As our time in Bali comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on the transformative experiences my family has had, particularly through our son’s education at Green School and Empathy School International. Over the past three years, we have seen our son grow and develop in ways we never expected. Both schools have unique strengths and have positively impacted our family in profound ways. Here is our comprehensive school review on both schools.
Table of Contents
Discovering Green School
Our journey began at Green School, a name synonymous with innovative education and sustainability. From the moment we set foot on its campus, we were captivated by its sustainable architecture and the open-air classrooms nestled amidst lush bamboo forests. The environment itself was a teacher, and our son thrived in this unique setting where nature was both a playground and a classroom.
A Curriculum Rooted in Sustainability
Green School’s curriculum is deeply rooted in environmental stewardship, a philosophy that resonated with us. The school’s commitment to green energy was evident everywhere—from solar panels to a water turbine designed to harness the power of the Ayung River. Although the turbine never really worked during our time there, the school’s dedication to sustainability was clear and commendable. Our son learned about the importance of preserving the environment, a lesson that will stay with him for life. In this comprehensive school review, it’s essential to highlight how Green School’s innovative approach has both strengths and limitations.
Challenges and Innovations
Despite the many positives, our experience at Green School was not without its challenges. The innovative approach sometimes meant that traditional academic subjects took a back seat. We found ourselves supplementing our son’s education at home to ensure he met basic academic standards. However, the emphasis on creativity and out-of-the-box thinking was a significant advantage, fostering a spirit of innovation in our son that we cherished. This comprehensive school review acknowledges these complexities and the need for a balanced approach.
Transition to Empathy School International
After a year, we decided to explore new educational opportunities and enrolled our son at Empathy School International. We had heard great things about their focus on social-emotional learning, and we were curious to see how this would benefit our son.
A Community of Emotional Intelligence
From the start, we noticed a significant difference in how students interacted at Empathy School. The children displayed high levels of emotional intelligence and understanding, creating a nurturing and supportive environment. This was a stark contrast to the sometimes competitive atmosphere we had experienced elsewhere. The school’s emphasis on empathy and emotional growth was not just a buzzword but a lived reality. In this comprehensive school review, the focus on emotional intelligence at Empathy School stands out as a defining feature.
Spacious Grounds and Personal Growth
Empathy School also boasts more land per student compared to Green School. This extra space allowed our son more freedom to explore and connect with nature, something he loved. The larger grounds fostered a sense of adventure and independence in him, further enhanced by the school’s outdoor learning activities. He could climb trees, garden, and engage in physical activities that were integral to his personal growth. This comprehensive school review underscores the importance of space and outdoor activities in a child’s development.
The Impact of Social-Emotional Learning
The focus on social-emotional learning at Empathy School had a profound impact on our son. While he was always good academically, here he developed strong social and emotional skills that were equally important. He learned to understand his emotions and communicate effectively with others, including us, his parents. This was a game-changer for our family. We saw him become more mature, empathetic, and self-aware. A comprehensive school review must emphasize the long-term benefits of such holistic education.
Accessible and Engaged Leadership
A significant advantage of Empathy School is the accessibility of its founders. They are always on campus and open to discussions with parents. This level of engagement made us feel valued and heard. Parent meetings were genuine opportunities for collaboration, where our thoughts and concerns were taken seriously. This open line of communication helped the school evolve to meet the needs of students and families continually. This comprehensive school review highlights the importance of accessible and engaged leadership in educational institutions.
Reflections on Our Journey
Our time in Bali has been enriching, with both Green School and Empathy School contributing to our journey in unique ways. Green School taught us to respect the environment and think innovatively, while Empathy School helped our son grow emotionally and socially, alongside his academic achievements. The skills he has gained—empathy, self-awareness, and communication—are invaluable. They have strengthened our family bond and will serve him well throughout his life.
A Balanced Perspective
Looking back, our experiences with both schools have provided a balanced perspective on education. Green School’s emphasis on sustainability and innovative learning methods inspired our son to think creatively and appreciate the natural world. Meanwhile, Empathy School’s focus on social-emotional development equipped him with the tools to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and empathy.
