Welcome to the FAQ page for The Independent School of Jakarta (ISJ). Here you will find direct answers about our British international school curriculum, exceptional student-to-teacher ratio, and our expert UK-qualified staff. We've answered the most common questions from families looking for the best international school in Jakarta.

Student-to-Teacher Ratio and Class Size

In Early Years, classes are capped at 15 with three adults per room. From Year 1 onwards, classes are typically capped at 20 with two adults per class in the primary years. Older pupils are taught in small groups by subject specialists.

International Diversity

Around 35% of pupils are Indonesian. The rest come from across Asia, Europe, and the Americas — creating a truly international environment.

Teacher Qualifications

All teachers are UK-qualified. Many have held senior roles in respected British independent or leading international schools.

Curriculum and Languages

ISJ follows the English National Curriculum, adapted for an international context, drawing on resources from Cambridge. Pupils learn Bahasa Indonesia, Mandarin (from Year 3), and Spanish (Years 7–8).

Assessment and Academic Support

Teachers assess progress through ongoing observation, discussion, and formal assessments at key points. This informs individual support, whether pupils need extra help or stretch and challenge.

Small School Advantage

ISJ combines the rigour and values of a British independent school with the warmth and personal scale of a community school — small, serious, and big-hearted.

Character, Behaviour, and Manners

Good behaviour and manners are expected. Pupils take responsibility, contribute to school life, and are encouraged to try new things. Staff model these values and notice when pupils live up to them.

EAL and Learning Support

Targeted English support is available, as well as personalised challenge for advanced learners. SEN admissions are considered case-by-case, guided by respect and realism.

Food and Mealtimes

Meals are fresh, healthy, and served in a communal setting. Teachers eat with pupils, modelling manners and encouraging conversation.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Early Years classrooms are calm, creative, and full of purposeful play. Children develop language, numeracy, movement, and social skills through structured, intentional experiences.

Co-Curricular and Holiday Camps

Pupils join activities in sport, music, art, languages, chess, and more — all age-appropriate. Holiday camps are run on-site with trained international staff.

Admissions Process

The process is warm, simple, and transparent. After applying, families receive an offer and may be invited for a trial morning. Once paperwork is complete, the place is confirmed.

Trial Classes
Trial mornings help families and the school ensure the right fit. The admissions team welcomes inquiries.

Next Steps
The first graduating cohort completes Year 8 in 2026. Pupils will transition confidently into leading international or British curriculum schools in Jakarta and abroad.