Borneo International School vs Woodlands International School
Borneo International School and Woodlands International School are both in Sarawak. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE programmes. Borneo International School also offers British, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge International AS Levels, and Woodlands International School also offers IEYC and IPC. Published annual fees are MYR 9,680 - 33,300 at Borneo International School and MYR 9,725 - 27,005 at Woodlands International School, which puts Borneo International School roughly 17% higher. Borneo International School takes pupils from 6 to 18, and Woodlands International School from 3 to 17. Borneo International School is the larger school, with around 600 pupils to Woodlands International School's 300. Both keep typical class sizes around 25.
British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels
Curriculum
IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), Cambridge IGCSE
Pupils
Pupils
600
Pupils
300
Typical class size
Typical class size
25
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2017
Opened
2013
Bus service
Bus service
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Bus service
No
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Borneo International School is situated at Jalan Setia Raja in the Tabuan Laru area of Kuching. This is a well-developed suburban neighborhood that hosts a mix of residential, commercial, and educational facilities. The school’s campus is part of the Saradise development, a modern township with a focus on urban lifestyle, dining, and community spaces.
The location is approximately 10 minutes by car from Kuching International Airport and about 15 minutes from the Kuching city centre. It is also within reach of prominent areas like Tabuan Jaya and Stutong, both established residential zones.
Location
Woodlands International School is located at Jalan Salim, in the town of Sibu, Sarawak. It is situated in a suburban area near residential communities, with convenient access to Jalan Oya and key parts of Sibu town, making it accessible for families across the region.
Stages
Stages
Borneo International School is divided into Primary School, Secondary School and Sixth Form.
Stages
The school is divided into Kindergarten, Primary, and Secondary levels, with education offered from age 3 up to Year 11 (IGCSE).
School type
School type
Borneo International School is a co-educational day school. Boarding facilities are not offered.
School type
Woodlands is a co-educational day school. Boarding is not provided, and students commute daily.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Students benefit from career counseling services and assistance with university applications through partnerships with organizations like MABECS and UCAS. A-Level students take part in a four-week work experience programme that provides exposure to professional environments. The school also runs masterclass seminars featuring guest speakers to connect classroom learning with real-world insights. Community service is a key part of student life, with regular activities promoting social awareness and civic responsibility. Small class sizes allow for individual attention, ensuring that students receive guidance tailored to their learning needs.
Additional learning support
While the school does not publicly advertise a specialized Learning Support Department, the school’s emphasis on a “holistic, interactive and child-centred approach” suggests that students are supported through differentiated instruction and personalized engagement in the classroom.
Teachers are described as experienced and internationally diverse professionals who adapt creatively to students' academic and developmental needs. The school also fosters a collaborative atmosphere involving families and the community, which further reinforces its commitment to inclusive education.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school has no formal affiliation with any country.
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Borneo International School is a secular institution. There is no any religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
WIS is also a secular school without any religious affiliation.
School day structure
School day structure
General School Hours (by level and day):
Primary School
Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Secondary School (Years 7–9)
Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA)
Years 10 & 11 (IGCSE)
Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA) Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Extended for ECA)
Structure of the School Day:
Primary Level:
1.The day is divided into three sessions of approximately two hours each.
2.Includes scheduled morning breaks and a lunch break.
3.On two days per week, students can choose from a variety of activities or clubs, extending their day by one hour.
Secondary Level:
1.The regular day runs slightly longer than primary.
2.Two days per week include extended time for extracurricular activities (ECAs), adding 30 minutes to the day.
3.Students engage with teachers and coaches in settings beyond the classroom, fostering broader personal development.
School day structure
Children enrolled in the WINS Angel programme can attend either half-day or full-day sessions. The half-day schedule runs from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, Monday through Thursday, with dismissal at 12:00 PM on Fridays. Full-day students attend from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, also ending early at 12:00 PM on Fridays. For families needing additional care, extended hours are available until 5:00 PM.
Meanwhile, students in Pre-Kindergarten (PK), Reception 1 (R1), and Reception 2 (R2) follow a consistent full-day schedule from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and finish at 12:00 PM on Fridays. Like WINS Angel, they can also opt for extended care until 5:00 PM.
The school does not have publicly available information on their primary and secondary day structure.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school does not offer a bus service.
Bus service details
The school does not offer a bus service.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Fees
Application Fee: RM200 Non-refundable; payable upon submission of the student application form. Assessment Fee: RM150 Non-refundable; applicable to students required to sit for a written assessment before admission. Admission Fee (One-time, non-refundable):
Security Fee: RM3,000 per student Refundable only if a written notice of withdrawal is submitted at least one full term in advance.
