The Independent

School of Jakarta

British International School

Curriculum Guide

Part 5 - Character Development & Holistic Education

Education at The Independent School of Jakarta extends beyond academics. Character development sits at the heart of our ethos, ensuring that pupils not only achieve academic success but also grow in resilience, confidence, leadership, and integrity. We believe that learning should be enjoyable and intrinsically rewarding — an end in itself, not only a means to future achievement. By fostering curiosity and a genuine love of discovery, we help pupils see learning as a lifelong pursuit that shapes both mind and character.

We foster a balance of academic challenge, emotional well-being, and real-world learning experiences. Through a structured pastoral care system, leadership programs, outdoor learning, and service opportunities, students develop into compassionate, responsible, and capable young people ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

  • Pastoral Care – A supportive, nurturing environment where students feel safe and valued.

  • Leadership – Encouraging students to take responsibility, develop independence, and lead with confidence.

  • Outdoor Learning – Broadening students’ horizons through trips, expeditions, and hands-on experiences.

  • Service & Community – Instilling a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship.

Pastoral Care

A strong pastoral care system is essential to a child’s development, ensuring that they feel supported, valued, and understood throughout their school journey. ISJ prioritises student well-being and emotional resilience, creating an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Comprehensive Pastoral Support System

Dedicated Pastoral Team – Every student has access to pastoral care through class teachers, mentors, and school leadership. Wellbeing Programs – A structured approach to mental health awareness, self-care, and stress management. Regular One-on-One Check-Ins – Teachers and pastoral staff regularly meet with students to monitor their well-being and provide guidance. Personal Development: Students are taught how to develop resilience, manage emotions, and build positive relationships.

Social & Emotional Learning

Emotional Intelligence Training – Helping students understand and regulate their emotions, develop empathy, and strengthen interpersonal skills. Mindfulness & Reflection – Encouraging students to pause, reflect, and develop self-awareness through structured activities. Conflict Resolution & Peer Mediation – Training students in constructive communication, problem-solving, and positive decision-making.

Safeguarding & Wellbeing Support

Safe & Inclusive Environment – A commitment to ensuring that all students feel safe, respected, and supported. Anti-Bullying & Positive Behaviour Initiatives – Proactive strategies to foster kindness, respect, and responsibility within the school community. Partnership with Parents – Strong school-home communication ensures that well-being support is holistic and continuous.

Through this structured pastoral framework, students develop the emotional intelligence and resilience necessary to navigate life’s challenges.

Leadership

Leadership is not reserved for a select few—every student at ISJ is encouraged to develop confidence, initiative, and responsibility. Leadership opportunities are embedded across the school to prepare students for the challenges of the future.

House Leadership & Responsibility

The House System is a core element of school life, providing opportunities for students to develop:

  • Teamwork & Collaboration – Working together in academic, sports, creative, and service-based competitions.

  • House Captains & Vice Captains – Older students take on mentorship roles, organising events and leading their peers.

  • Inter-House Events – students develop leadership and teamwork through friendly but competitive activities.

Whole-School Leadership Opportunities

Student Council Representation – Elected student leaders advocate for their peers, organise school initiatives, and provide feedback to school leadership. Ambassador & Public Speaking Roles – Opportunities for students to represent the school at events, lead assemblies, and welcome new families. Academic & Peer Mentoring – Older students support younger students, developing responsibility, patience, and guidance skills.

Project-Based Leadership Development

  • Enterprise & Innovation Projects – Students take on real-world problem-solving challenges, from designing social initiatives to leading fundraising efforts.

  • Eco & Sustainability Programs – Encouraging students to take an active role in environmental stewardship and sustainability initiatives.

  • Club & Society Leadership – Students take the lead in co-curricular clubs, managing activities, events, and special projects.

By fostering a culture of leadership at every level, ISJ ensures that students develop the skills, confidence, and mindset to take on leadership roles throughout life.

Outdoor Learning

Learning at ISJ is not confined to the classroom. Outdoor learning provides first-hand, real-world experiences that enhance academic understanding while fostering self-reliance, teamwork, and a sense of adventure.

Benefits of Outdoor Learning

Engagement & Retention – Students learn more effectively through hands-on, experiential education. Teamwork & Social Development – Working in challenging environments fosters collaboration, resilience, and adaptability. Personal Growth & Confidence – Encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones, building independence and courage.

Field Trips & Expeditions

  • Curriculum-Linked Excursions – Visits to museums, historical sites, science centres, and cultural institutions reinforce academic learning.

  • Outdoor Education Programs – Activities such as hiking, camping, and survival skills encourage self-reliance and appreciation for nature.

  • International & Cultural Trips – Opportunities for students to explore different cultures, global perspectives, and histories.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Geographical & Environmental Studies – Learning about ecosystems, conservation, and sustainability through immersive experiences. STEM & Engineering Challenges – Hands-on learning through robotics, architecture challenges, and applied science experiments. Creative & Arts Retreats – Specialised programs for students to immerse themselves in music, drama, and visual arts in inspiring outdoor settings.

By embracing adventure education, ISJ helps students develop confidence, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of the world.

Service & Community

A strong sense of service and responsibility is a defining characteristic of ISJ students. Through service-learning projects and community engagement, students develop empathy, leadership, and a commitment to making a difference.

Why Service Matters

Our approach develops empathy and social awareness, helping students understand diverse perspectives and contribute meaningfully to society. It also encourages civic responsibility, highlighting the importance of giving back to both local and global communities. Through practical problem-solving, pupils learn to apply academic knowledge to real-world situations, fostering initiative, creativity, and a sense of purpose beyond the classroom.

Service Opportunities

Our service and community initiatives connect students with both local and global causes. Pupils take part in outreach programmes that support local charities. Participation in global citizenship programmes — including international service projects, Model United Nations, and sustainability initiatives — deepens their understanding of the wider world and their role in making a positive impact.

Integrating Service Into the Curriculum

Cross-Curricular Service Projects – Incorporating service learning into science (environmental sustainability), humanities (social justice), and leadership (entrepreneurial initiatives). Annual Service-Learning Days – Whole-school events focused on community service, team projects, and social impact challenges. Student-Led Initiatives – Encouraging students to propose, develop, and lead service projects based on their interests and passions.

Through purposeful service learning, ISJ cultivates socially responsible students who understand the impact of their actions and strive to make a positive difference in the world.

A holistic approach to education ensures that students develop not only academically but also personally, socially, and emotionally. Through a focus on pastoral care, leadership, outdoor learning, and service, ISJ students emerge as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals, prepared to lead and contribute to the world beyond school.