“I didn’t know what IB was when I started. I just knew I loved music and children. Then I discovered inquiry — and everything changed.”
— Satyajeet “SJ” Vijay

I’m honored to be featured by Kimberly L. Mitchell, renowned inquiry educator and author of Experience Inquiry, as part of her inspiring educator series “You Gotta See This!” on Inquiry Partners.

In this spotlight, I reflect on:

• My journey from performer to IB PYP music educator

• How inquiry transformed my philosophy of teaching

• Meaningful moments with Kindergarteners in early years music

• My personal and professional inquiries as a teacher, learner, and father

• Three ideas I believe can re-energize the teaching profession today
  
  

This feature captures my values as an educator — risk-taking, reflection, student voice, and balance — and highlights how even the smallest classroom moments can lead to deep, joyful learning.

📖 Click here to read the full spotlight →

“Even our youngest learners have something to say through music — if we’re willing to listen.”

I was honored to be a guest on the Pass the Baton podcast with hosts Kathryn and Theresa, where we discussed what it really means to empower student voice, agency, and inquiry in the music classroom — especially with early learners.

In this episode, we explored:

• How to nurture inquiry-based learning in early and primary years music

• My transition from a teacher-led to a student-centered approach

• How voice — as a natural and universal instrument — can unlock creativity

• The power of letting students shape their own learning experiences

• How culturally responsive, flexible planning builds authentic engagement

🎬 Watch the full interview on YouTube →
🎙️ Episode 57 - Nurturing Inquisitive Minds in Young Musicians, featuring SJ

“Inquiry in music begins with trust — in our students, in their voices, and in the process of discovery.”

“Professional growth happens when we pause to connect, reflect, and inspire one another — through both art and inquiry.”

As part of the Toddle TIES community, I had the privilege of leading an Art Job-Alike Session for fellow IB Arts educators. Hosted on the Toddle platform, this interactive professional development experience brought together passionate visual and performing arts teachers from progressive schools around the world.

In my session, I facilitated:

• 🎭 Collaborative discussions on our shared challenges, triumphs, and creative goals

• 😊 Community-building moments through reflective icebreakers like "blob feelings" and emojis

• 💬 Breakout room conversations to strengthen inquiry-driven arts education practices

• 📲 Resource sharing and connection through #ToddleTIES and the Toddle educator network
  
  

As a Music & Arts Coordinator at Oberoi International School, I believe in fostering lifelong learning through community conversations — and this session reaffirmed the power of shared professional reflection in shaping better experiences for our students.

In addition to leading this session, I also collaborate with the Toddle team to design and curate meaningful learning experiences for Arts educators across the IB community. These contributions support reflective, inquiry-driven teaching practices that elevate the role of the Arts in transdisciplinary learning.

🔗 Click here to explore my contributions on Toddle →

“When Arts educators unite with purpose and presence, we don’t just inspire classrooms — we inspire one another.”