School Opening Celebration

On 14 September 2026, Wellington College Independent School Jakarta celebrated its school opening, bringing together founding families, school leaders and distinguished guests to mark a shared milestone.

Learning had already been underway since 18 August, so the celebration was less a beginning than a chance to pause — to recognise the commitment behind the school's establishment, and the community now bringing it to life.

We were delighted to welcome Mr. Tommy Suryopratomo, Chairperson of the Foundation's Board of Trustees; Mr. Paul Vanni, International Director of Wellington College International; and Ms. Sophie Freeland-Haynes, Country Director for Indonesia at the Department for Business and Trade, alongside other distinguished guests.

Together with CEO Mr. Tan Wee Han and Founding Head of School Melissa Meyers, they returned again and again to a single ambition: a school where academic learning, character and a sense of belonging grow together.

The Unity Choir sang in English, Chinese and Bahasa Indonesia. A ribbon was cut, a tree was planted, and families spread out across the campus to explore it and spend time with the school community.

At the heart of this beginning are our founding pupils and families. A favourite story discovered, a first friend made — these small moments are what shape the everyday life and character of Wellington College Jakarta.

In his address, Mr. Paul Vanni reminded everyone to appreciate the present, quoting Oogway:

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present."

Our thanks go to everyone who joined us, to the teachers, staff and partners whose care has brought the school to life, and to our founding families for their trust and partnership.

This is only the first chapter, and we look forward to welcoming more families into our growing community.