International Exchanges Programme

Teachers Aditi Chakraborty and Bharti Shinde spent nearly a month at Ermitage International School, Paris, where the exchange proved to be both professionally enriching and personally rewarding. The experience strengthened their understanding of the MYP and IB curriculum while exposing them to diverse teaching methodologies, assessment practices, and international perspectives on education.

They observed and engaged in a range of subjects including Science, Mathematics, Art, Languages, Physical Education, and Individual and Societies, gaining insight into how lessons were designed to promote student interest, participation, and independent learning. The exchange was strongly supported by the faculty and administrators, and the students were enthusiastic and receptive. Bharti also introduced 'Vedic Math' to students when she noticed they were struggling with multiplication, an initiative that intrigued both students and teachers alike.

Beyond academics, the month allowed them to interact with educators from different parts of the world, build meaningful professional networks, and immerse themselves in French culture, ultimately helping them adopt a stronger international approach in their own teaching practices.

Félix Rodríguez and Josué Cano from International School San Patricio Toledo described their three-week exchange at DAIS as a truly rewarding and enriching experience. During their visit, they actively participated in classes across primary and secondary levels, contributing to Spanish B lessons, engaging in discussions with students, and even preparing a fun Spanish greeting song with young learners.

They were impressed by the students' confidence, analytical thinking and strong Spanish skills. Throughout their stay, they collaborated closely with the Spanish Department and shared ideas with teachers. Beyond academics, they enjoyed cultural experiences in Mumbai and strengthened professional ties between the two schools.

Mgr. Lukáš Chytrý and Kristýna Drábková from the English Department at OPEN GATE spent a month at DAIS as part of the teacher exchange programme, an experience they describe as both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful. During their stay, they participated in and contributed to lessons in TOK, Language and Literature, Global Politics, and Drama, while engaging in rich academic discussions and sharing pedagogical practices with faculty members.

They were deeply impressed by the curiosity, analytical thinking, and warmth of the students, as well as the dedication and collaborative spirit of the staff. They also gained a deeper appreciation of India's culture and diversity. Feeling welcomed as true members of the school community rather than visitors, they left with a renewed sense of inspiration and strengthened professional connections.

Teachers Sheetal Puthran and Bipin Shah spent a month at Open Gate School in Babice, as part of the Teacher Exchange Programme, describing it as both professionally enriching and culturally immersive. They collaborated with primary and secondary teachers, gaining insights into the school's integration of the Czech national curriculum with the IB framework, and observed a strong emphasis on independent thinking, vertical integration of assessments, and skill-based learning aligned with IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning.

From creative writing, media analysis, and video logs to reflective discussions in Theory of Knowledge, they noted how learning was designed to nurture communication, research, and critical thinking skills. They also introduced elements of Indian culture through stories, art, music, and language, with students enthusiastically engaging and even learning Hindi words.

The warm hospitality of the school community, the reflective and inquisitive nature of the students, and the balance between academic rigor and holistic development made the experience deeply meaningful and memorable for both educators.

Teachers Anupama Pillai and Valli Madhavan visited San Patricio International School in Toledo, Spain, marking the beginning of a three-year exchange partnership between the two schools. During their visit, they observed the school's expansive campus and holistic learning environment, where academics are enriched through strong emphasis on art, drama, play-way methods, and self-management skills.

They conducted storytelling sessions based on Indian fables and epics, introduced students to Indian festivals such as Rakshabandhan, guided them in making rakhis, and facilitated mural art inspired by Indian artists, blended with Spanish cultural symbols. They also engaged in discussions about Indian traditions, customs, food, languages, and greetings, while exchanging teaching practices with the faculty and school leadership. Their experience was memorable and enriching.

Ann Iype and Pratima spent nearly a month at Ermitage International School in Maisons-Laffitte, Paris, as part of their school's first Teacher Exchange Programme. During their visit, they observed and conducted lessons across multiple subjects including History, English, Maths, and Science.

They gained insight into the MYP framework, noting its concept-based curriculum, emphasis on ATL skills, interdisciplinary learning, use of rubrics, and focus on independent inquiry supported by small class sizes. They also participated in staff meetings, invigilated examinations, and exchanged ideas on teaching practices and sustainability initiatives.

The experience provided valuable professional learning, meaningful collaboration with faculty, and a deeper understanding of international pedagogical approaches, making it both enriching and memorable.

As part of DAIS' first Teacher Exchange Programme, two educators spent a month at Ermitage International School, France, gaining first-hand experience of its teaching practices, learning environment, and educational philosophy. The exchange provided valuable opportunities to observe the implementation of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), interdisciplinary learning, inquiry-based teaching, and the integration of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills across the curriculum.

Throughout the programme, the teachers observed and conducted lessons, interacted closely with students and faculty, and exchanged innovative teaching strategies and classroom practices. The experience also highlighted similarities and differences between the educational approaches followed at Ermitage and DAIS, encouraging meaningful professional reflection and the exchange of ideas.

Beyond the classroom, the visit offered rich cultural experiences through exploring Paris and its historic landmarks, further strengthening global perspectives and cross-cultural understanding. The exchange concluded with lasting professional relationships, valuable pedagogical insights, and a deep appreciation for international collaboration in education.