EDM_2019_20191128

OF BOARDING

COMMUNITY

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT Just by definition, a boarding school is a
community, however at RAS Boarding, we
An important part of character development work to consciously create and maintain a
during school years is the opportunity to boarding school community that supports,
try a variety of different activities, develop nurtures and cares for our students as
new skills and face new challenges. At RAS individuals. While our age and gender
Boarding, students are required to participate segregated floors provide security and
in at least two co-curricular activities of privacy to our students, our boarding facility
their chioce after school each week, which is designed with a large common room.
includes visual and performing arts, sports, Boarders from both Junior and Senior
technology, and more. Additionally, through Boarding can come to study, relax, play,
weekend and evening cultural and social and socialize in mixed groups. Additionally,
events, participation in our community service pastoral care is provided at every level, with
program and regular interaction with our dedicated boarding staff, to allow students
international boarding community, students a personal connection with responsible
have multiple opportunities to learn and grow adults. As a close community, boarders are
throughout their time at RAS. supervised during their studies, activities
and free time, to allow staff to monitor and
intervene as necessary to help students with
individual, interpersonal or group challenges
that inevitably arise as part of normal social
development.







Succeed.

@RafflesAmericanSchool

At Raffles American School, we offer a WASC accredited high school
diploma, along with Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the SAT exam.
With a diploma from RAS, you hold a passport to university education around
the world!

Find out more at
www.Raffles-American-School.edu.my

Inside the Schools

INSIDE THE SCHOOLS

In this section, we take you inside some of Malaysia’s most
remarkable international schools. Each school has well-
qualified staff with special expertise, its own unique teaching
and learning styles, and special facilities.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 93

Inside the Schools

Asia Pacific Schools:

Nurturing the Leaders of Tomorrow

All parents want the best the delivery of the respective a child’s potential and shape
education for their children. curriculum, while motivating and children into well-rounded
Offering both Malaysian and encouraging students through members of society, equipped
International Curricula Schools, their engaging, interactive with the relevant knowledge,
Asia Pacific Schools provide the teaching philosophy competencies, skills and
best of both worlds. and practices. attributes to successfully
contribute in a global community.
With two schools under its helm, Located on a spacious campus
the Asia Pacific International in Subang, Asia Pacific Schools Asia Pacific International
School (APIS), which offers the are equipped with modern, School (APIS)
UK Curriculum, and the Asia purpose-built facilities. Fully
Pacific Smart School (APSS), air-conditioned, each classroom Established in 2012, APIS uses
which uses the Malaysian as well as the library, computer a British-based curriculum
Curriculum, Asia Pacific Schools labs, music, science, woodwork, developed by the University
aim to create an exceptional mechanical, electrical, speech and of Cambridge International
educational environment to foster drama, art and cookery rooms Examinations at both the
the intellectual and emotional are equipped with the latest primary and secondary levels.
development of children from 3 to technology to aid and inspire The programme is focused on
17 years of age. young minds. The Schools also fostering academic excellence
boast a swimming pool, indoor and preparing students for IGCSE
By providing a holistic experience badminton, netball and basketball examinations. Children are
in academia, arts, sciences and courts, and a football field. encouraged to take an active role
sports, all students are nurtured to in their own learning by setting
become self-motivated, inquiring The curricula, facilities and personal targets and evaluating
and reflective thinkers. Qualified pedagogical practices at Asia their own progress.
and experienced teachers ensure Pacific Schools will help unlock
The primary programme gives
students a framework to develop

94 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

Mathematics, English and by the Ministry of Education, more attention to be given to the
Science skills, and the secondary Malaysia, for children aged 7 to 17 individual needs and capabilities
programme follows the same years. APSS was recently awarded of each student in the classroom.
pattern. Students are assessed the maximum 5* accreditation
in Year 6 and Year 9 on their by the Ministry in recognition Extracurricular activities offered
readiness to embark on the of its outstanding teaching and at APSS include speech and
IGCSE examinations. In addition, learning. The primary medium of drama, public speaking and
students have a choice to learn instruction is Bahasa Malaysia, music classes. Students can also
French, Arabic or Mandarin as a with STEM subjects (Science, participate in various sporting
foreign language. Technology, Engineering and activities that include basketball,
Mathematics) being taught in netball, football, swimming,
With small-sized classes, APIS is English at all levels. shooting, gymnastics and tennis.
able to individually track students.
Teachers take time to speak Each student is carefully nurtured As a result of the school’s holistic
personally with students to help in preparation to sit for and obtain approach in creating well-rounded
them set achievable targets and the best possible results for their individuals, APSS students
to motivate them to progress on UPSR and SPM examinations. have achieved great success in
to the next level with confidence. sporting, science and creative
The School’s curriculum also goes competitions.
The School offers a range of beyond academic excellence, as it
extracurricular programmes exposes students to a wide range Whether you as a parent prefer
that include Taekwondo, Wushu, of non-examination subject areas, a Malaysian or an International
Ukelele, Violin, Minecraft, aikido, in order to holistically enhance education, Asia Pacific Schools
animation, creative clay art, their skills and character. will provide a first-class
dodgeball, fencing, gymnastics, educational environment that will
karate, LEGO robotics, Science With a strong emphasis on meet the needs of your child, and
Bridge, public speaking, soccer, technology as an enabler enable him or her to develop into a
swimming and vocal training. to support learning, APSS well-rounded, confident, inquiring
continuously adopts educational and ethical thinker and leader.
Asia Pacific Smart School practices that encourage
(APSS) analytical and innovative thinking For more information,
capabilities. In addition, its low visit www.apschools.edu.my
Established in 2006, APSS offers student to teacher ratio allows
the Malaysian curriculum, set

