Education Destination Malaysia: Guide to International & Private Schools (2020-2021 Edition)

Pre-University and Beyond

PRE-UNIVERSITY
AND BEYOND

Malaysia offers a variety of options for students
seeking to continue their studies beyond secondary
school. This section puts the spotlight on some
pre-university pathways and overseas universities to
enable you to discover what they have to offer.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 189

Pre-University and Beyond

WHAT
IS
AUSMAT?

Johann Cheong,
Lecturer at Methodist
College Kuala Lumpur,
provides some insight
on the Australian
Matriculation (AUSMAT).

The Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) is The ATAR is the main consideration for admission
an internationally recognised pre-university to undergraduate programmes at all universities. In
programme. It is a one-year programme Malaysia, there are currently about one thousand
that follows a continuous assessment design: students taking the AUSMAT programme.
50% school-based coursework and 50% external
examinations. This uses the same structure that What are the advantages
Western Australian students are offered in their Year of studying AUSMAT?
12 Curriculum.
AUSMAT offers students a seamless transition into
In AUSMAT, students normally take five subjects: four some of the world’s top universities, including Ivy
subjects of the student’s choice, plus one compulsory League universities in the United States of America,
English module. Students hand in coursework in and the United Kingdom. Not confined to Australia or
frequent cycles through the year, which includes New Zealand, AUSMAT prepares students for global
quizzes, projects, investigations, and experiments. higher education, including top private universities
This coursework also prepares them for their written in Malaysia. It also opens doors to a wide range of
examinations at the end of the year. career paths, allowing students to choose from an
array of subjects to build a diverse knowledge base.

After successfully completing the programme, Besides being globally recognised, AUSMAT
students receive the Western Australian Certificate of also offers several other advantages compared
Education (WACE), issued by the School Curriculum to its alternatives. Its one-year duration is ideal
and Standards Authority (SCSA), on behalf of the for students who want an accelerated path for
Western Australian Government. The marks of a education. In a fast-paced world, today’s students
student’s best subjects are totalled up, and the prefer to make quick progress in their education and
student is awarded the Australian Tertiary Admission emerge sooner as competitive candidates. Under
Rank (ATAR), which summarises their performance AUSMAT’s continuous assessment structure, these
against that year’s student cohort. For example, an students also tend to be better prepared for higher
ATAR of 90 indicates that the student has performed education. Universities often prefer coursework
as well as, or better than, 90% of the whole cohort. over examinations when they assess students, and

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Pre-University and Beyond

“In AUSMAT, students normally
take five subjects: four subjects
of the student’s choice, plus one
compulsory English module.”

AUSMAT students have a head start in adapting to sciences, you might choose: English, Mathematics
this style of assessment. Applications, Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology.
Students are advised to browse through the usual
The benefits are not only academic or career-related. entry requirements of universities and degree
Under different teaching and evaluation methods, programmes.
AUSMAT students also develop a flexible and broad
mindset, learning soft skills in teamwork, self- Is AUSMAT the right programme for me?
expression, and leadership. All of these skills apply to
life and the workplace! Lastly, AUSMAT is one of the AUSMAT can be well suited for particular kinds
most cost-effective options for pre-university study, of students. Students who prefer to study out of
and its duration can mean lower living and travel interest or intellectual curiosity will find it appealing.
expenses overall. Those who excel at continuous work, and dislike
the pressure of ‘one-sitting’ assessments, will find
What subjects can I choose AUSMAT’s 50/50 split to be more balanced and
to study in AUSMAT? rewarding.

There is a wide variety of subjects to choose from, Students who enjoy studying independently, and
and the programme allows students some flexibility who are dynamic and adaptable, will also appreciate
in this regard. For example, by combining the AUSMAT. This requires strong organisation skills and
sciences with the humanities, you can keep your eye the ability to manage your time well. On the other
on different career paths and your options remain hand, group projects and discussions provide the
open. Or, you can continue experimenting and space for you to develop flexibility in team building,
discovering your strengths, preferences, and work and in navigating differences in background and
style as you proceed. personalities effectively.

