On quality education

On quality education

I read with interest Mochtar Buchori's article on Quality Schools in The Jakarta Post of April 19, 1995 and was pleased that the British International School was considered of this standing. We value quality at all times and are continually striving to make our provision more responsive to the needs of parents and pupils and more relevant to the challenges to be faced by our students in the technological world which awaits them.

As a Head Teacher with many years experience of the State Education system in Scotland, I support Mr Buchori's stance that 'quality education' should not and need not be the sole domain of the private school nor the entitlement of the rich. Every country must invest in its young people -- a 'quality education' is one of the greatest gifts one can receive. I would agree again with Mr Buchori when he assesses the relevant importance of educational aids, facilities and teachers in this process. Although all are important, the latter is unquestionably the key to success. 'Quality teachers' throughout the world are capable of inspiring pupils despite environments lacking in many of the resources which teachers in my current school and schools like it, would take for granted.

The British International School is, and always has been, keen to explore ways of contributing to the local Indonesian community. If Mr Buchori would care to contact me I would be very happy to consider ways in which the expertise and facilities available at the British International School could be used to assist him in his vital mission, namely the training of Indonesia's future teachers.

JOHN H BIRCHALL

Headmaster

British International School

Jakarta