Hello fellow parents,
My name is Emily, and I’m writing to share a bittersweet chapter from our family’s life in Bali. For a year and a half, my kids were part of the vibrant community at Bali Beach School, situated at the picturesque Kommune Beach Resort in Keranasim. The school, which focused on beach cleanups and holistic learning for children aged 2 to 6, unfortunately closed down in 2023 due to insufficient enrollments over an extended period.
The Enigmatic World of Bali Beach School
Bali Beach School was a place of dreams and delicate realities, much like a Murakami novel. Its holistic approach combined traditional learning with environmental stewardship, instilling values of sustainability in our little ones. My children learned the importance of keeping our beaches clean, participating in regular beach cleanups. These activities not only taught them about environmental responsibility but also fostered a deep connection with nature.
From the moment we joined Bali Beach School, it felt like we had entered an alternate universe where time moved at its own pace. The small class sizes allowed for personalized attention, and the teachers were passionate about nurturing each child’s potential. The focus on holistic learning meant that our kids were not just absorbing academic knowledge but were also growing emotionally and socially. They participated in yoga sessions, mindfulness activities, and creative arts, all while playing by the beach. It was an idyllic setting for their early years, like a hidden gem in a labyrinthine city.
The Invisible Struggles
Despite its wondrous programs and dedicated staff, Bali Beach School faced challenges akin to the shadowy struggles beneath the surface of a seemingly calm life. In a place where schools often struggle to reach the five-year mark, Bali Beach School lasted three years. The issue of enrollment is a significant one. With numerous educational options available, it can be hard for any new school to attract and retain enough students to sustain operations.
During our time at Bali Beach School, I watched my children flourish in unexpected ways. They developed a love for learning, a sense of environmental responsibility, and a close-knit group of friends. The end of the school felt like the end of a beautiful chapter in their lives, one filled with sunshine, sandcastles, and precious memories that shimmered like reflections in a mirror.
A New Chapter in Ubud
After the closure, we relocated to Ubud, where the kids now attend a different school. While the transition has been smooth, and they are happy in their new environment, a part of me still longs for the days spent at Kommune Beach Resort. There’s something uniquely magical about living and learning by the beach that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. The serene mornings, the sound of the waves, and the fresh ocean breeze created an atmosphere that was both invigorating and calming, like a melody played on an ancient instrument.
The Echoes of Bali Beach School
As a parent, I feel incredibly grateful for the time we spent at Bali Beach School. Despite its early closure, the school left a lasting impact on my children and our family. It’s a reminder that while longevity is an important measure of a school’s success, the quality of the time spent there is just as crucial. The lessons my kids learned and the experiences they had will stay with them like echoes in a deep, dark well.
Supporting the Unseen
The story of Bali Beach School underscores the importance of supporting small, innovative educational institutions. These schools often bring fresh perspectives and unique learning opportunities that larger, more established schools might not offer. If you’re a parent considering a new school for your children, I encourage you to look beyond the longevity and explore the values, community, and experiences that the school provides.
The Memory’s Embrace
Bali Beach School may no longer be in operation, but its spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were part of its journey. Our family’s time there was short but incredibly sweet. As we continue our adventure in Ubud, we carry with us the lessons learned and the cherished memories of our days by the beach.
To all the parents out there navigating the ever-changing landscape of education in Bali, I hope my story offers some insights and inspiration. Embrace the journey, support the small schools, and cherish every moment, because these experiences shape our children in ways we can’t always see immediately. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll find ourselves back on the beach, creating new memories and continuing the legacy of learning by the sea.
