International Primary Curriculum Archives

Challenging Our Brains at Surabaya European School

In the bright and dynamic classrooms of Surabaya European School (SES), learning often takes unexpected and playful forms. Recently, students embarked on a series of activities under the theme Challenging Our Brains. What may look like simple games with colourful blocks and chopsticks actually carried deeper lessons in resilience, focus, and collaboration — all of which are at the heart of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) approach to learning.

These challenges were not just about building towers or moving tiny cubes. They were about nurturing life skills that help students grow into confident, adaptable, and reflective learners. Each task encouraged students to engage their minds, practise patience, and support one another, showing how fun and meaningful learning can be.

A Well-Rounded Approach to Learning Through Challenges

The activities were carefully designed to develop a broad range of skills and personal goals:

Problem-Solving and Creativity: Building tall, steady towers from colourful cubes pushed pupils to think critically, experiment, and find creative solutions to balance and stability.
Focus and Perseverance: Using chopsticks to pick up small blocks tested fine motor skills and demanded concentration, control, and determination — important qualities for success in any subject.
Collaboration and Communication: Working alongside classmates gave pupils the chance to share strategies, encourage one another, and celebrate teamwork.
Resilience and Confidence: Each challenge reminded students that mistakes and setbacks are part of learning, helping students build the confidence to try again.

More Than Just Games: Living the IPC Personal Goals

The International Primary Curriculum highlights personal goals such as enquiry, adaptability, cooperation, respect, and resilience. These playful challenges were a clear reflection of those values in action. Students didn’t just complete activities — they embodied the IPC approach by asking questions, adapting strategies, cooperating with peers, and showing respect for one another’s efforts.

Through these experiences, SES students discovered that every challenge, big or small, is an opportunity to grow. They learned that success is not only about the end result but also about the journey of problem-solving, persistence, and teamwork.

Growing Beyond the Classroom

While these activities took place inside the classroom, the lessons stretched far beyond it. By challenging their brains in fun and engaging ways, SES students developed essential life skills that will guide them through future academic tasks and real-world challenges alike.

At Surabaya European School, Challenging Our Brains is more than a set of activities. It is a reminder of the school’s commitment to holistic education, where learning is active, values-driven, and always connected to the wider world. Through this approach, SES continues to empower its students to become reflective, resilient, and internationally minded students — ready to embrace challenges with confidence and creativity.

Exploring the Brain through Model Neurons

Surabaya, Indonesia – At Surabaya European School, we believe that meaningful learning begins when students are actively engaged in exploring the world around them. As part of the Brainwave unit, our students recently had the opportunity to investigate one of the most fascinating parts of the human body, the brain. This unit encouraged students to think about how their brains work, how they learn, and how they can become better learners.

Learning about Neurons

To deepen their understanding, students were introduced to the structure and function of neurons, the tiny cells responsible for transmitting messages throughout the body. Through interactive discussions and visual diagrams, they learned about important parts such as dendrites, axons, the nucleus, and synapses. These scientific terms, which could easily feel abstract, were brought to life in an engaging and practical way.

Hands-on Modelling

One of the highlights of the lesson was a hands-on activity where students constructed their own model neurons. By labelling each part carefully and comparing their models to diagrams on the whiteboard, students gained a more concrete grasp of how neurons work. The activity was not just about memorising scientific vocabulary—it was about applying knowledge creatively and learning through making.

Connection to the International Primary Curriculum

This approach reflects the philosophy of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which combines subject learning with the development of personal skills. In this activity, students practised enquiry by asking questions about how the brain functions, showed resilience when assembling their models, and demonstrated cooperation as they worked alongside their peers. The IPC encourages students to make links across subjects—in this case, combining science, creativity, and personal growth into one meaningful experience.

Personal Learning Goals

Through the Brainwave unit, students also reflected on how their brains help them learn and how they can become more effective learners. This activity supported the IPC’s personal learning goals, such as adaptability, inquiry, respect, communication, and thoughtfulness. By exploring how neurons connect, students began to see parallels in how people connect and learn from one another in their daily lives.

