International Connections
Rooted in our History
In 2005, our exchange program expanded to include Raj Yamuna Junior High School under the leadership of Mrs Cheryl Gutmanis, with the support of then Principal, Mr Matthew Hughes. Named after the founder’s children, Raj Yamuna has since hosted and welcomed JSR students and staff on more than 25 occasions, strengthening long‑standing connections between Indonesia and Australia.
More recently, in 2023, Principal Mr Bartell, Mr Cook and Mrs Edwards formalised a partnership with Widhya Asih Melaya Orphanage in Bali. This initiative enables students from the orphanage to participate in exchange experiences, supported through our fundraising efforts and community generosity.
These programs are designed to foster cultural understanding, language development and meaningful relationships. Many of the connections formed have endured well beyond graduation. Building on this strong foundation, JSR has now signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with Sheng Lan School in Hangzhou, China, creating further opportunities for Mandarin learners to engage in authentic cultural exchange.
Tours & Exchange Programs
Indonesian Tour
Established in 2000, this annual tour provides students — particularly those studying Bahasa Indonesia — with the opportunity to experience authentic Indonesian culture beyond typical tourist settings. Led by Mr Brendon Cook and Mrs Carleen Edwards, students visit partner schools and orphanages, participate in cultural activities, and travel across Indonesia. A highlight of the tour is time spent at Widhya Asih Melaya Orphanage, an experience so meaningful that many students choose to return in subsequent years.
Staff Indonesian Tour
Every few years, JSR staff head to Widhya Asih Melaya for service-based projects. In 2020, 2025, and 2026, staff helped build animal pens, painted dorms and halls, and even cooked meals for the children. These trips leave a lasting impact, inspiring others to join future tours.
Exchange Programs with Harapan, Raj Yamuna & Widhya Asih Melaya
Through formal Memorandums of Understanding with partner institutions, students and staff from Indonesia and JSR participate in reciprocal annual visits. Host families warmly welcome visiting students, fostering meaningful cultural exchange and lasting friendships as languages and traditions are shared. Through these experiences, JSRACS students develop a sense of pride as ambassadors for both the School and Australia.
China Tour
Launching in 2025, this new international tour offers students the opportunity to travel to Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an and Hangzhou. The program supports the development of Mandarin language skills, engagement with significant historical and cultural sites, and connection with our partner school in China, laying the foundation for future reciprocal exchange opportunities.