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 95

Inside the Schools

THE BEACONHOUSE SCHOOL SYSTEM:

ONE OF THE LARGEST SCHOOL
NETWORKS IN THE WORLD

Established in 1975, the for excellence through quality thinking
Beaconhouse School System management, quality training and • Empathetic towards others,
has since grown into one of the quality teaching. By doing so, we
largest, most established school hope to benefit our students, their ensuring a more just, caring and
networks in the world – providing communities, and the wider world. compassionate world
quality education from preschool • Resolute, dedicated, dependable
to postgraduate level. Our Vision and resilient in both thoughts
and action
Today, we serve over 303,000 We aim to help our students: • Globally aware to cultivate
students across eight countries: • To develop a healthy sense of international-mindedness and
Malaysia, the United Kingdom, unity through diversity
Oman, the United Arab Emirates, self • Healthy & active in physical play
Pakistan, the Philippines, Belgium • To build healthy and durable and activities to lead a balanced
and Thailand. lifestyle
relationships with others • Digitally literate to use and create
Beaconhouse Malaysia • To cultivate a sense of reverence knowledge and information, and
to collaborate with others locally
Beaconhouse Malaysia has been and an aesthetic appreciation and internationally.
operating in Malaysia since 2004. • To demonstrate constructive
Today, we own and operate 13 But above all, our students are
schools, which are located in curiosity and a willingness to inspired by imagination and
prime residential areas around explore new ideas innovation, and are able to
the Klang Valley. These schools • To master a basic core of generate original thoughts and
comprise nine preschools; two knowledge, skills and attitudes. ideas, which have value.
private primary and secondary
schools which offer the national Our Learner Profiles What We Do
curriculum; and two international
schools which offer the Our students are encouraged to We prepare students for the
Cambridge IGCSE programmes. be: future. We inspire and empower
• Creative & innovative to generate them to reach for excellence and
Our Mission to become independent global
original thoughts and ideas learners. We provide a solid
At Beaconhouse, we aim to • Inquisitive by being natural foundation from preschool to
provide quality education of an senior school allowing children
international standard. We aim inquirers through self-enquiry to harness their individual talents
• Ethical through a spirit of

honesty, integrity, fairness and
human dignity
• Analytical to identify,
evaluate and solve problems
systematically through critical

96 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

in the pursuit of educational • Knowledge-rich library Themed “Multiple Literacies
success. • A safe and caring environment for a World of Tomorrow”, BISC
2018 featured a host of activities
Quality Education that promotes respect and and competitions from various
positive traditional values for all spheres of learning ranging from
Our core focus is to deliver high- students sports and athletics to science,
quality academic programmes • Extended curriculum including a technology, visual and performing
that enable students to achieve variety of clubs and societies arts and filmmaking.
their intellectual potential as • Sports complex including: futsal,
well as develop confidence and basketball, volleyball, badminton Beaconhouse has consistently
lifelong learning skills to improve courts and a six-lane swimming endeavoured to inspire innovation
their prospects beyond school. pool. and modernisation, reinventing the
Our trained, caring and highly educational paradigm under the
motivated teachers provide Beaconhouse banner of 21st Century Learning.
effective teaching, while giving International School BISC is a manifestation of its
students the personal attention, Convention (BISC) ideology to push the boundaries
advice and support needed. and go beyond conventional
Beyond our academic teaching and learning within
Extra Curriculum Activities programmes, what sets us apart the four walls of the classroom.
is our unique Beaconhouse It aims to create a global
The extended school curriculum International School Convention community, giving students from
at Beaconhouse includes a wide (BISC). The annual event serves Beaconhouse schools around the
variety of activities, clubs and as a platform for students from world an opportunity to interact
societies for students to choose different countries to build with cultures different from their
from. Many of the activities friendships, cultivate teamwork own and to learn from each other.
offered are free and do not incur and to develop the spirit of
additional fees. sportsmanship. Choose Beaconhouse
Sports Clubs - soccer, cricket, Today
ping-pong, badminton, dance, Already in its third instalment,
fencing and athletics Beaconhouse International At Beaconhouse, we aim to bring
Literacy Clubs - student magazine, Student Convention (BISC success within the reach of every
book, film 2018) was recently held in student through our high teaching
Art & Design - arts & craft, Muscat, Oman this year with standards and challenging
Chinese calligraphy a participation of around 200 programmes. So let us help you
Martial Arts - Tae Kwon Do students from five countries prepare your child for their future
Academic Clubs - homework, - Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, by empowering and inspiring
debating, public speaking, drama, Philippines, and Thailand. Leading them to reach for excellence and
sudoku up to the main event, thousands to become independent global
of students competed in their learners.
Facilities home countries in order to make it
to the elite team that was sent to For more information, please visit
• Well-resourced classrooms, represent their nation. beaconhouse.edu.my
computer and science labs, art
studio and brand new sports
facilities

