Mirella Pandjaitan
Feb 18, 2026
It was a wistful Sunday, shadows stretching across the campus, yet beneath the overcast sky, anticipation hummed through every corridor and courtyard, for the community knew that this would be a day unlike any other.
After nearly a year and a half hiatus, the British School Jakarta (BSJ) annual Country Fair has returned on Sunday, 8th February 2025, a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of connection. Led by the BSJ Parent Community Association (PCA), the fair transformed the campus into an exuberant affair: a playful haven where games, food, and laughter intertwine, and where students, parents, and staff alike gather to mingle, connect, and revel in the sense of family that defines BSJ.
“This year feels particularly special,” admitted Stevi, the Chair of BSJ PCA, while her eyes alight with pride. “Country Fair is more than just an event. It’s a cherished tradition at British School Jakarta, a moment when our entire community comes together.”
The Country Fair was truly a moment when the school came alive. A vast mixture of indoor and outdoor areas of the campus was humming in waves of laughter, cheers, and ongoing chats that overshadowed the tropical humidity. Children were engulfed in the array of exciting games as parents sat by the green spaces where bean bags and a stage of fearless students, staff, and fellow parents performed sing-a-longs. Food was a total hit, ranging from international fare to local favourites. Inflatable bouncy castles adorned a quieter side of the fair.
BSJ students have been eagerly anticipating it. They were seen gleaming in support of each other, enjoying the live band stage, and participating with friends. One of the members of the PCA, Rinda, chimed in that her favourite part of the fair would have been the kids. “Seeing them laugh, play, and share moments with their friends and family—it’s priceless,” she shared. Even adults can vouch for this splendid Sunday, just how the end of the week should always be.
The PCA comprises volunteer parents who come together, and their main purpose is to build community. Over the years, the Country Fair has become their flagship event—drawing 3,000 to 4,000 people. Yet everything paused due to the pandemic. One of BSJ’s main goals this year was to bring the community back together, as the Interim Principal of BSJ, Phil Edwards, emphasised, “Community is the heartbeat of any international school, especially at BSJ.
“At least 65 to 70 percent of our parents are from overseas. For many, the school is their home base. They rely on it for consistency and support. Events like this allow families to forge friendships, strengthen relationships, and feel truly rooted in the school,” he disclosed.
Despite the unpredictability of February weather, Stevi’s optimism shone through. “I told the team, don’t worry about rain—it’s the spirit that matters. And indeed, the day unfolded beautifully.”
Stevi reflected both gratitude and admiration for the PCA team. Their collective dedication, support, and camaraderie make everything possible. Without them, it was evident that none of this could happen. “We have an incredible team, diverse and talented, as each member contributed their own expertise. Rinda, for example, crafted the entire game zone by hand, while others managed finances, logistics, and fundraising with precision and care. It’s this collaboration that makes the event truly exceptional.”
The British School Jakarta Country Fair is more than a festive gathering—it’s a living celebration of community, creativity, and joy. It’s where tradition meets togetherness, where expertise meets passion, and where every laugh, game, and shared meal becomes a moment to treasure.
Phil glistened at the conversations streaming along the day. “This isn’t about fundraising—it’s purely about connection. After years of missed opportunities to gather, this fair is a chance to reconnect, to celebrate our shared home. Those personal interactions are the essence,” he concluded.
