Building Bridges: CBSE Inclusive Education Workshop for Educators
Empowering Educators: Anveshan Workshop
On 13 December 2024, the school’s science faculty attended the Anveshan Workshop at Sanskriti School. The session focused on innovative strategies to make science education more interactive through experiential learning. By sharing insights and ideas, educators transformed individual expertise into collective wisdom, enriching their approaches to teaching. The workshop underscored the importance of “learning by doing,” inspiring participants to create dynamic and engaging classroom environments. It was an enlightening experience for all attendees.
Exploring AI for Innovative Teaching
On 30 November 2024, the teachers participated in a thought-provoking workshop centred on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into classroom teaching. Known for staying at the forefront of educational innovation, our educators showcased their commitment to transforming learning experiences.
Each faculty presented well-researched insights into many AI tools they have integrated into their lessons. Subject specific tools like Geogebra for mathematics, Gamma for presentations, and Speakometer for language skills were among the list, along with more versatile platforms such as Curiopod, MagicSchool and Nearpod. These tools demonstrated the teachers’ desire to create interactive, engaging, and personalised learning experiences for their students.
The session was enriched by lively discussions and interactive questions, encouraging knowledge sharing and collaboration. This workshop exemplified the school’s mission to embrace cutting-edge technology for enhancing pedagogy, creating an environment where both teachers and students grow through innovation.
Empowering Educators: Safeguarding the Classrooms Workshop at Tagore International School
On 19 October 2024, a workshop titled ‘Safeguarding the Classrooms’ was organized for senior school teachers, conducted by members of the NGO Pratisandhi. The session focused on understanding the sexual and mental development of adolescents, equipping teachers with the knowledge to navigate sensitive questions and behaviors during this critical period.
The workshop emphasized practical strategies for handling challenging situations in the classroom, ensuring teachers feel more confident in creating a safe and supportive learning environment. A group activity involved real-life scenarios, allowing teachers to collaboratively explore solutions, followed by a discussion and Q&A session. To further support educators, workbooks were distributed, which will serve as a continuous resource for managing complex issues throughout the school year.
Gender Sensitization Workshop: Fostering Inclusivity in the Classroom
On 17 September 2024, senior school teachers attended an informative gender sensitization workshop, led by Mr. Pranav from the Keshav Suri Foundation. The interactive session encouraged open discussions and clarified the difference between sex and gender. Teachers explored the concept that gender extends beyond societal assignment and can be diverse. The workshop emphasized the importance of fostering a non-discriminatory and inclusive classroom where students, irrespective of sexual orientation or non-conformity to stereotypes, feel accepted and valued. By embracing freedom, equality, and inclusiveness, Tagore International is shaping a future generation that promotes tolerance and compassion in society.
Teachers Learn Some Life-Saving CPR Techniques
On 17 September 2024, the faculty participated in a life-saving workshop on Basic Life Support and CPR techniques, conducted by experts from the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, Vasant Kunj. Led by Dr. Saumya, Consultant Anaesthesia and ICU, alongside Ms. Roshini, Clinical Supervisor, and Ms. Mohita, CSR Coordinator, the session covered essential emergency skills. Teachers received hands-on training in performing CPR, using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and executing the Heimlich Manoeuvre for both adults and children. These vital skills, demonstrated by the experts, equip educators with the ability to respond effectively in emergencies, potentially saving lives in critical situations.
Enhancing Speaking Skills: English Pronunciation Workshop for Teachers
The teachers attended an enriching workshop on 17 September 2024, led by Senior Education Advisor, Ms. Madhulika Sen. The session focused on refining teachers’ pronunciation skills, emphasizing correct intonation and the nuances of commonly mispronounced words. Ms. Sen guided the educators through practical techniques to improve their articulation and speech delivery. By reinforcing these essential communication skills, the workshop empowered teachers to instill better pronunciation habits in their students, thereby enhancing overall language proficiency across the school. The initiative reflects the school’s commitment to excellence in both teaching and communication.