At SES, we strive to create learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. By building model neurons, our students were not only introduced to key scientific ideas but also inspired to think about the power of the human brain and the endless possibilities of learning. This experience highlights how, through the IPC, students are empowered to become curious, reflective, and confident students ready to take on challenges with creativity and enthusiasm.

Piece by Piece: Building Metacognition with Tangrams

Surabaya, Indonesia – At Surabaya European School, learning is designed to spark curiosity, encourage reflection, and empower students to think about how they learn. A wonderful example of this approach can be seen in Tangram-based activities, where students explore spatial perception while strengthening their metacognitive skills.

Much like solving a puzzle, Tangram learning is not just about getting the “right answer” – it is about trying strategies, reflecting on choices, and finding new ways to solve problems. This balance of play and reflection perfectly complements the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which places metacognition at the heart of its learning goals.

What Are Tangrams?

Tangrams are an ancient Chinese puzzle consisting of seven geometric shapes that can be rearranged to form countless figures. While they may seem simple at first, Tangrams challenge students to visualise, problem-solve, and think creatively. At SES, these puzzles are used not only to reinforce mathematical concepts but also to nurture patience, resilience, and flexible thinking – skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Metacognition in Action

During Tangram sessions, students are encouraged to reflect on their thinking process. Teachers prompt them with questions such as: What strategy are you using? Could you try a different way? What did you learn from this attempt? By pausing to think about their thinking, students strengthen self-awareness and independence – key elements of IPC’s vision for active, reflective students.

Personal Learning Goals

Tangram activities support IPC’s personal learning goals by helping students develop resilience, adaptability, and enquiry skills. Students quickly realise that success is not always immediate; sometimes a piece does not fit, and persistence is required. This process encourages them to stay curious, experiment with solutions, and embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth.

Collaboration and Creativity

Although Tangram puzzles can be solved individually, at SES they also become opportunities for teamwork. Students share strategies, compare solutions, and learn from one another’s approaches. This collaborative spirit not only strengthens communication but also sparks creativity, as students invent new shapes and figures beyond the traditional puzzles.

International-Mindedness and Lifelong Skills

The IPC emphasises international-mindedness and real-world connections. With Tangrams, students experience how a puzzle from another culture can enhance their own learning journey. They also acquire lifelong skills: problem-solving, reflection, and creative thinking – abilities that will serve them well in school and beyond.

The Tangram sessions at Surabaya European School exemplify how mathematics, creativity, and metacognition can come together in a joyful and meaningful way. By embedding these activities within the principles of the International Primary Curriculum, SES ensures that students do more than solve puzzles – they build confidence, deepen understanding, and learn how to think about their thinking.

Footloose Prom Night: A Celebration of Youth, Friendship, and Freedom

The Footloose Prom Night at Surabaya European School was not just an evening of dancing; it was a carefully woven tapestry of moments — laughter, reflection, and pure joy. From elegant dinners to heartfelt conversations, from energetic games to unrestrained dancing, the night was filled with magic at every turn.

A Warm Welcome and Dinner

The celebration began with a warm and elegant dinner. The venue sparkled with lights and decorations that set a festive yet classy atmosphere. Students dressed in their finest gowns and suits, took their seats at beautifully arranged tables. Conversations flowed as plates were filled, and laughter rang out as friends exchanged stories from their school days. It was not just about the food, but about the shared moments of connection — the quiet smiles, the inside jokes, and the memories that this night would be one to remember. Dinner created the perfect balance of elegance and comfort, easing everyone into the evening ahead.

Reflections from the Graduates

After dinner, attention turned to the Year 12 graduates. A series of interviews allowed them to share their reflections on their school journey — from the challenges they faced, to the friendships they had built, to the dreams they were about to pursue. Their words were filled with warmth and gratitude, leaving many of the younger students inspired and hopeful about their own futures. Hearing the graduates speak was like passing a torch — a reminder that education is not just about lessons in the classroom, but about growing as individuals. The moment added a touch of sentimentality and pride, grounding the night in something meaningful.

