Prince of Wales Island International School - Balik Pulau vs Stonyhurst International School Penang

	P Prince of Wales Island International School - Balik Pulau Penang, Malaysia	S Stonyhurst International School Penang Penang, Malaysia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year MYR 55,260 - 62,970	Fees / year MYR 18,975 - 63,249
Age range	Age range 11 - 19 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels	Curriculum Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Pupils	Pupils 500	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size 25
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2011	Opened 2022
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Prince of Wales Island International School (POWIIS) Balik Pulau campus sits in a calm, rural setting on the western side of Penang Island, Malaysia, surrounded by orchards and rice fields. It’s reached via a short drive from Balik Pulau town, with a dedicated school bus service connecting it to various residential areas across the island.	Location The school is located in Tanjung Tokong, a coastal neighborhood on Penang Island, about 15 minutes by car from George Town. It is situated within a residential area known for its waterfront housing and amenities.
Stages	Stages POWIIS Balik Pulau caters to students aged 11 to 19, beginning from Year 7 through Year 13. The structure is aligned with the British educational system: Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9): Students follow the National Curriculum of England, providing foundational academic skills across subjects. Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11): Pupils prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations across a range of core and elective subjects. Sixth Form (Years 12–13): Students undertake Cambridge International A Levels, with subject choices tailored to individual strengths and university aspirations.	Stages The school caters to students aged 3 to 18 and is divided into several stages: Early Years (Nursery and Reception), Pre-Prep (Years 1–2), Prep and Elements (Years 3–6), Figures to Lower Grammar (Years 7–9), Grammar and Syntax (Years 10–11), and Sixth Form (Years 12–13). Each stage follows a British-based curriculum aligned to the student's age and developmental needs.
School type	School type POWIIS is a co‑educational school offering day places for ages 11–19. Boarding is available in full-time, weekly, or flexible arrangements (flexi‑boarding) at the Balik Pulau campus.	School type It is a co-educational day school, welcoming both local and international students.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support POWIIS provides targeted support for students with additional learning needs through its Learning Support Department, which offers both English as an Additional Language (EAL) and SEN provisions: EAL Support: Available for students in Years 7–9, focusing on building fluency and confidence in academic English through structured withdrawal sessions. Pupils are assessed and grouped according to their language needs. SEN Support: Students with learning differences (such as dyslexia, ADHD, or mild autism spectrum conditions) may receive individualized support based on assessments. Provision can include: * One-to-one support sessions * Modified classroom strategies * Exam access arrangements (e.g., extra time) * Collaboration with external specialists (when needed)	Additional learning support While the school emphasizes personalized care, there is no specific mention of a dedicated SEN department or specialist learning support facilities in the current materials.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation POWIIS is an independent school in Malaysia but follows the English National Curriculum.	Country affiliation The school is affiliated with Stonyhurst College in the UK, but operates independently in Malaysia. Its curriculum is based on the British education system.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation POWIIS does not have any religious affiliations.	Religious affiliation The school has a Jesuit Catholic heritage and values, though it welcomes students of all faiths and secular backgrounds.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and ends by 3:00 PM. It includes a morning break and lunch break. Co-curricular activities take place after school hours on selected days.	School day structure The school day begins with gates opening at 7:35 AM, followed by student registration from 7:50 to 8:00 AM. For both Junior (Nursery to Year 6) and Senior School (Years 7 to 13), academic lessons run from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, including scheduled breaks and lunch. After the academic day ends, Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) are held from 3:20 to 4:20 PM for students in Year 1 and above. Nursery children finish at 1:00 PM, with an optional “Stay and Play” session available until 2:30 PM.
