IDRISSI International School vs Sri Ara International & Private School
IDRISSI International School and Sri Ara International & Private School are both in Johor Bahru, about 15 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE programmes. Published annual fees are close, at MYR 12,000 - 27,000 for IDRISSI International School and MYR 10,230 - 29,520 for Sri Ara International & Private School . IDRISSI International School takes pupils from 4 to 16, and Sri Ara International & Private School from 3 to 17. IDRISSI International School is the larger school, with around 500 pupils to Sri Ara International & Private School 's 130. Typical class sizes are 25 at IDRISSI International School and 10 at Sri Ara International & Private School .
IDRISSI International School EduCity is located at Block A, EduCity Complex 2, Persiaran Canselor 1, EduCity Iskandar, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia. It is situated within the EduCity hub, a prominent education zone in southern Johor near the Malaysia–Singapore Second Link. The school is accessible via the EduCity free shuttle bus line (IP), with the nearest stop at Newcastle University of Medicine Malaysia, which is about a 6-minute walk from the school premises.
Location
Sri Ara International School is located at 23 Jalan Straits View in the Straits View neighborhood of Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The school is situated in a residential area, providing a tranquil environment for students.
Stages
Stages
The school caters to students from Preschool (Kindergarten 1–3) for ages 4 to 6, Primary (Years 1–6) for ages 7 to 12, and Secondary (Years 7–11) for ages 13 to 16.
Stages
The school offers education from Preschool (Nursery) through sixth form, accommodating students aged 3 to 17. It follows the Cambridge International curriculum, preparing students for the IGCSE examinations.
School type
School type
IDRISSI is a co-educational day and boarding school.
School type
Sri Ara International School is a co-educational day school, welcoming both male and female students. The school does not provide boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school offers Personal Learning Assistant (PLA) services to students who need academic reinforcement. Additionally, the school also runs a Loving After-Care programme for children who remain on campus after school hours.
Additional learning support
Sri Ara International School does not identify as a specialist SEN institution, but it states that it aims to support students with different learning needs where possible.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Country affiliation
The school operates independently without formal affiliation to any specific country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
IDRISSI is an Islamic school.
Religious affiliation
Sri Ara International School is a secular institution with no religious affiliation. It welcomes students from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
School day structure
School day structure
Preschool students attend from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
Primary students have classes from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
Secondary students follow the longest schedule, from 8:00 AM to 3:50 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
School day structure
The school operates from Monday to Thursday, starting at 8:00 AM and ending at 3:15 PM. On Fridays, the day concludes slightly earlier at 3:00 PM. Extra-curricular activities are scheduled after school hours from Monday to Thursday .
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school does not have a bus service.
Bus service details
Information regarding a dedicated school bus or coach service is not specified on the school's official website.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Fees (Non-Refundable) Application Fee: RM 300 (payable upon submission of the application form) Registration Fee: RM 1,500 (due upon acceptance of placement offer)
Refundable Deposit Security Deposit: RM 5,000 (refundable upon withdrawal with required notice and without outstanding dues)
Annual Tuition Fees (Payable in full or in installments per term) Preschool (Kindergarten 1–2): RM 12,000 / year Primary (Grades 1–5): RM 22,800 / year Upper Primary (Grade 6): RM 24,000 / year Secondary (Grade 7–9): RM 25,800 / year Secondary (Grade 10–11 / IGCSE Level): RM 27,000 / year
Boarding (Optional for Secondary Students) Boarding Fee: RM 27,000 / year
Boarding Deposit: RM 2,000 (refundable)
Refund Policy The RM5,000 deposit is refundable only if a written withdrawal notice is given at least four (4) months in advance.
The deposit is refunded only if all school fees are fully paid and no outstanding dues exist.
If withdrawal notice is given after the term starts, no school fees will be refunded.
A RM200 administrative charge applies to all withdrawals.
Refunds (if eligible) are processed within two months via cheque
Payment Methods The school has no publicly information on payment methods.
Fee details
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Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Boarding facilities are available at the Johor Bahru campus in EduCity Iskandar Puteri.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
A school uniform is required; uniforms are not included in the base tuition.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
A rooftop cafeteria is available at the Bukit Jelutong campus; meals are not included in tuition.
