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A glimpse of the school campus.
Year 7 students experimenting in the science lab to gain hands-on experience.
A group of students having fun together in the swimming pool.
The school community participating in International Day Parade on campus.
Children performing on stage during Hari Raya.
Students gathered together to celebrate "Pi Day".
Straits International School Penang logo

Straits International School Penang

Malaysia, Penang

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees MYR 17,940 - 47,340
Ages 3 - 16 years
Pupil numbers 919
Type Co-educational
Opened 2012
Bus Service Yes
Availability Are there places?
principal
Karlie Walsh
School Principal
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Taught languages Malay, Mandarin
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, STEM, Academic Enrichment, Outdoor Education, Service and Sustainability
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Social and Hobbies, Community and Service
Stages Primary School, Secondary School, Kindergarten
Introduction

Straits International School Penang, located in Bayan Lepas, offers education for students aged 3 to 16, following the National Curriculum for England and Cambridge curriculum for English, Mathematics, and Science . The campus includes facilities such as science laboratories, technology suites, a swimming pool, and a library . The school emphasizes language learning, with English as the medium of instruction and additional instruction in Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin . A distinctive feature is the school's integration of local subjects like Malaysian History and Moral Studies for Malaysian students, reflecting a commitment to both international and local educational standards .

penangsisgroup.edu.my Contact by phone

No. 2, Lilitan Sungai Tiram, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia

The Essentials

Straits International School Penang has 919 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location
Straits International School Penang is located in Bayan Lepas on the southern part of Penang Island. The school is close to residential areas such as Sungai Ara and Bayan Baru.

Stages
The school is divided into Early Years, Primary, and Secondary sections. Early Years caters to children aged 3–5, Primary includes Year 1 to Year 6 (ages 5–11), and Secondary runs from Year 7 to Year 11 (ages 11–16).

Type
The school is co-educational, enrolling both boys and girls across all age groups.

Additional learning support
The school offers support for students with mild to moderate additional learning needs. Provision is managed by a dedicated Learning Support team, and accommodations may include small-group instruction, differentiated tasks, and in-class support. Support services are integrated into the school day where possible.

Country affiliation
The school does not have a formal affiliation with any single country but follows the British curriculum framework.

Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliation and accepts students from all backgrounds.

School day structure
The school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and ends around 3:00 PM, depending on the year group. Students have a mid-morning break and a lunch break, with meals either brought from home or available from the canteen. Co-curricular activities often take place after regular lessons.

Bus service
The school offers a bus service to families living across Penang Island. The service is operated by external transport providers who coordinate directly with the school’s admin team. Routes and pick-up times are arranged based on student locations. Families can choose from full or one-way transport options depending on their needs.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
The school is a day school and does not offer boarding facilities. The school day runs from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday.

Uniform Requirement
Pupils are required to wear a school uniform.

Food Options
A canteen lunch service provides meals daily.

House System
The school has a house system; a Head of Houses oversees house activities and leadership opportunities.

Governance and Ownership
The school is part of International Schools Partnership (ISP), a global network of international schools.
Fees

Annual tuition at Straits International School Penang ranges from MYR 17,940 to MYR 47,340 for 2026/27.

Application and Enrolment Fees

Application Fee: MYR 1,600 (non-refundable, one-time payment).

Enrolment Fee (one-time, non-refundable):

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): MYR 2,000
Primary School: MYR 5,000
Secondary School: MYR 7,000

Tuition Fees (Per Term and Annual)

The school operates on a three-term academic year. Tuition fees are as follows:

Nursery: MYR 5,980 per term / MYR 17,940 annually
Reception: MYR 6,560 per term / MYR 19,680 annually
Year 1: MYR 8,300 per term / MYR 24,900 annually
Year 2: MYR 9,245 per term / MYR 27,735 annually
Year 3: MYR 10,195 per term / MYR 30,585 annually
Year 4: MYR 11,090 per term / MYR 33,270 annually
Year 5: MYR 12,015 per term / MYR 36,045 annually
Year 6: MYR 12,835 per term / MYR 38,505 annually
Year 7: MYR 13,690 per term / MYR 41,070 annually
Year 8: MYR 14,160 per term / MYR 42,480 annually
Year 9: MYR 14,800 per term / MYR 44,400 annually
Year 10: MYR 15,100 per term / MYR 45,300 annually
Year 11: MYR 15,780 per term / MYR 47,340 annually

Additional Fees

Security Deposit: Equivalent to one term's tuition fee, refundable with one academic term's written notice of withdrawal.
Cyber Security Fee: MYR 250 ( one-time )

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms

Tuition and associated fees are billed termly in advance and are due by the first day of each term. A late payment charge of 5% per month applies to outstanding balances not settled within seven days from the term's start date.