Happy Teachers Create Happy Classrooms : Happiness Workshop for Teachers
On 7 September 2024, teachers at Tagore International School, Vasant Vihar, participated in an enriching workshop titled Happy Classrooms, quot; conducted by Ms. Neera Chopra and Ms. Mallika Preman. This event focused on the importance of fostering self-awareness, reflection, and positivity among teachers to create a nurturing learning environment. Through animated discussions, thought-provoking activities, informative handouts and engaging videos, the workshop emphasized the vital role of teacher happiness in shaping students academic and emotional growth.
Participants explored what makes them happy and learned strategies to maintain a positive outlook, creating a supportive and caring school community. By focusing on both academic guidance and the emotional well-being of students, teachers were empowered to build a resilient and balanced generation. Tagore International School remains committed to ensuring continuous capacity-building programs for its educators, ensuring quality education and happy classrooms.
Empowering Educators: A Workshop on Active Learning
On 24 and 31 August 2024, teachers at TISVV participated in an enriching Personal Development Program focused on Active Learning. With Ms. Neera Chopra and Ms. Mallika Preman as the experienced Resource Persons, the CBSE workshop provided a full day of valuable insights and practical strategies aimed at enhancing classroom engagement. Teachers explored innovative methods to make learning more interactive and enjoyable, with activities designed to boost critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The CBP or Capacity Building Programme also emphasized the importance of encouraging students to take responsibility for their own learning, fostering a lifelong learning mindset. Through interactive sessions, informative handouts, and reflective activities, the workshop empowered teachers to implement these techniques effectively, reinforcing TISVV commitment to nurturing students who learn not just for tests but for life.
Nurturing Minds: CBSE's Capacity-Building Program at Vasant Valley School
To help students grow into confident individuals able to support and guide the students’ emotional, psychological, academic, and social development, the school counsellors handle challenges aplenty. On 12 August 2024 Vasant Valley School hosted a CBSE-organised capacity-building program for wellness teachers and school counselors focusing on mental health and well-being in schools which was attended by Ms Komal Malik and Ms Aliya from our school. The day commenced with a formal inauguration, followed by an insightful session on Comprehensive School Mental Health and Wellbeing Services. Well known speakers, including Ms. Neelam Srivastava and Dr. Jitendra Nagpal, led discussions on the evolving roles of teachers and counsellors, and the importance of promoting positive mental health.The program was enriched by a panel discussion that featured a Class XII student from Vasant Valley School, who shared unique perspectives on resilience. Participants also engaged in sessions on socio-legal literacy and child protection, with practical CPR training provided by a doctor from the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre. Afternoon sessions delved into student-led wellness programs and the creation of effective support systems within the school ecosystem. The event left participants with actionable strategies to enhance mental health services and build a stronger, more resilient school community, while adopting a holistic approach to student wellness.
STEM Workshop for Science Faculty
To help students understand scientific concepts and the natural world, teachers must actively engage in scientific practices and stay updated with new hands-on methods. On 26 July 2024, the Science Faculty attended a STEM workshop with Abhinav Singhal who says he is a Stem Catalyst and Curiosity Creator. The session was well-structured, incorporating a variety of teaching aids and hands-on experiments that made it an enriching experience. One particularly enjoyable activity involved creating a greeting card using an electric circuit, which they plan to implement in the classroom. Additionally, the detailed hands-on exploration of the strength of dome-shaped and arch-shaped structures, the discussion on the use of coordinates in daily life, and the examination of patterns in mathematics were of interest. A standout feature was the focus on real-life applications, which will help students understand how scientific concepts are relevant and applicable in everyday life. The practical experiments and engaging demonstrations on subjects such as electricity, light, and resistance provided significant insights into making science more engaging and comprehensible.
