Today, we take a closer look at physics & chemistry at the Shanghai French School through the eyes of M. Oumarou Mahamadou, a dedicated teacher who has been igniting curiosity in secondary students since 2002.
Hi Oumarou! Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m originally from Niger and joined the Shanghai French School in 2002. Over the years, I’ve taught almost every level. Right now, I teach 7th grade (5ème), 9th grade (3ème), 10th grade (Seconde), and 11th grade (1ère), specializing in physics-chemistry.
I came to China through a university exchange program between the University of Niamey and East China University of Science and Technology (华东). Initially, I was here for just a year to study Chinese. During that time, I started tutoring students at the Shanghai French School, thanks to some connections. Shortly after completing my training, I joined the school full-time—and here I am, 22 years later (laughs)!
What’s your educational background?
Before coming to China, I was already teaching in a high school in Niger (French-speaking country). I decided to further my education and earned a degree in physics, specializing in solid-state physics, which is equivalent to a Master’s degree plus two additional years.
I’ve always been passionate about physics. For me, it’s a fascinating blend of two worlds: the laws, postulates, and properties on one side, and the observable events on the other. My role as a physicist is to bridge the two. What excites me most is when a seemingly indisputable law is proven wrong—it sparks new research and opens up new horizons.
Teaching feels the same way. School is the perfect place to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow. I love teaching because every day is different. The students change, their personalities vary, and each class presents new challenges. How can I help them grasp a certain concept? That’s what keeps me motivated. I also really value the Shanghai French School’s approach to education, which is all about guiding every student toward excellence.
What does a typical physics class look like?
It varies. Sometimes, I start with an experiment. The students explore, test ideas, sometimes fail, and we come together at the end to validate the results. Other times, we begin with a theory lesson where I introduce concepts and focus on precise scientific vocabulary.
One important part of learning physics-chemistry is understanding the difference between everyday language and scientific terminology. For example, many people confuse weight and mass, often giving a value in kilograms for weight when it’s actually mass. Developing precision and rigor is essential.
After the lesson, students might have homework to deepen their understanding. Regardless of the method, hands-on exploration is key.
How do Practical Work sessions and the labs work?
Practical Work sessions are a highlight for students. They formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and validate or challenge their ideas. The sessions are conducted in small groups of 10 to 12 students, usually working in pairs.
Our labs at the Shanghai French School are very well-equipped. As teachers, we design the experiments, and our lab technicians prepare all the materials. Sometimes, we even include unnecessary tools on purpose to encourage students to figure out what’s truly needed. Students follow protocols, test their ideas, and take ownership of the lab space. We give them autonomy, show them where everything is, and let them take charge.
What kind of students choose physics-chemistry as a specialty in high school?
For the French Baccalaureate, there’s a hands-on practical exam where students are tested on experiments they’ve worked on during the year. This counts for 20% of their grade, alongside the written exam. Our students perform exceptionally well because small class sizes allow us to give each one plenty of attention.
To me, excellence isn’t about everyone getting top marks. It’s about every student doing their best and, most importantly, developing a genuine interest in the subject.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
What I love most is helping students overcome their fear of making mistakes. I always tell them, “If you don’t make mistakes, I wouldn’t have a job!” Mistakes are learning opportunities for the whole class. We analyze them together, and they often lead us to better understanding.
Sometimes, I even include a question on a test that I know no one will get right. It’s only worth a small amount, but it helps me spot the students who are truly passionate. They’ll come to me for hints, work through it, and when they finally solve it, their excitement is incredible to witness.
You’re also a football coach. How’s that going?
Yes, I started coaching in 2010 when we launched the school’s first girls’ football team. Some of the girls I coached have gone on to play semi-professionally—one is on Canada’s national team, and another plays in Lausanne. Coaching after-school activities is just as rewarding as teaching. Honestly, as long as I’m working with students, I’m happy—whether it’s in the classroom or on the football field (laughs).
Any final words?
Yes, I’d really like to take a moment to express my gratitude.
I’m deeply grateful to my parents for their incredible selflessness—they often remind me, “Evil is simply the absence of good, just as darkness is the absence of light.” Of course, I’m also thankful to the Shanghai French School, its students, and parents for their trust. And a special thanks to Michel Platini, Nelson Mandela, and Albert Einstein, who have always been a source of inspiration for me!
For over two decades, Mr. Mahamadou has been the heart and soul of physics-chemistry education at the Shanghai French School. His enthusiasm, innovative teaching methods, and unwavering support for his students have left a lasting impact. Whether he’s guiding students in the lab, helping them embrace their mistakes, or coaching on the football field, Mr. Mahamadou exemplifies the school’s commitment to nurturing curiosity and excellence.