The Energy of Games and Quizzes

With emotions running high, it was time to shift the energy — and what better way than with games and quizzes? The excitement was contagious as teams competed with wit and enthusiasm. The quiz questions brought out laughter, cheers, and playful debates, while the games added a layer of friendly competition. Every round seemed to bring the students closer together, strengthening bonds and igniting school spirit. It wasn’t about winning or losing — it was about being part of the fun, and celebrating the joy of simply being together.

Voices United in Song

As the evening continued, the spotlight turned to music — not from a performer on stage, but from the students themselves. A lively song relay game had everyone singing along to favourite tunes, with each group picking up right where the last had left off. The room quickly filled with voices — some loud, some off-key, but all equally enthusiastic. Students swayed, clapped, and laughed through the songs, showing just how music can unite people in the simplest, most joyful way. It was a moment of togetherness, a reminder that the best performances come when hearts are light and voices are free.

The Dance Floor Comes Alive

Then came the part everyone had been waiting for: the dance floor. As the lights dimmed and the music turned up, students flooded the floor with energy that could not be contained. Crowns and sashes sparkled under the lights as prom kings and queens led the way, but soon everyone was caught up in the rhythm. Friends pulled each other into circles, laughter and applause filled the air, and every move was a celebration of freedom and fun. In true Footloose style, there were no rules — just the joy of letting go, dancing without hesitation, and celebrating life in the moment.

An Evening to Remember

By the end of the night, it was clear that Prom Night had been more than just a school event. It was a celebration of youth, of friendships that would last long after graduation, and of memories that would be carried forward into the future. From the thoughtful reflections to the playful games, from the shared songs to the unrestrained dancing, every part of the evening came together in harmony.

The Footloose Prom Night at Surabaya European School will be remembered not only for its glamour and excitement, but for the spirit of togetherness it celebrated. It was a night of freedom, laughter, and friendship — and the perfect way to close one chapter and begin another.

Growing Roots, Reaching Heights: Montessori End of the Year Celebration at Surabaya European School

A joyful tribute to learning, independence, and the SES values nurtured through Montessori education

As the academic year came to a close, the Montessori students of Surabaya European School (SES) took to the stage with grace and confidence, marking the end of their learning journey with an uplifting celebration. The spacious white hall, filled with natural light and curious anticipation, was transformed into a place of reflection, expression, and celebration—true to the spirit of Montessori and SES values.

This special event was more than just a performance. It was a moment for the children to demonstrate what they had gained throughout the year—not merely in knowledge, but in character. Clad in various shades of green, a symbol of growth and renewal, the children stood proudly in their places, each one representing a unique learning path guided by independence and curiosity. From their posture to their focus, one could see the fruits of months spent in a nurturing environment where learning is child-led, purposeful, and deeply respectful of the individual.

At SES, Montessori education is closely intertwined with the school’s core values. Respect is visible in the way children interact with one another and their environment—moving with care, speaking with kindness, and listening with intent. Responsibility is fostered through everyday routines that allow children to manage their own learning materials, make choices, and care for shared spaces. The celebration served as a living display of perseverance—as students remembered steps, maintained their positions, and completed their group performance with quiet confidence.

Parents and teachers watched with pride as each child contributed to the event, not as performers in search of perfection, but as active members of a community grounded in integrity. These children were not trained to impress, but encouraged to express. That difference made the celebration not just beautiful—but meaningful.

The event also reflected a strong sense of compassion, as children supported one another on stage, smiled reassuringly, and applauded together. This sense of unity mirrors the kind of classroom they experience every day—where peer learning, mutual respect, and kindness are valued as highly as literacy and numeracy.

Finally, the celebration was a reminder of how deeply curiosity fuels the Montessori experience. From engaging with activities to exploring their own interests, these children have developed the kind of self-motivated mindset that will serve them well beyond early childhood.

