The open book | Nandish Shah
Welcome to the new chapter of “The Open Book”.
This time we will get to know:
Nandish Shah
Teacher of Chemistry
Mr Shah is from Mumbai, India, and is a Post-graduate in Chemistry from the University of Mumbai. After completing National Professional Qualifications for Middle Leaders (NPQML) from the Institute of Education (IOE) at UCL London, he moved to Ningboand and completed his PGCEi from the University of Nottingham Ningbo China. With over 11 years of teaching experience in schools in UAE and China, his students have ranged from Year 10 to university foundation level.
What do you like to do in your leisure time?
I enjoy staying fit as a lifestyle. I often go to gym for workouts or doing Yoga. I am also a professional sky diver.
What is the most inspiring experience you ever had with your routine exercises?
Exercise can help provide:
💭 Sharper memory and thinking
The same endorphins that make you feel better also help you concentrate and feel mentally sharp for tasks at hand. Exercise also stimulates the growth of new brain cells and helps prevent age-related decline.
💭 Higher self-esteem
Regular activity is an investment in your mind, body, and soul. When it becomes a habit, it can foster your sense of self-worth and make you feel strong and powerful. You’ll feel better about your appearance and, by meeting even small exercise goals, you’ll feel a sense of achievement.
💭 Better sleep
Even short bursts of exercise in the morning or afternoon can help regulate your sleep patterns. If you prefer to exercise at night, relaxing exercises such as yoga or gentle stretching can help promote sleep.
💭 More energy
Increasing your heart rate several times a week will give you more get-up-and-go. Start off with just a few minutes of exercise per day, and increase your workout as you feel more energized.
💭 Stronger resilience
When faced with mental or emotional challenges in life, exercise can help you build resilience and cope in a healthy way, instead of resorting to poor food choices or other negative behaviors that ultimately only make your symptoms worse. Regular exercise can also help boost your immune system and reduce the impact of stress.
What is your vivid memory as a child?
I remember that when I was in the 5th grade, one time my parents woke me up in the morning as they always did. I asked them, "can I skip school today?" (this question was probably asked quite often by plenty of children). My dad responded: "Of course you can, if you get up, get dressed and make your bed quickly enough." I credulously believed him, and did everything as fast and efficiently as I could...And then I learned that it was April 1st, which is April Fool’s Day, and I had just 30 more minutes before I had to go to school.
How do you like the life here in Zhuhai?
I prefer to live in the South, because I love the climate which makes me feel tropical. The food, the air, the accessibility to things and the number of new attractions for me to see and explore here in Zhuhai, all make me feel connected. We do not have Typhoons in Mumbai, but it rains and pours sometimes, which is quite similar to the weather here in Zhuhai.
Where would you like to visit?
Istanbul. This city is what I call the door between Europe and Asia. My friends tell me they can breathe the atmosphere of a place in the middle of two different cultures. This is really appealing and unique, in my opinion. People live in harmony with very different lifestyles. My favorite place there will be to see the sunset in front of the Hagia Sophia when it starts to light up for the night.
Is there any difference between the students in Dulwich Zhuhai and your previous students?
I see more opportunities and avenues for the students at DHCZH. They always want to learn more and have a thirst for curiosity that underpins every Chemistry Lesson. In my interactions and perception, I have the feeling that students here are very motivated and driven for the pursuit of excellence.
What research are you currently pursuing regarding teaching pedagogy?
21stCentury: Innovative Teaching methods.
How is this research affecting you in class pedagogy?
Using OneNote is digital powerhouse and quite engaging for students. Along with that using Kahoot, Edmodo would increase classroom presence and interaction.To inform, inspire, and to ignite is my goal as we explore the realm of science. I believe students learn science by doing science, and that my classes are a medium through which my students will learn life skills that are critical for their success in college and future careers. As our students must be prepared to work cooperatively in a global and technological society where many of them will eventually hold jobs that may not yet exist, I emphasize critical thinking and problem solving, using our science content to develop good evidence-based reasoning and communication skills.
What advice would you give to students to succeed in your subject?
Don't be afraid to ask questions/for help and get organized early!
Finally, what do you find most rewarding about being a teacher?
I think Teaching is a form of magic. It is alchemy in which we try to help young people find the gold within them. We get to ignite a spark, celebrate milestones, make positive impact on lives, inspireinner creativity and potential. Every day is an exciting day for me.
