Surabaya European School (SES) prides itself on offering its pupils enriching and engaging learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. A recent excursion to the Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam) in Surabaya perfectly illustrated this educational philosophy.  

The Submarine Monument provided SES pupils, particularly those in the primary years, with a unique opportunity to explore a significant piece of Indonesian history. The monument, a retired Soviet-built submarine, KRI Pasopati 410, serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s struggle for independence and the vital role of naval technology during that period.  

What Did the Pupils Learn?

The excursion provided a rich context for pupils to engage with various aspects of learning:

• History and Geography:
  • Pupils gained a tangible connection to Indonesian history, specifically the independence era. They learned about the submarine’s significance in naval warfare and its role in national defence.
  • The trip also provided a geographical context, allowing pupils to understand Surabaya’s importance as a port city and its strategic location within the Indonesian archipelago.
• Technology and Design:
  • Exploring the submarine allowed pupils to observe and comprehend the technology involved in its design and operation. They learned about the submarine’s mechanics, communication systems, and weaponry.
  • This experience fostered an appreciation for engineering and the ingenuity required to build such complex machines.
• International Understanding:
  • The submarine’s Soviet origins sparked discussions about international relations during the Cold War and the global context of Indonesia’s history.
  • SES’s diverse pupil body connected through the shared experience, furthering intercultural understanding.
• Personal Development:
  • The excursion encouraged curiosity, exploration, and a sense of adventure.
  • Pupils developed observation, questioning, and critical thinking skills as they explored the submarine and learned its history.
  • Teamwork was essential as groups of children navigated the submarine’s confined spaces.

Extending the Learning:

SES teachers skillfully integrated the excursion into the classroom curriculum. Before the visit, pupils researched and discussed submarines, naval history, and the Indonesian independence movement. After the trip, they participated in activities such as:

• Creating presentations or reports about their findings.
• Drawing or painting depictions of the submarine.
• Writing stories or poems inspired by their experience.
• Engaging in role-playing activities to simulate life on a submarine.

This approach transformed the excursion from a mere day out into a valuable learning experience that reinforced and expanded upon classroom lessons.

The Submarine Monument excursion exemplifies SES’s dedication to providing pupils with meaningful and engaging educational experiences. By connecting classroom learning with real-world scenarios, SES ensures that its pupils develop a deep understanding of the world around them while nurturing a lifelong love of learning.