Workshop on Creating Safe and Inclusive Classrooms
On 27 July 2024, Pratisandhi conducted a workshop for Primary Wing teachers focusing on creating safe and inclusive classroom environments. The session highlighted the importance of respect and understanding to make classrooms feel welcoming for every student. Teachers were encouraged to reflect on their biases and understand the roots of stereotypes, recognizing their impact on student interactions. The workshop also delved into the Pygmalion Effect, demonstrating how teachers’ expectations can shape student outcomes and the power of positive reinforcement. Teachers learned to identify signs indicating a student might feel unsafe or excluded. Practical strategies to foster a safer classroom were shared, including promoting open communication, celebrating diversity, and
addressing issues promptly and fairly. The training aimed to equip teachers with the tools to support their students effectively, ensuring that classrooms are spaces where all children can thrive. Teachers proactively shared their insights and experiences, enriching the workshop experience.
Effectively Using AI - Workshop for Teachers
On 6 July 2024, all teachers attended an informative workshop led by Mr. Vedant Aluwalia, focusing on the use of AI in the next era of teaching. Emphasizing the effective use of AI rather than banning it, the speaker covered platforms like ChatGPT, Google Bard, OpenAI, and Bing Search. Mr. Aluwalia addressed the changing modes of learning, illustrating how these platforms can effectively provide information and aid research. This allows teachers to focus on better learning outcomes and greater engagement, fostering collaboration.
Incorporating AI in education is crucial for skilling students for the future, when experiential, practical learning and critical thinking is also promoted. ChatGPT, for instance, can inspire students to create better assignments, enhancing learning experiences for the 21st-century learner. This approach aims to prepare students for a future where AI is an integral and beneficial tool in education.
Crafting Compelling Narratives: Oxford Books' Workshop for Teachers
Storytelling is a powerful tool for dynamic teaching, captivating learners and fostering deeper understanding. Led by Ms. Vasudha Ahuja, the storytelling workshop for primary wing teachers, organized by Oxford Books on May 15, 2024, delved into the 4Es of storytelling—Emotion, Expression, Enactment, and Entertainment. Ms. Ahuja demonstrated how to tailor storytelling techniques to students’ age groups, emphasizing interactivity with music, sound effects, and multimedia elements. Through examples, she showcased how subtle changes in tone, pace, and emphasis transform the storytelling experience. Teachers left equipped with practical strategies to captivate and inspire students through personalized storytelling, ready to engage and connect with their classrooms.
Teachers Workshop - CPR Training for Primary Wing Teachers
A CPR (or Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) workshop was conducted on 14 May 2024 by two skilled Medical Assistants (Indian Navy) of INS India for the teachers of the Primary Wing The workshop aimed to equip participants to respond effectively to emergencies involving cardiac arrest and loss of pulse and provide them with practical skills in CPR techniques. The teachers were given hands-on training in chest compression techniques which enhanced their confidence and competence. The clarity of the instructions and the expertise of the facilitators was much appreciated by the teachers and the session enhanced their confidence and competence.
Teachers workshop on accepting Diversity
During a workshop for teachers of Classes VI to XII on diversity and inclusivity held on 4 May 2024 , the focus was on addressing the issue of discrimination and bullying faced by students from the North Eastern states. Two Class XII students, Sharon and Priyanka, bravely shared their personal experiences of discrimination, highlighting the challenges their community faces, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teachers also contributed to the discussion, sharing instances of discrimination based on regional or gender differences. This session served as a powerful reminder for all educators to remain vigilant against bullying and to actively create safe and inclusive environments where students from all backgrounds feel accepted and valued.
Empowering School Counselors: Insights from Ashoka University's Meet
I had the privilege of attending Ashoka University’s Counselor’s Meet on April 19, 2024, where we delved into the university’s ethos, academic offerings, and support systems. Led by the Vice Chancellor and Pro-Vice Chancellor, the event commenced with a campus tour showcasing Ashoka’s state-of-the-art facilities, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to holistic development. Faculty members shared insights into Ashoka’s innovative learning approaches, while alumni, including TISVV’s own Prarthana, provided firsthand experiences. Panel discussions covered essential topics such as college application strategies, admissions processes, placement opportunities, and student support services. This invaluable experience equipped me with the knowledge and insights needed to effectively guide students in their higher education pursuits. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their journey towards academic and personal growth.