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 97

Inside the Schools

THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOL OF KUALA LUMPUR

The British International School learn new skills and set their which ensure students benefit
of Kuala Lumpur (BSKL) opened sights higher, developing a truly from contemporary educational
in 2009 and is proud to be part international perspective through thinking and practices. At
of the Nord Anglia Education outstanding online, in-school and BSKL, 100% of teachers
(NAE) family, the world’s leading worldwide experiences. BSKL hold international teaching
premium schools organisation students will also benefit from qualifications from well-regarded
with 61 international schools collaborations with the world’s institutions and all Assistant
located in 28 countries around the best organisations including MIT, Teachers in Years 1 - 6 hold
world. Juilliard and UNICEF ensuring degrees with three years working
that every child is prepared for the experience in a relevant field.
Being part of the NAE network future.
allows BSKL to continue BSKL follows a globally respected
to strengthen its academic NAE’s global scale also enables curriculum based on the English
credentials and enhance the school to continue to recruit National Curriculum, and was
learning through a number of and retain the best teachers in graded “excellent in all areas
key initiatives. This includes the the world who are committed of educational provision” in
Global Campus which connects to nurturing and inspiring every the most recent Independent
50,000 students around the world, child they care for. Through Schools Inspectorate report; a
and a large programme of events the Nord Anglia University, result that is comparable to that
and expeditions in Southeast the teaching team are given of many top UK independent
Asia and beyond. This allows extensive and unique professional schools and is unprecedented
students to explore the world, development opportunities in Malaysia. The school has

98 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

also been awarded the COBIS state-of-the-art campuses. nurture independence of mind
(Council of British International Facilities include three indoor and resilience. Students are
Schools) Patron’s Accreditation sport halls, two swimming pools regularly invited to reflect on how
and is the first school to gain this and two full size football fields. their behaviour affects the world
honour in Asia. In an increasingly The music and performing arts around them, show initiative and to
competitive market, it is one of programmes have a 650-seat understand how they can positively
the best international schools in theatre and over 20 specialist contribute to those living and
the city and continues to be a top music and dance rooms, whilst working in the community.
international school of choice for three unique libraries cater
both expatriate and local families. for everyone, and is stacked Through personalised learning,
with over 20,000 books. The BSKL is committed to giving
Students achieve excellent exam latest technology and creative all students the opportunity to
results, outperforming many of breakout spaces feature strongly pursue their individual strengths
their UK counterparts. In the last throughout the school. It is and talents. Developing character
academic year 75% of students therefore not surprising to learn and temperament are at least
achieved A*/A and 93% A*/B that in the last parent survey, 95% as important to success in life
grades in all of their (I)GCSE said they highly rate the look and as acquiring skills. The school
examinations. These academic feel of the building facilities and ensures pupils are exceptionally
achievements are matched by the 92% said the school provides a well prepared for the next stage of
sixth form students with 100% of stimulating learning environment their education with the strength
last year’s Year 13 cohort securing for their child. of character to match. As a result,
their place at their first choice pupils are more likely to develop
university. Creating confident and ambitious ambitions and a sense of their own
individuals is a proud initiative potential that is marked by a broad,
The school provides outstanding and key focus at BSKL, where global perspective in a rapidly
facilities across three striking teachers are encouraged to changing world.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 99

Inside the Schools

EXCELSIOR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL:

COMMITTED TO
EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

(EIS) Excelsior International In support of the fundamental Arts – In performing arts, EIS
School is located within the City belief in holistic education,
of Knowledge in a beautiful forest all students follow a broad uses music, dance, drama and
above the Town of Bandar Seri and challenging educational theatre to develop confidence
Alam, 15 kilometres east of Johor programme covering EIS’ Three and communication skills.
Bahru in the south of Peninsular Pillars of Excellence, in an These activities encourage the
Malaysia. The purpose-built approach that educates students appreciation, development and
campus spreads over 20 acres to become independent, enquiring, understanding of local, regional
with a built-up area of over creative and enthusiastic learners. and international cultures, dance,
320,000 square feet, allowing for music and traditions.
larger facilities and more space, Academic – The Academic
enabling a smoother delivery of EIS is an IB World School and
the curriculum. curriculum is delivered in an offers the IB Diploma Programme
interactive way, which allows in its High School. It offers
The vast campus houses world- students to investigate, the Cambridge International
class learning, sporting and experiment and gain hands-on Programmes in its Secondary
recreational facilities featuring experience. This approach aims School and utilises the IEYC and
advanced educational tools, to train students to collaborate IPC curriculum framework in the
including Information Technology with others, to think critically and Early Years and Primary Years
(IT), Science and Multimedia to gain confidence in their own programmes respectively. EIS
laboratories, a 527-seat abilities when facing challenges. is a member school with the US
auditorium, specialist facilities Western Association of Schools
for Dance, Drama, Music and Sports and Physical and Colleges (WASC) and the
Art and a range of sporting and Activity – Sports are essential Council of International Schools
recreational facilities, such as an (CIS).
Olympic standard swimming pool, to the development of students
tennis courts, a full-sized, artificial- of all ages as it serves to enhance
turf soccer field and a 400-metre, any academic endeavour. EIS
all-weather running track. These provides a completely inclusive
state-of-the-art facilities and physical education curriculum and
resources support Excelsior’s a wide range of recreational and
Three Pillars of Excellence - competitive sporting activities,
Academic, Sports and the Arts. which allow all students to
develop a healthy, active life and
strong leadership skills.