As the ceremony came to an end, what lingered wasn’t just applause, but a shared sense of gratitude—for a school that honours the child, for educators who believe in potential over perfection, and for a community that uplifts every small step forward.

At Surabaya European School, we don’t simply mark the end of the year—we celebrate the beginning of who our children are becoming

Discover Excellence at Every Stage: Open Enrolment at Surabaya European School

Surabaya European School (SES) is proud to open enrolment for all year levels — from Montessori (age 3+) through to Secondary (Year 13) — offering an enriching and values-driven international education for families seeking academic excellence and holistic development in a warm, inclusive setting.

At every stage of learning, SES cultivates independent, curious, globally-minded, and resilient individuals. These qualities are embedded in our learner outcomes, supported by an internationally respected curriculum, and guided by a community that places high value on character, creativity, and compassion.

Whether your child is just beginning their learning journey or seeking a new school to grow and thrive, SES offers a seamless educational pathway tailored to every learner’s stage of development.

Montessori Years (Ages 3–6): A Gentle, Joyful Beginning

Our Montessori programme is designed to nurture the natural curiosity of children aged 3–6 in a calm and carefully prepared environment. Children learn through hands-on exploration and self-directed activities that foster independence, coordination, focus, and confidence.

Guided by AMI-trained Montessori teachers, children progress through sensorial materials, early literacy and numeracy, cultural exploration, and practical life skills. The mixed-age classrooms encourage collaboration, respect, and mentorship. Students are empowered to follow their own interests while developing foundational skills for lifelong learning.

Aligned with the early stages of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), the Montessori programme introduces global themes and early inquiry in a child-friendly way—ensuring a smooth transition into formal Primary learning.

Primary Years (Year 1–6): Where Learning Comes Alive

The Primary Years follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), an integrated thematic approach that builds subject knowledge, conceptual understanding, and personal development. Students explore rich global topics while developing skills in Maths, English, Science, Geography, History, Art, Music, and Languages.

Each unit encourages students to ask questions, investigate deeply, and apply what they learn to real-world contexts. Learning is active, meaningful, and joyful — with children regularly presenting their work through class projects, exhibitions, and assemblies.

In addition to academics, SES focuses on developing the whole child. Social-emotional learning, growth mindset, and respect for others are part of daily routines. Students participate in school-wide events, service learning, and creative arts programmes that develop confidence and connection.

Highlights:

Personalised learning in small classes
Daily reading and library time
Foreign languages: Bahasa Indonesia, French, Mandarin
International Week, Science Fair, Creative Arts Showcase
Active parent involvement and family engagement

Secondary Years (Year 7–11): Ready for the World

At the Secondary level, SES offers a future-focused academic programme based on the Cambridge Lower Secondary framework and IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). These globally respected qualifications provide strong preparation for advanced study and university admission.

Students dive deeply into subjects like English, Maths, Sciences, Humanities, Languages, ICT, and Global Perspectives. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, collaboration, research skills, and self-reflection. Assessment is meaningful and supports continuous growth, with personalised guidance at every step.

Beyond the classroom, students take on leadership roles, engage in community service, and showcase talents through performances, debates, and innovation days. The nurturing yet challenging environment helps them grow into responsible, articulate, and globally competent individuals.

Opportunities include:

Student Council, leadership training, and mentoring
IGCSE exam preparation and academic counselling
Community service and eco-projects
Sports, drama productions, and inter school events
Residential trips and cultural excursions

One Community, One Vision

Across all levels, what makes SES truly special is the sense of community and shared purpose. Students feel seen, supported, and inspired. Parents are welcomed as partners. Teachers are dedicated, globally minded professionals who guide learners with care and intention.

The SES core values — Respect, Integrity, Responsibility, Resilience, and Compassion — are woven through daily school life, helping to shape not only capable students, but also kind, thoughtful people.

