Indonesian Trip 

Our 3rd MECS Indonesia Study Tour ran from Friday 24 July to Thursday 6 August in early Term 3. This year we had 6 Year 10 students studying elective Indonesian and 3 staff join the tour. This was an incredible experience for students and staff to visit another cultural context, develop their language skills and experience every day life in a different community.

Our journey began in hot and humid Jakarta. We explored cultural landmarks, different types of transport and took in the bustling mega-city that is Indonesia's capital! We then went on the 'Whoosh' high speed train through to Bandung and enjoyed cooler air, a batik-art cultural workshop, a visit to the mountains and hot springs and then an evening out at Indonesian church.

The next chapter of the journey took the group into Central Java where they stayed in the iconic town of Yogyakarta - known as Indonesia's cultural and educational centre, went on two all-day school visits (one to a Government school and the other to a Muslim school), met with Bible College students, stayed in a village context, went souvenir shopping and trekked up Mount Merbabu! Stunning views at over 3000 metres. This was an adventurous and tiring trek but we made it!

This Study Tour is an incredible opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Indonesian culture and society, build their confidence in using Indonesian language, increase in independence and maturity and see more of this vast neighbouring country to our north. 

We were so pleased with the maturity, engagement and participation from all students.

Student Participants: Olivia B, Joshua B, Thomas C, Ruby H, Joel K, Emma L

Daniel Bradbury, Yvonne Verhagen, Jack Privitera

Enjoy some reflections from our students:

This trip has provided a clear picture of the people and culture that goes with the language I am studying, and I loved every moment of this experience. I grew so much in my confidence and language skills, and am super grateful for the opportunity to go on the trip. 

Joel K

Going on the trip I didn't know what to expect, but after spending time over there I can say the trip has had a positive impact on me. Seeing the difference between the mountain village and the mega city of Jakarta, I feel I can appreciate the simple things in life and not take for granted what God has blessed me with.

Joshua B

The Indonesian Study Tour was such an incredible experience. It definitely impacted my view of my day-to-day life in so many ways. I learnt so much about our neighbours, and how similar they are to us. I loved visiting the local schools, staying in the mountain village and learning about traditional Indonesian culture.

Emma L