Annual and Per-Term Tuition Fees
Malaysian Students Year 1: RM9,680 annually / RM2,420 per term Year 2: RM9,680 annually / RM2,420 per term Year 3: RM9,680 annually / RM2,420 per term Year 4: RM9,972 annually / RM2,493 per term Year 5: RM9,972 annually / RM2,493 per term Year 6: RM9,972 annually / RM2,493 per term Year 7: RM12,052 annually / RM3,013 per term Year 8: RM12,052 annually / RM3,013 per term Year 9: RM13,916 annually / RM3,479 per term Year 10: RM18,876 annually / RM4,719 per term Year 11: RM18,876 annually / RM4,719 per term A-Level (Years 12–13, 18 months): RM27,750 total / RM4,625 per term
Non-Malaysian Students Year 1: RM11,616 annually / RM2,904 per term Year 2: RM11,616 annually / RM2,904 per term Year 3: RM11,616 annually / RM2,904 per term Year 4: RM11,968 annually / RM2,992 per term Year 5: RM11,968 annually / RM2,992 per term Year 6: RM11,968 annually / RM2,992 per term Year 7: RM14,464 annually / RM3,616 per term Year 8: RM14,464 annually / RM3,616 per term Year 9: RM16,700 annually / RM4,175 per term Year 10: RM22,652 annually / RM5,663 per term Year 11: RM22,652 annually / RM5,663 per term A-Level (Years 12–13, 18 months): RM33,300 total / RM5,550 per term
Refund Policy 1.All fees are non-refundable unless explicitly stated otherwise.
2.The Security Fee (RM3,000) is refundable only when a student withdraws with a full term’s written notice.
3.Late payments will incur a surcharge as determined by the school.
Payment Methods All payments must be made to Borneo Covenant Sdn Bhd and can be processed through the following options:
Cheque Bank draft Direct bank deposit Online banking Telegraphic transfer Credit card (in person at the Finance Payment Counter)
Fee details
Kindergarten & Early Years: Kindergarten Angels: RM 6,400 per year (RM 1,600 per term) Pre-Kindergarten: RM 7,600 per year (RM 1,900 per term) Reception 1 (R1): RM 9,000 per year (RM 2,250 per term) Reception 2 (R2): RM 9,900 per year (RM 2,475 per term)
Primary School: Lower Primary (P1–P3): RM 13,000 per year (RM 3,250 per term) Upper Primary (P4–P6): RM 15,600 per year (RM 3,900 per term)
Secondary School: Lower Secondary (Y7–Y9): RM 17,000 per year (RM 4,250 per term) Upper Secondary (Y10–Y11): RM 20,600 per year (RM 5,150 per term)
Additional Annual Charges Student Insurance: RM 25 per year (limited to school-related activities)
Technology/Resource Fee: RM 300 per year (Primary & Secondary)
Refund Policy WIS requires a refundable deposit (RM 2,500–RM 4,500 depending on the level), which is returned upon withdrawal if all accounts are settled, school property is returned, and the required notice is given. However, the deposit is typically non-refundable in cases of application withdrawal.
Payment Methods The school does not publicly specify accepted payment methods.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
Lunches are offered daily at a marginal cost; meals vary by day. Packed lunches are allowed with tables set aside in the refectory.
Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is a private international educational institution established in 2017 and located in Kuching, Sarawak. It is governed by a Board of Governors.
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Borneo International School offers a unified academic programme based on the Cambridge International Curriculum, providing a continuous educational journey from Year 1 through A-Level qualifications.
In the primary years (Years 1–6), the school follows the Cambridge Primary Programme, which emphasizes English, Mathematics, and Science, along with additional subjects such as Mandarin and Bahasa Melayu. This foundation prepares students for the structured progression into the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme in Years 7 to 9.
For students in Years 10 and 11, the focus shifts to the Cambridge IGCSE, a globally recognized qualification assessing academic knowledge across a broad range of subjects. Following this, students may enroll in the Cambridge AS and A-Level programme (Years 12 and 13), which prepares them for university admission both in Malaysia and internationally.
Curriculum details
Woodlands International School offers a fully international curriculum that progresses from the early years through pre-university. In Early Years (ages 2.5 to 5), the school uses the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), which emphasizes holistic, play-based learning that nurtures children’s personal, social, and academic development.
For Primary students (Years 1–6), Woodlands combines the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) with the Cambridge Primary Curriculum. This dual-framework promotes thematic and inquiry-based learning across subjects such as Science, History, Geography, and Languages, fostering creativity, curiosity, and a global outlook.