Whether your child is taking their first steps into education or preparing for life beyond school, SES is a place where they will be challenged, cherished, and championed.

Enrol Now — A Journey of Lifelong Learning Begins Here

Open Enrolment is now open for all year levels: Montessori, Primary, and Secondary
Book a personalised school tour to meet our teachers and visit our beautiful campus
Attend an Open Day event or join a class taster session

Explore how your child can grow with confidence, creativity, and purpose at Surabaya European School.

Learn. Lead. Thrive.

Unlocking Potential: Open Enrolment for Montessori Years at Surabaya European School

Surabaya, Indonesia -Surabaya European School (SES) is delighted to announce open enrolment for the Montessori Years (age 3–6) for the 2025–2026 academic year. Grounded in the school’s learner outcomes – which include independence, critical thinking, global perspective, responsible citizenship, and academic curiosity – the Montessori programme enables young learners to reach their full potential in a safe, nurturing environment. These outcomes align deeply with the SES ethos: to develop self‑motivated learners empowered to create positive change in their world.

A Montessori Learning Journey Aligned with SES Values

At SES, the Montessori Years sit at the centre of a truly holistic education. Reflecting the school’s family‑like atmosphere and focus on essential life skills, the Montessori programme emphasises:

Independence and Autonomy: Children choose from a range of purpose‑built activities, building self‑confidence and self-management skills.
Hands‑on, Discovery‑Based Learning: With an array of tactile, open‑shelf materials at child height, students learn core concepts in maths, language, sensorial exploration, culture, and practical life through play and experimentation.
Mixed‑Age Classrooms: Children aged 3–6 learn together in an environment that promotes peer learning, mentorship, and respect across age groups.
Prepared Environment: The Montessori classrooms are carefully organised—beautiful, orderly, and filled only with purposeful materials—for optimal concentration and joy in learning.
Trained Montessori Guides: Each learning journey is overseen by an AMI‑trained teacher who guides observation, gently supports exploration, and celebrates each child’s unique path.

The IPC‑Montessori Connection

Even at the Montessori level, SES aligns with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in spirit and structure. Core themes such as “How the World Works,” “Cultural Studies,” and “Creative Expression” are explored through Montessori materials and pedagogies. Children engage in experiences that nurture:

Curiosity & Inquiry – asking open‑ended questions and exploring the world around them.
Conceptual Thinking – developing mathematical classification, language patterns, and scientific discovery through tactile tools.
Personal Growth – demonstrating perseverance, turn‑taking, respect, and concentration.
Cultural Awareness – building empathy through celebration of different cultures, languages (English, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia, French), stories, and traditions.

This rich foundation ensures a seamless transition into Year 1 of the IPC, fostering academic readiness and a lifelong love of learning.

The Montessori Community & Events

Families joining SES’s Montessori Years become part of a vibrant, caring community. Each term brings opportunities to connect and celebrate learning:

Entry‑Point Events: Launching thematic units with creative experiences, such as building with natural materials, planting seeds in the discovery garden, or meeting guest storytellers.
Montessori Open Days: Prospective and current families explore the Montessori environment, observe lessons, and meet Montessori‐trained educators.
End‑of‑Unit Showcases: Children joyfully share finished creative work—art, gardening, cultural crafts—as a celebration of their journeys.
Community Service Projects: Even our littlest learners contribute, creating seedling planters for local green spaces or crafting thank‑you cards for staff and neighbours.

These events echo SES’s commitment to community, responsibility, and creativity, while offering young learners authentic audiences for their efforts.

Join Us – Shape the Future with Montessori

Open enrolment for our Montessori Years is now open, welcoming children aged 3–6 to thrive in an environment that nurtures curiosity, independence, and global citizenship. To discover more or arrange a visit:

Explore the Montessori class in action during our upcoming Open House, where you’ll observe our engaging learning environment and meet our dedicated team.
Join one of our Montessori-themed community events, a wonderful way to meet other families and witness the joy of discovery firsthand.