The subjects you can choose range from Accounting The programme also encourages students to
& Finance, Psychology, Economics, and Business strategise in seeking out available resources to
Management & Enterprise, to three tiers of improve. These include traditional materials like
Mathematics (Applications/Methods/Specialist), textbooks, examination papers, and revision guides.
Applied Information Technology, Physics, Biology, But this also involves online, library, and multimedia
and Chemistry. It is worth bearing in mind that research, and supports multiple learning styles and
the subjects offered will differ between colleges. individual ways of working.
Because of how ATAR is calculated, any student is
encouraged to choose subjects according to his Students or parents should consider AUSMAT if they
passion and strengths, rather than out of peer or seek a globally recognised programme that is robust,
economic pressure. Choosing a subject outside of academically challenging, and can cater to students’
your interests might have a negative effect on your diverse strengths and interests. The programme is
ATAR, while a subject that excites you – and that you not only affordable, it also strengthens the likelihood
are confidently skilled at – will benefit your ranking. of students gaining entry into local and international
universities especially to those in Australia, but
That being said, another thing to bear in mind are the equally to various other countries across the world.
entry requirements for any future degree programme Students who have gone through AUSMAT are
or field you plan to enter. For example, if you want generally very well prepared for English language-
to pursue engineering, the five subjects you will based higher education, especially overseas and the
be suggested to take are: English, Mathematics new and exciting challenges it poses.
Methods, Mathematics Specialist, Physics, and
Chemistry. If your interests lean towards life For more information, visit www.mckl.edu.my

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 191

KYUEM: BEST DESTINATION
FOR A LEVEL

Kolej Yayasan UEM (KYUEM) There is a well-equipped sickbay games field, KYUEM offers

is Malaysia’s premium A level on site, together with outstanding cultural and leisure pursuits via

college specialising in university sport and leisure facilities. a range of clubs and societies.

preparation via Cambridge Excellent academic These include Cooking club,
Assessment International achievement Model United Nations, Duke
Education (CAIE). It is the of Edinburgh Award, Malay

equivalent of a British 6th Last year’s results set a new Cultural club, MUSCOM, Christian

Form college, and is an entirely record The July 2017 and January Fellowship and an assortment of

residential, co-educational 2018 cohorts of KYUEM students subject-based societies for arts

institution. Situated in a pristine, have again set another new record and sciences. Every year, we look

quiet environment, yet only of Cambridge A-level success. We forward to college events such

70 km from KL, the beautiful had two students who enrolled as the Bangsawan competition,

campus offers everything that into Oxford University and eight to Cultural Performance Night, Diwali

a motivated and intelligent Cambridge University last year. Night, Chinese New Year Dinner

young person needs in order to and many others, all of which

develop intellectually, socially and The following outstanding results are organised and performed by

independently. We pride ourselves bear witness to the students’ students acting independently.

in providing the ideal preparation achievements: This is character-building which

and training necessary for requires time management skills

entry into any of the world’s top • 93 % of grades gained were at A*- B as they juggle their academic

universities. • 78 % of grades gained were A* - A work requirements with the fun

• 65 % of students gained at least 3 stuff in the evenings.

There are many excellent reasons A grades You are left alone, but you
for choosing to send your sons • 28 % of students gained 4 A grades will never be lonely
and daughters to KYUEM.
Qualified, experienced All KYUEM students are monitored
Here are just five of them: and dedicated staff by a personal tutor whom they

A tranquil and focussed Our teachers are all UK A-level see at least once a week. They
learning environment specialists. They are very highly also belong to one of four houses,
qualified, and the majority live on each with a dedicated House

The 50-acre KYUEM campus campus. All students are known Parent. All aspects of student

in Lembah Beringin is 100% as individuals: we practice learner- life outside of class are looked

residential with superb facilities. centred, holistic education at all after by the Student Services

There are no distractions here: times. As a specialist institution, Department, one of whose

the emphasis is on quality we only offer Cambridge AS and members is also a fully qualified

learning. Every student has a A-level examinations. All students counsellor. We take the physical

private bedroom in a variety of enter the college after completion and emotional well-being of

accommodation types, and the of SPM or IGCSE examinations. our students as seriously as

classrooms and labs are very well We are the next stage of their their academic progress. We

equipped. Students are provided educational journey, preparing welcome talented students with

with three meals a day in the them for university entrance. excellent academic records

Dining Hall, while a separate A wealth of and outstanding co-curricular
cafeteria offers alternative dining extracurricular activities backgrounds to apply at Kolej
for both students and staff. We Yayasan UEM.

have 24/7 security guard patrols In addition to an Olympic-size

and the entire campus is covered swimming pool, indoor and For more information, kindly

by a network of CCTV cameras. outdoor courts and a magnificent contact Marketing Department at

603-6460 1234 or visit

192 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com www.kyuem.edu.my



Pre-University and Beyond

THE A LEVEL

The A Level is widely offered by international
schools in Malaysia as a pre-university
qualification. Letitia Lim provides an

overview on the A Level in this article.