100 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

HELP INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: In every corner of the school,
we see exploration and activity.
CELEBRATING LIFE Students are swimming, running,
IN ALL ITS FULLNESS experimenting, debating,
discussing and presenting
As part of the HELP Education experience, as well as integrating ideas. The preschoolers are in
Group, HELP International School Eastern and Western educational imaginative play, learning about
(HIS) was established in 2014, at philosophies, we strive to enable real life skills. The lower primary is
Subang Bestari, Selangor, with an and inspire our students to looking for insects in the garden,
international team of experienced embrace the joy of learning. learning about habitat. The upper
and passionate leaders and primary is busy recording news
teachers. Five years later and Dr Gerard Louis, CEO of HIS, using green screen technology.
with an enrolment of over 1,400 shares his thoughts, “We have The secondary students are
students, the school is considered come a long way for a relatively dissecting liver and lung in the
one of the fastest growing young school. The challenge science lab. The A Level students
international schools in Malaysia. of a learning organisation is are in earnest discussion about
HIS won a 5-star rating from the to understand the context and the new social enterprise under
Ministry of Education in its second constantly keep your pulse on the their leadership programme. This
year of operation and was recently changes so that we can prepare is the joy of learning in action!
shortlisted as the International our students for a future that is
School of the Year in the Times volatile, uncertain, complex and Our Unique School
Educational Supplement (TES) ambiguous. We must learn from
Independent School Awards 2019 the past and charge forward with Housed in a purpose-built campus
in the UK. passion and confidence.” which reflects its philosophy of a
vibrant school life, the school is
HIS has also been recognised by An Ordinary Day In equipped with all the necessary
Apple as a Distinguished School An Extraordinary facilities. A newly added space is
for being a model of innovation in Environment the MakerSpace -- a collaborative
education and validated as an IPC space for exploring, designing,
Accredited School (International Walking around the HIS campus making and creating – which
Primary Curriculum), joining 1% on a typical school day is no further reaffirms our reputation
of schools worldwide to have ordinary experience. One can feel as an Apple Distinguished School,
attained such an achievement. the buzz in the air as students recognised for its exemplary
With the motto “Life in all its engage in various learning learning environment.
fullness“, we seek to discover and activities and discoveries in and
bring out the best in each child out of classrooms. Please visit www.his.edu.my, or
by nurturing his or her talent and call 03-7809 7000 to know more
potential. By providing a truly The Tree of Life, which stands in about what enables our students
global and holistic educational the beautiful green courtyard is to celebrate “life in all
a symbol of a thriving, lively and its fullness”
growing student population.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 101

Inside the Schools

KINGSLEY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL:

EMPOWERING STUDENTS
TO SUCCEED IN LIFE

Kingsley International School no child is ever singled-out or studio, and over 200 boarding
was established in 2011 with the punished publicly or humiliated rooms for boarders, Kingsley
sole intention of empowering for acts deemed not right. We is now able to accommodate
children, from ages 3 to 17, to do adopt a more sensitive approach students who are looking to stay
well in life. At KINGSLEY, you’ll to behaviour considered to be in-house in our well secured and
find an engaging, enriching and inappropriate. planned Kingsley Boarding.
enabling environment to gear
all children towards discovery Dedicated educators and mentors The students in KINGSLEY are
of their full potential through understand that every child drawn from multi-ethnic
multiple activities in and out of the learns differently and so daily and multicultural backgrounds
classrooms. Attaining a holistic class teaching is carried out on from all corners of the world.
education encompasses lessons the basis of knowing the Ml of Together they form a diverse and
learnt through self-discovery. all children and recognising their enthusiastic learning community,
This helps to empower students strength as individuals. Children displaying confidence and
with the right attitudes to follow enjoy the challenge of doing better staying engaged, innovative,
their passion, thus leading them in areas in which they excel and constantly reflective and mindfully
to more interesting and exciting are coached to do better in areas respectful of self, others, and the
career choices in the future. in which they need help. environment.

What differentiates us is our Safety and Security are That is our ultimate goal and
approach - we invest, impart and KINGSLEY’s top priorities with achievement! We have
instil. We believe in encouragement a line-up of Gurkha guards well­ surely arrived! Visit us TODAY
and in identifying each type of trained to provide peace of mind and discover an academic
multiple intelligence (Ml) in every to parents. With an excellent environment that offers each
child. We understand the intent curriculum from Cambridge, the student every opportunity to excel,
of all children, their dreams, school ensures that young minds and every parent - peace of mind.
their passion and their will to are kept active. Nutritious and
succeed through the fundamental balanced meals are provided by For more information,
understanding of “self”. the F&B Team, using the food visit www.kingsley.edu.my/kis
pyramid as a guide.
Kingsley International School,
students, parents and teachers KINGSLEY offers over 40
are encouraged to foster close extracurricular activities on its
relationships to ensure care and 6-acre campus. Students get the
concern to create a bully-free opportunity for open-air exercise
culture and environment for in the two green fields on the
young minds to succeed. The school rooftop or can use the
School believes in the prevention 2-gym rooms with full exercise
of bullying and implemented equipment set-up.
constant teaching, awareness talk
campaigns, disciplinary actions, With the opening of our new
counsellings and opportunities for Annex Building, which houses
self-reflection to benefit children our Olympic-sized (50 metres)
at every age group. In the school, swimming pool, gymnastics

