Sandeep Kaur
Head – Junior School
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.
Kunal Bhuria
Head - Administration & Operations
With over two decades of leadership in the Indian Army as an Infantry Officer, Col Kunal Bhuria now steps into a new chapter as the Head – Administration & Operations at Shiv Nadar School, Faridabad. Col Kunal’s career began in the esteemed National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Pune in 1998, leading to his commissioning into 6th Battalion The SIKH Light Infantry in 2002. Col Kunal has completed his certification in ‘General Management Programme’ from IIM, Lucknow and holds a ‘Bachelor of Arts’ degree from Jawaharlal Lal Nehru University, New Delhi.
His extensive service includes high-stake complex operations in counter-insurgency/ terrorism environment including Rashtriya Rifles, commanding troops in challenging terrains and holding key staff & instructional appointments. His tenure as Commanding Officer of Infantry Battalion at Manipur & Chandimandir & Col Administration of a Mountain Division in Kalimpong ensured him overseeing critical infrastructure, logistics, administration and large-scale manpower management ensuring seamless execution in dynamic environments.
Beyond combat leadership, Col Kunal honed his expertise in administration, facility management, security, financial accounting, procurement procedures, supply chain management and logistics. His experience as an Instructor at Junior Leaders Wing, Belgaum & participation in Indo-US Military Exercise named ‘Yudh-Abhyaas’ further underscores his ability to mentor and develop high-performance teams. Now, as he takes on the helm of Operations & Administration at Shiv Nadar School, his focus is to drive efficiency, innovation, and excellence in school operations.
Born and raised in Faridabad, Col Kunal carries a deep-rooted connection to the city. His passion for adventure led him to summit Mt. Bhagirathi-II (6,512m), reflecting his relentless pursuit of challenges. He likes spending free time with family & friends and watching motivational movies with his twins.
Anshu Sharma
Vice Principal - International Curriculum
Anshu Sharma, a passionate educator and academic leader with over 17 years of experience, holds a double Master’s Degree in Science (Botany) and Education (Psychology). She is a NEASC accredited school visiting team member and an IBEN—MYP Programme Leader. Her extensive experience spans teaching, learning, and leading in the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, including the PYP, MYP, and DP, as well as the IGCSE curriculum.
As an academic leader, Anshu has successfully led program implementation, evaluation, and verification at various educational institutions across India, the Middle East, and Europe. These include RBK International Academy in Mumbai, Pathways School in Noida, Ecole Mondiale World School in Mumbai, and Oeiras International School in Lisbon, Portugal.
As a pedagogical leader with a special interest in the MYP, Anshu has collaborated closely with government institutions and learning organizations to enhance inquiry-based teaching and learning, develop authentic assessments, and promote student agency. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the sole Indian educator invited by the International Baccalaureate to join the global team working on their ‘Enhanced MYP’ initiative.
Prior to joining Shiv Nadar School, Anshu was associated with Ambassador International Academy in Dubai.
Anshu enjoys reading and exploring new places and cultures.
Shweta Advani
Lead - People & Culture
Shweta Advani is a passionate and visionary HR leader with over 8 years of experience in shaping and nurturing organizational cultures that prioritize people, growth, and innovation. As the Lead of People and Culture at Shiv Nadar School Noida, she leverages her extensive expertise in human resources, organizational development, and employee well-being to create a dynamic, inclusive, and future-oriented environment.
An alumna of IMT Ghaziabad, where she earned her master’s degree in human resources, Shweta has had a diverse career spanning renowned global organizations like Microsoft, WNS, and Orange Health. These experiences have honed her unique skill set, enabling her to drive culture transformation, enhance talent management, and align organizational values seamlessly with daily practices.
Beyond her professional achievements, Shweta founded Mindful Love Tribe, India’s pioneering holistic platform dedicated to mindful living. Her innovative approach, encompassing Mindfulness Workshops, Life Skills programs, and initiatives that support startups, has positioned her as a thought leader in the field. Her impactful work in mindfulness coaching has garnered recognition in esteemed publications like Indian Express, Times of India, and The Logical Indian, where she has guided individuals and organizations in unlocking their full potential through mindful practices.
At Shiv Nadar School, Shweta’s leadership stems from her unwavering conviction that every individual possesses unique talents and the potential to make significant contributions. Her approach revolves around fostering an environment that nurtures and inspires people to unlock their full potential.
Sumit Mandhwani
MYP Coordinator
Sumit Mandhwani returns to Shiv Nadar School, stepping into an exciting second innings as the MYP Coordinator. With extensive expertise as an educator, coordinator, and consultant, he brings over a decade of experience in the IB MYP/DP and Cambridge frameworks. Sumit has previously held key roles at institutions such as Delhi Public School International, Legacy School Bangalore, Shiv Nadar School Noida, and Prometheus School Noida.
A seasoned IB practitioner, Sumit is an IB examiner, workshop leader, and IBEN MYP/DP Programme Leader, working closely with the International Baccalaureate (IB) to uphold and elevate academic standards. His contributions include presenting at the IB Global Conference twice and actively engaging with the IB Exchange platform. Sumit also serves as a NEASC CLP visitor and CIS evaluator, guiding schools toward achieving prestigious international accreditations.
Sumit’s academic journey is a testament to his commitment to learning and leadership. He holds a B.A. (Hons) in Economics from Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, and an M.A. in Sociology from Ambedkar University, Delhi. He is currently pursuing an M.A. in Education (Educational Leadership and Management) from the University of Bath and holds a PTC International Teacher Leader Certificate.
