4 international schools in Asia preparing young learners for success

Choosing the right school for your child can be a challenging task. However, it is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. It is important to ensure that your children receive a personalised education that caters to their individual needs and that the school adopts a holistic approach to learning.

After all, the right foundation is crucial to meeting the demands of our current and future world. With rapid technological advancements, a changing climate and sociopolitical upheavals, the best schools are those that prepare students to thrive in a future demanding adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

International schools stand out in this regard. Through rigorous curricula and a strong focus on university and life preparation, these schools cultivate intelligent, resourceful, and adaptable graduates. East Asia is a notable hub for these institutions, with nearly 15% of the world’s 13,190 international schools residing there, according to the ISC report.

Here are four highly regarded international schools in Asia known for preparing students for lifelong success:

Garden International School’s holistic education produces graduates in high demand globally, sought after by leading universities. Source: Garden International School

Garden International School

Nestled in two verdant suburbs in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Garden International School (GIS) is a “through school” that enables a seamless transition between key stages for students aged three to 18. But parents of graduates know it better as the best legacy they gave their children.

Founded in 1951, GIS is one of the first British international schools in Malaysia. With this rich history of delivering excellent British-based education in Malaysia, this is a school that knows how to spark social, emotional and intellectual growth in children.

Here, students become lifelong learners with inquiring minds and a thirst for knowledge. Small class sizes allow teachers to personalise their approach, maximising individual potential and establishing confidence in each student. And as an Apple Distinguished School, GIS uses advanced technology such as virtual and augmented reality, AI-web-based applications and interactive data visualisation software to enhance learning experiences.

The GIS curriculum takes place just as much inside a classroom as it does outside. Educators leverage physical, social and cognitive stimuli in creative ways to offer over 150 co-curricular activities. Walk into its campuses in Desa Sri Hartamas (Early Years) and Mont Kiara (Primary and Secondary) on any given day, and you’ll find students engaged in the arts, drama, music, sports, service learning, trips, and more. There’s something to prepare every student for university and the world.

But nowhere are GIS’s “Wider Learning” opportunities more impactful than at Sixth Form. This is a crucial time for students to make big decisions and prepare to join some of the world’s best universities. Experienced Higher Education advisors make this difficult phase easier, guiding Year 12 and 13 students every step of the way through complex university application processes. And as GIS is the only school to offer Year 12 students a four-week THRIVE internship, many students can list accomplishments earned within the campus and in a wide array of industries, from fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) firms to oil and gas.

GIS students flourish and fulfil their potential because their school takes pastoral care seriously. There are English as an Additional Language support, Learning Support, and Counselling and Medical teams. It’s only one of two international schools to offer this in the country.

Nexus learners of all ages have diverse opportunities for experiential learning beyond the classroom. Source: Nexus International School (Singapore)

Nexus International School (Singapore)

At Nexus International School (Singapore), children take charge of their own learning. The school’s guiding philosophy, “The Nexus Way”, fosters a spirit of ownership, responsibility and risk-taking — attributes that serve well in a rapidly changing world — from a young age. Armed with a distinctive skill set (sparked by this early preparation), Nexus learners grow into leaders ready to take their productive places in the global community.

In this school, every child gets to realise their full potential. A holistic approach to education and numerous opportunities ensure this. The focus is not on grades but on core values, such as respect and care for one another; a culture of excellence; openness in communication; acting with integrity; passion; and the creation of enjoyable environments. Learners, parents and teachers work in a productive three-way partnership to support each other and provide the best learning environment for children.

It is an approach that has proven to be efficient and effective. Whether in coursework or in the confident and positive attitudes towards learning, excellent results can be seen.

This multi-accredited school is open to children from ages three to 18. It starts with Early Childhood education, a crucial foundation where connections and discoveries occur. At Primary School, they create a rich, dynamic and forward-looking environment that incorporates the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) — fueling its learners’ reading, writing, numerical skills, and scientific understanding.

At Secondary School, learners work towards the globally recognised IGCSEs before progressing to the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). With a wide range of subject choices, small tutor groups, learner-led activities (such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Learner Leadership Programme) and career and university guidance, Nexus learners have all they need to grow — seamlessly and confidently — as they graduate from school to university and beyond.

Ascot offers the full spectrum of IB programmes, shaping students into future global citizens who can positively impact the world, transcending traditional learning methods. Source: Ascot International School

Ascot International School

Nestled in Bangkok’s Sapansung district, Ascot International School is a leading educational institution, shaping students into future-ready global citizens. As a continuum International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Ascot offers the full IB experience – Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). This framework extends beyond rote learning, cultivating critical thinkers and fostering a sense of international mindedness. Students are empowered to become active contributors to the world, equipped with the necessary skills to create positive change.

In its nurturing and inclusive environment, Ascot teachers lead students through a challenging curriculum that enables them to become adaptable lifelong learners. A low teacher-to-student ratio allows teachers to shape the curriculum to meet each learner’s unique and differentiated needs.

The result? The evolution of students into active contributors to this world is armed with critical thinking, conceptual understanding, and a heart for service.

Its Primary School is a fun place for children aged three to 12. They learn through hands-on and experiential opportunities, emphasising learning through play and exploration. At Secondary School, they work towards sitting for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) in year 11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) in year 13. Specialist teachers and dedicated form tutors provide support every step of the way.

In essence, Ascot International School produces not only academic excellence but also well-rounded individuals with a global perspective and a commitment to making a difference.

ISS’s personalised learning programme uses psychology research and modern educational theories to optimise student learning. Source: ISS International School

ISS International School

ISS International School (ISS) is more than just an academic institution; it’s a community dedicated to nurturing independent thinkers and fostering a love for lifelong learning. Their accredited programmes, led by experienced and caring educators, are designed to make a difference in the lives of their students.

One of the hallmarks of ISS is its personalised learning programme. Based on the latest research in psychology and educational best practices, this programme encourages students to become independent learners. In a safe and supportive environment with a student-to-teacher ratio of 1:5, students are empowered to explore their interests, make mistakes, and learn from them. This personalised approach is reflected in the impressive results achieved by ISS graduates.

In 2020, ISS students achieved a top score of 42 points and a 96.4% pass rate for the IB Diploma, exceeding the global average by a significant margin. Graduates have secured admission to prestigious universities worldwide, including University College London, University of Edinburgh, Nanyang Technological University, and the University of Hong Kong.

Beyond academics, ISS prioritises student well-being through a comprehensive pastoral care programme. They recognise the interconnectedness of social, physical, and emotional well-being and foster these aspects in four key areas: actively contributing to communities, maintaining health and safety, effective communication and interaction, and developing personal identity.

Another defining aspect of ISS is its diverse student body, representing over 50 nationalities. This vibrant community provides students a unique opportunity to learn from and celebrate each other’s cultures, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International