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The International School of Penang (Uplands)

Malaysia, Penang

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees MYR 24,800 - 70,800
Ages 4 - 19 years
Pupil numbers 700
Type Co-educational
Opened 1955
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE
Taught languages French, German, Malay, Mandarin
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Visual and Creative Arts, STEM, Service and Sustainability, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Social and Hobbies, Community and Service, Leadership and Professional
Stages Early Years, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction

The International School of Penang (Uplands) is a co-educational, not-for-profit school located in the coastal area of Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Malaysia. Established in 1955, it offers a full continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programs—PYP, MYP, and DP—as well as IGCSEs in the secondary years. The school enrolls students aged 4 to 18 from over 40 countries. The campus features six science labs, two drama studios, music and art rooms, design and technology labs, a multipurpose hall, a dedicated sports centre with a climbing wall, and a 25-metre outdoor swimming pool. One of the school’s distinctive features is its structured Service Learning Program, which is integrated across all year levels and encourages student-led projects that support local communities and NGOs.

Jalan Sungai Satu, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Malaysia

The Essentials

The International School of Penang (Uplands) has 700 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

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
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.

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.

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
The school has no formal affiliation with any specific country.

Religious affiliation
Uplands is a secular school with no religious affiliation.

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
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.
Diving Deeper

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.
Fees

Annual tuition at The International School of Penang (Uplands) ranges from MYR 24,800 to MYR 70,800 for 2026/27.

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.*
Academics

The International School of Penang (Uplands) teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE for students aged 4 to 19.

Curriculum
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.

Academic calendar
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
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)
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 (EAL)
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
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
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
Parent Experience

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
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 (PTA)
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.
Gallery
Facilities

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
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
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
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.
Extra-Curricular Activities

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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Languages

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
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.
Reputation

Awards
As of now, there are no publicly documented awards received by The International School of Penang (Uplands) in the past five years.

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
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
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
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.
School Events
The school has not added events
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