Uluwatu School: A New International School in Uluwatu, Bali (2026 Guide)

Looking for an international school in Uluwatu? Uluwatu School, in Pecatu on the Bukit Peninsula, now teaches children from Grade 1 to Grade 8 (ages 6 to 14), with an English-language programme built around ocean literacy and wellbeing.

For years, families living in Uluwatu faced the same daily problem: the best-known international schools were in Canggu, Sanur or Denpasar, often a long drive away in traffic. Uluwatu School changes that equation for the Bukit. Here is what parents need to know, and what it means if you are thinking of moving to, or buying a home in, Uluwatu.

A School Built by and for the Uluwatu Community

Uluwatu School was founded by a group of parents and educators who wanted a progressive school close to home. It opened in August 2025 and, since August 2026, teaches Grades 1 to 8. An upper school for Grades 9 to 12 is part of the long-term plan.

It is a co-educational day school, teaching in English and welcoming both Indonesian and international learners. It is not tied to one national system, and it is in the process of becoming an accredited SPK school (Satuan Pendidikan Kerjasama), the Indonesian status for cooperative international schools.

The campus, originally a private property and arts studio, has been turned into learning spaces with ocean views, gardens linked to the classrooms, a library and an 18-metre swimming pool.

Curriculum: Inquiry-Led Learning and Ocean Literacy

Uluwatu School follows a bespoke curriculum guided by four aspirations: Curiosity, Connection, Collaboration and Contribution. Lessons are place-based and inquiry-led, with competency standards benchmarked to the UK literacy curriculum and US Common Core maths. A social and emotional learning programme (SEEL), developed at Emory University, is part of daily school life.

What sets it apart is ocean literacy. The programme draws on the UN Ocean Literacy Principles, and the Uluwatu coastline becomes a living classroom: tides, currents, marine life and conservation are part of everyday learning. Natural sciences and creative arts complete the core.

Surfing, Skateboarding and Life Beyond the Classroom

The extracurricular programme reflects the Uluwatu lifestyle. Activities listed by the school include surfing, ocean training, swimming and skateboarding, alongside chess, science club, reading club, sketch club, capoeira, choir and band.

Uluwatu School Fees and Admissions

For the 2026/27 school year, annual tuition for international learners ranges from IDR 124,800,000 (Grades 1–2) to IDR 156,000,000 (Grades 7–8). Families should also budget for:

• an annual capital levy (IDR 20,000,000) and materials levy (IDR 4,000,000), which bring the yearly total to roughly IDR 148,800,000–IDR 180,000,000;
• one-time application and registration fees (IDR 3,000,000 and IDR 12,000,000);
• a refundable deposit of IDR 10,000,000.

Lower tuition rates apply to Indonesian learners, and a sibling discount is available once all siblings have completed a full year at the school. Always check the school’s official fee schedule before enrolling.

Depending on age, children may be invited to an observation or informal assessment to confirm grade placement and any learning support needed. Some grades fill up: when a class reaches capacity, the school runs a waitlist, and its admissions policy gives priority to siblings and to children living within the school’s catchment area.

The school day runs from 9:00 am to 3:15 pm. The school does not list a bus service and encourages car-sharing, so families should plan daily transport: another reason why living close to Pecatu makes a real difference.

Virtual Open Day: Wednesday 11 November 2026, 4:00 pm Bali time (UTC+8). Registration is through the school’s official website.

What a New School Means for Living in Uluwatu

For families, the choice of school often decides the choice of neighbourhood. With a primary and middle school now on the Bukit, Uluwatu becomes a more practical base for families who want ocean, space and a calmer pace without long school runs. Road projects such as the South Ring Road should also make getting around Pecatu easier over time.

Pecatu, Bingin, Padang Padang, Ungasan and Jimbaran all sit within reach of the school, each with a different budget and lifestyle. Before choosing, families should look at:

• The real school-run time at 8:30–9:00 am, not just the distance on a map.
• Long-term rental vs purchase: renting first is often the smart way to test an area.
• Title and zoning: leasehold, PT PMA or other structures each carry different implications for foreign buyers.
• Family-ready features: secure garden, pool fencing, space for a home office.

Looking for a Family Home Near Uluwatu School?

Bali Exception helps families find villas and land in Uluwatu and across the Bukit, and coordinates title checks and notary liaison for every purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uluwatu School

Bali Exception is not affiliated with Uluwatu School. School information reflects publicly available sources at the time of publication; always confirm fees, grades and admissions directly with the school. This article is not legal or investment advice.

Featured photo: © Uluwatu School, used with permission.