Creativity in Every Corner: Colouring Bookmarks & DIY Mini Books at SES

Surabaya, Indonesia – Surabaya European School recently hosted a vibrant and engaging workshop in the school library, where students participated in a hands-on session of colouring bookmarks and creating DIY mini books. This activity aimed to foster creativity, support fine motor skills, and encourage a personal connection to reading.

The library was transformed into a hub of concentration and colour, with students eagerly selecting pencils, markers, and templates to bring their ideas to life. Some focused on intricate bookmark designs, incorporating patterns, characters, and bold colours, while others turned their attention to crafting small, handmade booklets filled with drawings, short stories, and personal reflections.

The activity was designed to inspire students to take ownership of their reading journey. By creating personalised bookmarks and mini books, students not only enhanced their artistic skills but also developed a stronger bond with the reading materials they enjoy daily.

Such sessions are part of Surabaya European School’s broader commitment to nurturing holistic development in students. Through playful, purposeful learning experiences like these, students are encouraged to explore self-expression, develop independence, and grow their love for books and storytelling.

The workshop concluded with students proudly packing their creations — unique, imaginative tools to accompany them in their future reading adventures. At SES, even the smallest activities are meaningful steps in shaping lifelong learners and enthusiastic readers.

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.

Lanterns of Learning: A Bright Idea from Our IPC Classroom

Surabaya, Indonesia – In this colourful, hands-on session, students crafted their own paper lanterns using sticks, glue, coloured paper, and string. The activity was not just about art—it was a multidisciplinary exploration combining design and technology, history, geography, and international mindedness. Students learned about the significance of lanterns in different cultures, from the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival to the Indian festival of Diwali.

The IPC’s structure encourages children to develop knowledge, skills, and understanding through theme-based units that connect various subject areas. In this case, the lantern project was part of a broader unit on “Light and Sound” or “Celebrations”, enabling pupils to investigate how different communities use light as part of meaningful traditions.

The lantern-making activity was more than a craft session—it was a collaborative learning experience. Children worked in pairs and small groups, discussing their ideas and helping each other with the construction process. This naturally supported the IPC’s Personal Learning Goals, including communication, cooperation, and resilience the activity covered:

  • Knowledge – Students explored the cultural significance of lanterns and learned about materials and structure.
  • Skills – They developed fine motor skills, design thinking, and the ability to follow multi-step instructions.
  • Understanding – Learners reflected on how light is used symbolically across different societies and what it represents.

Teachers guided reflection through discussion and questioning, prompting students to consider why lanterns are meaningful and how they relate to broader human experiences. In doing so, children became curious, respectful, and internationally-minded learners.

This joyful activity captured the essence of IPC: connecting academic learning with real-life contexts in a way that is both engaging and meaningful. As students proudly displayed their glowing paper lanterns, they weren’t just showing off their creativity—they were shining a light on understanding, empathy, and the joy of discovery.

The Empowering Hub: How a Good Library Fuels Learning Agility at SES

The Empowering Hub: How a Good Library Fuels Learning Agility at SES

In the ever-changing world of modern education, the knack for students to adapt, learn quickly, and get their heads around new information effectively – often called “learning agility” – is absolutely key. At Surabaya European School (SES), we reckon that a well-stocked and thoughtfully put-together library isn’t just a place with books, but a vital engine that significantly boosts our students’ learning agility, helping them become adaptable and lifelong learners.

A good library acts as the intellectual heart of an institution, providing proper fertile ground for having a good look around, discovering things, and growing crucial skills that underpin learning agility. Here’s how the library at SES plays a pivotal role in shaping our students’ capacity to learn and adapt:

  1. Growing Information Literacy: The Basis of Agility

Learning agility all boils down to being able to find, suss out, and use information properly. The SES library actively fosters these skills through:

  • Proper Comprehensive Resources: Our library boasts a diverse collection of resources, carefully picked to fit with what they’re learning and cater to all sorts of interests and ways of learning. This wide range shows students different ways of getting information.
  • Expert Guidance: Our dedicated library staff aren’t just in charge of the books; they’re skilled information specialists who guide students in working out if sources are reliable and developing good ways to do research. This helps students become confident and clever at finding information.
  • Information Literacy Programmes: SES weaves information literacy skills into what they’re learning, with the library being a key partner in teaching these essential lessons. Students learn how to ask the right questions when searching, properly think about the information they find, and use sources ethically – skills that are directly useful in new learning situations.
  1. Fostering Curiosity and Exploration: Fueling the Desire to Learn

