World Book Day 2025: A Celebration of Stories, Creativity, and Character at Surabaya European School

Surabaya, Indonesia – Surabaya European School (SES) recently transformed into a world of wizards, adventurers, and classic storybook figures during its much-anticipated Book Character Day. From head-to-toe costumes to excited chatter about favourite stories, the event celebrated more than just dressing up, it brought the magic of books off the page and into the school community.

Bringing Stories to Life

Children and staff arrived in character, proudly holding books that inspired their look. The creativity on display was remarkable: a witch with a broomstick, a detective in a suit, a girl from a folk tale, and many more. Laughter echoed through the gym as students paraded their outfits, posed for photos, and shared what they loved about their chosen stories.

The costumes weren’t just for show, they sparked genuine conversations about books, authors, genres, and values. The result was a vibrant and interactive way to promote a love for reading.

Literacy in Action: Beyond the Classroom Walls

Events like Book Character Day are part of SES’s commitment to active and immersive learning experiences. Rather than limiting literacy to worksheets and silent reading, the school encourages pupils to explore stories in multi-sensory, creative ways.

Learning with Heart and Purpose

Book Character Day reinforced several IPC personal learning goals—such as communication, cooperation, and resilience. Pupils confidently shared their character’s background, listened to peers, and worked together during group activities. The process of planning, rehearsing, and presenting their character also nurtured creativity and independence.

A Window into Other Worlds

One of the day’s most powerful elements was its support for international-mindedness, a cornerstone of the IPC. The range of books students chose, spanning different cultures, languages, and perspectives, highlighted SES’s diverse community and commitment to global awareness. Reading becomes a bridge to understanding others. By stepping into characters from other cultures or times, students develop empathy and curiosity—key traits for 21st-century learners.

More Than Just Costumes: Inspiring Lifelong Readers

Book Character Day did more than entertain, it inspired. It reminded students that reading is not a chore, but a doorway into new worlds. For some, it sparked an interest in a new series. For others, it renewed their love for an old favourite. And for everyone involved, it created joyful memories anchored in literature.

Bridging Generations: The Guiding Hand of Seniors and the Unified SES Community

Bridging Generations: The Guiding Hand of Seniors and the Unified SES Community

At Surabaya European School (SES), the spirit of community isn’t just a catchphrase; it’s a living, breathing ethos woven into the very fabric of school life. A particularly beautiful manifestation of this is the culture of senior pupils providing guidance and mentorship to their junior counterparts. This practice not only strengthens individual pupils but also fosters a powerful sense of unity within the entire SES community.

The Value of Peer Support at SES

Transitioning from primary to secondary, or moving between secondary levels, can feel overwhelming – with new routines, academic challenges, and social dynamics to navigate. At SES, older pupils naturally step into informal support roles, offering guidance and encouragement to their younger peers.

Navigating School Life Together

Whether it’s finding their way around new timetables, understanding classroom expectations, or exploring co-curricular opportunities, younger pupils benefit from the friendly advice of those who’ve been there before. Older pupils often share helpful tips and personal experiences that ease the adjustment process.

Academic Encouragement

Pupils who excel in particular subjects are often happy to lend a hand – explaining tricky concepts, offering revision strategies, or simply encouraging their juniors to keep going. These casual interactions help foster a collaborative learning environment where pupils learn from one another.

Social Connection and Confidence

Sometimes, just having an approachable older pupil to talk to makes a big difference. From offering a listening ear to modelling positive behaviour, these informal peer connections support younger pupils’ social and emotional wellbeing.

A Culture of Care and Belonging

These spontaneous acts of peer support reflect SES’s strong sense of community. They help younger pupils feel more connected, confident, and ready to grow – academically, socially, and personally.

 

SES Community: A Tapestry of Interconnectedness

This culture of senior guidance seamlessly aligns with the broader SES community values:

  • Unity and Collaboration:
    • The practice reinforces the idea that the SES community is a collective, where everyone supports and learns from each other.
    • It breaks down barriers between year groups, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and shared responsibility.
  • Respect and Empathy:
    • Seniors learn to develop empathy and patience as they guide their juniors, while juniors learn to respect the experience and wisdom of their seniors.
    • This mutual respect contributes to a positive and harmonious school environment.
  • Leadership and Responsibility:
    • The mentorship role provides seniors with opportunities to develop leadership skills, demonstrate responsibility, and contribute to the well-being of the community.
    • It empowers them to become positive role models and active contributors to the school’s culture.
  • A Culture of Care:
    • This system creates a culture of care. Where pupils know that they are supported by their peers, and that they are part of something larger than themselves.

In essence, the culture of senior guidance at SES is not just a helpful practice; it’s a vital component of the school’s identity. It reinforces the idea that the SES community is a unified and supportive environment where every pupil, regardless of age, feels valued, connected, and empowered to thrive.