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R.E.A.L Schools - Johor Bahru

Malaysia, Johor Bahru

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees MYR 13,020 - 28,450
Ages 3 - 16 years
Pupil numbers 500
Type Co-educational
Opened 2008
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Taught languages Malay, Mandarin
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts, STEM, Academic Enrichment, Outdoor Education
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Social and Hobbies, Community and Service, Leadership and Professional, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

REAL International School in Johor Bahru offers the British Cambridge curriculum from Early Years through to IGCSE. Located in Masai, just east of central Johor Bahru, the campus is easily accessible and serves both local and expatriate families. The Early Years program is based on the UK’s EYFS framework, with a focus on learning through play and exploration. Primary and Secondary students follow a structured academic path leading to the IGCSEs in Year 11. Facilities include a swimming pool, multipurpose hall, basketball court, and science and computer labs. Instruction is in English, with additional classes in Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia. One standout feature is the school’s integration of Robotics and STEM clubs as part of its co-curricular offerings, giving students hands-on experience with coding and engineering concepts from an early age. With small class sizes and a diverse student body, the school offers an environment that supports academic progress and personal development.

REAL Schools, Johor Bahru Campus, Lot PTD 209607, Jalan Masai Lama, Mukim Plentong, 81750 Masai, Johor.

The Essentials

R.E.A.L Schools - Johor Bahru has 500 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location

REAL International School is located in Masai, in the eastern part of Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The campus is about 25 minutes from the Johor–Singapore Causeway and is accessible via the Pasir Gudang Highway. The area is mainly residential with nearby shops and amenities, and transport links support commuting from central Johor Bahru and surrounding suburbs.

Stages

The international school is structured into four main stages: Early Years (ages 3–5), Primary (ages 5–11), Lower Secondary (ages 11–14), and Upper Secondary (ages 14–16). Students progress through the Cambridge International Curriculum, culminating in IGCSE examinations in Year 11.

Type

It is a co-educational international school offering day schooling only. There are no boarding facilities at the Johor Bahru campus.

Additional learning support

The school provides limited additional support for students with mild learning needs, typically managed within the classroom by teachers. There is currently no dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) department or specialist staff indicated on the school’s site.

Country affiliation

The school does not have a formal affiliation with any particular country.

Religious affiliation

The school has no religious affiliation and operates as a secular institution.

School day structure

The school day begins at 8:00 AM for all levels. Early Years finishes at 1:10 PM from Monday to Thursday and at 12:00 PM on Fridays. Primary students attend until 3:40 PM Monday to Thursday and 12:40 PM on Fridays. Secondary students have the longest schedule, ending at 4:10 PM Monday to Thursday and 1:10 PM on Fridays. Breaks and lunch are incorporated between morning and afternoon lessons.

Bus service

The school offers a private bus service covering various residential areas around Johor Bahru. Transport routes and pricing are managed by third-party providers in coordination with the school. Parents are advised to confirm availability and stop locations directly with the campus during enrollment.
Diving Deeper

Food Options

The Johor Bahru campus has a cafeteria on site operated by Delischool. It offers a diverse menu with on-site cooking, and meals are prepared to safety and nutritional standards. The cafeteria can be contacted at cafeteria.real@shfservices.com.

Governance and Ownership

REAL Schools Johor Bahru is part of REAL Schools and is associated with XCL Education in Malaysia.
Fees

Annual tuition at R.E.A.L Schools - Johor Bahru ranges from MYR 13,020 to MYR 28,450 for 2026/27.

One-Time Fees (New Applicants)
* Application Fee: MYR 1,500
* Registration Fee: MYR 5,000
* Refundable Deposit: MYR 10,000

These fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, except the deposit, which is refundable under the terms of the Admission Contract.

Annual Tuition Fees (Payable Termly)

Early Years
* Tuition: MYR 10,620
* Supplementary Fee: MYR 2,200
* Tech Fee: MYR 200
* Total: MYR 13,020 per year

Primary (Years 1–6)
* Year 1–2: MYR 21,280
* Year 3: MYR 19,600
* Year 4: MYR 22,900
* Year 5: MYR 19,890
* Year 6: MYR 23,190

Secondary (Years 7–11)
* Year 7: MYR 24,620
* Year 8: MYR 25,360
* Year 9: MYR 25,690
* Year 10–11: MYR 28,450

Each year’s fee includes tuition, a MYR 2,800 supplementary fee, and a MYR 500 tech fee, except for Early Years.

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms
* Fees can be paid annually (by August) or termly, with due dates in August, January, and April.
* A 2% monthly surcharge applies to late payments.
* A 3% discount is available for full-year payments made via bank transfer or cash before August.

Other Costs
* Uniforms, books, visa fees (for international students), and administrative charges are not included in the tuition fees and are charged separately as applicable.

Refunds
* Tuition, registration, and application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
* Deposits are refundable under specific conditions outlined in the admission policy.