102 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

MAHSA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

The MAHSA Group has entered and parents with quality-rich We provide students with
the arena of school education personalised data for each outstanding facilities throughout
with the opening of MAHSA student on a termly and annual the school that include –
International School in Saujana basis. Student progress is tracked, Boarding, a Two-Storey Library,
Putra (MIS), a day and boarding evaluated and reported at all key Mac Computer Lab, Design &
school from Early Years to Year stages from primary through to Art Rooms, Auditorium, ESL
11 (Age 3 to 16 years). MIS has IGCSE and onto A Levels. Rooms, Sports Hall, Table Tennis
chosen the British Curriculum Room, Squash Courts, Basketball
(Cambridge Board) because of its The holistic education provided Courts, Futsal Court, Swimming
worldwide acceptance and high at MAHSA International School Pool, Wading Pool, Football
level of accreditation. It provides is designed to encourage the Field, Playroom, Dance Studio,
students with a broad and well- practical application of acquired Prayer Rooms and a Cafeteria.
balanced approach to education knowledge. The new MIS is A recent addition to our sports
covering English Language state-of-the-art utilising the programme includes the new
and Literature, Humanities and best technology available today MIS & Borussia Dortmund (BVB)
Social Sciences, Languages, in all academic departments. Football Academy that will
Mathematics, Sciences and All classrooms have access provide a quality and structured
Creative and professional to interactive technology with football programme for our
subjects. Blended into our strong Wi-Fi throughout the students under the umbrella of
modern approach to teaching, campus, as this allows for a the powerhouse German Football
learning and assessing we have seamless implementation of Club (BVB).
introduced the International Early our iPad programme throughout
Year’s Curriculum (IEYC) and the school. Recently MIS has At MAHSA International School,
the International Primary Years partnered with Microsoft we are investing in the future,
Curriculum (IPC) into our primary Education and the Microsoft recruiting the best teachers
school curriculum structure. Teacher Academy to assist our available and building a
staff in delivering inspiring content school that will lead the way in
In addition to an inbuilt evaluation that shares next generation ideas international education for our
and remediation process, we and innovative, technology-led region.
have partnered with GL Education classroom practice and STEM
to provide our staff, students programmes. Contact Information:

www.miskl.edu.my
[email protected]

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 103

Inside the Schools

KTJ INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL:

NURTURING HIGH ACHIEVERS

Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar (KTJ) is schools are located on the same well for Malaysian students. We
one of the region’s premier campus, where both have the have a mix of local and expatriate
international co-educational space to operate autonomously, teachers who are all trained and
schools for students aged 3 to 18 but with the benefit of shared developed regularly so that they
years. We provide boarding from resources. use the best and most current
the age of 11 and enjoy a diverse teaching practices.
student population, with students What is Different
from over 16 different countries About Us? We are a co-educational school
across Asia, Europe, Australia and – with boarding from the age
Africa. KTJ is a non-profit organisation of 11. Students get the benefit
so all proceeds are channeled and confidence of growing up in
Our aim at KTJ is to build back into the school. This an environment that is secure,
confident, independent and is why we are able to offer encouraging and also realistic,
academic high achievers. We outstanding facilities, dedicated with a mix of genders, throughout
want our students to feel happy, teachers and an exceptional school life.
nurtured and encouraged education at a reasonable cost.
throughout their learning journey. Students at KTJ achieve superb KTJ has an impressive campus,
examination grades, while being covering over 80 acres of land.
The concept of KTJ dates from able to undertake a wide range We use the space well, providing
the late 1980s when three of sporting and extracurricular our students with three swimming
members of the Negeri Sembilan activities. Our students are pools, football, hockey, rugby and
Royal Family proposed that renowned for their independence cricket pitches, tennis, squash,
a school which provided the and confidence, which are badminton and basketball courts,
benefits of a British Public School, qualities that stand them in good a rock climbing wall, music and
but adapted to the needs of stead as they progress to higher dance studios and a state-of-
Malaysia, be opened in Negeri education anywhere in the world. the-art auditorium. In addition,
Sembilan. The Secondary School We also have a number of day the Primary School has the use
was opened in 1991, and its students, who commute from the of two outdoor, shade-covered
reputation has flourished ever local areas and KL who use our playgrounds and an impressive
since its conception. The success school bus services. amphitheatre. We are able to offer
of the Secondary School led to our students over 120
a decision to open a brand new We are modelled on the extracurricular activities, including
Primary School in 2013. The two British system and use the UK sports, clubs and societies.
Curriculum but align ourselves

104 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

Boarding School Life On weekends, House staff might Accounting and Business Studies.
make arrangements for a trip Languages are also growing in
Life in a boarding school is or an event, and every Saturday, popularity, with Chinese Mandarin,
varied, structured and very full! there is an event put on by the French and Malay offered up to
We aim to keep our students students, for the students. Every IGCSE level. We constantly
motivated and busy to help them two to three weeks, we have achieve some of the best A Level
grow academically, but also Exeat weekends. In addition to results in Malaysia, with over
to encourage them to become that, if parents want to visit their 89% of students gaining A*- B,
well-rounded young adults. Life children or take them away for the and almost a quarter of students
in a boarding school helps to weekend, they may do so. gaining A’s.
prepare students to become
independent thinkers, and also to Our Academics Our first class education opens
be independent in their actions. the door to some of the finest
We follow the International universities in the UK, the US,
Students are offered a support Primary Curriculum in the Primary Australia and Canada. In recent
system when they join, including a School and the UK National years, our students have gained
mentor and a buddy and time with Curriculum in the Secondary admission to Oxford, Cambridge,
the Prefects in their House. All School, suitably amended for the Imperial College, the London
of our staff at KTJ reside on the students studying in Malaysia. School of Economics (LSE),
campus, so students also have Students learn through fun, topic-­ University College London (UCL),
regular access to their Form Tutor based lessons, with expatriate Harvard, Yale, the Massachusetts
and the Heads of School in charge teachers and Malaysian teaching Institute of Technology (MIT),
of Pastoral care. assistants. We are proud of our Brown and Berkeley.
teacher to student ratio across
The boarding houses are well both schools: 7 :7. KTJ International School offers
staffed at all times. The your child the opportunity to
Houseparent is a trained and well- In the Secondary School, we also grow in a supportive, progressive
experienced, academic member follow other British Curricula, and academically challenging
of staff. They will often be the which include Cambridge and environment. We believe that the
first point of contact for students Edexcel IGCSEs in Forms 4 to 5 best way to judge any school is
and parents with any questions and the A Levels in the 6th Form. to see it in action. Our doors are
or concerns. The Houseparent is open for you to visit us and we
supported by House Tutors and Our traditional strengths are in hope to see you soon.
Matrons, who will also live within Mathematics and the Sciences.
the house. House staff have a However, we also proudly offer a For more information,
number of years of experience, range of Social Sciences, Arts visit www.ktj.edu.my
and, in most cases, come from and Drama, History, Geography,
boarding school backgrounds
themselves.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 105

Alumna Profile

“Critical thinking has moulded me
to become an active learner in every
aspect of my life.”