Overview of A Level
The Advanced Level, popularly known as A Level,
is a pre-university programme based on the British
education system. It was first introduced in 1951 in the United

Kingdom as a replacement for the Higher School Certificate
(HSC). A number of international schools that follow the
British Curriculum offer the A Level in Years 12 and 13, also

traditionally known as the Sixth Form. Students who sit
for the A Level are between 16 to 19 years old and have
just completed their (I)GCSEs. The A Level is a natural

progression for those who have a background in the
British Curriculum. Generally, students need to obtain
at least five GCSEs at grades 4 - 9 / A*- C as pre-

requisites to study A Level subjects. In Malaysia, the
A Level is commonly offered by two examination
bodies, Cambridge Assessment International

Education (CAIE) and Pearson Edexcel.

Programme Structure

A typical A Level programme can take up
to two years to complete. Based on the
structure by CAIE, the A Level is divided

into the Advanced Subsidiary (AS Level)
and A2 Level. This structure follows a
modular format as students sit for the AS

exams at the end of the first year and
the A2 Level exams at the end of the
second year. Both exams contribute

50% towards a student’s final grade.
Students have the opportunity to
retake papers at the AS Level if

needed.

On the other hand, students
who sit for the A Level under
Edexcel sit for only one final

examination at the end of
the programme, reflecting
a more linear format.

Results are graded from

194 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Pre-University and Beyond

A*, which is the highest grade, to E, which is the “A number of international
lowest grade for each subject. Most universities will schools that follow the
accept students who have completed three A Level British Curriculum offer the
subjects. However, the maximum number of A Levels A Level in Years 12 and 13,
a student can have is five. The type of subjects and also traditionally known as
the number of subjects an individual chooses to take the Sixth Form.”
is completely up to his interests and education goals.
they want to study in university and the career they
A Level Subjects wish to have in the future. Besides that, students
have the opportunity to study both humanities and
There are over 50 subjects offered under CAIE in science subjects at the same time. There is also
these areas - Creative and Professional, English a wide range of resources available to prepare for
Language and Literature, Humanities and Social the A Levels that are easily accessible. Other than
Sciences, Languages, Mathematics and Science. international schools, A Levels are offered by many
Even though a wide range of subjects are available, it private colleges, Sixth Form institutions and distance
is important to note that the subjects offered by each learning providers. Students who are academically
school is different. Before choosing to take a specific strong in school will enjoy the A Level as it is exam-
subject, students need to see if their secondary based and requires a large retention of knowledge. In
school qualifications fulfil the entry requirements addition, A Levels are considered gold standard for
needed. For example, it will be difficult to study A those who are thinking of entering universities in the
Level Chemistry or Biology if the student does not United Kingdom. A positive by-product of having A
have a strong foundation in those subjects. However, Levels is excellent English language skills as subjects
there are certain subjects, such as Economics, are taught in English and examination answers have
which can be studied by all regardless of academic to be written in English.
background.
The A Level is only one of the many pre-university
Universities generally prefer students who take a programmes available in Malaysia. Enrolling in the
broad range of A Levels. Students who are unsure right pre-university programme is a crucial first step
of what undergraduate programme they would in an individual’s higher education journey. Therefore,
like to pursue are encouraged to have A Level in it is important to ask these questions to help you
facilitating subjects to widen their options when it choose a suitable pre-university programme:
comes to university applications. These facilitating
subjects are English Literature, History, Modern a Do I want to study locally or abroad?
Languages, Classical Languages, Mathematics and a Do I want to pursue an undergraduate degree? If
Further Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry
and Geography. Students who have their minds set so, which field would I like to explore?
on a particular course can work backwards and a Do I possess the entry requirements needed for
choose the A Level combination that is required by
the course. Medicine and engineering programmes the pre-university programme?
usually require A Levels in mathematics and science a What are my learning preferences? Do I enjoy
subjects. However, students interested in pursuing
Accounting or Law do not necessarily need an studying for examinations or thrive in group work
A Level in those subjects in order to enter the and presentations?
programme. a What is my budget for pre-university studies? Are
there scholarships or financial aid available?
Advantages of A Level
Flip to page 172 - 173 for a list of international
The A Level qualification is globally recognised schools in Malaysia that offer the A Level.
and highly regarded by universities in Malaysia as
well as higher education institutions worldwide.
It gives students many options in terms of what

