Prince of Wales Island International School - Balik Pulau vs The International School of Penang (Uplands)

	P Prince of Wales Island International School - Balik Pulau Penang, Malaysia	T The International School of Penang (Uplands) Penang, Malaysia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year MYR 55,260 - 62,970	Fees / year MYR 24,800 - 70,800
Age range	Age range 11 - 19 years	Age range 4 - 19 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 IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils 500	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2011	Opened 1955
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 Batu Ferringhi, a beachside suburb on the northern coast of Penang Island, Malaysia. It’s approximately 30 minutes by car from George Town. The area is quieter and more residential, popular with expat families.
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 Uplands is divided into Primary School (ages 4–11) and Secondary School (ages 11–18). The school follows the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), IGCSEs, and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). Students transition through these stages with age-appropriate academic and pastoral structures.
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 The school is co-educational and welcomes both day and boarding students. Boarding is available for students in Year 7 and above, with weekly and term options. The school operates on a not-for-profit basis.
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 The school provides Learning Support Services to students with mild to moderate additional needs. Support may include in-class assistance, small group sessions, or one-to-one intervention, depending on individual assessments. The school collaborates with parents and specialists to develop tailored support plans.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation POWIIS is an independent school in Malaysia but follows the English National Curriculum.	Country affiliation The school has no formal affiliation with any specific country.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation POWIIS does not have any religious affiliations.	Religious affiliation Uplands is a secular school with no religious affiliation.
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 typically runs from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Students have scheduled morning and lunch breaks, with time allocated for academic lessons, specialist subjects, and extracurricular activities. The timetable may vary slightly between Primary and Secondary levels.
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 provides a bus service operated by external providers that covers a range of residential areas around Penang Island. Buses are fitted with seatbelts and are supervised by trained personnel. Routes and pickup times are coordinated to accommodate student needs, and the school works closely with providers to ensure safety and punctuality.
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 Application & Enrolment Fees (One-Time) * Application Fee: MYR 800 (non-refundable) * Entrance Fee: MYR 7,000 (non-refundable) * Enrolment Deposit: MYR 5,000 (refundable upon withdrawal, subject to conditions) * ISP School Association Membership Fee: MYR 1,000 (applicable to one parent only) Annual Tuition Fees (by Year Group) * Reception : MYR 24,800 (MYR 12,400 per semester) * Year 1 : MYR 30,200 (MYR 15,100 per semester) * Year 2 : MYR 37,200 (MYR 18,600 per semester) * Years 3–4 : MYR 44,200 (MYR 22,100 per semester) * Years 5–6 : MYR 53,000 (MYR 26,500 per semester) * Years 7–11 : MYR 68,000 (MYR 34,000 per semester) * Years 12–13 : MYR 70,800 (MYR 35,400 per semester) Tuition fees are billed in two equal installments per academic year. Additional Charges * School Development Fund: MYR 2,500 per student, per annum * Personal Accident Insurance: MYR 40 per student, per annum (compulsory) * Public Examination Fees: Applicable for IGCSE and IB examinations in Years 11 and 13; fees vary based on examination boards * Textbooks: Costs for English Literature examination texts (Years 10 & 11) and unreturned IB course textbooks (Years 12 & 13) are billed separately * Uplands Parent Teacher Association Membership: MYR 100 per family, per annum * Library Fines: Charges apply for overdue, lost, or damaged books and resources * Additional Administrative Fees: Applicable for non-routine administrative tasks (e.g., school trips, issuance of certificates) All fees must be paid in full before a student can attend the school. Discounts * Sibling Discount: * 10% reduction on tuition fees for the second child * 20% reduction on tuition fees for the third and subsequent children * Early Payment Discount: * 5% discount on tuition fees by the scheduled early dates. Payment Methods * Accepted Payment Methods: * Cheque (payable to 'THE I.S.P.') * Bank Transfer Detailed payment instructions are provided upon acceptance.
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 —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
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 —
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 governance of The International School of Penang (Uplands) is established by the Constitution of The I.S.P. Schools Association and overseen by a Board composed of Patron Governors and Parent Governors. The Board provides strategic leadership and corporate oversight, meeting regularly to guide the school's long-term direction and ensure its continued success. Supporting the work of the Board are several committees, including the Executive Committee (EXCOM), the Trustees Committee, the Audit and Risk Committee (ARCO), and the Development Committee. The Principal is supported by a Senior Management Team, which includes the Head of Primary, Head of Secondary, Head of Administration, Head of Finance, Head of IT, Head of HR, and other senior academic staff. The school's financial matters are monitored by the Head of Finance and are subject to regular audits by an independent external auditor.
