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.