills, knowledge, and innovative thinking of our students as they collaboratively explored real-world issues through in-depth inquiry.

Themed around Sharing the Planet - Sustainability, the exhibition featured impactful projects such as drip water irrigation systems promoting efficient water usage, upcycling used clothes into new products to encourage sustainable fashion, and eco-friendly dyes and block printing stations highlighting traditional, low-impact practices. Students also tackled the issue of climate change, inspiring conversations on environmental responsibility and the need for conscious action.

The exhibition process was a true demonstration of student agency, with learners taking ownership of their inquiry—from identifying key issues to developing meaningful solutions. Throughout their journey, they honed essential 21st-century skills, including research, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.

To achieve this, the students worked for weeks, collecting data through surveys, listening to guest lectures, meeting industry experts, and collaborating with their mentors and peers. Their dedication and teamwork were evident in the depth and creativity of their projects.

As parents and guests walked through the exhibition, they were filled with awe at the students' remarkable progress and creativity. The event also inspired younger students, who looked up to their older peers with admiration and aspiration, sparking a love for inquiry and exploration.

The PYP Exhibition was not just a display of projects—it was a powerful reflection of our students' commitment to lifelong learning, their ability to take meaningful action, and their desire to make a positive impact on the world.

 

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Sandeep Kaur is an accomplished educator and international school leader with over a decade of experience across India and abroad. Currently leading the Junior School at Shiv Nadar School Chennai, she brings a deep understanding of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), school accreditations, and culturally responsive leadership.

With more than a decade in IB schools in various leadership roles, Sandeep has served as a PYP Coordinator, CIS and NEASC Accreditation Manager, and curriculum lead in institutions across Tokyo, Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida. She has played pivotal roles in guiding schools through PYP authorization, program evaluation, and global accreditation processes. In her previous assignment at Shinagawa International School, Tokyo, she led a multicultural team of educators representing over 40 nationalities—an experience that profoundly shaped her inclusive and collaborative leadership approach.

Sandeep has contributed her expertise to a range of reputed educational institutions, including, Shinagawa International School (Tokyo, Japan), K.R. Mangalam Global School (New Delhi), Heritage Xperiential Learning School (Gurugram) and Pathways School (Noida)

She has also worked as a consultant with SAAR Education, supported the Delhi Board of School Education (DBSE) in implementing PYP practices across public schools, and remains an active contributor to the IB Educator Network (IBEN) as a workshop leader, consultant, programme leader and school visiting team member.

Sandeep holds a master’s in education from the University of the People (USA) and is also a certified Microsoft Innovative Educator. A passionate advocate for student agency, inclusive education, and teacher empowerment, Sandeep’s leadership is grounded in reflective practice, emotional intelligence, and building strong, future-focused school communities.

Beyond her professional commitments, she is a lifelong learner who finds joy in music, mindfulness, and family time. Her multicultural journey and deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education make her a valuable addition to the Shiv Nadar School community

Aarav Shines at the South Zone Junior Golf Tournament

Aarav Shines at the South Zone Junior Golf Tournament

We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Aarav Mammen, a student of PY4, who secured an impressive 2nd place finish at the prestigious South Zone Junior Golf Tournament held in Hyderabad.

Competing in the highly competitive D Division Boys category (Under-11), Aarav showcased remarkable skill, focus, and determination throughout the event. The two-day tournament challenged participants with two demanding rounds of golf, where Aarav’s consistent performance and composure under pressure earned him a well-deserved spot on the podium.

This remarkable feat is a testament to Aarav’s dedication to the sport and the unwavering support he has received from his mentors, peers, and family. His success highlights his potential as a rising star in junior golf.

Congratulations, Aarav, on this incredible accomplishment! We look forward to witnessing you achieve even greater milestones in your golfing journey.

Sports Meet 2024 (PY3 to MY2)

 

The spirit of competition, resilience, and sportsmanship took center stage at our Sports Meet 2024, a high-energy event that brought together students from Grades PY3 to MY2. This milestone occasion was particularly special as it marked the first-ever Sports Meet for our Middle Years students, making it an unforgettable experience.

The event commenced with a grand March Past, a display of discipline, coordination, and team pride. Leading the charge was our Sports Captain, setting the tone for the day with unwavering confidence. The House Captains and Vice Captains marched alongside their contingents, their flags held high as they embodied the values of leadership and unity. The synchronized strides and determined expressions reflected the dedication of our young athletes, making for a truly inspiring spectacle.

While our Middle Years students approached the competition with great enthusiasm and determination, our younger athletes from Grades PY3 to PY5 brought an equally vibrant energy to the field. Their boundless excitement and fearless participation in events such as relay races and fun agility challenges made for thrilling moments. Their perseverance and sportsmanship were a reminder that every great athlete starts with a first race, a first finish line, and a first moment of triumph.

Adding to the festive spirit, our parent community joined in for a friendly yet fiercely contested Tug of War, reinforcing the sense of camaraderie and shared celebration of physical well-being. The cheers from the stands and the unwavering encouragement from peers and teachers made this more than just a sports event—it was a testament to our school’s belief in holistic development.

Beyond medals and podium finishes, the Sports Meet was a platform for students to discover their strengths, build resilience, and foster teamwork. It was a day filled with moments of triumph, determination, and unbreakable school spirit—one that will be remembered as a key milestone in our sporting journey, inspiring every student to push their limits and celebrate the joy of movement.

 

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