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
GAINS Education Group is the parent company of IDRISSI International School. IDRISSI is part of the GAINS family, which includes Genius Aulad, Sekolah Tinta and Genius Care. The school is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited (Checkpoint for Primary, IGCSE for Secondary).
Governance and ownership
The school is led by a Chairman, Puan Nooraini Mohd. Yasin. Sri Ara Schools is registered with Cambridge Assessment International Education and offers the Cambridge Pathway (Cambridge Primary, Lower Secondary and IGCSE) alongside the Malaysian National Curriculum. The school is located at 23, Jalan Straits View, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
IDRISSI International School offers a blended curriculum that combines the Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic education and eco-conscious learning.
Primary (Years 1–6) Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspectives, ICT, and Physical Education. The curriculum focuses on foundational academic skills, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning.
Secondary (Years 7–9) This stage uses the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, which builds on primary knowledge and introduces more subject specialization. Subjects typically include English, Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), History, Geography, and ICT.
Upper Secondary (Years 10–11) Students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). At this level, students take core and elective subjects based on their interests and strengths. These will include English as a First or Second Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Sciences, and elective options like Business Studies, Accounting, and Global Perspectives.
Curriculum details
Sri Ara International School follows the Cambridge Pathway, offering a structured progression from primary through secondary education. Students in Years 1 to 6 engage with the Cambridge Primary curriculum, focusing on core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science. Years 7 to 9 follow the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum, building on foundational knowledge and preparing students for higher-level studies. In Years 10 and 11, students undertake the Cambridge IGCSE program, with subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Sciences (Combined or Coordinated), Business Studies, Accounting, Economics, Geography, History, Art, ICT, and languages like Malay and Mandarin . The school plans to introduce Oxford AQA examinations for Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13) .
The school implements the Value Education Programme (VEP), a character-building initiative emphasizing social-emotional skills. Through activities like organizing charity bake sales and visiting charitable homes, students cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and meaningful connections with others.
Social & emotional learning
Sri Ara encourages students to be active, responsible, and take on leadership roles within the student body. The Students’ Representative Council oversees student welfare and organizes events, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school currently does not offer any services for special needs children.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Specific SEN programs are not detailed on the school's website.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not have any publicly available information on EAL
English as an additional language
English is the primary medium of instruction at the school. While specific EAL support programs are not mentioned, the school's diverse student body suggests an inclusive approach to language learning.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
IDRISSI's emphasis on a nurturing environment, combined with its nature-based learning approach, suggests a commitment to students' mental well-being. The school's eco-friendly setting and holistic educational philosophy aim to provide a calming and supportive atmosphere conducive to mental health.
Mental wellbeing
The school emphasizes a secure and caring environment, aiming to support students' overall development. Specific mental health programs are not detailed, but the school's philosophy underscores the importance of a nurturing atmosphere.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school does not have publicly available information on their latest safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding
Sri Ara Schools outlines specific safeguarding commitments in its privacy policy, emphasizing the protection of student data and the importance of safe handling of personal information. The school states that all personal data collected is kept confidential and used only for educational and administrative purposes. It also highlights efforts to protect children from harm and abuse in both the physical and online environments, indicating that safeguarding is an integral part of school operations.
While not a detailed safeguarding policy, this statement shows a clear awareness of child protection responsibilities and data security. For more comprehensive procedures, direct contact with the school may be necessary.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
IDRISSI International School operates across two campuses: Setia Alam, Selangor, and EduCity Iskandar Puteri, Johor, with boarding facilities at EduCity. The Setia Alam campus sits in a green, eco-friendly area and provides an Islamic, homely learning environment. The Johor campus is part of a larger eco-learning ecosystem and includes world-class boarding facilities. Cambridge Assessment International Education is integrated into the school's framework, with learning infused with moral and environmental values.
Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The Setia Alam campus offers basketball, netball and futsal courts, a dedicated archery area, and a multipurpose hall for various sports. The Bukit Jelutong campus features an archery range and multiple courts for netball, futsal and volleyball. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus shares EduCity's facilities for sports and recreation, including campus-level recreational spaces. Extracurricular spaces emphasize practical, outdoor physical activities as part of the learning environment.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Setia Alam campus provides Science Lab, Library, Art Lab and Computer Lab, along with a Rooftop Cafeteria, Garden and Petting Farm that support a nature-based approach to study. The Setia Alam campus uses an environment designed to blend Islamic values with modern academic spaces. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus offers air‑conditioned classrooms, auditoriums, a multipurpose hall, dining area, Art Studio, Science Lab, Computer Lab, Library, Garden and Mini Farm, with access to EduCity facilities. IDRISSI is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities include the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), Hiking and Camping Club, Futsal Club, Graphic Design & Creative Club, Archery, Mandarin classes and Little Tahfiz, among others.