A good library sparks curiosity and encourages students to have a look beyond what they strictly need for schoolwork, a key part of being learning agile:

  • Diverse Collections: Being exposed to all sorts of genres, subjects, and points of view in the library’s collection broadens students’ horizons and gets them interested in new things. This intellectual curiosity drives them to explore unfamiliar areas and pick up new knowledge off their own bat.
  • Comfortable and Inspiring Spaces: The SES library provides a welcoming and stimulating environment that encourages browsing, reading for pleasure, and having a quiet thought. This fosters a positive feeling about learning and encourages students to explore things themselves.
  • Access to What’s Current and Relevant: The library keeps its collection up-to-date with modern resources, making sure students have access to the latest information and different viewpoints, preparing them to deal with what’s happening now and in the future.
  1. Supporting Independent and Self-Directed Learning:

Learning agility is closely linked to being able to take charge of your own learning journey. The SES library supports this by:

  • Providing Resources for Learning Your Own Way: The library offers loads of materials that suit different ways of learning and how quickly people learn, allowing students to really get into topics that interest them and follow their own learning paths.
  • Offering Quiet Study Spots and Places to Work Together: The library has both quiet areas for when you need to concentrate and places where you can work on group projects and learn from your mates, fostering the adaptability needed to learn effectively in different situations.
  • Promoting Being Resourceful: By helping students find their way around the library’s resources themselves, SES fosters resourcefulness – the ability to find and use what they need to learn, a crucial part of learning agility.
  1. Cultivating Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills:

Getting stuck into the diverse information available in a good library naturally fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, essential parts of learning agility:

  • Exposure to Different Points of View: The library’s collection shows students all sorts of ways of looking at complex issues, encouraging them to properly think about information, compare different arguments, and form their own informed opinions.
  • Support for Learning by Asking Questions: The library actively supports learning by asking questions, providing the resources students need to explore their queries in depth and develop their problem-solving abilities.

The SES Advantage: A Library as a Launchpad for Learning Agility

At Surabaya European School, we understand that our library isn’t just a static place but a dynamic hub that actively helps our students grow as agile learners. By providing a rich collection, expert guidance, and a supportive environment, the SES library empowers students to become confident information seekers, critical thinkers, and self-directed learners – qualities that will serve them well in their schoolwork and beyond, enabling them to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world. Our commitment to a cracking library is a commitment to fostering the learning agility that defines successful 21st-century citizens.

Teeing Up for Success: The Lifelong Benefits of Golf, Starting at SES

Teeing Up for Success: The Lifelong Benefits of Golf, Starting at SES

Golf often carries an image of leisurely afternoons and business deals, but its benefits extend far beyond the 18th hole. For children, particularly those at Surabaya European School (SES), learning golf offers a unique blend of physical activity, mental discipline, and social development. And with SES’s comprehensive co-curricular programme, young golfers have the perfect environment to thrive.

More Than Just a Game: The Holistic Advantages of Golf for Children

Starting golf at a young age provides a foundation for lifelong skills and personal growth. Here’s why:

  • Physical Development:
    • Golf requires precise motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and balance. Children develop these skills through practice and repetition.
    • Walking the course provides cardiovascular exercise, promoting overall fitness.
    • The controlled swing engages various muscle groups, contributing to strength and flexibility.
  • Mental Discipline:
    • Golf demands focus, concentration, and strategic thinking. Children learn to manage their emotions, stay calm under pressure, and make calculated decisions.
    • The game teaches patience and perseverance, as mastering golf requires consistent effort and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
    • Golf cultivates integrity and sportsmanship, as players are responsible for upholding the rules and respecting their opponents.
  • Social Development:
    • Golf provides opportunities for children to interact with peers and adults in a relaxed and supportive environment.
    • Playing in groups or teams fosters communication and teamwork skills.
    • The game teaches etiquette and respect, essential for social interactions both on and off the course.
  • Life Skills and Character Building:
    • Golf instils a sense of responsibility, as players are accountable for their actions and scores.
    • The game promotes self-reliance and independence, as players must make their own decisions on the course.
    • Golf is a game that can be played throughout all stages of life, which means a child learning golf is learning a skill that can be used for a lifetime.