Bus service details	Bus service details Yes, POWIIS offers a school bus service across Penang Island, with designated pick‑up points in residential areas. Routes and pricing are outlined in the Parent Handbook and include behavior guidelines and booking procedures.	Bus service details The school offers a bus service in partnership with Lim Boon Kooi School Bus Service (LBK). This service is available for students from Reception onwards and includes bus monitors for attendance and safety. Routes and pickup times are arranged based on demand, and younger students are only dropped off if a caregiver is present.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Registration Fees: * Assessment Fee (non-refundable): MYR 1,000 * Registration Fee (non-refundable): MYR 5,000 * Course Deposit: Ranges from MYR 15,800 to MYR 18,000 Tuition Fees: There are three terms per academic year. * Year 7 & 8: MYR 18,420 per term / MYR 55,260 annually * Year 9: MYR 19,240 per term / MYR 57,720 annually * Year 10 & 11: MYR 19,700 per term / MYR 59,100 annually * Year 12 & 13: MYR 20,990 per term / MYR 62,970 annually A 3.5% discount is offered for full annual payment in advance. Boarding Fees: Available for students in Year 7 to Year 13: * Boarding Deposit: MYR 12,000 * Full Boarding: MYR 13,200 per term / MYR 39,600 annually * Weekday Boarding (Mon–Fri): MYR 10,500 per term / MYR 31,500 annually * Flexi-Boarding: MYR 220 per night Boarding includes meals, linen, air-conditioning, supervision, and weekend activities. Single rooms are provided for Sixth Form students. Arts Academy Fees: Standard Program: Year 7 to Year 10, Year 12: Termly: MYR 6,000 Annual: MYR 18,000 Year 11 and Year 13: Termly: MYR 6,000 Annual: MYR 12,000 Premium Program: Year 7 to Year 10, Year 12: Termly: MYR 12,000 Annual: MYR 36,000 Year 11 and Year 13: Termly: MYR 12,000 Annual: MYR 24,000 These fees are in addition to tuition and reflect specialised coaching, performance development, and advanced exposure to the arts. Year 11 and Year 13 only pay for two terms, because term 3 is mainly examinations. Other Costs: * Uniforms, books, transport, and optional activities (e.g., instrumental music) are not included in tuition. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms: Fees are billed termly in advance. Tuition payments are due in August, December, and April for each academic year. A 3% discount is offered for full annual payment made in advance. Refund Policy: Deposits are refundable only if written notice of withdrawal is given by the deadlines listed in the handbook. Assessment and registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.	Fee details One-Time Fees * Application Fee: MYR 1,000 (non-refundable; applies to all year groups) * Enrolment Fee: * Nursery – Year 1: MYR 5,000 * Year 2 – Year 6: MYR 8,000 * Year 7 – Year 13: MYR 8,500 (All enrolment fees are non-refundable) * Security Deposit: MYR 5,000 (refundable with one term’s written notice) Tuition Fees (per term / per year) * Nursery (EYFS): MYR 5,500 / MYR 16,500 * Reception (EYFS): MYR 6,325 / MYR 18,975 * Year 1 (Pre-Prep 1): MYR 9,156 / MYR 27,468 * Year 2 (Pre-Prep 2): MYR 9,156 / MYR 27,468 * Year 3–4 (Lower & Upper Prep): MYR 11,445 / MYR 34,335 * Year 5–6 (Lower & Upper Elements): MYR 13,734 / MYR 41,202 * Year 7–9 (Figures, Rudiments, Lower Grammar): MYR 17,808 / MYR 53,424 * Year 10–11 (Grammar, Syntax): MYR 18,868 / MYR 56,604 * Year 12–13 (Poetry, Rhetoric): MYR 19,166 / MYR 57,498 Billing Schedule & Payment Terms * Fees are billed termly, with three terms per academic year. * A 3% early payment discount is available for full annual payment made upfront. * Payments can be made via bank transfer or cheque. Additional Costs * Uniforms, meals, transportation, field trips, textbooks, student visas, and external exam fees are not included. * Learning Support Fee (if applicable): MYR 2,500 per year. Sibling Discounts * 1st sibling: 3% tuition discount * 2nd sibling: 5% * 3rd sibling: 8%
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is on campus at POWIIS Balik Pulau. Boarders live in modern, comfortable halls with access to facilities including sports fields, a multi-purpose hall, a library and arts spaces. A team of staff, including boarding matrons, teachers and the school nurse, supports daily life; there are flexible options to suit families' needs, such as full-time boarding or weekday stays.	Boarding arrangements The school operates as an international day school and does not offer boarding.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory and the correct school uniform must be worn every day. Pupils in EYFS wear their PE kit on PE days (and on swimming days); pupils in Pre-Prep and above wear full uniform on swimming and non‑PE days, and from Pre-Prep 1 upwards all pupils must wear full uniform on Fridays for the weekly assembly. Uniform items are labelled, and there are detailed requirements for footwear, hijab alignment with the uniform, and rules around makeup, hair and jewellery.