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 The International School of Penang (Uplands) offers a continuum of internationally recognized curricula from early years through pre-university. In the Primary School (Reception to Year 6), students follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), which focuses on inquiry-based learning across core subjects including English, mathematics, science, social studies, and languages. In Years 7 to 9, the school implements the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), which includes disciplines such as language and literature, individuals and societies, design, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. Years 10 and 11 prepare students for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations across a range of subjects including English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, and languages. In Years 12 and 13, students undertake the IB Diploma Programme (DP), which includes six academic subjects, a 4,000-word Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service). Language acquisition is integrated across all stages, with French, German, Mandarin, and Malay offered.
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 integrates Social and Emotional Learning through its pastoral care programme, classroom practices, and structured activities. Homeroom teachers play a central role in daily SEL, supported by year-group coordinators and student welfare teams. The school runs age-appropriate lessons on topics such as emotional regulation, friendships, and conflict resolution. Reflection and community service components, particularly in the IB programmes, further support SEL. Students also have access to counselling services where needed. Collaborative initiatives such as peer mentoring and student council provide opportunities to build empathy and leadership skills.
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) Uplands supports students with mild to moderate learning needs through its Learning Support Department. The school is not a specialist SEN institution but offers tailored support plans developed in collaboration with families and external professionals. Support is delivered through a mix of in-class assistance, small group sessions, and individualized intervention. Needs supported typically include dyslexia, ADHD, and specific learning difficulties in literacy or numeracy. The SEN team works closely with teaching staff to differentiate lessons and monitor student progress. Admission of students with SEN is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
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 The school offers structured EAL support for students who are developing English language proficiency. Dedicated EAL teachers provide instruction both within mainstream classes and in small group settings. The level of support is based on individual assessments at the time of enrolment and is reviewed regularly. The EAL program is integrated into classroom learning, particularly in Primary and early Secondary years. As students progress, support is gradually reduced as proficiency improves. Communication with parents is maintained to monitor progress and engagement.
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 Students have access to trained school counsellors who provide individual support and group workshops. Wellbeing themes are integrated into tutor time, PSHE lessons, and assemblies across school levels. Staff receive training on student wellbeing awareness, and there are clear referral pathways for additional help. The school encourages an open-door policy for students seeking support and organizes peer-based initiatives such as wellbeing ambassadors. Outdoor learning, sports, and creative clubs also contribute to wellbeing. Collaboration with parents is encouraged when concerns arise.
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 The school follows a clearly defined Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy aligned with international standards. All staff receive mandatory safeguarding training, and procedures for identifying and reporting concerns are in place. Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) oversee all safeguarding matters and ensure compliance. Visitors to the school are screened, and campus access is strictly monitored. Regular policy reviews and audits ensure ongoing effectiveness. Age-appropriate lessons are also delivered to help students understand their rights and how to seek help.
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 International School of Penang (Uplands) operates on a single campus in Batu Ferringhi, Penang. The campus includes drama studios and a multi-purpose hall with computer‑aided lighting and sound equipment. The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge International Examinations programs across Primary and Secondary on one campus. The address is Jalan Sungai Satu, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Malaysia.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities ROAR SPORT provides competitive and non‑competitive opportunities for students. The sports program includes football, netball, swimming, athletics, basketball, touch rugby, cross‑country, and T‑ball. The school runs an extensive co‑curricular activities (CCA) programme that enables students to engage in sporting, service, cultural and academic learning activities. The school participates in PSAC, ISAC, and FOBISIA events.
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 In Primary, Uplands uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP). Specialised classes include PE, Swimming, STEAM, Modern Foreign languages, Library lessons, Drama and Music, and EAL. In Secondary, the school offers the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Years 7–9, Cambridge IGCSE, and the IB Diploma in Years 12–13.
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 The secondary presents Student-Led Co-Curricular Activities (CCA): clubs include the Green Club, Do Something Society, the Uplands Social Committee, and the Uplander (the school magazine). Drama provides regular after‑school activities and public performances, including primary and secondary productions and FOBISIA events. The performing arts and sports CCAs extend opportunities across cultural, service and competitive activities.
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 Founded in 1955 during the Malayan Emergency, Uplands began as a boarding school for expatriate planters' children, initially located at the Crag Hotel on Penang Hill. In 1977, the school relocated to Pulau Tikus and later moved to its current purpose-built campus in Batu Ferringhi in 2006. Uplands operates as a non-profit institution, governed by the Incorporated Society of Planters (ISP).
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 Uplands hosts a diverse student body representing over 40 nationalities, fostering a multicultural environment. The school community actively participates in various events, including cultural celebrations, service projects, and sports competitions, promoting inclusivity and global awareness.
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 The Uplands Parent Teacher Association (PTA) plays a vital role in enhancing the school community. It organizes events such as international food fairs, cultural nights, and fundraising activities, encouraging parent involvement and supporting school initiatives. The PTA also facilitates communication between parents and the school administration, contributing to a collaborative educational environment.