SES: A Premier Platform for Young Golfers

Surabaya European School recognises the multifaceted benefits of golf and incorporates it into its robust co-curricular programme. Here’s how SES supports young golfers:

  • Expert Coaching:
    • SES provides access to experienced golf coaches who are skilled in working with children.
    • Coaches focus on teaching fundamental skills, proper technique, and the rules of the game in a fun and engaging manner.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities:
    • Located within the Pakuwon Golf and Family Club, SES provides students with convenient access to professional golf facilities, including driving ranges and full courses, enhancing their sports experience beyond the classroom.
    • SES ensures that pupils have access to the necessary equipment and resources to excel in the sport.
  • Competitive Opportunities:
    • SES encourages participation in local and regional golf tournaments, providing pupils with opportunities to test their skills and compete against their peers.
    • These competitive experiences foster a sense of achievement and motivate pupils to improve their game.
  • Holistic Development:
    • SES’s co-curricular programme emphasises the development of well-rounded individuals.
    • Golf complements other academic and extracurricular activities, promoting a healthy balance between physical and mental pursuits.

By nurturing young golfers, SES is not just creating skilled athletes; it’s cultivating individuals who possess valuable life skills, strong character, and a lifelong passion for the game. Teeing up for success starts early, and SES provides the perfect starting point.

Assembly Y7: 13 December 2017

Our final assembly of 2017 was a celebration of various achievements. Year 7 students gave informative and impressive presentations about Citizen Science and Galaxy Zoo projects they had been working on in Science lessons. We also congratulated the swim team who collected numerous prizes from the meet at SIS on Saturday, 9 December. They were excellent ambassadors for the school and should be commended for their sporting achievements and impeccable conduct. Miss Shovi prepared an iMovie presentation with some highlights from the Cultural-Christmas Show. Faizan, gave an update on the Volleyball competition at SIS where we were victorious. Well done!

We announced the winner and runners up for the Mascot Competition and awardee certificates and prizes. Tammia’s design was the winning entry. Judy was congratulated for participating in the ScalaMUN in Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands. She did very well in the conference and was the youngest student there and the only overseas student. We saw some highlights from her visit. James in Year 9 received a CD with some memories from his time at SES. He is going to Perth to start school there in January, and we wished him all the best. It was a busy but pleasurable final gathering before the holiday.

Cultural-Christmas Show: 8 December 2017

We had a range of singing, music, drama and dance as part of the festive fun. It was an enjoyable evening attended by guests from the Ministry of Education, local schools as well as our fabulous parents. The primary and secondary students did a great job and should be proud of the acts that were showcased. After the show, we enjoyed some delicious festive foods and had a chance to socialise. 

National Heroes’ Day (Hari Pahlawan) & (Remembrance Day (Armistice Day)

We commemorated all those who lost their lives in both World Wars and subsequent wars across the globe on Friday 10 November. At 11.00 we will had a one-minute silence to remember those who died in conflicts. This year the poppies were brought from British Legion in England and were available for a donation. All monies were transferred to the British Legion and go towards supporting ex-servicemen and veterans. Wristbands were also available in a variety of bright and fun colours. Our thanks to Gemma Cook for organising this. The sale of poppies and wristbands raised Rp 3.5 million. The school appreciated the support given by staff, students and parent to this cause.

Halloween & Trick or Treat: 3 November 2017

Students enjoyed dressing up and the seasonal snacks generously provided by the parents! Our gratitude to everyone who kindly donated foods and the team of Mums who decorated the lobby making it look so beautiful. The children enjoyed the Trick or Treat on Friday afternoon on 3 November. Parents, teachers, and children visited a number of houses in Graha Famili Block-O and collected some healthy snacks on their walk. Around 60 people participated including the Montessori children. Our gratitude to all the parents and staff for making this such a fun event. It was a fantastic and a fun end to the week!

SES Assembly Y9: 24 October 2017

We had a busy and very enjoyable assembly this morning which was led by Year 9 students. They gave impressive and informative presentations on some topics studied in Global Perspectives classes. We learned about poverty, education for girls and habitat destruction when making dams. Many thanks to Miss Allana and all the students!

Mr Mike and Miss Rini awarded medals to our winners from the Athletics Day. All of the students showed determination and gave their best efforts. Mr Mike commented that we had been impressed by the atmosphere and sportsmanship shown by all the students. 

As usual, several teachers gave out certificates to students for their good work, attitude, progress and other positive matters. Our next assembly will be on Tuesday, 14 November which will be headed by the Year 8 students. 

Athletics Day 2017

SES Athletics Day was held on Friday, October 13th, during the last week of the first term. The weather was perfect and as a result, new records were achieved. Some of the events that the children took part in were the following: high jump, long jump, discuss, javelin, hurdles and shot put. The day concluded with relay races including a race between the house team captains/vice captains, teachers and parents. The students won the race by a fair distance.

