British School Principal Bestowed with the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

The principal of the British School, Ms Vanita Uppal has received the Order of the British Empire making her the first Indian woman currently working in India in the field of education to hold the honour. End Quote

(1888PressRelease) November 20, 2014 - The British School's Principal, Vanita Uppal, was today presented with the Order of the British Empire (OBE), by the British High Commissioner to India, Sir James Bevan KCMG, at his residence on behalf of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The OBE is a civilian honour typically awarded for distinguished public service. Vanita is the only Indian woman currently working in India in the field of education to hold the honour.

Dr Nick Argent, Director of The British School, commented that 'the OBE has been conferred by the UK in recognition of Vanita's 23 years' service at The British School during which she has worked single-mindedly to promote British educational values and student achievement. I wish her many such laurels in future.'

Vanita's passion for education, combined with her administrative and academic expertise, have made the school a first class institution in India. Her invaluable contribution towards building deeper ties between India and the UK has positioned British education in India as an exemplary system of education for internationally-minded families.

On the momentous occasion, Vanita said 'I am humbled by the prestigious honour bestowed upon me. Working with a vibrant and multicultural student body, talented and dedicated teachers and supportive parents has made the twenty three year journey truly remarkable and inspiring.'

Sir James Bevan KCMG, British High Commissioner to India said 'I am delighted to be presenting this award to Vanita Uppal. She is a role model for others; has contributed to the strong relationship between the UK and India in education; and has played a leading role in making the British School of New Delhi what it is today: one of the best schools in the world.'

An international educator, she serves on school boards in Delhi and is working closely with schools in India on curriculum development for IGCSE and IB Diploma programmes. She is a member of Visiting Accreditation Teams for CIS (Council of International Schools), to accredit international schools globally, serves as Honorary Secretary to Friends of Round Square, is a PTC (Principal's Training Centre) graduate, a certified International school leader and a recipient of the 'Woman Achiever of the Year Award'. A trainer in classroom pedagogy and leadership, Vanita has presented at international forums such as the Cambridge International Examinations 'Leadership Symposium' as well as at TAISI (The Association of International Schools in India) and Round Square Conferences.

Vanita holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in History from St. Stephens College, Delhi University, is a University topper both in her Master's degree and in her teaching degree from Central Institute of Education, University of Delhi.

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