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 The International School of Penang (Uplands) is the First Multiprogramme IB World School in Malaysia. The Primary School follows the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 4 to 12. The Secondary School offers the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Years 7–9, the Cambridge IGCSE in Years 10–11, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 12–13. The school hosts a diverse community with more than 40 nationalities and emphasizes international-mindedness.
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 The Primary School includes Drama and Music and Visual Art as part of the arts program. Specialised Classes also feature STEAM and Library lessons in the curriculum. Physical Education with swimming is provided across year groups as part of a holistic approach to development.
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 Modern foreign languages include Bahasa and Mandarin in the Primary. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports students who are not native English speakers. Communicators in the Primary learner profiles express themselves in more than one language.
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 The Primary emphasizes student-led learning and leadership through Primary Leaders and a Year 5–6 Student Council. The Secondary School provides formal leadership opportunities through a Student Council, House Representatives, and Senior Prefects, with additional leadership avenues via co-curricular activities. Co-curricular Activities (CCA) include clubs such as the Green Club, Do Something Society, Uplands Social Committee, and the Uplander school magazine, along with peer mediators, buddies, mentors, and senior interns.
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 Primary includes Sustainable Development Activities as part of its learning program. Secondary emphasizes service projects as part of the student experience. The school fosters community involvement through leadership, activities, and collaborative projects across year groups.
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 Primary Leadership consists of Primary Leaders and a Year 5–6 Student Council. Secondary leadership includes a Student Council, House Representatives, and Senior Prefects with formal responsibilities across the school. Additional leadership pathways arise from CCAs, peer mediation, mentoring, and senior internships.
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 Wellbeing is central to the school's approach, with a focus on balance and an inclusive community. The school's motto is Respect for Self. Respect for Others, guiding daily life and interactions. Learner profiles emphasize Balance and Reflective practice to support intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision —	Language provision The language of instruction is English. In Primary, Modern Foreign Languages are Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) and Mandarin. In IGCSE, languages offered include Bahasa, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish. In the IB Diploma Programme, language options include English, Chinese, Malay, French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin through Group 1 and Group 2 offerings, with the possibility of a Bilingual Diploma by taking two Language A courses.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The IB Diploma Programme offers a Bilingual Diploma option. Students may take two Language A courses from Group 1 to qualify for the Bilingual Diploma. Group 1 languages include English A, Chinese A, and Malay A. Group 2 languages include English B, French B, German B, Spanish B, and Chinese B.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards As of now, there are no publicly documented awards received by The International School of Penang (Uplands) in the past five years.
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 * Council of International Schools (CIS): Uplands was re-accredited by CIS in April 2025. This accreditation signifies the school's commitment to high-quality international education and continuous improvement. * International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: Authorized since June 2001, Uplands offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP), reflecting its dedication to the IB's educational philosophy. * Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): As a registered centre, the school provides the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations, aligning with international academic standards. * Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA): Membership since 2007 connects Uplands to a network of British international schools in Asia, facilitating collaboration and shared best practices.
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. Schedule a campus visit or open day (if available). Families are encouraged to visit the school to better understand the environment and facilities. This can include a guided tour and the opportunity to speak with staff. Visits are optional but can help in making an informed decision. 2. Submit an application form. Applications are submitted online and must include supporting documents such as academic records, passport/ID, and any relevant reports (e.g., EAL or SEN assessments). An application fee of MYR 800 is payable at this stage. Applications can be submitted year-round, but spaces may be limited in certain year groups. 3. Student assessment and review. Depending on the age group and background, students may be invited to sit an entrance assessment and/or interview with a member of the academic team. English language proficiency and learning support needs are also reviewed to determine the level of support required. 4. Receive an offer. If the application is successful, the school will issue an offer letter. To secure the place, parents must pay the entrance fee (MYR 7,000) and enrolment deposit (MYR 5,000) within the given deadline.
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 Uplands offers a limited number of academic scholarships for students entering the IB Diploma Programme (Years 12–13). These are merit-based and awarded through an application process that typically includes previous academic records, teacher recommendations, and an interview. Scholarships may cover a portion of tuition fees and do not apply to boarding or additional fees. Specific scholarship availability and application deadlines are communicated directly by the school on an annual basis.
Waitlist	Waitlist POWIIS does not mention the use of a waitlist or pool-based admissions system.	Waitlist Uplands may operate a waitlist for year groups that are already at capacity. Applicants placed on the waitlist are notified in writing and may be offered a place if one becomes available. Priority is not guaranteed and may depend on factors such as sibling attendance, date of application, and the applicant’s educational profile. The school does not operate a pooled admissions round; decisions are made on a rolling basis.
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