Overall it was a very close run affair with all four houses competing closely in the track and field events. The eventual winners were Garuda, with Komodo coming a close second. The trophy and medals will be awarded by Mr. Mike and Ms. Rini during a whole school assembly at the start of the second term.

World Teachers’ Day 2017

We celebrated the importance and the role played by teachers all over the world. The responsibility for educating future generations is not a light one by any means, and we thank you for your help and appreciation not just on World Teachers’ Day, but throughout the whole year.

The theme for World Teachers’ Day 2017 is “Teaching in Freedom, Empowering Teachers”, which echoes the 2015 theme that followed the adoption of the new Sustainable Development Goals, where teacher empowerment was reaffirmed as a top priority in all education and development strategies. Many thanks to our thoughtful and generous parents who gave a rose and some snacks to all staff. In addition, we had a beautiful display of roses and lilies in the lobby. Our students succeed throughout their learning journeys as they are supported by an effective partnership between home and school. On behalf of all the staff, please accept our sincere thanks.

Drama Workshop: 2 October 2017

To the following welcome a British theatre company, Performance Exchange, to the school to deliver performances and workshops to our students. Three actors spent the day showing our students some of the skills they need to perform on stage.

The day began with a performance of ‘The Gentlest Giant’ for our primary students, followed by movement workshops and an opportunity for the students to interview the actors about acting.

In the afternoon, Daniel Foley, a seasoned actor, gave the Secondary students an Introduction to Shakespeare and a Shakespeare workshop where he focused on some key features of The Bard’s plays and the importance of his language.

Overall, the day was very entertaining and informative, and good fun was had by all.

SES Assembly Y9 & Y10: 22 September 2017

Our Year 9 and 10 students gave an overview of their HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign which supports our local charity Yayasan Abdi Asih. This shelter supports children and women affected by HIV/AIDS. Ibu Vera is the person who has been in charge of this shelter, and she currently needs money for renovation of the shelter, medical treatment for the kids and women, and essential items like food and clothes. Their first priority is renovating the house because they cannot live in it anymore without changing the conditions. During heavy rain, their house is vulnerable to flooding.

This project is for part of their IGCSE coursework for Global Perspectives and English, and also a part of our community service. We are trying raise money for the children’s medical support and food by having bake sales and other school events. They also plan on doing food and clothes drive at the end of the year and would like your support.

Last December, we were able to donate food, essential items and gifts to a large community of children and mothers. The Student Council also organized an auction in March to raise money to support the charity, and  succeeded in raising 70 million Rupiah thanks to the amazing generosity of SES families and friends!

SES Celebrated Indonesia’s Independence Day 2017

On the 16th of August, Surabaya European School celebrated Indonesia’s Independence Day with enthusiasm and spirit befitting the occasion. All the children and staff came dressed in their house team colors. The day started with everyone singing the Indonesian national anthem. After this the students participated in games that were organized by the PE teachers, Mr. Mike and Ms. Rini.

There were traditional games like Marble Race and Sack Race and then other games like Water Balloon Toss and Sponge Race. Everybody enthusiastically tried his or her best. The day finished with a fun Tug of War competition, including a staff versus secondary students. The main purpose of the afternoon was to remember this special day and have a lot of fun. The following were the placing of the house teams on the day:

 

  1. Garuda
  2. Sura
  3. Baya
  4. Komodo

SES Welcome Assembly: 15 August 2017

We had a wonderful welcome assembly where we all the primary and secondary children considered the challenges and opportunities for the new academic year. The students watched 2 video clips and we discussed many things including having fun, working hard, not giving up and taking risks on their learning journey. The school was introduced to Mrs Liza our new Deputy Principal/Head of Primary and Year 4 teacher and Mr Paul, the Year 5 teacher. Mr Mike was not present at assembly as he was teaching a Montessori class with Miss Rini at that time. However, the students know who he is from their PE classes and seeing him around the school.

Jacob in Year 2 helped Mr Nick with a mind reading card trick. He chose a card that matched the prediction made by the principal that had been sealed in an envelope before the start of the assembly! Jacob must have magical powers.

We are looking forward to a productive, enjoyable and successful year at SES with a variety of exciting events and activities.

Welcome Back to School

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the the start of a new academic year which, I hope will be an exciting learning journey for everyone. I am sure that you had a relaxing and enjoyable summer holiday and are ready for the challenges of 2017-2018. Whether you are a new or returning family, it is a great pleasure to have you in our community.

I know that you will welcome and support our new staff who have joined us. Mrs Liza is teaching Year 4 as well as being Deputy Principal/Head of Primary. Mr Paul is teaching Year 5 and Mr Mike is our new PE teacher. We hope they will enjoy their time with us.