Payment Methods

Payments can be made via bank transfer to the school's designated account. Details are provided upon invoicing.

Uniforms and Other Costs

Uniforms are mandatory and can be purchased through the school's designated supplier. Additional costs may include school meals, transportation services, extracurricular activities, and examination fees, depending on the student's year group and participation.
Academics

Straits International School Penang teaches British Curriculum, Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, EYFS (Early years foundation stage) for students aged 3 to 16.

Curriculum
Straits International School Penang follows the National Curriculum for England (NCE), integrated with the Cambridge curriculum for English, Mathematics, and Science. In Early Years (ages 3–5), students follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, focusing on play-based learning. In Primary (Years 1–6), the curriculum includes English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, ICT, Art, Physical Education, Music, and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE). Malaysian students also study Bahasa Malaysia, Malaysian History, and Moral Studies. In Secondary (Years 7–9), students continue with a broad range of subjects, preparing for the IGCSE program. In Years 10 and 11, students study for Cambridge IGCSE examinations, selecting core and elective subjects from areas such as Business Studies, Additional Mathematics, ICT, and Global Perspectives.

Academic calendar
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school incorporates Social and Emotional Learning through its PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic) program, which is delivered across all year levels. Teachers and form tutors regularly address themes such as emotional regulation, friendship, respect, and resilience. Classroom activities and assemblies provide structured opportunities for students to reflect on their behavior and interactions. The school’s House system also fosters teamwork and belonging. Pastoral care is integrated into daily school life, and staff are trained to identify students who may require additional support. In some cases, students are referred to the school counsellor for individual guidance.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Straits International School Penang supports students with mild to moderate learning needs. A dedicated Learning Support team works with classroom teachers to adapt teaching strategies and provide targeted assistance. Support may include in-class support, small-group sessions, and modified tasks. The school typically supports needs such as ADHD, dyslexia, and speech or language delays.

It is not a specialist SEN institution and may refer students with more complex needs to external professionals. Admission of students with SEN is subject to an individual needs assessment.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The school offers support for students whose first language is not English. EAL provision includes in-class language support, pull-out sessions for targeted instruction, and differentiated materials. Teachers are trained to adapt lessons to help EAL learners access the full curriculum. New students may be assessed for their level of English and placed on an appropriate support plan. Over time, EAL students are expected to integrate into mainstream classes with reduced support as proficiency increases.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through a combination of pastoral care, counselling services, and SEL-focused teaching. Students can speak with a trained school counsellor, who provides individual sessions when needed. Regular class time is allocated to discussions around stress, self-care, and emotional health, particularly in upper Primary and Secondary. Staff are encouraged to monitor students' wellbeing and refer any concerns through a clear internal process. Activities like mindfulness and circle time are also used, particularly in the younger years.

Safeguarding
The school follows a clear safeguarding and child protection policy aligned with international standards. All staff receive training on safeguarding procedures and how to report concerns. A designated Safeguarding Lead is responsible for managing incidents and ensuring policy compliance. The school conducts background checks on all employees and maintains secure procedures for campus access. Regular briefings and updates are provided to ensure all staff remain aware of their responsibilities.

Safeguarding Policy
Parent Experience

History
Established in 2012 by Charter Sdn Bhd, Straits International School Penang began in a shophouse in Bayan Lepas. In October 2021, the school became part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), integrating into a global network of international schools.

Community
The school hosts various community and cultural events, including Open Days that celebrate its diverse culture. These events provide opportunities for prospective parents to experience the school's learning atmosphere.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The Straits Parents’ Society serves as the school's PTA, fostering collaboration between parents and the school. It organizes social events, supports school functions, and provides a platform for parental involvement in school activities.
Gallery
Parents and students engaging with teachers at a school event.
Parents and students engaging with teachers at a school event. (credit Straits Instagram)
Family members gathering to celebrate their children's graduation.
Family members gathering to celebrate their children's graduation. (credit Straits Instagram)
A coach teaching children how to play pickleball.
A coach teaching children how to play pickleball. (credit Straits Instagram)
Parents checking the variety of festive dishes at the Lunar New Year celebration.
Parents checking the variety of festive dishes at the Lunar New Year celebration. (credit Straits Instagram)
Students feeding a sheep during an outdoor activity.
Students feeding a sheep during an outdoor activity. (credit Straits Instagram)
Parents attending a safeguarding session.
Parents attending a safeguarding session. (credit Straits Instagram)
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus features bright, modern classrooms and laboratories with the latest technology enhancements. It includes kindergarten classrooms, spacious classrooms, three science laboratories, two large technology suites, and an upcoming STEM laboratory. The library, instrumental rooms and a multi-purpose hall support study, music and events. On‑site facilities include a swimming pool, a futsal pitch, a kindergarten playground, a cafeteria, a medical bay with a certified nurse, and a uniform shop and bookstore. Safety is prioritized with CCTV surveillance and access control via key cards.

