What's Up CIS

The evolution of education in the era of globalization demands that the younger generation be not only academically brilliant but also adaptive, internationally minded, and deeply rooted in strong character. In Gresik Regency, particularly in rapidly growing areas like Menganti, the demand for international-standard educational institutions continues to rise.

One educational institution that has successfully met this challenge is Chalidana Islamic School (CIS). Through a unique blend of Islamic values and formal global standards, CIS delivers an international program based on the Cambridge Curriculum. However, amid the rise of modern schools, what truly sets the implementation of the Cambridge Curriculum at CIS apart from the rest?

The following is an in-depth review of the unique advantages and characteristics that make CIS stand out in Gresik.

1. The Integration of Three Pillars: National, Cambridge, and Islamic Values

Many international schools focus entirely on foreign curricula to the point of neglecting local identity or spiritual values. CIS distinguishes itself by implementing a balanced, integrated curriculum to achieve its core vision: shaping students to become Confident Muslims, Innovative Citizens, and Smart Leaders.

Cambridge Curriculum (International): At the primary school level, CIS adopts core subjects from the Cambridge International Curriculum, namely English, Mathematics, and Science. This curriculum trains students to think critically, analytically, and develop problem-solving skills from an early age.

National Curriculum: CIS maintains patriotism and compliance with Indonesian educational standards through mandatory subjects such as Indonesian Language (Bahasa Indonesia), Civic Education (PKn), and Social Studies (IPS).

Islamic Curriculum: The school nurtures students' spirituality through the teachings of Fiqh, Aqidah & Akhlak, as well as daily worship routines, including congregational Dhuha, Dhuhur, and Asr prayers, followed by collective dhikr.

2. Bilingual Program and a Vibrant English-Speaking Environment

Adopting the Cambridge Curriculum means committing to the mastery of an international language. At CIS, English is not just a subject tested on paper; it is the primary language of instruction for international subjects.

To support this ecosystem, CIS recruits professional educators who are not only experts in their respective fields (such as Science or Mathematics) but also possess verified English proficiency and a strong commitment to communicating actively in English within the school environment. This creates a natural bilingual atmosphere, allowing students to become accustomed to hearing, thinking, and speaking in English with confidence.

3. The UMMI Method for a Strong Qur'anic Foundation

To balance the global capabilities provided by the Cambridge framework, CIS ensures that the understanding of the Al-Qur'an is never sidelined. CIS utilizes the UMMI Method for Al-Qur'an learning. This method is widely recognized for its child-friendly, effective approach that prioritizes high-quality, fluent (tartil) recitation. Through the Tartil & Tahfidz program (with memorization targets such as Juz 30), students are not only prepared to win international science competitions but also grow into Muslims who love and guard the Al-Qur'an.

4. Modern Facilities to Support Active Learning

The Cambridge Curriculum emphasizes active learning and exploration. To support this, the CIS campus located in Puri Safira Regency, Menganti, Gresik—for both its Preschool and Primary levels, which have both earned an 'A' Accreditation—is equipped with modern facilities designed to maintain high learning performance.

From comfortable classrooms and safe play areas to digital innovations like the CIS Digital Library—a digital repository that allows students to access high-quality literature anytime and anywhere—the school actively fosters lifelong learning skills.

5. A Proven Track Record of Achievements

The quality of the blended curriculum at CIS is proven by the various achievements garnered by its students. CIS Menganti students consistently secure prestigious awards in both international academic and religious competitions. As a concrete example, at the East Java Festival Anak Gemilang, the CIS delegation successfully brought home dozens of championship trophies across categories like the Science Olympiad, English Olympiad, Mathematics Olympiad, and the Tahfidz Qur’an competition. This serves as valid proof that the Cambridge and Islamic curricula at CIS run hand-in-hand to produce competitive students.

The Essence of CIS What sets Chalidana Islamic School (CIS) apart in delivering the Cambridge Curriculum in Gresik is harmony. CIS does not merely adopt Cambridge textbooks and exams; rather, it seamlessly integrates them with the cultivation of noble character and Islamic leadership skills.

For parents in Gresik and the surrounding areas seeking a world-class education without compromising their children’s Islamic spiritual values, CIS stands as the definitive answer and a new benchmark for today’s international Islamic schools.