At Surabaya European School, every young learner is seen, valued, and supported. Our Montessori programme is more than just education, it’s the first step on a path toward becoming a confident, compassionate global citizen.

Creativity in Action – Paper Lanterns Under the Sun

Surabaya, Indonesia – At Surabaya European School, learning is not confined to textbooks and classrooms; it is an experience that comes alive through hands-on, real-world exploration. Recently, our Primary students enjoyed an engaging Outdoor Paper Lantern-Making Activity, where creativity, collaboration, and international learning beautifully came together.

Set against the peaceful backdrop of our green campus, students worked in teams to design and assemble colourful paper lanterns. The fresh air and open space added a unique energy to the task, as students excitedly folded, cut, and decorated their lanterns using various colours and materials.

But behind the fun lay a deeper educational purpose: this activity was thoughtfully integrated into our International Primary Curriculum (IPC) unit titled “Let’s Celebrate”, where students explore the ways people across the world mark important events and traditions.

The International Primary Curriculum is designed to make learning both rigorous and relevant. Through thematic units, it helps students see connections between subjects and the world around them. The lantern-making activity aligned with multiple IPC learning strands, making it a rich cross-curricular experience.

1. International Learning Goals:

Students discussed how lanterns can be found in celebrations from different parts of the world—not always tied to a single holiday, but often symbolising light, peace, hope, or new beginnings. This encouraged children to:

Compare traditions from different countries.
Appreciate cultural symbols beyond their surface meaning.
Reflect on how light brings people together in many contexts.

These discussions promoted international mindedness, a core goal of the IPC.

2. Art, Design and Creative Expression:

Aligned with the Art & Design learning goals, students:

Explored design techniques like folding, layering, and cutting.
Learned about symmetry, contrast, and colour choices.
Expressed emotions and stories through visual form.

Each child’s lantern was a personal creation, with design choices influenced by emotions, memories, or the joy of making something with their hands.

Beyond academics, the IPC emphasises the development of personal learning goals, such as:

Resilience – pushing through frustration when the glue didn’t hold, or folds weren’t perfect.
Cooperation – helping friends reach materials or hold parts in place.
Thoughtfulness – choosing colours or patterns with intention and meaning.
Respect – celebrating the different designs and styles of peers.

The outdoor setting enhanced these elements. Children naturally engaged in peer-to-peer learning—sharing techniques, giving tips, and encouraging each other. Teachers observed how some students took on leadership roles, while others shone in creativity or quiet concentration.

This balanced environment nurtured whole-child growth, not just technical skills.

3. A Living Classroom: Nature as an Educator

At Surabaya European School, we view our school grounds not just as a place for play, but as a living classroom, a space where knowledge comes to life and lessons are absorbed through movement, interaction, and experience.

During the lantern-making session, the benefits of outdoor learning were evident in every corner of the activity:

Increased Engagement and Focus

The open-air environment provided a calming, yet energising space. Students displayed higher levels of concentration than typical indoor settings. The natural light, fresh air, and space to move around helped many children remain focused for longer periods and approach tasks with renewed enthusiasm.

Natural Collaboration and Communication

Outdoors, children moved more freely between groups, naturally seeking help or offering it. Teachers noted increased levels of peer mentoring, where students who grasped techniques quickly offered guidance to those who struggled—without prompting.

For example, one student spontaneously demonstrated a folding method to a peer, saying, “Try this, it holds better with less glue!” These organic interactions strengthened social bonds and fostered confidence.

Sensory and Kinesthetic Learning

Handling different materials, feeling textures, manipulating shapes, and moving physically through each step of the project allowed for multi-sensory learning. This especially benefited students who thrive through tactile or kinesthetic experiences children who may not typically shine in more traditional classroom activities.

Creative Freedom and Expression

In the outdoor space, children felt less confined and more inclined to take creative risks. Some students layered unexpected colour combinations or introduced patterns inspired by nature around them—leaves, trees, or the sky. This demonstrated how the environment shapes imagination.