Sports Facilities
The school has a swimming pool and a futsal pitch for physical education and extracurricular sport. The multi‑purpose hall provides space for indoor sports, assemblies and activities.

Academic Facilities
The campus includes three science laboratories and two large technology suites. An upcoming STEM laboratory will expand hands‑on inquiry and project work. The library provides quiet study spaces and resources for research, and there are instrumental rooms for music.

Extra Curricular Facilities
The school offers over 130 co‑curricular activities, including sports, music, arts and academic clubs. An After School Club runs until 5pm, and holiday programmes are available. Global opportunities include Model United Nations, educational trips, exchange programmes and competitions.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Straits International School Penang follows the National Curriculum for England and the Cambridge curriculum for English, Mathematics and Science. Ages 3 to 16 are served across Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary. The Secondary pathway leads to Cambridge IGCSE examinations, and the school reports a 100% pass rate in IGCSEs. The school is part of International Schools Partnership (ISP), offering global opportunities and a structured Future Pathways programme for university and career guidance.

Arts & Creative
Arts and creative learning are integrated into the curriculum, with Art, Music and Drama included in Primary. The Primary timetable and core learning pillars emphasize a broad, arts-inclusive education alongside core subjects and co-curricular activities.

Cultural & Language
The school maintains a trilingual learning environment (English, Mandarin and Bahasa Melayu) from Early Years through Secondary, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and native-language assistance. Mandarin lessons are delivered in Mandarin from Key Stage 2, and weekly language activities bolster cultural immersion.

Social & Hobbies
There are over 130 co-curricular activities on offer, including after-school clubs and holiday programmes. The After School Club runs until 5pm, providing supervised enrichment beyond the normal school day.

Community & Service
Challenge Week and service-based activities are integrated into the primary learning experience to engage with the local community.

Leadership & Professional
Future Pathways provides personalised guidance for university and career planning. Students participate in international opportunities such as Model United Nations, exchanges and competitions, and the Life Competencies framework supports leadership and collaboration.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The campus is described as modern and secure, with specialist spaces for music, science and sports. After-school care is available through the After School Club, contributing to student well-being and continuity of care. The school is located in Bayan Lepas, Penang.
Languages

Language Provision
Languages taught: English, Bahasa Melayu and Mandarin. Instruction is conducted in English with EAL support; native-language lessons are offered in Bahasa Melayu and Mandarin.

Bilingual Teaching
English-medium instruction with Bahasa Melayu and Mandarin language study; EAL support and native-language lessons are provided.
Reputation

Awards
As of now, there are no publicly documented awards specifically conferred upon Straits International School Penang as an institution.

Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): The school is an approved centre for Cambridge programs, offering IGCSE examinations in Years 10 and 11.

International Schools Partnership (ISP): As a member of ISP since October 2021, the school is part of a global network of over 85 schools across 23 countries, providing access to international learning opportunities and shared best practices.
Admissions

Admissions
doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

1. Arrange a campus visit or attend an open house.
Parents are encouraged to tour the school to better understand the facilities, classroom environments, and daily routines. Open House events are hosted periodically, or a private appointment can be scheduled with the admissions team.

2. Complete the application form and submit documents.
The application form is submitted online and must be accompanied by supporting documents such as a copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport, previous school reports, and any relevant medical or specialist reports.

3. Pay the application fee.
A non-refundable fee of MYR 1,600 must be paid at this stage. The school will not proceed to the next step until this payment is received.

4. Assessment and interview.
Depending on the child’s age and year group, an entrance assessment or informal interview may be arranged. This helps the school determine appropriate placement and any additional learning support that may be required.

5. Offer and enrolment.
If the application is successful, a formal offer letter is issued. Parents are required to accept the offer, pay the enrolment and security deposit fees, and complete the enrolment documents to secure the place.

Scholarships
The school does not currently advertise or offer merit-based or needs-based scholarships.

Waitlist
Straits International School Penang operates a waitlist when year groups reach capacity. Offers are made based on application date, space availability, and student profile. In some cases, priority may be given to siblings of current students. If a place becomes available, the admissions team contacts the next family on the list.
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