As parents, choosing the right school for our children is one of the most significant decisions we make. When we first explored Skywalker Academy in Buwit, Bali, we found a school with many strengths and some areas that require consideration. Here, I share our balanced experience of unique educational approaches to help other parents make an informed choice.
Table of Contents
Tailored Learning Experience
Skywalker Academy stands out for its personalized approach to education. The school custom-designs learning programs tailored to each student’s needs, ensuring that individual strengths and areas for improvement are addressed effectively. On average, students at Skywalker Academy complete one and a half grades of learning every 12 months, which is a testament to their focused and tailored educational model.
As a parent, I was particularly impressed by how the teachers took the time to understand my children’s unique learning styles. My daughter Francesca, who excels in creative arts, was given ample opportunities to explore and develop her talents, while my son Lionel received additional support in areas where he needed improvement. This individualized attention has significantly boosted their confidence and academic performance.
Holistic Education Approach
The holistic approach at Skywalker Academy extends beyond academics. The school emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, offering a range of options such as sports, arts, cooking, dancing, and Bahasa Indonesian lessons. This diverse curriculum helps in developing creativity, physical fitness, and a love for learning different cultures and languages.
My children have particularly enjoyed the variety of extracurricular activities. Lionel, who loves sports, has thrived in the well-structured physical education classes, while Francesca has developed a keen interest in Bahasa Indonesian, thanks to the engaging language lessons. The school’s emphasis on a well-rounded and unique educational experience ensures that our children are not only excelling academically but also growing into well-rounded individuals.
A Supportive Community
Skywalker Academy fosters a strong sense of community, which we have found to be incredibly supportive. From the moment we joined, we felt welcomed and valued as part of the Skywalker family. The school’s focus on building human relationships fosters collaboration, empathy, and mutual respect among students, teachers, and parents.
As a family, we have made lifelong friends through the school community. The parent-teacher meetings and community events provide ample opportunities for us to connect with other families and share our experiences. This sense of belonging has made our transition to Bali much smoother and more enjoyable.
Natural Environment
The school’s location in the serene village of Buwit, Bali, provides a tranquil and inspiring backdrop for learning. The lush greenery and natural surroundings enhance the educational experience and promote a sense of well-being among students. Our children spend ample time outdoors, which has been beneficial for their physical and mental health.
Lionel and Francesca often come home excited to share their experiences of outdoor learning activities. Whether it’s a science lesson in the garden or a physical education class on the open field, the natural environment adds an enriching dimension to their learning journey. This connection to nature greatly contributes to the school’s unique educational atmosphere.
Dedicated Educators
The quality of education at Skywalker Academy is significantly enhanced by its team of dedicated and passionate educators. The teachers are well-qualified and genuinely care about their students’ success, going above and beyond to ensure each child receives the attention and support they need to thrive. This commitment has had a profound impact on our children’s academic progress and personal development.
I have been particularly impressed by the dedication of the teachers. They are always available to discuss my children’s progress and provide valuable feedback. Their commitment to creating a positive and stimulating learning environment has been instrumental in Lionel and Francesca’s growth.
Considerations
Despite its many strengths, there are some considerations to keep in mind. One of the primary concerns is the high tuition fees, which range from Rp 45,000,000 to Rp 100,000,000 annually. This can be a significant financial burden for many families, and some parents feel the fees are not fully justified by the school’s facilities and resources.
Additionally, while the personalized learning approach is a highlight, it can sometimes lack structure and consistency. Some parents have reported varied teaching quality, with not all educators being equally skilled or dedicated. This inconsistency can lead to disparities in student learning outcomes, which is a concern for those seeking a stable and high-quality educational experience.
Another point to consider is the school’s location. While the rural setting is a positive aspect for some, others find it inconvenient and challenging to access. The distance from more urban areas can make daily commutes difficult, especially for families living further away from the school.
Lastly, the extracurricular activities, though diverse, are not always well-organized or adequately supervised. This can lead to issues with student engagement and safety during these activities, which is a critical consideration for parents entrusting the school with their children’s care.
Despite these considerations, Skywalker Academy offers a unique educational experience that has been largely positive for our family. The school’s personalized learning approach, supportive community, beautiful natural environment, and dedicated educators are significant strengths. Potential families should weigh these factors to determine if Skywalker Academy is the right fit for their child’s unique educational journey.
