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Excellence talk: The High Commission of India, London
We were delighted and honoured to host two events supported by the High Commission of India, London.
On Wednesday 8 June, we welcomed Mr Shitanshu Chaurasiya, First Secretary of the High Commission of India and Mr Amish Tripathi, author and Director of the Nehru Centre, which is the cultural wing of the High Commission of India in the UK.
Having been greeted by Miss Katherine Haynes, Head, Mr Andy Sims, Deputy Head and Dr Florence Weinberg, Director of Admissions, Mr Chaurasiya and Mr Tripathi were invited to meet a small number of pupils and staff over light refreshments in the Red House for an informal discussion about a variety of India-related issues. The pupils involved learnt a great deal and were very grateful for the opportunity.
Mr Chaurasiya opened the first event, explaining his role and the work of the High Commission of India, London before presenting Miss Haynes with books for the school library that had been personally donated by the High Commissioner. Miss Haynes then reciprocated by presenting the High Commission with a very small oak tree grown from an acorn from one of John Lyon School’s most ancient trees.
Mr Tripathi began by talking about his broad career path, from banker to author to film producer and diplomat and then answered questions prepared by four students: Eric Z (8CJC), Jon M (8BG), Troj M (8EJG) and Ayaan B (8SRP). These questions covered a variety of topics, from India’s history and relationship with the UK to the effect on India of the war in Ukraine. Mr Tripathi’s talk was fascinating, interactive and energetic – and our pupils were captivated from the first word to the last.
The second event was an outdoor yoga session on the Red House lawn, both as an early celebration of International Yoga Day and to boost both physical and mental health. The session was led by our very own Miss Joemie Moes, Teacher of Biology, with several pupils and staff participating.
All involved had a terrific time and very much enjoyed both the Excellence Programme talk and yoga session in the glorious sunshine! We would like to express our sincere thanks to Mr Chaurasiya, Mr Tripathi and the High Commission of India for making the time to come to the John Lyon School and also for partnering with us. We look forward to collaborating with the High Commission on other events in the near future. n