Rachel Lim June Leen Malaysia

18 years old
Sunway International School, 2012 - 2016

Qualifications What were your favourite and day) is to be a critical thinker.
least favourite subjects in school, Critical thinking has moulded
Ontario Secondary School and why? me to become an active learner
Diploma. in every aspect of my life. By
My favourite subject in school opening up my mind and heart
What are you currently doing? was economics. Despite the to multiple points of views, I am
initial difficulty in understanding able to have a broader and more
I am currently studying at the workings of institutions, the enriching experience of the world.
University of Toronto, St. George subject expanded my view of the
Campus. world and served as a stepping If you could travel back in time,
stone to becoming an inquisitive what is the one thing that you
Tell us about your course/major learner. would change when you were a
and why you chose it. student?
Due to particular interests and
I am pursuing a Financial personal skills, my least favourite I would have participated in
Economics Specialist program subject in school was art. more clubs and school events,
at the University of Toronto. I However, I am grateful for the as they were all not only very
have always been intrigued and exposure to new concepts and enjoyable, but rewarding as well.
inquisitive about how different ideas. Participating in these activities
economies function. Both could have further aided my
economics and finance are What extracurricular activities personal development.
key to understanding the core did you do?
foundations of how our dynamic What advice would you give to
society works. I believe that I was a member in my school’s current students of your alma
this area of study will not only cheerleading team, and was the mater?
be intellectually rewarding, but captain of the team for a year.
it will also allow me to develop Do not be afraid to put yourself
the necessary skills to make a What was the best thing about out there! Whether it be within
contribution to society. your school? What important the classroom (e.g., asking
lessons did you learn in your questions) or in extracurricular
What is your most memorable school that have helped you in activities (e.g., joining a club).
experience in school? your life? Your most enriching moments
in life are shaped by you, and the
My most memorable experience My school’s focus on personal school serves as a wonderful
in school was participating in development in and outside of platform to provide you with
the school’s annual performance the classroom has allowed me to these opportunities. You will be
night in 2012. My friends and I cultivate a number of educational surprised at how much you can
sang a song, while our teacher and personal skills. The most grow as an individual within this
played the guitar. The event was important lesson that SIS has environment.  
a stepping stone in teaching me taught me (and which has helped
to not be afraid of stepping out of me immensely in my life to this
my comfort zone and trying new
things.

106 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Boarder Profile

“Boarding has given me the opportunity to learn
different languages and cultures from people of

different countries.”

Puteri Nurliyana Syamimi bt Mohd Nizam Malaysia

16 years old
Form Four
Matrix Global Schools

Describe yourself in three words. Tell us your most memorable Would you encourage other
boarding school incident! students to be boarders as well?
Sporting, hyperactive, friendly. Why?
We celebrate the wardens’ and
When did you start boarding? boarders’ birthdays together at the Of course! Yes! The boarding
How long have you been a Lower Ground floor. Those who house is amazing. The wardens
boarder? had birthdays during that month are very sweet and loving,
will come out to the front and get students are friendly as well. The
2016. I have been a boarder for 3 some gifts and we will sing the facilities here are all great.
years and a month now. birthday song.
What do you hope to do when
What do you like most about What opportunities has boarding you finish school?
boarding? given you that you would not
have had otherwise? I hope to further my studies in
I like the time management here the medical field as a zoologist or
because it teaches me to be Boarding has given me the dentist. In the meantime I will look
punctual and disciplined. opportunity to learn different for a part-time job to earn some
languages and cultures from pocket money.  
What do you like least about people of different countries. Here
boarding? in Matrix Boarding House we live
with different people as a family.
Well, I just don’t like that the
students are a bit noisy during
prep time but that’s a minor
problem to me.

What do you miss most about not
staying at home?

I miss my mom’s cooking, my

brothers and spending time with

my family.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 107

Inside the Schools

MATRIX GLOBAL SCHOOLS:

EDUCATION FOR A
CHANGING WORLD

Entering Matrix Global Schools’ mistake, this striking purpose-built Everyone Caring, Everyone
majestic reception area with school is proudly forging a new Learning
its imposing arches, elaborate path for education in Malaysia.
fan-vaulted ceiling and smiling With the emphasis on a culture
reception team, parents would Global Citizens of care, Matrix Global Schools is
be forgiven for thinking that they on a remarkable journey. Under
had somehow checked into the The school blends the best of the leadership of a multifaceted
nearby Kuala Lumpur International both worlds. The contrast of Transformation Team, care,
Airport and arrived at a famed British and Asian, West and confidence and innovation are
British university campus. East, stems from more than championed throughout the
just grand architecture. The school. The team unites the whole
Inside, the 20-acre campus is diversity of a dual curriculum, campus and has introduced
studded with iconic domed roofs, British International or Malaysian progressive changes designed to
high-tech classrooms, performing National, delivers a cross-cultural further strengthen the quality of
arts centre and modern boarding understanding, forms global teaching and learning and blaze a
house. Green spaces are crafted friendships and enriches the new path to success.
with the same care, and include education experience of all.
an eight-lane athletics track, Leading the Transformation
tennis courts, sprawling rugby and English is the medium of Team, Acting Campus Principal
football pitches, complete with a instruction, but multi-lingualism is
grandstand. emphasised with the teaching of Loh Ghee Juan, said: “The world
Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia. we want for tomorrow, starts
Matrix Global Schools (MGS) A dedicated language support with how we are educated today.
takes serious pride in the beauty team ensures students become Education is not just about a set
of its campus. But make no excellent communicators in all the of exam results. That’s just one
languages they use. thing we do. Our students are
driven to maximise their full
potential in everything they do.

