It was useful in providing connections with older students with younger students. One of the parents requested if there was extra tutoring available for her daughter, and through Semangat Club, we were able to organise an older student to tutor her that she already knew. She was very happy with the outcomes, additionally because she felt that her daughter could develop connections with older students at the school, and have good role models available to assist her child.
Some of the students wanted to attend Indonesian Film Festival on a Saturday; we invited parents along to the film festival as well, however most of the students did not want their parents there (Typical of teenagers!). However, parents were very supportive of an activity, because they felt it was educational but also fun for the students. They were happy to pick up their children from the train station, and thanked me for organising the excursion. This I did not expect, but it was lovely to hear anyway.
The students developed a website which we shared with their parents, keeping them updated with what we are doing in the club. For example, we uploaded photos of the students at their cooking activity, or anything relevant (password access only). Adolescent teens often forget to communicate these things to their parents, and I had some parents have message me via Coneqtp, saying thank you for sharing, and they enjoyed looking at the pictures. http://semangatclub.jimdo.com/
The students also want to run a short course for their parents and other adult learners after school. We are currently trying to work something out for next term.
Overall, developing the Semangat Club has enabled better connections between the students, families and myself as a teacher. The informality of meeting parents has helped the languages department develop a stronger and positive connection with parents. Parents feel more able to support me as a teacher, and see the commitment of the students towards learning about Indonesia.