Payment Methods
* Annual Payments: Bank transfer and cash.
* Termly Payments: Bank transfer, cash, credit card, and cheque.
* Payments should be made to R.E.A.L Education Group Sdn Bhd, and proof of payment must be submitted via email or fax.
Academics

R.E.A.L Schools - Johor Bahru teaches Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, EYFS (Early years foundation stage) for students aged 3 to 16.

Curriculum

REAL International School Johor Bahru follows the British Cambridge curriculum across all school stages. In the Early Years (ages 3–5), the school adopts the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), focusing on learning through play and development in communication, numeracy, and creativity. The Primary School (Years 1–6) uses the Cambridge Primary Programme, which covers English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspectives, and ICT, along with Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin. In Lower Secondary (Years 7–9), students follow the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum with more subject specialisation. The Upper Secondary (Years 10–11) prepares students for the IGCSE examinations, typically taken at age 16, in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, ICT, and Business Studies. Co-curricular subjects like Art, Music, Physical Education, and Robotics are integrated throughout all stages.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Social and Emotional Learning is integrated into daily classroom routines, with teachers supporting the development of empathy, teamwork, and self-regulation. In the Early Years and Primary stages, group activities and play-based tasks help children build confidence and communication skills. Older students participate in pastoral care sessions and character-building programs. Teachers serve as key contact points for emotional support, and the school promotes respectful behavior and positive peer relationships. Assemblies and thematic class discussions are used to reinforce values such as kindness, resilience, and responsibility.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

REAL International School Johor Bahru is not a specialist SEN institution but offers limited in-class support for students with mild learning needs. Support is usually delivered by classroom teachers who adjust lesson delivery or pacing as needed.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

REAL International School Johor Bahru offers a dedicated English Language Learning Academy (ELLA) for students who require additional support in English. The program is designed for non-native English speakers across all year groups and includes intensive language instruction tailored to each student’s level. ELLA classes are held in small groups to focus on key areas such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students work towards joining mainstream classes as their proficiency improves. ELLA is led by qualified English teachers and includes regular assessments to track progress. The program is integrated into the wider school timetable, allowing students to continue participating in core academic and co-curricular activities.

Mental Wellbeing

Student wellbeing is supported through regular class check-ins, character education sessions, and extracurricular activities that promote social connection. Teachers play a central role in monitoring emotional health and encouraging open communication. The school environment emphasizes kindness, cooperation, and mutual respect. While there is no on-site counsellor publicly listed, students are guided to approach staff when they need help. Events such as anti-bullying campaigns and wellness days are organized throughout the year.

Safeguarding

REAL International School Johor Bahru follows a formal safeguarding policy in line with Malaysian law and UK guidance. The school has a designated Safeguarding Committee and trained Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) who oversee child protection procedures. All staff are required to complete safeguarding training and use the *MyConcern* platform to report any issues or disclosures. Safeguarding topics such as online safety, peer conflict, and self-harm are integrated into the curriculum through PSHLE lessons, assemblies, and tutor sessions. Physical spaces are arranged to support supervision, especially during one-on-one interactions. The policy prioritises immediate reporting and clear procedures to ensure student safety at all times.
Parent Experience

History

REAL International School Johor Bahru was established in 2008 as part of the REAL Education Group, which operates multiple campuses across Malaysia. The school originally began by offering both national and international curricula and has since expanded its facilities and enrolment. REAL Education Group became part of XCL Education Malaysia, a larger regional education group, in the 2020s. This change introduced group-wide policies, resources, and shared leadership structures across campuses. The Johor Bahru campus continues to operate as a dual-stream school under this umbrella, with distinct national and international divisions.

Community

The school hosts a range of events throughout the year that bring students, staff, and families together. These include cultural celebrations like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Deepavali, as well as international days and charity fundraisers. Community-building events such as sports days, talent shows, and academic exhibitions are also part of the regular calendar. The school environment is inclusive, with students from multiple national and cultural backgrounds.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

REAL International School Johor Bahru has an active Parent-Teacher Association that works closely with school leadership to support student activities and community engagement. PTA members help coordinate school-wide events such as the International Day and fundraising initiatives for school improvements. Parents often volunteer during celebrations and assist with logistics for co-curricular competitions or off-site events. The PTA also provides feedback on school operations and helps strengthen communication between families and faculty. Meetings are held regularly, and all parents are encouraged to participate. The school values parent involvement as part of its broader partnership with the school community.
Gallery
Facilities

Facilities Overview

The Johor Bahru campus spans 5 acres and is set among trees and greenery. The Main Building houses a range of learning spaces, and the campus includes a library and a Chemistry Lab to support science learning. Early Years facilities include outdoor play areas and age-appropriate classrooms, with additional spaces for ICT, art, electronics, and other specialised activities. There are dedicated spaces for practical subjects, including a LEGO and robotics room, textiles room, a music studio, a culinary arts kitchen, and design and technology rooms. The campus offers Cambridge International (IGCSE) through its International School and follows the Malaysian National Curriculum through its Private National School, across Early Years, International School, and Private National levels.