108 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

“We know children flourish The campus has a growing team and medical centre staffed
when they are treated with care co-curricular programme, which by qualified nurses.
and respect. So we nurture each includes more than 55 unique
individual, whether that student activities, so that students can All Welcome, Every Day
be shy or confident, artistic, unlock even more opportunities.
sporty, scholarly or a melting pot Pupils challenge themselves Matrix Global Schools is situated
of all.” on the climbing wall, futsal and south of Kuala Lumpur, in the
basketball courts. Everyone masterplanned town of Bandar Sri
The school strives for high benefits from the Olympic-sized Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan. MGS
academic standards but swimming pool, indoor tennis provides a global opportunity
emphasises the environment of courts, bowling alley and squash to be second to none, and
care and innovation which makes courts at the associated country discover the best you. Families
those standards achievable. club. with children aged 3 to 16 years
old are encouraged to visit the
Future-fit A Home Away from Home school for an immersive tour to
discover the opportunities open to
Matrix Global Schools prepares Nestled in the stunning green MGS students. It is sure to make
students for their futures with campus, the modern boarding parents wish they were back at
an all-inclusive education; a house is furnished to a level of school again.
combination of emotional comfort, style and safety beyond
intelligence, critical thinking, the norm. Students aged 13 to 17 Learn more at matrixschools.
creativity, digital literacy and social years share rooms and friendly edu.my or contact the friendly
awareness. It understands the social areas, in a ‘home away from admissions team at 1300 22 9888
importance of offering flexibility home’ vibe. Boarders benefit from or [email protected]
for each student to prosper. the support of a strong pastoral

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 109

Inside the Schools

SEMESTER-BASED PROGRAMME AT
SUNWAY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Canadian (Ontario) education Structure Reduced subjects
focuses on students’ individual
learning and development as In a semester-based structure, The number of subjects has
well as building their character by students in high school will reduced and enables students to
acknowledging each individual’s split their conventionally 8 focus on only 4 subjects every
unique personal strengths. It is subjects per academic year semester. Homework time is now
designed to be flexible to cater into 2 semesters, i.e. a student spread over, plus instead of sitting
to each student’s needs and will enrol in 4 subjects in each for 8 exams, students will have to
strengths. semester. The classes last for write only four every semester.
80 minutes compared to regular
Ontario’s high schools are year-long class of 40 minutes. The Students will also have a
given flexibility to operate their timetable will be exactly the same consistent routine every day that
programme and timetable. from Mondays to Fridays for the inculcates students’ regular study
Schools may either choose to entire semester. The amount of habits and enables students to
operate a year-long structure, or subjects a student carried each learn at their own pace and have
semester-based structure. day is reduced, while the amount more opportunities to consult
of learning time has increased. their teachers for any queries.
Sunway International School (SIS)
in Sunway City is amongst 19 Longer Interactions All universities run on a semester
schools outside the Ontario region basis. SIS students are exposed
and the only school in Malaysia With double the class length, to this structure since Grade
offering credits toward the Ontario teachers would have more time 9. It serves as preparation for
Secondary School Diploma. SIS to clarify a topic, especially those universities and university’s
Sunway City is inspected annually complex ideas that require more expectations.
by the Ministry of Education, time for students to digest.
Ontario to ensure the school Teachers would also utilise the Each structure has its own
meets the standard instruction extended time with different advantages that cater for different
requirements. teaching strategies, such as group learning styles. Combined with
work, laboratory, discussions, the assessments and teaching
Replicating the semester-based presentations, and more. As methodology, this fundamental
system here in Malaysia, the every student is unique in their ability will make students with a
distinctive structure has gained individual ways, longer class time Canadian education so successful
positive reviews from its students also means teachers will have in post-secondary schools and in
and parents. more opportunities to understand their adult life.
their strengths and weaknesses,
and work with them individually to
improve their learning.

110 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Teacher Profile

“I always feel so proud of my students
when they improve their academics, or do

well in any sports competition.”

Matthew teBogt Canada

Sunway International School

Subjects / Years Taught and practising in different schools What is the best thing about
allowed me to try a variety of teaching at your school?
Grade 7 Core (Arts, Language, teaching methods and strategies.
Math and Social Studies) Even in my own classroom today, I The staff at SIS support each
am constantly learning and trying other and work as a team.
How long have you been new things. Teachers are very willing to
teaching? share resources and ideas,
What is the most memorable and work together to create
Two years. moment in your teaching career the best lessons possible. This
so far? collaboration has made me a
Why did you become a teacher? much stronger teacher.
Last year a colleague and I went
Prior to being a school teacher, on a school trip to Taiwan with Who or what inspires you?
I taught swimming lessons for 12 Middle School students. We
eight years. Teaching always had some great adventures there, Both of my older sisters are
seemed to be something that and it was a great chance to get teachers, and both have taught
came naturally to me, and to know students outside of a overseas. Have they influenced
something I always enjoyed. The classroom setting! my career choice? Maybe.
prospect of being able to take my
career overseas and experience a What do you like most about What is the one thing you wish
new culture also motivated me! teaching? all students would do?