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 195

Pre-University and Beyond

THE IB DIPLOMA
PROGRAMME: EDUCATION
FOR A BETTER WORLD

Geneva Robinson, holding other qualifications (www.ibo.org/research).
IB Diploma These graduates consistently matriculate at their
Programme universities of choice around the world.
Coordinator at
The International School of “We are always pleased to see the credentials of the
Penang (Uplands), provides an IB Diploma Programme on the transcript. GPA is not
overview of the International nearly as important a factor in university admission
Baccalaureate Diploma as the IB Diploma,” says Marilyn McGrath, Director of
Programme and the benefits Admissions at Harvard University.
of its qualifications at pre-
university level. Dr Geoff Parks, Reader in Nuclear Engineering at
the University of Cambridge agrees, “Research by
The International School of Penang (Uplands) the University of Cambridge shows that strong
welcomes you to learn more about the IB performance in the International Baccalaureate
Diploma Programme (IBDP), universally predicts success at Cambridge.”
recognised as the best pre-university course available
for students aged 16 - 19. No matter your preferred country, university, course,
or future pathway, the IB Diploma will certainly open
IBDP by the Numbers doors to future success.

140 countries are home to schools offering the IBDP (2) Breadth and depth of learning
20 schools across Malaysia offer the IBDP In the IBDP, students choose courses from six subject
1.3 million students have graduated with the IB groups to study over the two-year programme, three
Diploma in its 52-year history at standard level and three at higher level. All subjects
3,300 universities worldwide recognise the IBDP include internally-assessed coursework and external
qualification for entrance assessments. Internal assessments range from oral
2 years is the length of the programme presentations to analysis of data collected in student-
6 subjects are required for all students, three at designed fieldwork and experimentation to creative
standard level and three at higher level and analytical written tasks. IBDP students take
16 - 19 years is the age of students undertaking the their external examinations in the second year of the
IBDP course, with an average of two papers per subject.
IBDP students are well-rounded by design, studying
Four Reasons Why the IB Diploma two languages, humanities, mathematics, science,
is the Best Preparation for University and the arts.
and Beyond
In addition, the required Extended Essay (EE)
(1) Increased academic opportunity component requires independent research through
Research shows that IB Diploma Programme an in-depth study and required Theory of Knowledge
graduates are much more likely to be enrolled at (TOK) lessons encourage students to make
top higher education institutions than entrants connections between subjects. Students write a
4,000 word formal research paper on a topic they
are passionate about, and dive deep into questions
about validity, reliability, bias, and perspectives in
knowledge across the subjects they study. No other
pre-university curriculum offers these two unique

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Pre-University and Beyond

“No matter your
preferred country,
university, course,
or future pathway,
the IB Diploma will
certainly open doors
to future success.”

opportunities. Research and critical analysis skills students integrate into their academic, personal, and
are at the heart of university study, and students will social development.
be well prepared for high level work in any discipline
after completing the IBDP. Beyond the Learner Profile, language acquisition
classes encourage an international mindset, key
(3) More than just results for increasingly globalised societies. Nearly 25% of
Through Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) students students worldwide earn not just the IB Diploma, but
learn outside the classroom and develop emotionally the Bilingual Diploma, certifying high-level skills in
and ethically as well as intellectually through written and spoken language and literary analysis.
experiences in these three strands. IBDP students
engage with the community in a wide variety of Experts and students alike agree on the benefits of
ways, from service within school to partnerships an IB education. “The IB is a 4.0 education in a 1.0
with organisations across their local regions and world,” says Dr Siva Kumari, the IB’s Director General.
internationally. Students volunteer in local hospitals “The IB prepares the students to be the creators
and schools, organise and participate in regional of the algorithm rather than the consumers of the
student conferences, and more. They learn to set algorithm.” (www.ibo.org)
goals, reflect on their actions, and connect their own
experiences in the community to their roles as global “Pursuing the IBDP has been one of the best
citizens. decisions I have made. I am nearing the end of
the two-year programme and I know that I have
Current Uplands student Yusuke Konno says, “The progressed so much as a person and that I am far
IBDP is definitely very valuable to both me and my more knowledgeable now than I was before. My
family as it allowed me to continue learning under ability to think and make educated decisions has
a world-class education programme along with my vastly improved and the content of the courses
peers and teachers with whom I have formed deep is all very relevant to the real world today, which
connections. The opportunity to keep honing my makes it very engaging. These things have given
skills and developing character is something I am me an advantage in the process of applying to
very thankful for.” universities, as US universities think very highly of
the IBDP because they know that it produces very
Though they enter the programme for its academic well-rounded, well-prepared students. I would highly,
reputation and rigor, often students identify their highly recommend the IBDP!” says current student
community engagement through CAS as the single Nicole Mitchell.
most important experience that furthered their
growth before university. The IB Diploma is specially designed to integrate
conceptual learning, international-mindedness,
(4) Graduates are globally minded, rigour, and inquiry. All aspects of the IBDP, from the
reflective critical thinkers six academic subjects to the Core of CAS, TOK, and
The IB is centred on the Learner Profile, made up EE, to the reflective nature of work with the Learner
of 10 key character traits that IB students work to Profile, combine to make the IBDP simply the best
exemplify — communicators, thinkers and inquirers. education for students aged 16-19.
They are caring, and knowledgeable. These are
just some of the aspects of the Learner Profile that For more information, visit www.uplands.org/school

