We were thrilled to meet with Ms Sujata Biswas, a Chemistry Teacher. We spoke to Ms Biswas to learn more about her and her roles.

How long have you worked at the School?

I have worked at Mill Hill International School since August 2015.

When I first joined the School, I taught Chemistry and Biology IGCSE until July 2018. It was recognised that the cohort was becoming too large for one teacher to teach Years 9, 10 and 11, both Chemistry and Biology.

Since Chemistry is my specialism, since September 2018, I have taught only Chemistry.

What does your role involve?

My role is diverse and busy. At present, I have undertaken the role of Acting Head of Science. This involves managing a Team of six teachers, overseeing curricula, devising new and interesting programmes of study, running a STEM club, liaising with the local primary School to support Science enrichment in their curriculum, and organising trips for enrichment. Teaching Science is not only about informing pupils about the importance and relevance of Science to our everyday understanding of the world in which we live but also about learning ourselves, each lesson, how to improve communication and enhance pupil understanding through dialogue and experimental techniques.

What’s your favourite thing about the School?

The most rewarding aspect of my role this year has been the implementation of a curriculum for Year 9 pupils which investigates Chemistry through the lens of colour.

For example, we have studied indigo extraction and its role in the economics of Empire, the use and development of synthetic dyes through tie dyeing, the developments in cloth making and synthetic materials, the perception of colour through the electromagnetic spectrum and the change in chemicals in our eyes, colour as a tool of camouflage, as well as pigments used in Chemistry such as indicators in acid base reactions and the separation of them using chromatography.

The cross-curricular nature of this topic has embraced the inextricable link between Science, Art, History, andEconomics and has fostered a collaborative way of teaching.

What advice would you give to pupils to help them get the most out of their time here?

Pupils should embrace the wealth of expertise offered by our international community, including the staff and pupils, take advantage of the breadth of enrichment activities that are offered, and participate fully in an extensive co-curricular programme.

What’s your favourite book and film for our pupils, and why?

My favourite film is ‘Some like it Hot’. The complexity of issues tackled, as well as the comedy and tragedy, is astounding for a film made in 1959. My favourite book at present is ‘The Marriage Portrait’ by Maggie O’Farrell, for its rich retelling of life in Renaissance Italy.

Can you share an inspirational quote and explain why it resonates with you?

‘There is really nothing more to say - except why. But since why is difficult to handle, one must take refuge in how.’ - Toni Morrison.

What’s something interesting about you that people might not know?

My portrait is in Tate Britain as part of their permanent collection. It was made by my sister, who was instrumental in establishing the Black and Asian Art movement in the early 1980s.