Extra curricular facilities
The school places emphasis on extra-curricular activities and includes physical education and sports in the timetable. Speech and Drama are part of the curriculum and help develop confidence and communication for university and professional life later on. The environment and sustainability are emphasised in curriculum planning. Charity work and giving back to the community are inculcated through various activities in the school calendar, and students participate in the year-end school concert. After-school activities are offered, and students are required to take part in at least two per year. Available activities include Dance & Zumba Club, Red Crescent, Environmental Club, Robotic Club, Art & Craft Club, Speech & Drama Club, Taekwondo, Home Science, Pafa-agama, Street Soccer and Swimming.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
IDRISSI International School was established in 2015 by a group of parents who envisioned an educational environment where students could learn joyfully beyond traditional classroom confines. Emphasizing a nature-based, eco-Islamic approach, the school integrates Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic values and environmental consciousness. Following the success of its Setia Alam campus, IDRISSI expanded to EduCity, Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in September 2022.
History
Sri Ara International School was founded in 1997 and grew out of the former Tun Dr Ismail International School. It was established to offer both national and international curriculum options within one institution. The school is privately owned and has expanded its programs to include Cambridge IGCSE and plans for A-Level pathways. Its name, “Sri Ara,” was introduced to reflect a new identity with a continued focus on Malaysian and global educational contexts.
Community
Community
The IDRISSI community is built on shared Islamic values such as compassion, humility, and environmental stewardship. Activities like caring for farm animals, engaging in recycling programs, and supporting underprivileged groups are core parts of school life. These not only build student character but also contribute to a sense of collective responsibility and kindness within the school.
Community
The school hosts various community events such as Hari Raya celebrations, International Day, and annual concerts. These events aim to promote cultural awareness and family involvement. Students also participate in outreach and fundraising initiatives through clubs and house teams.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
IDRISSI does not formally operate a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), however it emphasizes strong school-home communication. Parents are regularly invited to participate in school activities such as open days, workshops, and celebrations.
Parent teacher association
Sri Ara’s PTA is actively involved in supporting school events, communication between parents and staff, and planning community activities. PTA members assist with the coordination of festive celebrations and support new families with orientation. They are also involved in organizing the school’s Family Day and charity drives. Meetings are held regularly and serve as a forum for feedback and collaboration. Parents are encouraged to volunteer for specific events or become part of working committees throughout the year.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school is accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Cambridge Checkpoint is offered for Primary School students and Cambridge IGCSE is offered for Secondary School students.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
IDRISSI emphasizes sustainability and environmental values, with features such as an eco garden and mini farm. The school was recognized with the PEKA Eco Primary Education Award in 2016.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The school offers the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Johor Bahru offers Nature-based Preschool, Primary, and Secondary programs with Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC). The Johor Bahru campus provides boarding facilities and has a 10:1 student–teacher ratio. Shuttle service is available, with pickups from Setia Alam and Bukit Jelutong. The EduCity Iskandar Johor Bahru campus is located in EduCity Iskandar, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the primary language of instruction. Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin are available as language options. IDRISSI International School is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Language provision
The school uses English as the main medium of instruction throughout. It offers two curricula: Cambridge International Examinations leading to IGCSE, and the Malaysian National Curriculum with emphasis on English. Mandarin is taught as a language subject, and Malay language is offered for Malaysian nationals. Cambridge Lower Secondary and IGCSE programs include English as a first or second language, with Mandarin and Malay taught as language subjects.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English, Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin in instruction.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
PEEAM EduAwards 2024: IDRISSI was honored as the Elite Winner for Best International School of the Year by the Private Education Entrepreneurs Association of Malaysia.
Motherhood Choice Awards 2023: The school received the Best Private International School award, acknowledging its positive contributions to the motherhood community.
Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2022: Recognized in the Corporate Excellence Category for the Education & Training Industry.