It remains an honour and privilege to serve as your principal and be part of a community where parents, teachers and students work together to develop both academic and social growth. We have a strong partnership and together, I know that we will make this school year one of growth and achievement for all children. If you have any questions or comments please ask.

Class Teachers (Primary) and Tutors (Secondary) should be the first point of contact for general matters with your child(ren). Academic issues should be addressed to the relevant subject teacher. You can contact Mrs Liza regarding primary matters as she is the Head of that section.  Mrs Tehmine, Mrs Aulia and I are also available should you wish to speak with us.

I am looking forward to a successful, productive and enjoyable year!

Yours sincerely,

Nick Rowdene

SES Assembly Year 5&6: 13 June 2017

The musical revue, The Case of the Missing Parts of Speech, starring Year 5 and Year 6 children, was presented on Tuesday, June 13, to parents, teachers and students. This play was a collaborative effort of Mr Thomson, Mrs Taylor and their classes, and was the culminating activity for this term’s combined Drama classes. All students had an important role to play, either as director, sound technician, or as actors and singers.

During the play, Professor McMertrue (Tanisha) has lost a part of speech. Detective Hargraves (Noa) and his trusty bloodhound, Hector (Luke), work together with nouns, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, connectives, prepositions, verbs and interjections to find the missing part of speech. Each of the twelve scenes featured a song about a different part of speech. In the end, Detective Hargraves and his company help Professor McMertrue find the common noun, glasses, under her hat, and her speech is complete. Bravo, Year 5 and 6 students! They would like to express their appreciation to parents, teachers and students who supported their efforts with their attendance.
At the end of the play, children were honoured who will be moving away from SES in the coming school year. We have certainly enjoyed having these students with us, and we will miss each one in the future!

SES Assembly Year 11: 8 June 2017

The SES assembly this week included the distribution of many awards, a musical item and some farewells to our leavers. In March, some primary and secondary students participated in the CAT Maths competition which was organised by the Australian Mathematics Trust (AMT). The following students did very well obtaining scores in the top two categories. Michelle Harianto (Year 6) and Nicholas Kriss (Year 8) were awarded ‘Distinction’ with Viggo Akbar (Year 7) and Kelly Singgih (Year 6) received ‘Credit’. Well done to them and all those who took part.

Mrs Cecile and Miss Rini gave out swimming certificates to the whole school and also medals to the winners from the Swimming Carnival on 19 May. Year 2 Regan & Alix, Year3 Lintang, Matilda and Cally, Y4 Erwin and Ji In, Y5 Daniel and Marion, Y6 Dan and Michelle, Y7 Margot and Shehryaar, Y8 Chan Kyou, Viggo and Madalena, Y9 Matthieu and Tammia and in Shellsa in Year 11. 
 
Mr Coffey entertained us with his own interpretation of the Buffalo Springfield song ‘For What It’s Worth’ which was well received! We also saw a video clip showing many happy memories over the years with our Year 11 students. All our secondary leavers also received a DVD with videos and photographs from their time with us. I am reminded of this quote by John Dewey: ‘Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself”.  We also said ‘goodbye and many thanks’ to Mrs Cecile and Mr Thomson and wish them and their families all the very best for next academic year. I always enjoy assembly which showcases the talents of our international community.

IAYP PPLH May 27 & 28 2017

Over the weekend four intrepid adventurers from Year 9 set out to complete a practice journey for their International Award for Young People (IAYP).

The International Award requires participants at Bronze level to complete a two day, one night adventure where they explore an area under their own steam and prove themselves self sufficient in that time.
For this practice, our team went to explore Gunung Bekel and surrounding areas with a scientific purpose in mind, to collect data about how altitude and temperature can affect plant growth.
Day One saw an attempt at scaling Gunung Bekel, and while the team didn’t make it to the top, they did manage an enjoyable hike and collected lots of data (and learnt a lot about exploring in the process!)
When the team returned to base at PPLH they then had to prepare their own dinner before they could chill out and reflect upon their day. Their exploits in the kitchen proved that they still have a bit to learn about cooking for a hungry team, but they did manage a good feast in the end!
Day Two required a further 6 hours of activity from the group and once they had cooked breakfast and prepared their lunch they headed out again to explore the lower reaches of the mountain and gather further data, comparing their experiences from the day before and working well as a team to reach their goal.
The group returned home on Sunday evening, tired but happy, having completed a very useful practice journey. In the future, they will have to apply all they have learnt to another trip to qualify for the Adventurous Journey section of their award. And you know what? I think they’ll do very well.