At the Lower Secondary level (Years 7–9), students follow the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, which builds on earlier learning and prepares them for the rigors of international assessments. This stage continues to encourage a cross-disciplinary approach with a strong emphasis on skill development and critical thinking.
In Upper Secondary (Years 10–11), students pursue the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum, which is recognized worldwide for its academic breadth and rigor. Subjects typically include English, Mathematics, Sciences, and Humanities, with options for creative and technical disciplines.
The school incorporates social and emotional learning through character-building programmes that are designed in-house. These programmes aim to help students understand their roles and responsibilities within the school and wider community. It integrates key principles like empathy, cooperation, and ethical behavior into regular school life. For example, students are involved in school-organized community outreach and charity events, such as food drives and local fundraising activities. These allow them to engage directly with real social issues and reflect on their own actions and responsibilities.
In the classroom, teachers promote respectful communication, teamwork, and accountability through group-based learning activities and class discussions. Students are often encouraged to present ideas, work collaboratively, and take part in decision-making during projects. Leadership is also developed through student council participation and class representative roles, where students practice problem-solving, negotiation, and organizing school-related initiatives. These everyday practices support emotional development by helping students manage emotions, understand others’ perspectives, and work constructively in group settings.
Social & emotional learning
The school does not have publicly available information about their social and emotional learning.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not have a dedicated SEN programme.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not offer any specialized SEN program.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not offer EAL.
English as an additional language
The school does not have publicly available information on EAL.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs, providing students with opportunities to explore interests beyond academics allowing students to build confidence, develop social skills, and manage stress.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through a nurturing and family-oriented environment. Teachers are described as caring and supportive, with a focus on developing students' confidence and emotional growth through character education.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school does not have publicly available information on their safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding
There is no publicly available safeguarding policy from the school.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The school moved to a new all-purpose built campus at Saradise in 2022, located 3 km from Kuching International Airport. The campus houses ICT laboratories, science laboratories, and a comprehensive library. It includes an indoor Multipurpose Hall and a Performing Arts and Drama Academy Centre. The sporting facilities include an indoor badminton hall with four full-sized courts and outdoor courts for futsal, basketball, and volleyball; lockers are provided for secondary students and primary students have designated storage areas. The campus is protected by 24-hour in-house uniformed security guards and CCTV cameras, and transport can be arranged through a third-party school bus operator.
Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school has an indoor badminton hall with four full-sized courts and outdoor courts for futsal, basketball, and volleyball.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The school provides ICT laboratories, science laboratories, and a comprehensive library.
Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extra-Curricular Activities includes: Sports & Games (Badminton, Basketball, Brazilian Jiujitsu, Chess and Board Games, Football/Futsal, Netball, Table Tennis, Pickleball); Clubs & Societies (Animal Welfare, Arts and Crafts, Bible Reading, Cheerleading, Crocheting, Cookery, Debate, Eco-Club, Entrepreneur, Gardening, Geopark, Korean Culture, Music and Choir, Psychology, Quilling and Handicraft, Quilling and Papercraft, Young Doctor Club, Robotics); Uniform Groups (Boys' Brigade, Girls' Brigade, Red Crescent).
Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Borneo International School was founded in 2017 in Kuching, Sarawak. It was established to provide quality international education using the Cambridge International Curriculum, covering Year 1 through A-Level qualifications. Initially based in a different location, the school moved to its current campus in Saradise in 2022. The new purpose-built facility supports a growing student population and expanded academic offerings.
The school is part of a larger Malaysian education group that also oversees other institutions like Nobel International and United International schools. While relatively young, Borneo International School has steadily expanded its programmes, student body, and infrastructure since its founding.
History
Woodlands International School was founded in 2013 in Sibu, Sarawak. It was established to meet the educational needs of both local and expatriate families seeking an internationally oriented curriculum. The school is the only international institution in the area and offers the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), International Primary Curriculum (IPC), and the Cambridge curriculum at higher levels.
Community
Community
Borneo International School serves a growing community of over 600 students representing more than 20 nationalities. The school environment is designed to reflect this cultural variety, with a focus on global-mindedness and inclusion. Students participate in international day celebrations, charity drives, and cultural appreciation activities that highlight traditions from Malaysia and abroad. Parents are frequently invited to school events, where they engage with staff and other families, creating a collaborative atmosphere.
Community
Woodlands nurtures a strong sense of community by encouraging active participation from students, parents, and teachers. The school hosts cultural festivals, student exhibitions, and performances that showcase student talent and promote family engagement. These initiatives contribute to a close-knit school environment with a “family feel” emphasized in their philosophy.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
The school does not have a Parent Teacher Association.