Food options	Food options On-site meals are provided for students; boarding includes meals and opportunities for shared meals with staff and peers.	Food options The Dining Hall provides meals with a varied and nutritious menu; a dedicated catering team accommodates dietary needs and the dining environment focuses on social dining with peers.
House system	House system The Balik Pulau campus uses a house system with four houses: Aqua, Ignis, Terra and Ventus. House Captains and deputies lead house events and activities.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership POWIIS is owned and operated by MTT Learning Academy Sdn Bhd. The Board of Governors is appointed by MTT Learning Academy and includes representatives of the shareholders and the Board of Directors.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Governors, whose role is to set strategy and direction for Stonyhurst Penang. The school is affiliated with Stonyhurst College in the United Kingdom.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details POWIIS Balik Pulau follows the British curriculum, structured around the English National Curriculum in the lower years and progressing to internationally recognised qualifications. In Years 7 to 9 (Key Stage 3), students study a broad range of subjects including English, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Languages, Arts, and Physical Education. In Years 10 and 11, students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE, selecting core subjects (such as English, Mathematics, and Sciences) along with elective options like Business Studies, Art, Music, or Computer Science. In the Sixth Form (Years 12–13), students choose from a range of Cambridge International A Levels, typically taking three or four subjects aligned with their future academic and career plans. The curriculum also includes pastoral, enrichment, and co-curricular programmes that support personal development. English is the medium of instruction, with additional language options offered as part of the academic programme.	Curriculum details Stonyhurst International School Penang follows a UK-based curriculum from Early Years through Sixth Form. Children in Nursery and Reception follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, with a focus on play-based learning and early literacy and numeracy. In Years 1 and 2 (Pre-Prep), students begin formal instruction in core subjects, supported by specialist teaching in music, physical education, swimming, and languages such as French, Bahasa Malaysia, and Mandarin. From Years 3 to 6 (Prep and Elements), students follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) alongside English, mathematics, and science. In Years 7 to 9 (Figures to Lower Grammar), the curriculum expands to include humanities, computing, and creative subjects, leading to the IGCSE program in Years 10 and 11. Sixth Form students (Years 12 and 13) follow the A-Level curriculum, selecting individual subjects based on interest and university pathways.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school begins each day with tutor time, allocating a daily slot where students check in with a trusted adult, often engaging in discussions or wellbeing activities using tools like Komodo Wellbeing. Primary support is provided by form tutors in Key Stage 3, with oversight from Heads of Key Stages and a school counsellor. The PSHE program, held fortnightly, covers topics such as mental health, relationships, digital safety, and decision-making. This curriculum is tailored to each age group and is delivered by pastoral leaders and trained staff within advisory and counselling teams. In the Sixth Form, there remains structured support including tutor guidance, one-to-one meetings with the University & Careers Counsellor, and a mental wellbeing focus during this high-pressure stage.	Social & emotional learning The school incorporates social and emotional development through its Jesuit-inspired framework, known as the Jesuit Pupil Profile, which promotes values such as compassion, attentiveness, and discernment. Teachers integrate these themes into lessons and school life, encouraging reflective discussions and positive behavior. Each student is supported by form tutors and pastoral staff who monitor their personal growth and social interactions. In addition, co-curricular programs and service opportunities are designed to build resilience, empathy, and teamwork. Senior students are encouraged to take on leadership roles to foster responsibility and self-awareness.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) POWIIS is not a specialist SEN school but does admit students with learning difficulties who can benefit from its curriculum with appropriate support. According to the school’s SEN Policy, support is available for students with significantly greater difficulty in learning or disabilities that hinder access to mainstream education. The SENCo coordinates daily provisions and oversees assessments, Access Arrangement applications, and individualised plans. Teachers work closely with the SEN team to implement differentiated strategies in the classroom. Admissions decisions for SEN learners are based on available resources, staffing, and adequate background knowledge of the student’s needs, with additional assessments like class observations if required.	Special educational needs (SEN) Stonyhurst Penang is not a specialist SEN institution, but it offers support for students with mild to moderate learning needs. A Learning Support Fee of MYR 2,500 per year applies if additional support is required. Support is coordinated in consultation with teachers and pastoral staff, focusing on classroom accommodations and individual monitoring.