At NIS Jakarta, we promise to give everyone a ”Warm Welcome” and that children AND families will love being part of our school community. This is a promise we work hard to keep, not just for new arrivals but for everyone, every day. A core goal is to personalise learning and nurture every child to flourish. However, we know that parent engagement is a vital part of a truly successful school and that children learn best when parents are meaningful partners in their children’s education. It is wonderful, therefore, to see the many ways we are building this community spirit and parental engagement here at NIS.
There is a real community spirit each morning as parents bring the children directly to their classrooms. This open access in the morning provides a great opportunity for parents to have an informal chat with the teacher, for children to show off their learning, and for parents to see changes around the school. Then, while the children are busy with their learning, the parents have the chance to have morning coffee in the foyer – a great chance for parents to socialise together and to provide a supportive welcome to new members of our NIS family. It is also lovely when we welcome visiting Grandparents and relatives as the children can proudly share their school and give their extended family a window into their lives here in Jakarta. And, for the more energetic parents, there are a number of fitness classes like Zumba and Yoga for them to take part in right here at school.
We also recognise that our parent body provide a rich seam of expertise and willing support for in-class activities. The children are always very excited to have visiting “experts” spend time in their classes. Doctors, geologists, engineers, artists….…sharing skills and what it is like to work in their field. Opportunities such as these allow children to learn more about the world around them, interact with a wider range of adults, and also see others through a new lens; you can be both Oscar’s mum and a surgeon!
Reading stories, supporting 1:1 reading, being a library volunteer, helping with art or science projects, or supervising educational visits – there are so many ways that our parents are involved in supporting the school and enhancing the learning experiences for the children. Here at NIS, parental support is welcome and greatly appreciated.