Reviving Culinary Heritage
Heritage is not limited to monuments, it can be found in our kitchens as well. On World Heritage Day, 18 April 2024, Vedatya Institute in collaboration with the INTACH group organised a workshop specifically for Home Science teachers. The workshop aimed at bringing heritage and cultural culinary knowledge to the classroom. It also aimed at reviving regional cuisines and lost recipes. Most importantly it focused on traditional foods of India and how these relate to sustainable practices- that worked with the environment and climate of the place. Ms Misha Sharma, PGT Home Science, represented our school and came back enriched with yet more recipes to add to her repertoire and share with her students.
Plan for the Future – Financial Literacy Workshop for Teachers
Financial planning is vital for everyone who wishes to invest their earnings wisely in order to secure their future. The teachers attended a very informative session on financial planning on 6 April 2024 where Mr Siddharth Sharma from Money Tree Partners, a reputed Delhi based financial planning company, advised teachers on how to make the most of their earnings. Advocating a diversified portfolio, he discussed the pros and cons of various investment options like SIPs, tax saving FDs, ELSS and Mutual Funds. The presentation clarified the various methods of saving and investing, proving to be a valuable learning experience for the attendees.
Empowering Teachers: Workshop on Children with Special Needs at TISVV
At TISVV, our commitment extends to creating a safe, inclusive environment for every student, including those with special needs. Each teacher endeavors to understand every child and provide necessary support. On March 27, 2024, teachers attended a workshop focused on children with special needs and effective classroom management techniques. Ms. Komal Malik, the school counselor, served as the resource person, providing insights into various behavioral issues and neurological developmental disorders. Additionally, Ms. Neeti Khullar, a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, shared her journey and struggles, thus enhancing teachers’ empathy and understanding.
Quiz Time With Arindam Bhattacharya – Teachers Workshop
General awareness is the mark of an educated, curious mind with a broader understanding of the world around us. Students enjoy quizzing at all stages and this can be a useful tool for educators to address the knowledge vacuum and create better informed individuals. Mr. Arindam Bhattacharya, a quiz enthusiast who has had a long association with the Quiz and Debate Club of TISVV, held an informative yet enjoyable session with the teachers of the Primary and Middle wing on 12 March 2024. Demonstrating various games and listing some of the areas where students should be encouraged to know basic facts, he proved that quizzing could also be an enjoyable mood-enhancer in the classroom. Clearly, quizzing is a valuable educational tool, promoting active learning, and increasing the students’ awareness of the world around us.
Ms Archna Vashistha Conducts Workshop For Math Teachers of Delhi Government Schools
As part of the Capacity Building Program organised by SCERT(State council of Educational Research and Training) Ms Archna Vashistha of Tagore International School, Vasant Vihar was nominated to conduct a one day workshop for PGT Mathematics of Delhi government schools at DIET(District Institute of Education and Training) Keshav Puram, Delhi on 18 October 2023.
Through PPTs and hands-on activities, Ms Archana demonstrated techniques to aid learning and dispel the fear factor associated with the subject amongst senior secondary students. This was followed by discussion on various Teaching- Learning strategies to throw light on multiple concepts and bridge the learning gaps. Practice papers of various schools were shared with the educators to create a question pool for helping the young learners.
The workshop concluded with an interesting question answer round where certain remedial steps were suggested to assist the low achievers.
Ms Archna said that it was an enriching experience for her and she looks forward to sharing her learning with students of our school.
Taking a Fresh Look at Inclusivity – Workshop for Teachers
While we at TIS,VV pride ourselves on being extremely open-minded and inclusive, there is always space for improvement and introspection. To create safe and inclusive spaces for our students is an area of utmost concern for all teachers here. To aid us in this endeavour, the teachers were guided by Sahil and Kiran, both working with the Naz Foundation which has been instrumental in the campaign for LGBTQIA+ rights and has also been an active support for our unique campaign Breaking Barriers which was initiated exactly 10 years ago. This workshop on 21 September 2023 threw up a number of issues which started with the concept of what contributes bullying to ways of creating safe and inclusive spaces where each student feels respected and accepted. Bravely sharing their own experiences of bullying while in school, Kiran and Sahil encouraged teachers to rethink their strategies and reach out to students in need of an empathetic listener.
