News

09 June 2022

High Commission of India visits John Lyon

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. This was an opportunity to discuss a variety of India-related issues in an informal manner. John Lyon pupils learnt a great deal and were thankful for the opportunity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr Chaurasiya opened the first event explaining his role and the work of the High Commission of India, London. He then presented Miss Haynes with books for the school library, personally donated by the High Commissioner. Miss Haynes then presented the High Commission with a very small oak tree, grown using an acorn from one of the oldest trees at John Lyon School.

This brief introduction was followed by the first event itself, a highly engaging and thought-provoking Excellence Programme talk by Mr Tripathi entitled ‘Understanding India: Among the oldest living Civilisations’. The talk was delivered to a packed New Memorial Hall, comprising of Year 7 and Year 8 pupils.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr Tripathi initially discussed his broad career, from banker to author to film producer and diplomat. He then answered questions prepared by four students: Eric, Jon, Troj and Ayaan. These questions covered a variety of topics, from the history of India to its relationship with the UK to the effect of the war in Ukraine on India. Mr Tripathi’s talk was interactive and energetic, and pupils were captivated throughout.

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 a number of 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.