In his role as MYP Coordinator, Sumit aims to develop dynamic, concept-driven curricula that foster meaningful student engagement and collaborative learning communities. He firmly believes that students excel when they feel supported and connected within their educational environment.
Outside his professional endeavors, Sumit is a New Delhi native who thrives on thoughtful discussions and diverse perspectives, thanks to his lifelong passion for debating. His interest in psychology, sparked during a transformative two-year therapy journey, continues to shape his worldview. A passionate traveler and food enthusiast, he cherishes exploring new cultures and cuisines, alongside spending quality time with his two nephews.
As Sumit rejoins the Shiv Nadar School family, he brings his wealth of experience, a fresh perspective, and a deep commitment to advancing the MYP framework, ensuring the school continues to deliver exceptional learning experiences.
Varsha Subramaniam Iyer
Teaching & Learning Lead - Early Years Programme
An alumna of SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai with a bachelor’s in Child Development & Sociology, Varsha brings to Shiv Nadar School a rich experience of over 27 years as an educator and educational leader in early childhood education with schools in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.
Varsha started her education journey with TVS Academy, Hosur as Primary Years educator. In the subsequent years, she was associated with schools such as Cambridge School - Bangalore, Nutan School – Ahmedabad, Anand Niketan – Ahmedabad as educator in early and primary years. In 2003, she joined The School at Noida as the Academic Coordinator for the Pre-school and Primary. For the last 17 years, Varsha has been leading the Mother and toddler program at Toddler’s Den (Early years IB school) at Ahmedabad.
Born and raised in Mumbai, Varsha has lived in various states of India during her professional journey. She loves art and craft and has had experience with running a cloud kitchen from her residence in Ahmedabad.
Dasha Narendra Singh
Teaching & Learning Lead - Primary Years Programme
Dasha is an alumnus of Fiji National University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Primary Education. He holds a Diploma in IT Networks from TAFE NSW, Australia and Major diploma in Primary Education. He carries a rich experience of almost a decade as an educator and educational leader with reputed schools in Fiji and Chennai.
Dasha started his journey with the Nabua Sanatan Primary School in Fiji Islands as an educator. He then joined the International School of Suva, Fiji Islands as a PYP Homeroom Teacher where over the course of 6 years, he managed multiple roles along with teaching. In 2019, Dasha moved to Chennai for his next assignment with the International Village School Chennai where he spent the last 3 years as PYP Homeroom Teacher and PYP Coordinator being an active part of the Leadership Team and providing feedback about the progress and development of the PYP, developing PYP transdisciplinary curriculum with the teaching team and coordinating PYP authorization of the school.
Born and raised in Fiji Islands, Dasha loves playing soccer, badminton, and volleyball. He spends a lot of his free time on his personal flight simulator at home and has recently learnt surfing at Chennai.
Arzoo Rikhy
Head - Primary Years
Arzoo Rikhy is the Head of Primary Years at Shiv Nadar School Noida
An alumna of Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune with a bachelor’s in literature and Cultural Studies, Arzoo was associated with Teach for India for two years as an English educator for Upper Primary Group prior to joining Shiv Nadar School.
A valued member of the Primary Years cohort at the Noida campus since 2017, when she joined as a Teaching Faculty, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and a continued passion for learning, first as Teaching and Learning Lead (Primary Years), and since June 2022, as Deputy Head – Primary Years.
She continues to enrich the Primary Years cohort, and the campus, with the same level of passion, dedication, and strategic thinking to this new role, driving positive change and fostering a collaborative and efficient working environments.
Archana Simon
Lead – People and Culture
An alumna of Ethiraj College for Women Chennai with a bachelor’s in business administration, Archana has always had a strong inclination towards education and human resources which further led her to pursue a master’s in human resource and organizational development from the Madras School of Social Work. She also holds a Postgraduate diploma in Training & Development from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.
With nearly a decade of professional experience, Archana has seamlessly woven her expertise as both an educator and a human resources professional. She started her professional journey as a fellow at Teach for India at Chennai wherein she truly immersed herself in the sphere of education for 2 years with the motive to leave every student with seeds of hope. After the successful completion of her TFI fellowship, she joined the Talent Acquisition team at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Chennai to garner a larger understanding of the space of Human Resources. Over the next 6 years at TCS, she was a key contributor to the talent acquisition, induction, and onboarding team. With her calling in the sphere of education and human resources, Archana then joined the Teach for India Corporate, Chennai as a Manager – Human Resources wherein she was primarily responsible for talent acquisition and management, talent engagement, and culture building during the last 2 years.
Born into a family of Rajasthani roots, Archana has spent majority of her life in Chennai and currently resides there. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her plants, paint, watch movies and occasionally enjoys playing badminton and board games.
Rahul Sitaraman
Head of Administration & Operations
Rahul has a B.Sc. in Naval Science and Operational Studies from Goa University along with a B.Tech. in Electrical & Electronic from JNU, Delhi. As part of continuous development, he has further pursued courses on Strategic Management from The Wharton School of University of Pennsylvania and Micromasters in Business Management from IIM, Bengaluru. He recently completed an Executive Program in Business Management from IIFT, New Delhi.
Rahul joins us directly from the Indian Navy after serving the nation for over 20 years with assignments across Vishakhapatnam, Jamnagar and Mumbai. In 2 decades with the Indian Navy, he has worked in various roles such as Manager of Operations, Joint Director Projects, Joint Director of Ship Maintenance, Director of Business Development and most recently as the Director of Technical Operations at Mumbai.
Born in Chennai, Rahul completed his high school and higher education in Delhi followed by stints across India with the Navy. An avid reader, he usually spends his free time playing guitar and singing.