The BrandLaureate SME’s Best Brands Awards 2019–2020: Awarded in the Education – International School category.
5-Star Recognition for Quality Standard: Received from the Ministry of Education in 2018 for Private Education Institutions.
Best Islamic International School: Awarded by BabyTalk MamaPapa Magazine in 2015, 2016, and 2018.
The Best 10 International Schools in Malaysia 2018: Recognized by The Knowledge Review Magazine.
Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): IDRISSI is an accredited Cambridge International School, offering the Cambridge curriculum from Primary Checkpoint to IGCSE levels. IDRISSI International School
Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS): The school implements the JASS program, a progressive learning initiative designed to develop students' personal growth and achievement.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: IDRISSI offers this globally recognized youth development program, encouraging students aged 14–24 to engage in personal and social development activities.
Eco-Schools Programme: IDRISSI is recognized as the world’s first Islamic International School registered with the WWF Eco-Schools organization, promoting environmental and sustainable education.
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): Sri Ara is accredited to offer the Cambridge International curriculum, including the IGCSE examinations. CAIE is part of the University of Cambridge and is widely recognized for its global academic standards.
Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE): The school operates with approval from Malaysia's Ministry of Education, ensuring compliance with national regulations for private and international schools.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1.Campus Tour or Open Week Participation Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a personalized school tour or participate in the school's Open Week events. These visits offer a firsthand experience of IDRISSI's eco-friendly campus, nature-based learning environments, and boarding facilities.
2.Application Submission To formally apply, submit the completed application form along with the required documents, which typically include:
Child’s passport copy Birth certificate Academic reports Vaccination records A recent passport-sized photograph
This documentation assists the admissions team in assessing eligibility and determining appropriate placement, especially for students transitioning from different educational systems.
3.Assessment and Trial Classes Preschool Applicants (Ages 4–6): Children are invited to participate in a trial class at the Nature-Based Preschool, where their social, emotional, communication, and motor skills are observed. It's important to note that all preschoolers must be toilet-trained before joining the school.
Primary and Secondary Applicants: Students undergo an entry assessment tailored to their age group. This assessment evaluates academic readiness and helps in appropriate class placement. The admissions team will provide details about the assessment schedule and format.
4.Curriculum Consultation After assessments, the admissions team will discuss the Cambridge International Curriculum pathway with you, ensuring it aligns with your child's academic background and future aspirations. They will also explain how Islamic studies and eco-values are integrated into the curriculum.
5.Fee Structure and Enrollment Confirmation Review the detailed fee structure, which includes tuition fees, registration fees, deposits, and any additional costs. Once you agree to the terms, you'll be guided through the payment process to secure your child's enrollment. The admissions team will also provide information on uniforms, transportation options, and other logistical details.
6.Final Enrollment and Orientation Upon successful completion of the above steps, your child's enrollment will be confirmed. The school will share orientation schedules, academic calendars, and other essential information to ensure a smooth transition into the IDRISSI community.
Admissions
1. Arrange a school tour or information session. The school welcomes prospective families to visit the campus and meet with staff. Tours can be scheduled directly with the admissions office and are a good opportunity to ask specific questions and observe the learning environment.
2. Submit application documents. Parents must complete the registration form and submit it along with a non-refundable RM2,500 registration fee. Supporting documents include previous academic records, a copy of the child’s birth certificate, passport or MyKad, and passport-sized photographs.
3. Assessment and interview (if applicable). Depending on the year group, the school may conduct academic assessments or request an interview to determine placement suitability. These are generally informal for younger children and more structured for older students.
4. Placement confirmation and payment of deposit. Once a place is offered, parents are required to confirm enrolment by paying a refundable deposit equal to one term’s tuition fee. Further information about uniforms, textbooks, and term start dates is provided after confirmation.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school does not have any publicly available information on this.
Scholarships
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Waitlist
Waitlist
IDRISSI International School operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, due to high demand, especially in certain grade levels, a waitlist may be implemented when classes reach capacity. Families on the waitlist are prioritized based on the date of application submission and are notified promptly when a spot becomes available. It's advisable to apply early and maintain regular communication with the admissions team to stay informed about your application status.
Waitlist
Sri Ara International School does not publicly advertise a waitlist or pooled admissions system.