Teachers Take a Fresh Look at Values in Education
A workshop for all teachers held in two batches on 16 and 18 September 2023, focused on the very essential topic of values in education. Guided by Ms Neera Chopra ( Academic Consultant) and Ms Mallika Preman (Principal , TIS, EOK) the teachers took a fresh look at the features and concept of values. The Central Board of Secondary education has designed an innovative Values EducationCurriculum, which is a conscious effort to develop in young people the core values which are affirmed across all cultures. Teachers looked at strategies to nurture ethical reflection, understanding of values and behavior modification among their students in a variety of ways. The students of TIS have always been guided to become compassionate, honest, empathetic and respectful to both environment and other people around. The teachers will continue to mentor and help them in all possible ways.
Financial Literacy for Teachers
The importance of saving, investing wisely and knowing how to maximize returns was the focus of a very interesting workshop on Financial Literacy held in the school on 12 September 2023 for the teachers. Mr Ramkumar Gupta of Kotak Mutual Funds guided the teachers through the various processes of investment in mutual funds, SIPs and diversified investments. He spoke about retirement plans and systematic withdrawal plans. It was a highly informative and eye-opening session for most of the participants who learnt about effective tools for saving and investment.
Festival of Libraries 2023
Libraries that have demonstrated exemplary work at national, state, district, village, institutional, and individual levels were also felicitated.
Capacity Building Programme for Teachers on Gender Sensitivity
The vision of TIS,VV includes provision of inclusive education with equal opportunities for all students. UNESCO too calls for attention to gender equality throughout the education system and as educators we understand that gender-sensitive pedagogy holds the key to ensuring equitable quality education for all learners.
With this in mind, all teachers attended a CBSE capacity building workshop on gender sensitivity and gender equality on 22 July and 24 July 2023, with Ms Neera Chopra (Academic Consultant) and Ms Mallika Preman (Principal, TIS, EOK) as the resource persons. This intensive day-long workshop encouraged every teacher to reflect and introspect on ways to make both our classroom transactions and informal interactions with students even more unbiased. While we pride ourselves on being completely fair and unbiased in all ways, there is always room for us to hone our skills. Relevant and thought provoking videos and activities, plus a lot of meaningful discussions, sharing of real life incidents and different perspectives from all the participants made the workshop an excellent learning experience
Such workshops will definitely help teachers to reflect on and overcome their biases if any, even down to use of gender-neutral language during class discussions. Such initiatives in teacher education with a focus on gender equality, equity and justice will help us mould students into open minded and liberal citizens, free of bias or stereotypes.
Reading 5.0 - Dr Ameeta Mulla Wattal Speaks on Ken Robinson
Reading is an integral part of the growth of every educator, and when a renowned educationist like Dr Ameeta Mulla Wattal spoke about the importance of reading while focusing on the work of the well known author, speaker and educationist Ken Robinson : no doubts about it, this was a treat for every teacher. Time just flew and before one knew it the one hour Zoom webinar on 24 November 2022 was over, but it left the listeners with a lot of thought provoking insights and a keen desire to read Ken Robinson’s books with greater attention. Dr Wattal spoke eloquently and with great understanding of the benefits of reading – which not only affects all our sensibilities for the better, but also increases white matter in the brain. She drew attention to Ken Robinson’s thoughts on the needs of the 21 st century learner to be encouraged by educators who are able to find and bring out the talent of every child. Certainly there are going to be many more teachers buying or borrowing ‘The Element’, ‘Finding Your Element’ or ‘You, Your Child and Your School. ’ Ms Sarmistha Ganguli, Ms Antima Kishore, Ms Yachana Villaitrani and Ms Rita Ronita Sen from the TIS faculty attended this absorbing session.