(Source: Adapted from 10 Reasons why the IB Diploma Programme is ideal preparation for university (IBO, 2014))

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 197

GETTING A HEAD START
AT SUNWAY COLLEGE

Students can get a head start in Programme (CIMP); Monash In the Student Barometer
academics and extra-curricular University Foundation Year Survey (SB Autumn 2018),
activities at Sunway College with (MUFY); Sunway Foundation in the global benchmark for the
6 pre-university programmes Arts (FIA) and Sunway Foundation student experience, revealed
tailored to suit individual learning in Science and Technology (FIST). that institutions in the Sunway
needs and academic pathways. In Education Group achieved high
each programme, every attention Besides Pre-University student satisfaction for Physical
is given to students’ development. programmes, Sunway College Library and Financial Services,
also offers the Diploma in with the highest score out of 23
Pre-university studies at Accounting, Diploma in Finance, Asian institutions. A high score
Sunway College focuses on Diploma in Communication, was also achieved for Learning
delivering university preparatory Diploma in Interactive New and Living experience, highest
programmes to equip students Media; Diploma in Business out of 12 institutions surveyed in
with critical thinking and Administration, Diploma in Malaysia.
independent learning skills, Information Technology and
preparing them for admissions Diploma in Computer Science. High scores were achieved in
into premier universities all over Under Sunway TES Centre the area of living experience
the world. With the state-of- for Accountancy Excellence in accommodation, financial
art facilities and resources at (CAE), Sunway College offers support, safety, facilities and
Sunway, students will have an professional accounting transport links. For support
enriching learning experience. programmes; the Association of services, high scores were given
The academic teams’ teaching Chartered Certified Accountants by the students for financial
and learning approaches bring (ACCA), Certified Accounting services, accommodation
out students’ best academic Technician (CAT), Institute office, Muslim prayer room and
performance and leadership of Chartered Accountants in campus cafeteria. For arrival,
attributes. One of the main unique England and Wales (ICAEW) and accommodation topped the list.
aspects of the Sunway College Certificate in Finance, Accounting
pre-university studies experience and Business (CFAB). Sunway In Malaysian Quality Evaluation
is the focus on a holistic approach College also offers the Bachelor System for Private Colleges
to students’ academic and of Business Programme with (MyQuest) 2016/2017, Sunway
personal development on skills Victoria University, Australia. College received 6 stars in the
such as consistency, multitasking, college-based rating, international
time management, collaboration Sunway College, part of the student services and general
and communication. Sunway Education Group is programmes cluster with 5 stars
owned and governed by the in the Social Sciences, Business
The 6 pre-university programmes Jeffrey Cheah Foundation (JCF). and Law cluster, further proving
offered are Australian The College aims to provide itself as a leading learning
Matriculation (AUSMAT) holistic education, nurturing institution in Malaysia. The
programme; Cambridge students to be critical thinkers and College also received 6 stars in
GCE A-Level; the Canadian socially responsible citizens. MyQUEST 2014/2015. MyQUEST
International Matriculation is one of many prestigious and
not-to-be-missed ratings for
Malaysian private colleges.

198 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

MAKING CHANGE
WITH MONASH

For 60 years, we’ve been working one of the most extensive Enterprising and
to change the world, and we’re international exchange and study boundary-pushing
not about to stop. At Monash, we tour programs with opportunities
see challenges as opportunities available in 100 partnering We are continually driving
to make things better. It’s hard to universities in 30 countries across change and improvement
imagine a time when the need to the globe. and have a proud history of
make positive change has been preparing students for careers
greater than now. We want you to Group of Eight in the modern world. Integrating
help us do it. Whether you want work and industry experience
to change your life, your career, Monash University is a founding comes naturally at Monash.
your community or the world, your member of the Group of 8, You’ll develop practical expertise,
journey starts at Monash. As a comprising Australia’s leading leadership, teamwork and
university with a global footprint, universities. The breadth of our entrepreneurial skills.
we know we have to play our part academic expertise, diversity of
in solving the problems facing the student cohort, size and scale Flexibility and choice
the world. That’s why all Monash of our alumni network, and our
students, lecturers, researchers, on-campus resources all combine When it comes to study, we know
professional staff, alumni and to provide a wealth of opportunity that one size does not fit all, so we
supporters contribute to making and experience. have a wide range of courses for
real change. You, too, have the you to choose from. Whether you
opportunity to step up and make a We’re in the have a passion for the arts, are
difference. world’s top 100 focused on a career in medicine,
or want to pursue a career in the
International experience Our reputation for excellence global business world, there’s a
in education and research course to suit you.
To take on the world you need coupled with our global record
a truly international outlook. of innovation sees Monash Your journey starts here:
Monash offers students the University ranked 75th in monash.edu
opportunity to become genuine the world*. Our students are
global thinkers with campuses immersed in the highest-calibre (*Times Higher Education World
in Australia, Malaysia, China, learning environment you’ll find in University Rankings 2020).
India, and Italy. We also offer Australia.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 199

