From August 2017 to July 2018, I served as the Head of Fine Arts at École Mondiale World School in Mumbai, an esteemed institution proud to offer the full continuum of International Baccalaureate® (IB) programmes, catering to students aged 3 to 19. As an IB school, École Mondiale is committed to fostering academic and personal excellence through a holistic approach to education. The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), ensuring a well-rounded educational experience that empowers students to become lifelong learners and global citizens.

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In my role, I oversaw the entire fine arts department, encompassing music, drama, dance, and visual arts, while maintaining the high standards of the IB curriculum. I taught MYP and DP music, delivering rigorous and engaging lessons that integrated theory, practical performance, and critical analysis. My students included children from families deeply embedded in Bollywood and influential Mumbai businesses, which required me to adapt to a culturally rich and artistically dynamic environment. Through tailored instruction, I nurtured creativity and individuality, aligning with the school’s mission to prepare students for the challenges of a globalized world.

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Beyond the classroom, I established and directed a student jazz band that performed at school events and charity functions, instilling a sense of community and social responsibility in students while showcasing their musical talents.

 

A highlight of my tenure was accompanying Year 11 students on a theatre trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, where we attended a Shakespeare workshop at the Royal Shakespeare Company and explored classical theatre. This experience enriched students’ appreciation for drama and literature, providing them with an invaluable cultural and educational opportunity.

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École Mondiale’s commitment to the IB philosophy, which combines academic rigor with personal development, provided me with a unique platform to contribute to the school’s artistic and educational vision. Although adapting to Mumbai’s vibrant pace and cultural diversity presented challenges, the experience was immensely rewarding, enhancing my ability to lead, inspire, and teach in an international setting. After completing my tenure, my wife, Felicity, and I returned to Germany to pursue new opportunities, carrying with us the profound impact of our time at École Mondiale.