Jakarta Nanyang School Elementary Programme: A Journey of Growth and Discovery

Jakarta Nanyang School recently held a series of unforgettable experiential learning programs for students from Grade 1 to Grade 6. Designed to promote exploration, cultural understanding, creativity, and teamwork, each grade level participated in a specially curated adventure that balanced education with fun, bringing classroom learning to life.

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Grade 1 & 2: Explorer’s Adventure

For our youngest learners, the Explorer’s Adventure programme offered a perfect introduction to independent exploration and collaborative discovery—all within a safe and familiar environment. Spanning 2 days and 1 night, the experience was crafted to build confidence, teamwork, and curiosity through interactive and memorable moments.

From the moment the programme began, excitement buzzed through the air. Students kicked off the adventure with an immersive visit to the Electricity Museum at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, where hands-on exhibits sparked their imagination and understanding of science in daily life. Their journey continued high above the park with a ride on the aerial gondola, offering a new perspective—literally and figuratively—on the world around them.

Back on campus, the real adventure unfolded: students worked together to set up their own tents, transforming familiar school grounds into a lively campsite. For many, it was their first night “away from home,” surrounded by classmates under the stars. This was more than just camping—it was a lesson in responsibility, cooperation, and shared excitement.

The programme closed with a day of fun games and creative project-making, where imagination took center stage. Whether building something with their hands or strategizing with their team, each activity was designed to encourage self-expression and critical thinking.

By the end of the journey, our Grade 1 and 2 students emerged not only with unforgettable memories, but also with a stronger sense of self, newfound confidence, and friendships that had deepened through every tent pole, laugh, and team cheer.

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Grade 3 & 4: The Culture Quest

For Grade 3 and 4 students, The Culture Quest was a transformative 3-day, 2-night journey designed to open young minds to the beauty of local traditions and cultural appreciation. Held in Bogor, the programme brought students beyond the classroom to interact, create, and reflect through a blend of real-world experiences and guided activities.

The journey began with Grade 4 students embarking early for a cultural exchange at a local school. This heartwarming session allowed students to connect with their peers from different backgrounds, share stories, and collaborate in mini activities—building empathy and mutual respect. That evening, they worked together on a food project, discovering the flavors and techniques of traditional cooking, before gathering for a movie night centered on Sundanese culture, planting the seeds of cultural appreciation through storytelling.

On the second day, students visited the charming Kampung Budaya, where they were greeted by local artisans and traditional performers. Grade 3 students joined in the morning, turning the site into a hub of exploration. From crafting cultural items to participating in local games, students didn’t just observe culture—they lived it. The evening wrapped with an exciting scavenger hunt and indoor games, promoting critical thinking and camaraderie.

The final day focused on reflection and creativity. Students collaborated on a project-making session that challenged them to apply what they had learned in meaningful ways. The programme concluded with a heartfelt debrief and winner announcement, closing the journey on a celebratory note.

More than a trip, The Culture Quest inspired our students to appreciate diversity, express their creativity, and embrace teamwork—skills that will stay with them well beyond the classroom.

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Grade 5 & 6: Journey Through Heritage

The Journey Through Heritage was the pinnacle experience of the elementary school journey, crafted especially for Grade 5 and 6 students. This 4-day cultural expedition to Yogyakarta was filled with hands-on learning, traditional arts, historical sites, and powerful moments of connection—with Indonesia’s rich heritage and with one another.

The journey began with an exciting train ride from Gambir Station to Yogyakarta, setting the tone for a true adventure. Upon arrival, students visited Batik Giriloyo, where they tried their hands at traditional batik-making, learning patience, precision, and the stories behind each pattern.

Day two took students into the heart of the community, with a cultural exchange at a local school. Friendships blossomed across cultures as students learned about different ways of life through shared games and conversation. The day continued with a visit to Wayang Wukirsari Village, where students explored the craft of shadow puppetry, followed by a session of Gamelan music, giving them a rare chance to immerse in traditional sounds and rhythms. The night ended with a cultural dinner at Raminten Malioboro, a perfect blend of food and ambiance.

On the third day, students ventured to Kaliurang for a thrilling Lava Tour, witnessing the natural history of Mount Merapi. In the afternoon, they explored Ratu Boko Temple, where history came alive through ancient architecture and stunning views. The evening highlight was attending the Ramayana Ballet performance near Prambanan Temple, where myth and movement combined to tell age-old stories in breathtaking fashion.

Before returning home on day four, students visited a souvenir center, practicing budgeting and choosing meaningful items to take home. Then it was time for their journey back to Jakarta—bringing not just oleh-oleh, but stories, insights, and experiences that will stay with them forever.

Journey Through Heritage was more than a school trip; it was a celebration of culture, identity, and learning through experience—leaving our students with a deeper connection to their roots and a readiness for the next stage of their academic path.

Through these carefully designed programs, Jakarta Nanyang School empowers students from Grade 1 to 6 to grow not only academically, but also emotionally and socially. Each adventure encourages curiosity, builds character, and nurtures lifelong values—ensuring every child returns with new stories, stronger friendships, and a deeper love for learning.