In an effort to enhance students’ English proficiency and broaden their international outlook, Al-Siddiq International Secondary School has launched a programme titled “Learning Beyond Borders.” The programme features a native speaker, Ms. Fatimah Az Zahra, from the United States, who has extensive experience in teaching English, particularly in Indonesia.
Ms. Fatimah Az Zahra is an educator with over eight years of teaching experience in various educational institutions across Indonesia, including both formal schools and language centres. She is well known for her interactive and communicative teaching approach, which helps students feel more confident when speaking English.
The programme aims to provide students with a deeper and more authentic language-learning experience, enabling them to master English skills comprehensively within a global context.
The presence of a native speaker offers a unique learning opportunity, as students can interact directly with a natural English user, experience the dynamics of everyday conversation, and improve their pronunciation and listening comprehension in real time. This initiative aligns with the school’s mission to prepare students for global challenges in the modern era.
“We believe that learning a language is not just about theory, but also about practice and real-life experience. By inviting a native speaker, our students can learn to communicate naturally and understand the cultural context embedded in the language,”
said Mr. Yusuf Yudhana, Head of Al-Siddiq International Junior High School.
Throughout the programme, students participated in various interactive activities, including conversations, Q&A sessions, and real-life English simulations. Through this approach, students not only improved their language skills but also gained greater confidence in communication.
One of the students, Tama from Year 8, shared his enthusiasm:
“I’m really happy to be able to speak directly with a native speaker. It gave me the chance to test my skills and learn how to speak more naturally.”
With initiatives like this, Al-Siddiq International Secondary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering high-quality, globally oriented education. It is hoped that through this valuable learning experience, students will further develop their English skills and be well-prepared to compete in an increasingly globalised world.
By Bagus Asri Wibawa, B.A., LL.B