As our academic year progresses, we welcome many new staff members. The Woodstocker caught up with some of them to chronicle the first chapter of their adventures.
“For me, it’s like twice on the mountain,” says Mr Amitavo Roy rejoining after a span of 3 years following a stint at GEMS Modern Academy, Dubai. Prior to this, he was a Woodstock faculty for 13 years. He is a qualified IBDP and MYP (and PYP) Teacher. He brings expertise in conducting orchestra, implementing String Pedagogy, designing curriculum, integrating ABRSM, and delivering Trinity College London Music Examinations.
Where are you from?
I am originally from Calcutta. I did my Bachelor’s degree in Music from Mercyhurst University, USA. I did my postgraduate diploma in learning and teaching from “University of Roehampton London, UK.”
What subjects are you teaching currently?
I teach IBDP Music HL/SL and MYP arts (music) along with beginning and junior orchestra.
What is different about the Woodstock experience from the last place you worked at?
Woodstock is a residential school compared to the previous one which was day-boarding.
What changes have you noticed about Woodstock from when you worked here earlier?
The obvious change is the curriculum shift to IB, so the learning and teaching approach is different. The teaching and facilitation are much more centred around the IB and diploma curriculum.
Personal teaching philosophies?
I’m a life-long learner. I don’t agree with the term “teacher”. I consider myself more of a “facilitator”. Also, I feel that my personal philosophy is very similar to the IB philosophy.
Fun fact about you
My son is in 7th grade in WS. I have four lines in my right pinky finger, and my son has the same in his left pinky.
One thing you like about living in Mussoorie
Fresh air and cold weather.
What are your goals for this semester? What changes would you like to see?
More in-person music performances and recitals and the DP students present their music skills in different public forums.
Anything else you would like to add?
This is my challenge to all Woodstock students: find a way to be a music creator, rather than a music consumer.
Sakthi is a staff reporter.
Edited by Asha.
thewoodstocker.com 