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language POWIIS offers a structured EAL program for students in Years 7–9, aimed at building academic English proficiency in preparation for IGCSE and A Levels. Placement is informed by CEFR assessments during admissions, and students move through levels until ready to graduate from the program. EAL support includes structured withdrawal lessons and integration within the broader Learning Support team.	English as an additional language While there is no separate EAL department outlined in public materials, the school welcomes students from diverse language backgrounds and provides language support through its teaching teams.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school has a dedicated pastoral team that includes tutors, key stage leaders, and school counsellors responsible for supporting mental wellbeing. Regular tutor check-ins and PSHE sessions address common emotional challenges faced by adolescents. POWIIS uses tools like Komodo to allow students to report wellbeing concerns and track mood patterns. In the Sixth Form, additional mental health support is embedded through university and future-planning counselling.	Mental wellbeing Stonyhurst Penang provides mental wellbeing support through a structured counselling program and regular pastoral check-ins. A team of trained staff, including a Head of Pastoral, oversees emotional development and offers individual support as needed. The school’s emphasis on values-based education encourages a caring environment where students feel comfortable seeking help. Advisory and counselling services are accessible throughout a student’s time at the school. Activities that promote mindfulness, reflection, and peer support are embedded within the curriculum and extracurricular program.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding POWIIS Balik Pulau affirms its commitment to safeguarding, ensuring protection from harm through a stable school environment for all students. Tutor teams, pastoral leaders, and counsellors act as designated first contacts for concerns. The school's focus on psychological safety, emotional support, and open communication channels indicates adherence to standard child protection practices.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is overseen by the Designated Safeguarding Lead (the Head of Pastoral), supported by school-wide policies and training. All staff involved with students undergo regular child protection training, including bus monitors and drivers. The school enforces secure pickup procedures, mandatory background checks, and standardized reporting for all safeguarding concerns. Protocols for absences, transportation, and adult authorization are documented and strictly followed. The school follows a structured safeguarding policy aligned with international school standards in Malaysia.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview POWIIS Balik Pulau is located at 1 Jalan Sungai Air Putih 6, Bandar Baru Air Putih, 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia. It provides a British curriculum with Cambridge IGCSEs and A Levels for students aged 11 to 19. The school includes the POWIIS Arts Academy, a specialist program for those who wish to immerse themselves in music alongside their studies. Boarding provisions are available to meet family needs, providing a home-like environment for boarding students. The school emphasizes global citizenship through the POWIIS Project and offers leadership opportunities through student leadership programs.	Facilities overview The campus is purpose-built in Penang. There are 48 purpose-designed classroom spaces. Senior School Library and Junior School Library are on site. The campus includes a 500-seat auditorium, plus drama rooms, music rooms and music practice rooms. ICT rooms, art studios and an art gallery are on site, together with a dedicated Sixth Form Centre.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities The school provides athletics facilities including an Astroturf playing field. There is a 25 metre, 8-lane swimming pool and a learner pool, with additional spaces for sports such as badminton, basketball and football. A multipurpose hall and multiple playgrounds support physical education and activity programs.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Balik Pulau campus offers a Cambridge IGCSE and A Level pathway for students aged 11 to 19. The program runs Year 7 through Year 13, with Year 7-9 (Key Stage 3), Year 10-11 (IGCSE), and Year 12-13 (A Levels). A university and careers counsellor supports students through the POWIIS journey and beyond. The POWIIS Arts Academy forms part of the academic environment, offering a specialist arts pathway for Balik Pulau students. Global citizenship and character development are integrated through school life and the POWIIS Project.	Academic facilities There are 48 classrooms. Senior School Library and Junior School Library serve both campuses. Nine science laboratories support practical science work. ICT rooms, art studios and an art gallery support a broad range of subjects and creative work. The Sixth Form Centre consolidates facilities for higher-level study.