Tell us about your own education The students motivate me to put As the school’s cross country
journey. my best work into teaching and coach, I wish all students would
coaching. I like helping students run! Recruitment can be tough in
After my undergraduate degree I to achieve their goals and reach Malaysia’s extreme heat.
completed my two-year Bachelor their potential. I always feel so
of Education at York University proud of my students when they
in Toronto, Ontario. This allowed improve in their academics, or do
me to specialize in Junior- well in any sports competition.
Intermediate education, focusing
on the Middle School grades.
Working with various teachers

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 111

Inside the Schools

TAYLOR’S SCHOOLS:

HOW GREAT DESIGN
INSPIRES GREAT LEARNING

“We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us.”
- Sir Winston Churchill

In recent years, economic and Huge leaps have been made with Taylor’s International School Puchong
technological changes have regard to our understanding of
caused those in the education how school buildings and learning to practise working individually
sector to reconsider how environments can help develop and in groups, building critical
teaching and learning should fantastic learners who are able communication and collaborative
take place. While in the past, to thrive, both personally and skills.
simply memorising facts and professionally, in today’s world.
figures was enough for students Another example is Nexus
to pass exams and achieve As well as having a continual Singapore’s new campus, set
their professional goals, times focus on the quality of teaching to open in 2020, Alongside the
have changed. Our increasingly in our schools, it is also important world-class sporting facilities,
globalised and competitive to create innovative learning students will be inspired by open-
workforce requires graduates spaces that inspire our school planned ‘mega labs’ for scientific
who are quick thinkers, creative, communities and help nurture experimentation, large, open-
flexible and adaptable. Students great learners. planned classrooms to foster
need to be adept at working collaboration and communication,
individually, collaboratively, at Inspiring Buildings and a giant treehouse (complete
solving problems and thinking with slides!) for outdoor play.
analytically. Memorising chunks Educators work with architects These exciting, stimulating spaces
of text or lists of formulae is no to design buildings that will inspire students’ imaginations and
longer enough. inspire teachers and learners of help to foster a lifelong passion
today. Take the award-winning for learning and discovery.
In turn, this has underpinned the campus at Taylor’s International
call to re-imagine school learning School Puchong as an example: Inspiring Learning Spaces
environments. School leaders in order to help nurture students’
now understand the limitations of curiosity and encourage them Within classrooms themselves,
the traditional square classroom: to follow their interests, the much has also changed.
lined with rows of identical desks campus is designed to offer Researchers have examined
with a whiteboard at the front. outstanding indoor-outdoor space the impact of light, colour and
These constrained, static spaces - particularly in their Early Years noise on learning and suggested
favour and nurture traditional section. Flooded with natural changes to the way we design
pedagogical approaches - light, the campus also includes classrooms. As a result, teachers
teacher-led instruction, rote flexible learning spaces, which are beginning to employ this
learning and memorisation teachers can easily adjust to help research to help them reshape
- all of which are no longer facilitate a wide variety of learning
sufficient for our students. experiences. These spaces
give students the opportunity

112 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Inside the Schools

Nexus International School Singapore

Nexus International School Singapore

Garden International School

learning environments: filling them in different contexts and think full of real, current examples of
with natural materials, greenery creatively - right from an early age. student work which celebrate
and flexible seating arrangements. the ‘learning journey’ of every
These learning environments aim These innovations don’t just child. For example, pay a visit to
to nurture children’s creativity and benefit younger children. Schools Australian International School
skill development, stimulate their are beginning to see the benefit of Malaysia (AISM) and you’ll notice
curiosity and support their social investing in inspiring spaces for the vast amount of student work
and emotional wellbeing. older students, too. For example, on every display board. Finished
Garden International School’s new work, drafts in progress, academic
Carefully designed ‘open plan’ Sixth Form Centre was recently goals, students’ next steps: all
classrooms also allow teachers transformed into a dynamic of it covering the walls! Why? As
and students to collaborate and professional space containing the only certified Visible Learning
communicate. For example, collaborative working areas, school in the world, AISM follows
both Nexus Malaysia and quiet study spaces and flexible Professor John Hattie’s evidence-
Nexus Singapore have open- spaces for students to relax based approach to teaching and
plan classrooms as one of their and recharge. The Centre more learning and understands the
hallmark features, a reflection of accurately mimics a modern, importance of modelling what
their commitment to collaborative flexible workplace, helping prepare great learning looks like.
learning and innovative pedagogy. graduates for life beyond school.
In the Early Years, it is becoming Modern educators must be
more common for schools to Modelling Great Learning committed to creating learning
remove walls and create large, airy spaces that are exciting and
spaces that encourage children to The creative design of school stimulating. Whether that is
collaborate with their peers. You buildings and learning spaces through hiring award-winning
can see great examples of this at is one thing - but ensuring that architects to design outstanding
both Garden International School learning environments enhance building campuses, or through
and at Taylor’s International and support learning is also of the creation of innovative,
School (Kuala Lumpur). The crucial importance. flexible learning environments
spaces ensure children have based upon the latest academic
frequent opportunities to problem- Next time you visit a school, research, great design inspires
solve, apply their knowledge pay attention to what is being great learning.
displayed. Schools should be

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 113