Cyber Security Workshop for Teachers
Understanding the significance and procedures of protecting data from unauthorized access or loss and preventing financial fraud and embezzlement are the need of the hour. Keeping this requirement in mind, a ‘Cyber Security Workshop’ was organized for the school faculty on 19 November 2022. The resource persons, Ms Seema Mongia, PGT Computer Science and Ms Manisha Gusain, PRT Computer Science talked about Cyber Crimes, Cyber Security and Cyber Safety. Security measures. Cyber Laws and Digital Wellbeing were also covered, giving examples and discussing case studies. Actions required to be taken to protect personal and official information and the need to apprise students about the same was also discussed.
Subject Integration Workshop for Teachers by Ratnasagar
Integrated curriculums allow students to have a deeper understanding of the subject matter and how to apply matter that they have learned in the classroom to real life situations. This ultimately helps to prepare them for their future studies, career and life in general. With this principle in mind, a workshop was organised on 19 November 2022, with Ms Monisha Gupta and Mr Sandeep of Ratnasagar as resource persons for all the teachers of the school. Tagore International has always advocated and practiced integration of subjects as a mode of encouraging higher level thinking skills and bringing out the connections between the different subjects. However, a reinforcement of what one knows is always valuable. Energizing activities, serious discussion and brainstorming left the teachers enriched with new ideas to pursue subject integration in varied ways in their classrooms.
Capacity Building Program on Learning Objectives and Pedagogies on 5 November 2022
As part of our constant efforts to improve ourselves and move to the next level, workshops on various topics are regularly organised for the teachers. This CBSE workshop on 5 November 2022, was an intensive day long one where teachers from both the Primary and the Senior wing explored all aspects of Learning Outcomes and the different approaches to various pedagogies. Learning outcomes help faculty and students come to a common understanding about the purpose and goals of a course or academic program. When the Learning outcomes are clear and comprehensive teachers will find it easier to provide an easier pathway for student success. Students too should understand learning outcomes so that they may regulate their own learning and assess how far they have understood the concepts being taught. Ms Neera Chopra ( Academic Consultant) and Ms Mallika Preman (Principal TIS,EOK) guided the teachers through a series of group activities and discussions to provide insights into the various aspects of the topic.
Capacity Building Program on National Education Policy on 30 July 2022
Managing Difficult Behaviour in the Classroom
The student is not difficult, their behavior is. With this in mind, Counselling Psychologist Ms. Ashrita Mahajan from Fortis Hospital held an interactive session with our teachers on 7th May 2022 on how to identify and manage behavioral issues in classrooms. All young children can be naughty or impulsive from time to time. However, some children have extremely difficult and challenging behaviours that are outside the norm for their age and understanding the cause can help in better management. Ms. Mahajan shared a variety of strategies for either an individual or a whole group, emphasizing positive reinforcement and encouragement to modify such issues.
Capacity Building Program on Physical Education was held for primary teachers on 23 March 2022
A physical Education Card workshop was held for primary teachers on 23rd March, 2022. The session was a refreshing as well as energizing for the teachers. It was ably led by Mr. Mukesh Kohli from PEC, India. With a career spanning more than three decades in various schools and Delhi University, he exhorted the teachers to awaken their inner child by engaging in various fun yet resourceful activities. These involved kinaesthetic activities that paved the way for teaching various academic concepts. Presumed as tough, the concepts of mathematics and languages were broken down into smaller chunks that were engaging and delightful. Amidst laughter, engrossed in group activities, teachers shared their new found ideas of how conventional teaching methods can be transformed into joyful learning. The workshop was an eye-opener that the journey of learning can be adorned with laughter, new ideas and unlimited possibilities and at the same time lead to physically fit youngsters
Workshop on Pedagames
A workshop on ‘Pedagames’ was conducted by Ms. Uma Chopra and Ms. Puja Singh on 30 March 2022 in TIS, Vasant Vihar, for teachers of both the branches of the school. The workshop emphasized on the importance of learning and teaching through fun-filled games that can be conducted in classrooms.Various energizers like brain gym activities, Kriya yoga, tapping exercises and group bonding activities were conducted along with the participants creating various card games using metacognitive skills.The workshop was a step forward towards learning to create happy classrooms.