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities POWIIS Balik Pulau includes the POWIIS Arts Academy, a specialist program for students who wish to immerse themselves in music alongside their studies. Global citizenship is promoted through the POWIIS Project, with the motto 'Be the change, make a difference'. Student leadership programs provide opportunities to develop essential skills and contribute to the school community. Career Pathways supports every child with university and career guidance alongside academic staff. Opportunities for extracurricular activities are available locally, regionally, and internationally.	Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities cover Sports & Physical Activities, Arts & Creative Expression, Music & Performing Arts, Languages & Communication, Academic & Skill Development, and Leadership & Community. Examples include Badminton, Basketball, Football, Swimming, Art Club, Creative Writing, Choir, Drama, English Speaking Club, French and Mandarin language activities, Maths and Robotics clubs, Eco Committee, Pupil Council and many other options.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The Prince of Wales Island International School (POWIIS) was established in 2011 by the MTT Learning Academy, a private Malaysian education group led by Datin Seri Saisunee Ong. The school was founded with a vision to provide a British-style education in Penang, offering both day and boarding options within a rural campus in Balik Pulau. The ownership group has personal ties to British education and intended POWIIS to follow the structure and curriculum of UK independent schools, combining academic qualifications with character development. The original Balik Pulau campus was designed to serve secondary students (Years 7–13), and in 2019, the school expanded with a second campus, POWIIS Tanjung Bungah, catering to primary-aged children (ages 3–11). Together, the two campuses offer a full-through British curriculum pathway from Early Years through A Levels.	History Stonyhurst International School Penang was established in September 2022 as the first overseas sister school of the 430-year-old Stonyhurst College in the UK. The school operates as a coeducational day school, offering a British curriculum to students aged 3 to 18. It is situated on a 4.3-acre campus in Tanjung Tokong, Penang, featuring modern facilities designed for contemporary teaching and learning.
Community	Community POWIIS Balik Pulau has a diverse and engaged school community consisting of local and expatriate families, boarding students, day pupils, academic staff, and alumni. The school emphasises participation across all groups, and community life is enriched through regular school-wide events, such as International Day, musical and drama productions, science and arts exhibitions, and fundraising initiatives. The House System builds camaraderie through house competitions in sports, academics, and service activities. Students and families are also encouraged to take part in service learning projects and sustainability initiatives, particularly under affiliations such as Eco-Schools and The Alliance for Sustainable Schools. POWIIS promotes intercultural awareness and collective engagement by marking festive and cultural events from multiple traditions, reflecting the international makeup of its student body. Alumni events, parent forums, and university fairs further expand the community's reach beyond school life.	Community The school community comprises students, staff, parents, and local organizations. Stonyhurst Penang celebrates its diverse community through various events, including cultural festivals and school-wide gatherings. These events foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for students to engage with different cultures and traditions.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school invites parents to engage through the POWIIS Supporters Club. This is a voluntary group of parents who support school events and initiatives throughout the year. Any parent may join, and meetings are held once per term on Saturday mornings. The Supporters Club works closely with staff to enhance the student experience and community life, particularly around performances, enrichment events, and co-curricular activities.	Parent teacher association Stonyhurst Penang has an active Parent Teacher Association that collaborates with the school to support student learning and well-being. The PTA organizes events such as parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and community service initiatives. These activities aim to strengthen the partnership between parents and the school, enhancing the educational experience for students.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Prince of Wales Island International School Balik Pulau offers Cambridge IGCSEs and A Level programmes. The curriculum is described as a holistic British curriculum that nurtures academic excellence, creativity, and global citizenship. The learning environment includes modern facilities and a supportive community in Penang. A University and Careers Counsellor supports students with university readiness and career pathways beyond POWIIS. The Balik Pulau campus address is 1 Jalan Sungai Air Putih 6, Bandar Baru Air Putih 11000 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Tel: +604 868 9999; Email: [email protected]	Academic & intellectual Stonyhurst Penang offers a broad range of co-curricular opportunities that support academic and intellectual development. Activities include Maths Competition Training, Robotics, STEM Club, and Science Club, which complement classroom learning and develop problem-solving, collaboration and inquiry. Students engage in competitions and projects to apply concepts across disciplines and deepen analytical thinking beyond the formal curriculum. These experiences foster intellectual curiosity and independent inquiry.