20-A13801 March 2020. Produced by Strategic Marketing and Communications, Monash University.

*Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020

Pre-University and Beyond

PREPARING FOR
UNIVERSITY

Jane Tong, Associate Professor from the School of
Business at Monash University Malaysia, contributes
some ideas on how higher education institutions can
better prepare their students for university life.

Prospective students are usually aware that Based on interviews with a group of first-year
university education will be different from their business students, Tong and Ahmad found four main
high school experience. But how ready are areas where students lacked university readiness.
they? Do secondary schools in Malaysia adequately
prepare students for tertiary education? First, the most significant challenge faced by these
first-year students was in independent learning
The sudden shift from a controlled environment and research assignments. They had little or no
(school) to a situation in which students are expected experience with such tasks, which are typically found
to be responsible for their academic progress/ in Western universities.
development can create distress. An independent
style of learning is expected in higher education but Next, almost all the students said time management
not in secondary schools. Unfortunately, study habits was a challenge too. In secondary school, they
formed in secondary school are often carried forward had not needed to manage time so effectively.
to university life. The change in practice usually In university, they now faced a large number of
happens after semester one. By then, their CGPA may assignments which increase in difficulty over
or may not be up to the standards required by the the semester. Tong and Ahmad noted that “time
university. Some will try taking extra credits, in the management is a life skill that takes time to develop”
hope of doing better and increasing their CGPA. and it would be best to teach students this skill while
in secondary school.
Risks of Underperforming at University
Third, most students wished they had a better
Students who are unable to cope with university command of English, especially in reading and
studies are at risk from under-performance and writing. Though many had graduated from a pre-
even from a drop-out. This can be very stressful university programme conducted in English, they felt
and may affect their health. Jane Terpstra-Tong and a stronger command of English would help them
Adlina Ahmad from the School of Business, Monash handle the high volume of reading, lengthy writing
University Malaysia, find “an obvious disconnect assignments, and oral presentations.
between high school education and university
requirements.”

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Pre-University and Beyond

“Skill readiness encompasses abilities
related to critical thinking, research, time
management, exam-taking, note-taking,
and communication.”

Fourth, the ‘spoon-feeding’ school systems, which from an early age that building social networks is
most Malaysian students are accustomed to, led to “a essential to survival.”
general lack of critical thinking skills.” Despite scoring
well in high school or university entrance exams, first- Readiness for University
year students may not yet be active critical thinkers.
A critical thinker raises essential questions and can They defined university readiness in terms of three
articulate well-reasoned solutions. areas: academic, skill, and psychological readiness.

As a result of these challenges, students experienced Academic readiness consists of content knowledge
much stress. However, Tong and Ahmad reported, in areas like language, mathematics, science, social
“they showed resilience and strong determination in studies, and the arts. Skill readiness encompasses
overcoming their challenges.” abilities related to critical thinking, research, time
management, exam-taking, note-taking, and
Steps to Take to Deal communication. Psychological readiness has to
with These Challenges do with the attitudes necessary for learning and
living independently, such as self-discipline and
When asked what advice they would give to incoming inquisitiveness.
students, the first-year students, they said:
• Practise good time management Several suggestions that secondary schools and
• Develop learning and study habits universities could implement to prepare students
• Seek social support and make many friends better were also provided.
• Improve in English
• Be independent The Way Forward for Universities
• Choose the right university course and Secondary Schools
• Be inquisitive
• Be ready for emotional adaptation Universities should provide impartial counselling,
• Stay healthy examine their admission requirements, and set
• Identify a good living or study environment an appropriate admission standard for English.
• Take risks and try new experiences Students whose English is on the borderline should
first complete an English bridging program before
Findings of the Study on embarking on university studies. First-year seminars
First Year Students can help them know what to expect in university and
what is expected of them. These seminars would
Among the 35 students who participated in this also cover topics such as time management. Finally,
study, 83% were Malaysian, and the rest were a writing centre could provide students with feedback
international students from mostly Asian countries. and assistance in academic writing skills.
They were recruited from two private universities:
a foreign university’s branch campus and a local Secondary schools, meanwhile, could partner with
university offering British business programs. universities to develop a curriculum. They can
encourage students as young as 15 to give serious
Most studies on the first-year adjustment have thought to their futures, what they intend to study,
focused on university students in the West. However, and what they can do to develop the full range of
Tong and Ahmad’s qualitative research provides skills needed to succeed in university. Schools can
much-needed data from an Asian sample. introduce career and study options by organising
seminars or university visits. Having a goal in mind
Compared to findings from Western countries, Tong and a realistic view of university requirements may
and Ahmad did not find the social adjustment to be help students persevere and succeed.
a significant issue for their participants. “Students
appeared to understand the instrumental value of For more information, please
friendship. This could be explained by the influence visit www.monash.edu.my
of a relationship-based culture. Asian students learn

