Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the class sizes and staffing ratios?
    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.

  2. Where are the children from?
    About 35% of our pupils are Indonesian. The rest come from across Asia, Europe, and the Americas — creating a truly international environment.

  3. Who teaches at ISJ?
    All our teachers are UK-qualified. Many have held senior roles in respected British independent schools or leading international schools.

  4. What curriculum do you follow?
    We follow the English National Curriculum, adapted for our international context. We also draw on a range of excellent resources, including those from Cambridge. Pupils learn Bahasa Indonesia, Mandarin (from Year 3), and Spanish (Years 7–8).

  5. How are children assessed and supported academically?
    Teachers assess progress through ongoing observation, discussion, and formal assessments at key points. We use this insight to support each pupil’s growth — whether they need extra help or stretch and challenge.

  6. What makes ISJ different from other schools in Jakarta?
    ISJ blends the rigour and values of a British independent school with the warmth and personal scale of a community school. We are small, serious, and big-hearted — and that combination is rare.

  7. How do you build character and confidence?
    We expect good behaviour and good manners. Pupils take responsibility, contribute to school life, and are encouraged to try new things. We model these values — and we notice when children live up to them.

  8. What support is available for pupils with different needs?
    We offer targeted support for English learners and personalised challenge for more advanced pupils. We consider SEN admissions on a case-by-case basis, guided by respect and realism.

  9. What is your approach to food and mealtimes?
    Meals are fresh, healthy, and served in a communal setting. Teachers eat with the children, modelling manners and encouraging conversation.

  10. What is your Early Years approach?
    Our Early Years classrooms are calm, creative, and full of purposeful play. Children explore language, numbers, movement, and social skills through structured, intentional experiences.

  11. What co-curricular activities do you offer?
    Pupils take part in sport, music, art, languages, chess, and more — all tailored to their age and interests. Holiday camps run on-site with trained international staff.

  12. What is the admissions process?
    It’s 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.

  13. Do you offer trial classes?
    Yes. Trial mornings help everyone — family, child, and school — feel confident that ISJ is the right fit. If you’re considering ISJ, we encourage you to talk to our team — they’re happy to help.

  14. What happens after ISJ?
    Our first graduating cohort will complete Year 8 in 2026. Pupils will transition confidently into leading international or British curriculum schools, both in Jakarta and overseas.
    See our Campus Development Plan for more on how the school is expanding to support older year groups.