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The POWIIS Arts Academy is a specialist programme exclusive to Balik Pulau students, allowing those who wish to immerse themselves in music to study alongside their general subjects. It forms part of the centre of excellence for the arts at POWIIS. The arts focus reflects the school's commitment to developing creative talents within a balanced curriculum.	Arts & creative Co-curricular offerings in the arts and creative fields include Art Club, Creative Writing, Digital Animation, Digital Art, Group Vocal Training, Mural Painting, Music Technology & Production, Origami, Photography, and Storycraft. In music and performing arts, students can participate in Ballet, Choir, Drama, Orchestra/Ensemble, Piano, Ukulele/Guitar Lessons, and related groups. These activities cultivate creativity across visual arts, performance, and digital media.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language POWIIS Balik Pulau emphasizes global citizenship and cultural diversity as core aspects of its community. The motto Be the change, make a difference reflects an emphasis on considering multiple perspectives on contemporary issues. The school fosters an inclusive, culturally diverse environment and encourages engagement with global issues. The Balik Pulau campus is part of a multicultural Penang community.	Cultural & language Languages and communication are supported through English Speaking Club, ESL Club, French Language Lessons, German Language Lessons, Mandarin Speaking Club, and Phonics Practice. The program includes opportunities to develop reading, writing and spoken language skills across multiple languages. Language clubs promote intercultural communication and linguistic proficiency.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies POWIIS provides a broad range of extracurricular opportunities locally, regionally, and internationally. Student leadership programmes provide a platform for students to develop essential skills and contribute to the school community. The campus offers boarding provisions to meet families' needs, supporting social life and community.	Social & hobbies Social and hobbies opportunities include Book Club, Eco Committee, Library Club, Peer Buddy, Pupil Council, School Yearbook, and Scouts. These activities encourage teamwork, community involvement and personal interests beyond academics.
Community & service	Community & service Global citizenship initiatives and the POWIIS Project encourage community involvement and social responsibility. The motto Be the change, make a difference underlines a focus on social impact. Students engage in activities that connect with local and international communities as part of school life.	Community & service Leadership-oriented and service-linked activities include Eco Committee and Pupil Council, which promote environmental stewardship, governance, and community involvement. Peer Buddy supports peer mentoring and social inclusion, while the School Yearbook and Library Club help strengthen school community life. Participation reinforces a sense of responsibility and belonging within the school.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Student leadership programmes provide opportunities to develop essential skills. A dedicated University and Careers Counsellor supports students through their POWIIS journey and beyond. The school promotes professional development and leadership within its student community.	Leadership & professional Leadership and professional development are embedded in student life through the Pupil Council and other student-led initiatives. Sixth Form emphasises leadership, service and academic excellence, with opportunities that prepare pupils to pursue leading universities and contribute to the school community. The Sixth Form information highlights a pathway that integrates leadership and scholarship as core aims.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Well Being is prioritised with a nurturing environment that supports emotional resilience, reduces stress, and enhances mental health. The safeguarding commitment underscores a safe environment for all. Boarding provisions support a balanced lifestyle for students living on campus.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Stonyhurst Penang offers a wide range of sports and physical activities to support wellbeing, including badminton, basketball, football, fitness club, gymnastics, karate, muay thai, netball, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, and wushu. The campus features extensive facilities such as 48 purpose-designed classrooms, a 500-seat auditorium, multiple music and drama spaces, libraries, science labs, a 25m x 8-lane swimming pool, a learners pool, a dedicated sports area and other amenities that support physical and mental wellbeing. The school is an international day school for ages 3–18, situated on a purpose-built campus in Penang.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision —	Language provision The school teaches English-language curricula with a focus on languages as subjects. Languages taught in Key Stage 1 and 2 are French, Mandarin and Bahasa. IPC (International Primary Curriculum) is used for cross-curricular learning in KS1–KS2. These languages are delivered by specialist teachers.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards As of now, Stonyhurst International School Penang has not publicly announced any institutional awards since its establishment in 2022.
