Juliana Siahaan
Dec 10, 2025
British School Jakarta Officially Opens The Arena:
Indonesia’s First and Only Covered School Football Field
British School Jakarta (BSJ) officially opened The Arena, the first and only covered football field in an Indonesian school. This milestone strengthens BSJ’s commitment to creating world-class environments that inspire learning, movement, wellbeing, and community connection.
More than 500 participants from BSJ and the wider community joined the celebration, which featured an opening ceremony, sports competitions, a food bazaar, and a sunset movie screening to close the day.
BSJ Interim Principal Phil Edwards opened the ceremony by sharing the school’s vision for the new facility. “The Arena is a space for our community to come together, to grow, and to learn,” he said. “It opens new possibilities—not only for sports, but also for learning, assemblies, and community events. From the architecture to the striking design of the building. This space has been designed with care and intention. We hope that this space will give our students a stage to discover who they are and who they can become.”
Chair of the BSJ Board of Governors, James Bryson, highlighted the facility’s significance. “The Arena is a one-of-a-kind venue not only in South Tangerang but across Indonesia,” he said. “It will host sports, cultural events, and community programmes—and every student, parent, staff member, and neighbour will benefit from what this space offers.” He also expressed gratitude to BSJ families, adding, “This would not have been possible without the trust and support of our parents. We are truly grateful.”
Head of the Sports Division, Youth and Sports Office (Dispora) of South Tangerang City, Sodikin conveyed the city’s appreciation and enthusiasm for BSJ’s contribution to the community. “On behalf of the South Tangerang City Government, I would like to extend my congratulations and appreciation to BSJ for the inauguration of The Arena—a sports and community facility that is not only impressive in its physical form but also carries the powerful spirit of ‘feel the energy, live the connection,’” he said. He noted that the facility aligns with the city’s commitment to strengthening community bonds and promoting student wellbeing.
Assistant Deputy for Sports Culture Development Personnel and Organisation, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Chairil Adha emphasised the national value of such initiatives. “The Arena symbolises BSJ’s commitment to education, health, and character development,” he stated. “Collaboration like this is vital to building an inclusive and sustainable sports ecosystem. We hope this facility will nurture future athletes, inspire innovative learning, and serve as a positive hub for the wider community.”
Phil concluded, “We hope The Arena becomes more than a building—a place where memories are made, confidence grows, and our traditions continue to evolve with a modern touch.”
At its heart, The Arena was built as a place where students can truly thrive. As a school where wellbeing is woven into every aspect of the learning experience, BSJ designed the facility to support students’ physical, social, emotional, and academic development. The Arena offers a safe, inspiring, and intentionally crafted space where every student can explore their potential, connect with others, and grow with confidence.
