How strong English development is built into everyday learning

For many families, English development is one of the most important factors when choosing an international education. The key question is not only how well children will learn English, but how consistently and meaningfully it will develop over time. 

At Nord Anglia School Jakarta (NAS Jakarta), English is not treated as a separate subject that sits alongside the curriculum. Instead, it is embedded into everyday learning through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), ensuring that language development is continuous, contextual, and academically purposeful. 

 

English development through connected learning 

 

One of the most effective ways to build strong communication skills is to use language in meaningful contexts. Within the IPC, English is integrated across subjects so that children apply what they learn in real situations. For example, after completing a unit on homes and houses, Year 4 students visited traditional Indonesian houses during their residential trip and discussed their learning with local people. One class then showcased their understanding through a themed assembly, reinforcing both their knowledge and communication skills. 

David Webb, Milepost Leader and IPC campaign leader, explains how this works in practice. “In the IPC, English language skills grow naturally through all lessons. English lessons often use knowledge from IPC units, and IPC lessons require children to apply the grammar and writing skills they have been practising.” 

This integrated approach ensures that language learning is not isolated. Instead, it becomes part of how students think, explore, and communicate across all areas of learning. 

 

Inquiry-based learning that strengthens communication skills 

 

Inquiry-based learning plays a central role in developing language. As students explore topics, ask questions, and share ideas, they are required to use English in increasingly sophisticated ways. 

Within IPC units, children engage in a wide range of reading, writing, and speaking activities. These are carefully designed to build both understanding and expression. 

“Children might read historical documents, scientific articles, or explanatory texts linked to their topic,” David Webb explains. “They then apply this understanding through writing and discussion.” 

For example, in one unit, students explored the history of chocolate and were asked to write a letter from the Aztec leader Montezuma to Hernán Cortés. This task required them to combine historical knowledge with specific writing techniques, reinforcing both subject understanding and language development. 

Through these experiences, children expand their vocabulary, refine sentence structures, and develop the confidence to communicate their ideas clearly. 

 

Project-based learning that applies language in real contexts 

 

Project-based learning ensures that English is used for a clear purpose. Rather than completing isolated exercises, students apply their language skills to tasks that require explanation, analysis, and reflection. 

Writing tasks may include reports, discussion texts, or reflective pieces. Speaking opportunities are embedded through presentations, group discussions, and collaborative work. 

“As children explain, analyse, and discuss topics, they naturally develop their vocabulary and speaking abilities,” David Webb notes. 

This approach supports deeper learning. Language is not only practised, but applied, making it more likely to be retained and used confidently in new situations. 

It also develops key 21st century skills, including critical thinking and collaboration, which rely on strong communication. 

 

Teacher guidance that supports accurate and confident use of English 

 

A key factor in successful language development is the role of the teacher. At NAS Jakarta, teachers actively model and guide language use throughout the learning process. 

“Teachers model new vocabulary by using it in sentences across different contexts, before inviting the children to have a go. They may first start with a 'Talk Partner' before sharing their ideas with a group or the whole class,” David Webb explains. 

This modelling ensures that students are exposed to accurate grammar, varied vocabulary, and clear sentence structures. Teachers then support students in applying this language independently. 

Over time, this leads to steady and measurable progress. Students move from simple expression to more complex and precise communication, both in writing and in speech. 

 

A structured approach to long-term language development 

 

Strong English development does not happen by chance. It requires a consistent, structured approach that links language to learning across the curriculum. 

At Nord Anglia School Jakarta, the integration of English within inquiry-based learning and project-based learning ensures that communication skills develop naturally and progressively. Students are given regular opportunities to read, write, speak, and reflect in meaningful contexts. 

For parents considering future pathways, this provides reassurance. Children are not only learning English as a subject. They are developing the ability to use it confidently in academic, social, and real-world situations. 

Families who would like to understand more about how English development is supported in daily learning are always welcome to speak with the academic team and explore how language is built into every stage of the curriculum at NAS Jakarta.