Accreditations	Accreditations Council of International Schools (CIS): Global accreditation for international schools demonstrating high-quality education. Council of British International Schools (COBIS): UK-based accreditation ensuring delivery of British-style education abroad. Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA): Membership offering access to regional events, sport, and training. Association of International Malaysian Schools (AIMS): Malaysian industry association supporting international school quality. Cambridge Assessment International Education examination centre: Approved provider of Cambridge IGCSE and A Level exams on-site. Pearson Edexcel examination centre: Approved provider of Edexcel qualifications on-site. Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award partner: Enables students to participate in this recognised youth development programme. Eco-Schools / Alliance for Sustainable Schools: Recognises school-wide commitment to environmental education and practices.	Accreditations FOBISIA Membership: Stonyhurst Penang became a full member of the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) in April 2024. This membership connects the school to a network of British international schools across Asia, facilitating shared resources, student events, and professional development opportunities
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Book a school tour or virtual open event: The school recommends visiting the campus or attending a virtual session to better understand its facilities, curriculum, and learning environment. This can be arranged through the admissions team. 2. Submit the application form and required documents: Parents complete the official application form and upload key documents including school reports, health information, birth certificate/passport, and a photo. These are submitted online or via email to the school registrar. 3. Assessment and interview: Students may be invited for academic assessment (including English language evaluation) and an interview with the academic team. These assessments help determine appropriate placement and support. 4. Offer of place and confirmation: If successful, an offer letter is issued. Parents then confirm the place by returning a signed acceptance form and paying a registration fee and deposit.	Admissions 1. Book a campus visit or attend an open house. Families are encouraged to visit the school to better understand the learning environment and facilities. Open houses or private tours can typically be arranged through the admissions team. 2. Submit an application form and required documents. To begin the formal admissions process, parents need to complete the application form and provide documents such as a copy of the student’s passport, birth certificate, previous school reports, and any relevant medical or learning support documentation. A non-refundable application fee of MYR 1,000 applies. 3. Assessment and interview. Applicants may be invited to take an age-appropriate assessment. Depending on the year level, students may also attend a short interview with the academic or pastoral team, either in person or online. 4. Offer of place and acceptance. If successful, families will receive a formal offer letter. To secure the place, parents must sign the acceptance documents and pay the required enrolment and security deposit fees. 5. Orientation and start of school. Once enrolled, students and families are invited to attend orientation sessions to become familiar with school routines, uniforms, and timetables. The admissions and pastoral teams provide support to ensure a smooth transition into school life.
Scholarships	Scholarships POWIIS Bukit Pulau offers five types of scholarships for both existing and prospective students, applicable against tuition fees only: General Academic: Based on CAT scores (top 5% of cohort), IGCSE performance (for Year 12), recent grades, and references. Subject Specific: For exceptional achievement in a particular academic subject, supported by competition results and teacher recommendations. Arts: For drama, music, design tech, or visual arts; applicants submit portfolios, performance samples, and validated exam/competition results. Global Citizenship: Based on involvement in events such as MUN, GIN, WSC, or service projects, supported by portfolios and references. Sports: For students excelling in school sports with documented team representation, trial performance, and coach recommendations. Scholarships are awarded per term and are not applied retrospectively. They require an excellent record of attendance and behaviour. Only one application per student per year is accepted, and awards are confidential. Scholarships may be withdrawn with a term’s notice if criteria are not maintained.	Scholarships The school offers a limited number of merit- and means-tested scholarships for academically strong students. Applicants who meet both academic and financial eligibility may apply for funding of up to 100% of school fees. Full scholarship recipients entering Sixth Form (Years 12–13) receive comprehensive support covering tuition, uniform, meals, books, equipment, residential and day trip fees, transportation, and—if applicable—boarding and insurance costs. These scholarships are awarded for the full two-year Sixth Form term and are subject to ongoing review. In addition, the school previously offered Honorary Scholarships for high-achieving students who did not qualify for financial support. However, this category has now closed, as all honorary scholarships have been fully awarded.
Waitlist	Waitlist POWIIS does not mention the use of a waitlist or pool-based admissions system.	Waitlist Stonyhurst International School Penang does not publicly state whether it operates a waitlist or pooled admissions system. However, admissions are subject to availability in each year group.
	View full profile →	View full profile →