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 203

INTRODUCING CHEF SARJU
RANAVAYA - THE CHEF WITH A
MAGIC TOUCH FOR CHOCOLATE

Starting his journey in the culinary Not alien to teaching, Chef Sarju Recently, this chocolate specialist
arts, Chef Sarju studied at and began teaching courses to has come a full circle as he has
graduated from Le Cordon Bleu professional chefs at the Taste taken up the position of a Pastry
in 2010. He then apprenticed at Lab, where he was the assistant Chef Instructor at Sunway Le
the Ritz-Carlton in London, said Pastry Chef. Together with Denis Cordon Bleu, Malaysia. Chef Sarju
to be one of the most prestigious Drame MCA (Master of Culinary is knowledgeable and known to
hotels in the world. In 2011, Arts), he ran the lab for three years be very precise in his instructions.
he then went on to work at the from 2016. Apart from teaching He is definitely very experienced
upscale Dorchestor collection in his own courses here, he also despite his youthful appearance,
45 Park Lane (this hotel hosted hosted several guest chefs for and is a great addition to the
the world-famous chef, Wolfgang workshops and demonstrations. academic faculty.
Puck’s first restaurant in Europe). That aside, Chef Sarju also
After this stint, he went to work worked with numerous suppliers Find out more about our pastry
at Brasserie Zedel, a traditional and manufacturers on research course (link: https://www.
French brasserie, serving classic and development for new cordonbleu.edu/malaysia/
French delights. Apparently, this ingredients and products. patisserie/en) and be one step
place could host up to 1200 per closer to living your dream of
night. Imagine that! During this time at the Taste becoming a baking maestro,
Lab, Chef Sarju competed in particularly in the domain of
Then in 2013, Chef Sarju joined the UK Pastry Open and was chocolate delectables.
The Berkeley in London, in the champion in the Chocolate
Knightsbridge. This luxury hotel category (yes, the rich molten that More about other courses:
is prestigious and exclusive. is to-die-for). This qualified him
It was here that Chef Sarju to represent the United Kingdom Grand Diplôme
began participating in culinary as the Chocolate candidate in the https://www.cordonbleu.edu/
competitions. He started with Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie malaysia/grand-diploma/en
local pastry and won several 2019 (This is a once in two years
awards. After The Berkeley, he global culinary competition). In Diplôme de Cuisine
iced his CV further by working this year, the UK came in at 5th https://www.cordonbleu.edu/
at The Langham Hotel, and then place, the highest ranking ever. malaysia/cuisine/en
sweetened it more at London’s And Chef Sarju won special prizes
oldest hotel, the Brown’s Hotel by for Best Sugar Display and Eco Diplôme de Boulangerie
Rocco Forte, where he reinvented Responsible. He also scored 2nd https://www.cordonbleu.edu/
the afternoon tea and transformed highest on all artistic work and malaysia/diplome-de-boulangerie/en
the pastry department to focus on overall buffet.
modern trends and entertaining Contact numbers: 03-5632 1188
guests with his specialty – sweet email address: malaysia@
delights! cordonbleu.edu

204 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com



UNIVERSITY OF
NOTTINGHAM MALAYSIA

The University of Nottingham 5,000 students and around 700 research grants has been funded C
Malaysia is described by The teaching and administrative staff from various sources in Malaysia, M
Times Good University Guide from all 85 countries. the EU and the UK, with research Y
2015 as “the nearest Britain has funding totalling RM 6 million CM
to a truly global university, with The University of Nottingham from the UK’s Newton Fund and MY
campuses in China and Malaysia is placed 99th in the world and the RCUK Global Challenges CY
modelled on a headquarters that in the top 100 of Universities Research Fund and approximately CMY
is among the most attractive in internationally by the latest 2021 RM 2 million from Yayasan Sime K
Britain”. QS World University Rankings. Darby.