Academic Facilities

The International School follows the Cambridge curriculum for IGCSE. The Private National School follows the Malaysian National Curriculum from Primary 1 to Secondary 5. The campus includes a library and science facilities, including a Chemistry Lab and a Science Lab. It also houses an ICT lab, art rooms, LEGO and robotics room, a music studio, a textile room, a culinary arts kitchen, and design and technology rooms. Early Years facilities and age-appropriate classrooms support foundational learning.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Extracurricular activities include inter-school public speaking competitions, with first place at the Trinity College Inter-School Public Speaking Competition. The school has achieved recognition in the National Youth Chess Championship, earning a silver medal. It has strong showings in golf at the Majlis Sukan Negara Elite Under-12 Golf Tournament (1st place). It has participation in the NASA International Space Essay Competition with top performers. It has success in cooking competitions, with champions in the Next Big Chef competition, and an ambassador team represented Malaysia at the Be the Change Conference in Taiwan in 2018.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

The Johor Bahru campus offers the Cambridge International curriculum, leading to IGCSE. REAL Schools JB emphasizes collaborative learning and experiential opportunities to deepen understanding. The school provides specialised pathways to enhance language skills and support religious studies. English Language Learning Academy is offered as a Special Programme.

Cultural & Language

The Johor Bahru campus offers the English Language Learning Academy as a Special Programme. Language-focused pathways support language development within the school's curriculum. The school emphasises language development as part of its holistic education approach.

Social & Hobbies

Students participate in competitive sports and academic competitions. REAL Schools JB has notable achievements, including MSSM basketball champion and a silver medal in the National Youth Chess Championship. Students also perform in NASA Space Essay competitions, with Best Performers recognized. The school recorded first place in the Trinity College Inter-School Public Speaking Competition.

Community & Service

The school supports community and service initiatives through Design for Change, with an ambassador team representing Malaysia at the Be the Change Conference in Taiwan (2018).

Leadership & Professional

Leadership development is promoted through student ambassador roles and public speaking achievements. Notable leadership outcomes include first place in the Trinity College Inter-School Public Speaking Competition and Be the Change ambassador activities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The Johor Bahru campus sits on a five-acre site set in nature, providing a serene and nurturing environment. The campus is designed to foster academic success alongside personal growth. The school's mission emphasizes safety, happiness, and well-being as core commitments.
Languages

Language Provision

The REAL Schools Johor Bahru campus offers three curricular streams: an International School following the Cambridge curriculum leading to IGCSE; a Private National School following the Malaysian National Curriculum from Primary 1 to Secondary 5; and an Early Years programme for ages 3–6. The campus also provides a Special Programme called the English Language Learning Academy.
Reputation

Awards

* SKIPS Award (2024)
In September 2024, the National Secondary School at REAL Schools Johor Bahru was honored with the SKIPS award during the Karnival Pendidikan Swasta 2024, recognizing its commitment to quality education and holistic student development.

* NAPEI Education Excellence Awards
REAL Schools have previously received the NAPEI Education Excellence Awards in the Schools category, highlighting their dedication to educational excellence.

Accreditations

* Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)
REAL International School Johor Bahru is accredited by CAIE to deliver the Cambridge curriculum, including IGCSE qualifications, recognized in over 160 countries.

* Sijil Standard Kualiti Pendidikan Swasta (SKIPS)
The school's National Secondary School received the SKIPS award from the Malaysian Ministry of Education in 2024, acknowledging its adherence to quality standards in private education.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Book a school tour or attend an Open Day (optional but encouraged).
Families can arrange to visit the Johor Bahru campus to view the facilities, observe classroom settings, and speak with school staff. Tours are typically arranged directly with the admissions team and provide a clearer understanding of the school environment.

2. Submit an application form and required documents.
Families will be asked to complete a formal application form and provide relevant documents such as academic records, passport copies, birth certificate, and immunisation records. A one-time application fee of MYR 1,500 is payable at this stage.

3. Student assessment and interview.
Applicants may be asked to complete a placement assessment or attend an interview, depending on the year level and prior academic background. This helps the school determine appropriate class placement and any additional support needed.

4. Offer and acceptance.
Successful applicants will receive an offer letter. Upon acceptance, families must pay a registration fee (MYR 5,000), deposit (MYR 10,000), and the first term’s fees. The Admissions Office will then guide families through onboarding, uniforms, and other first-day preparations.

Scholarships

REAL International School Johor Bahru does not currently advertise academic or other scholarships on its official platforms. Fee reductions may be available through sibling discounts and promotional rebates for early or full-year payments. Families are encouraged to check directly with the school regarding any available financial incentives or temporary offers at the time of application.

Waitlist

REAL International School Johor Bahru does not publicly operate a pool system or formal waitlist. Admissions are generally processed on a rolling basis, subject to availability in the requested year group. In cases where classes are full, the admissions team may offer to place a student on an informal waiting list and notify families if a place becomes available.
School Events
The school has not added events