Stonyhurst International School Penang and The International School of Penang (Uplands) are both in Penang, about 7 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE programmes. Stonyhurst International School Penang also offers Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels and EYFS, and The International School of Penang (Uplands) also offers IB. Published annual fees are MYR 18,975 - 63,249 at Stonyhurst International School Penang and MYR 24,800 - 70,800 at The International School of Penang (Uplands), which puts The International School of Penang (Uplands) roughly 16% higher. Stonyhurst International School Penang takes pupils from 3 to 18, and The International School of Penang (Uplands) from 4 to 19. The two are similar in size, at around 700 and 700 pupils. Typical class sizes are 25 at Stonyhurst International School Penang and 20 at The International School of Penang (Uplands).
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Stonyhurst International School Penang
Penang, Malaysia
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The International School of Penang (Uplands)
Penang, Malaysia
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year MYR 18,975 - 63,249 | Fees / year MYR 24,800 - 70,800 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 19 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage) | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE |
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Pupils
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Pupils 700 | Pupils 700 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 25 | Typical class size 20 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 2022 | Opened 1955 |
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Bus service
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Bus service Yes | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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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. | 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. |
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Stages
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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. | 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. |
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School type
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School type It is a co-educational day school, welcoming both local and international students. | 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. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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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. | 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. |
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Country affiliation
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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. | Country affiliation The school has no formal affiliation with any specific country. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation The school has a Jesuit Catholic heritage and values, though it welcomes students of all faiths and secular backgrounds. | Religious affiliation Uplands is a secular school with no religious affiliation. |
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School day structure
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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. | 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. |
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Bus service details
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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. | 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 | |
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Fee details
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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% | 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 | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements The school operates as an international day school and does not offer boarding. | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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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. | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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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. | Food options — |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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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. | 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 | |
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Curriculum details
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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. | 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. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar | Academic calendar |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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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. | 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. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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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. | 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. |
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English as an additional language
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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. | 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. |
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Mental wellbeing
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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. | 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. |
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Safeguarding
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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 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. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy | Safeguarding policy |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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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. | 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. |
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Sports facilities
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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. | 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. |
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Academic facilities
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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. | 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. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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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. | 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 | |
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History
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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. | 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). |
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Community
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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. | 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. |
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Parent teacher association
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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. | 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 | |
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Academic & intellectual
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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. | 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. |
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Arts & creative
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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. | 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. |
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Cultural & language
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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. | 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. |
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Social & hobbies
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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. | 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. |
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Community & service
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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. | 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. |
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Leadership & professional
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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. | 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. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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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. | 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 | |
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Language provision
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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. | 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. |
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Bilingual teaching
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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. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards As of now, Stonyhurst International School Penang has not publicly announced any institutional awards since its establishment in 2022. | Awards As of now, there are no publicly documented awards received by The International School of Penang (Uplands) in the past five years. |
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Accreditations
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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 | 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 | |
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Admissions
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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. | 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. |
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Scholarships
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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. | 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. |
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Waitlist
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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. | 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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