Parent teacher association
The school does not have a Parent Teacher Association.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school offers a broad range of clubs and societies to develop academic inquiry and critical thinking. Students can join Robotics, Debate, Young Doctor Club, Geopark, and Entrepreneur to practice analytical collaboration and problem solving. These activities apply classroom knowledge to real-world contexts and foster teamwork.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Clubs and activities include Arts and Crafts, Music and Choir, Crocheting, Quilling and Handicraft, Quilling and Papercraft, and Cookery. Students pursue creative expression through these clubs and have opportunities to perform, exhibit, or share their work. The program supports craftsmanship and artistic development.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Korean Culture is offered as a cultural club. Bible Reading is available as a club. The school fosters cross-cultural understanding through diverse cultural activities and clubs.
Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Animal Welfare, Eco-Club, Gardening, Crocheting, Quilling, Debates, and Cookery provide hobby and interest-based groups. Chess and Board Games, Table Tennis, and other leisure activities are offered as part of after-school options. The range supports social interaction and personal interests beyond the classroom.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
Community Service is an established part of the school's holistic education. Students participate in charity work and community events, helping others while developing gratitude and personal growth.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Entrepreneur and Debate clubs develop leadership, communication, and enterprise skills. Uniform Groups such as Boys' Brigade, Girls' Brigade, and Red Crescent offer youth leadership experiences and service opportunities.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sports and Games include badminton, basketball, Brazilian Jiujitsu, chess and board games, football/futsal, netball, table tennis, and pickleball. Nutritious lunches are provided daily, with packed lunches accommodated as needed. Extracurricular activities extend the school day on two days each week, supporting students' wellbeing and balance between academics and activities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Malay and Mandarin are the languages taught. English is the medium of instruction for all other subjects. Malay and Mandarin appear as language subjects across Cambridge Primary, Cambridge Secondary and IGCSE curricula. Language learning is integrated within the Cambridge framework.
Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English as the language of instruction for the majority of subjects. Malay and Mandarin are taught as language classes. Malay and Mandarin are listed as language offerings in the Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Secondary curricula.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
Eco-Schools Bronze Certificate: The school received a Bronze Certificate from the Green Growth Asia Foundation for its efforts in promoting environmental sustainability within the school and the broader community.
Awards
The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Cambridge International Examination Centre: Borneo International School is accredited by Cambridge International Education (CIE), allowing it to offer Cambridge Primary, Secondary, IGCSE, and A-Level programmes.
Accreditations
Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Accredited to offer the full Cambridge curriculum from Primary through IGCSE, ensuring a globally recognized education.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Application Submission. Download and complete the school’s Application Form. Attach a copy of your child’s most recent school report card and exam results when submitting the form.
2. Entrance Assessment. Schedule an appointment for your child to sit for the school’s entrance assessment examination.
3. Assessment Outcome. Within one week of the assessment, the school will notify you of the results and recommend an appropriate Year Group placement for your child.
4. Offer and Enrollment. If your child is successful, the school will issue an Offer of Acceptance letter. You will then be asked to complete and submit the Admission Form to finalize the enrollment process.
Admissions
1. Submit Application Form and Documents Complete the application form and submit it along with the following documents:
Two recent passport-sized photographs of the student Copy of the student's birth certificate and passport (non-Malaysian) or identity card (Malaysian) Copy of both parents' and guardian's (if applicable) passports or identity cards Most recent school report Copy of the student's medical card or vaccination card
2. Assessment After submitting the application, the applicant will be scheduled for an assessment. An assessment fee of RM50 is payable on the day of assessment. The assessment includes a feedback meeting with the Head of Kindergarten, Primary, or Secondary, depending on the applicant's level.
3. Application Review and Placement If the assessment is successful, the Head of the relevant section, under the direction of the School Principal, assigns a year/class placement and sports house. If the school does not offer a placement, the application fee is refunded, except in cases where parents agree to be placed on a waitlist.
4. Offer of Place After assessment and placement, parents arrange fittings for the uniform and make all necessary payments for uniforms, school fees, and books. Parents then receive a Welcome Pack containing a full personal supplies list, school calendar, student diary, and a formal acceptance or conditional acceptance letter.
5. Admission Actual placement and entry into the school occur only after all formalities are completed, including submission of completed application forms, full payment of all school fees, payment of the annual school children accidental coverage (RM20), and purchase of school uniforms and textbooks.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Borneo International School offers scholarships for its A-Level programme.
Scholarships
The school does not have publicly available information on their scholarchips.
Waitlist
Waitlist
The school does not have a waitlist.
Waitlist
WIS has a waitlist policy. If the school does not offer a placement after the assessment, the application fee is refunded, except in cases where parents agree to be placed on a waitlist.