The University of Nottingham Foundation, undergraduate and The Malaysian Qualifications
Malaysia opened in September postgraduate taught and research Agency has granted us self-
2000 and became the first British courses at UNM are taught within accrediting status, one of only a
university to set up a campus both 17 schools and departments limited number of universities to
outside of the UK and in Malaysia, across the faculties of Arts and be granted such an accolade.
earning The University of Social Sciences and Science and
Nottingham the Queen’s Award for Engineering. Our graduates are We offer the best of UK
Enterprise 2001 and the Queen’s highly sought after, about 90% education in an Asian setting.
Award for Industry (International employed or in further study six Our programmes are identical to
Trade) 2006. In December 2017, months after graduation* – one of those offered at The University
the Malaysia Campus was the highest graduate employment of Nottingham in the UK and
awarded with a 5-star rating for rates in Malaysia. follow the same quality assurance
the quality of its research and processes, and students are
innovation, making it among The University of Nottingham awarded University of Nottingham
the highest rated international is proud of its international degree certificates when they
university in Malaysia in The reputation for world changing complete their course.
Malaysia Research Assessment research, a reputation which
(MyRA). extends across all of our We provide excellent opportunities
campuses. We were rated No. for our students to study
In September 2005, the Malaysia 8 for research power in the abroad at our UK and China
Campus moved to its own latest Research Excellence Campuses, as well as at our
purpose-built site in Semenyih, Framework. Our research has a many partner universities across
30km south of Kuala Lumpur. particular focus on addressing the the globe, offering inter-campus,
Designed to reflect University Park challenges facing Southeast Asia international exchange and
Campus in Nottingham, it is a self- and countries in the Islamic world. summer school programmes.
contained, vibrant village situated Over the last few years, research
on an attractive and landscaped capacity has developed rapidly Find out more about University of
125-acre site. We have about and an increased number of Nottingham Malaysia at
www.nottingham.edu.my
*July 2016, data source – known destinations of graduates
who responded to our graduate destination survey.

206 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com



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List of Advertisers

Name of Advertiser Page School Showcase
Asia Pacific Schools
Alice Smith School 1, 94 - 95 116
Axcel International School
Beaconhouse Malaysia 14 115
The British School of Kuala Lumpur (BSKL)
- 118
Cambridge Assessment International Education
Crescendo-HELP International School 4 - 5, 96 - 97 119
Dwi Emas International School
elc International School Outside Back Cover, 120
Fieldwork Education
GEMS International School 98 - 99
HELP International School
IGB International School 78, 79 -
The International School of Penang (Uplands)
King Henry VIII College 12 122
Kingsley International School
Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar 171 123
Kolej Yayasan UEM
Marlborough College Malaysia 170 124
Matrix Global Schools
Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) Inside Back Cover, 88 - 89 -
Monash University
Nilai International School 51 126
Oasis International School - Kuala Lumpur
Oxford Fajar 10 - 11, 100 128
Prince of Wales Island International School
Raffles American School 36 - 37, 101 130
R.E.A.L Education Group
Repton Malaysia 49 132
Sayfol International School
Sri Ara International & Private School (The Sri Ara Schools) 42 133
Sri Bestari International School
St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia 20 - 21, 102 134
Sunway College
Sunway International School 8 135
Sunway Le Cordon Bleu
Taylor’s International School 192, 193 -
Tenby Schools Malaysia
38 137
Tunku Putra-HELP School
University of Nottingham Malaysia 30 - 31, 103 138
Wesley Methodist Schools (International)
Westlake International School 188 -

199, 200 - 201 -

- 140

Between 112 - 113 141

166, 167 -

24 144

Between 92 - 93, 104 145

65 144

Between 24 - 25, 105 147

25 148

- 150

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204 - 205 -

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208 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

The International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) is a
new curriculum that recognises global best practice
in early childhood education and the developmental
needs of 2-5 year olds.
It supports learning through holistic enquiry and
play-based approaches covering all curriculum areas
including personal, social and emotional development.

The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is the
leading primary curriculum in the world for
improving personal learning for learners
aged 5-11 years old.
It focuses on developing knowledge, skills
and understanding of subjects set within
child-friendly, thematic units of work
that are creative and challenging for
children of all abilities.

The International Middle
Years Curriculum (IMYC) is
the maturing adolescent brain and provides
challenging, engaging, and connected learning
for students aged 11-14 year olds.
It inspires students during a time when
many, overwhelmed by the transition from
primary to secondary education, can become
disengaged in their learning.