Our Philosophy
Our Philosophy
At Bumi Kecil, we empower children to be capable, curious learners by embracing a strength-based approach to teaching.
We recognize that every child brings unique skills, perspectives, and ideas to the learning environment, and we honour their ability to take an active role in their own education.
Our teachers serve as guides and co-learners, fostering a dynamic exchange where both students and educators have the opportunity to teach and be taught. This reciprocal approach nurtures confidence, creativity, and a sense of shared discovery, reinforcing the belief that learning is a lifelong journey enriched by collaboration and mutual respect.
Explore Bumi Kecil’s philosophy inspired by Reggio Emilia principles and learn more about our four Core Values.
Our Four Core Values
1. Learning
Our approach to teaching is grounded in student-driven learning, with ample opportunities for students to ask questions, investigate, and discover new things at their own pace. Our curriculum is designed to let students express themselves through many languages which unleash creativity and imagination, such as arts, drama, music, and movement. Throughout our curriculum, each student is encouraged to share their interests and let their abilities shine. We strive to create an environment that allows students to follow their passions as well as forge new paths on their journey of lifelong learning.
2. Play
At Bumi Kecil, we take play seriously because we recognize the immense value in unstructured play in a child's development. Through play, children acquire essential cognitive, social, and emotional skills while exploring their imagination and problem-solving abilities. Play enables children to experiment, make choices, and learn from their mistakes in a safe and enjoyable environment. During play, children are developing language as they communicate, negotiate, and collaborate with peers. The social skills cultivated during play, such as sharing, empathy, and teamwork, are invaluable for building positive relationships later in life. We view play as not merely a pastime but a critical tool that equips children with the skills and resilience necessary to navigate the complexities of the world.
3. Nature
Bumi Kecil is nestled among the trees on the beautiful island of Gili Air, providing a unique opportunity for students to safely connect with the natural world as a part of their classroom. Nature offers a rich sensory environment that stimulates a child's curiosity and creativity. Exploring in nature allows our students to develop their fine and gross motor skills, from digging in the soil to climbing trees which enhances their physical capabilities. Through hands-on experiences in our outdoor classroom and inclusion of natural materials as manipulatives in our indoor classroom, we support students in developing a sense of wonder about the world around them. We believe this leads to respect for the environment and environmental stewardship from a young age.
4. Community
We believe that education is a collaborative endeavor involving not only students and teachers but also families and the local community. At Bumi Kecil, our island's global cultural diversity and local Indonesian culture is celebrated. Through our emergent curriculum, we embrace the cultural tapestry of our community, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect for different traditions and backgrounds. We encourage open communication, family involvement, and community engagement to cultivate a diverse learning environment and foster multicultural understanding. Bumi Kecil strives to be a place where students feel proud to be who they are, make meaningful connections with those around them, and make a positive impact on their greater community.
What inspires us?
Bumi Kecil recognizes that there are many ways to approach early childhood education. We have found that the principles of the Reggio Emilia Approach align most with our educational philosophy.
The Reggio Emilia Approach
Originating in the Italian town of Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia-inspired schools are renowned for their innovative and child-centered approach to education which emphasizes respect, responsibility, and community involvement. Like schools in Reggio Emilia, we prioritize the child as an active and capable learner. We foster creativity, curiosity, and a deep sense of wonder by creating a stimulating environment filled with natural materials, open-ended art supplies, and documentation of children’s learning journeys. Collaboration between educators, families, and the community is central, promoting a strong sense of community involvement.
At Bumi Kecil, children are encouraged to express themselves through various “languages” or forms of communication, including art, music, and movement, allowing them to explore their interests and construct their own knowledge. We also emphasize the environment as the “third teacher” in which the classroom setting and selection of materials play an important role in how students engage with learning, relying on natural materials and tools to promote exploration and open-ended play.
Find out more about The Reggio Emilia Approach here or watch the video below.
Building a Greener Tomorrow
At Bumi Kecil, we believe in fostering a sustainable and eco-friendly environment for our students to thrive. Embracing an ecological approach, we go beyond traditional education by integrating green practices into every aspect of our school. From the wooden toys in our classrooms to the use of homemade organic cleaning products for a healthier environment, our commitment to sustainability is resolute.
Our classrooms are illuminated with energy-efficient LED light bulbs, and we opt for rechargeable batteries to minimize waste. Embracing the cycle of nature, our toilet and bin bags are crafted from cassava, ensuring they are 100% biodegradable. A water refill station is available to all students, encouraging a conscious effort to reduce single-use plastic. Additionally, we collaborate with suppliers who share our vision, urging them to deliver items in carton boxes, eliminating unnecessary plastic waste.
Join us in creating a greener, brighter future for the next generation at Bumi Kecil. Together, we sow the seeds of knowledge and sustainability.
At Bumi Kecil, we nurture big dreams, curious minds, and kind hearts in a one-of-a-kind setting. Join us in creating a childhood filled with adventures and a love for learning.