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When it comes to providing a well-rounded education, few schools can match the approach of Garden International School (GIS). While high academic excellence is a given, GIS goes beyond exam grades, offering a range of support to help students transition into higher education, ensuring they receive the holistic education they need to thrive in their next steps.
It’s a fact that the GIS principal, Peter J. Derby-Crook, knows all too well even before he stepped into this role. “During my 17 years in Asia, I became very familiar with GIS,” he says. “I attended conferences here, visited the sports facilities, and watched games. I knew it had high academic standards and a dedicated school community that produces excellent individuals.”
With over 30 years of experience as a headmaster, principal, CEO, and director of education, Derby-Crook brings a wealth of knowledge to the position that will take GIS to the next level.
Located in the lush suburbs of the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, Garden International School is a “through school” that serves students aged three to 18, providing a smooth transition between educational stages. Founded in 1951, GIS is one of Malaysia’s first British international schools. With this rich history of delivering quality British education, the school knows and has what it takes to spark social, emotional, and intellectual growth in students.
At GIS, students engage in authentic learning experiences that nurture their talents and allow them to pursue their passions inside and outside the classroom. Source: Garden International School
Here, students become lifelong learners, fuelled by curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. School days are packed with learning experiences that challenge students and encourage them to step outside their comfort zones. Each student is encouraged to explore their passions and interests. Enter any classroom, and you’ll find productive interaction and collaboration between students, their peers, and the teacher – a feat made possible by small class sizes. This personalised approach maximises each student’s potential and helps them build confidence.
As an Apple Distinguished School, GIS integrates advanced technology, including virtual and augmented reality, AI applications, and interactive data visualisation tools, to enhance learning experiences. These work well with GIS’s small class sizes, allowing teachers to enhance learning with technology, unlike other schools that use digital devices as an end in itself.
Another standout feature of GIS is its dedication to supporting every student, especially those who may need extra help. The school has systems to identify students who may be struggling with specific concepts or have missed school for various reasons. “We support them individually through extra sessions, either during lunchtime or after school,” Derby-Crook says. “We try to ensure that we know and understand each student individually, making sure no one is left behind. We also have official support programmes in place for children we’ve identified as needing specific academic support.”
All these elements culminate in impressive IGCSE and A Level results year after year. In 2024, 140 Year 11 students sat for exams in 29 subjects, achieving a 100% pass rate. A record-breaking 99% earned at least one A*/A, with 72% of grades awarded at A/A* and 90% of the grades awarded were A* to B. Not to be outdone, the 2024 A Level results were remarkable as well, with 96 students graduating from Sixth Form across 24 subjects. Notably, 59% of the grades awarded were A*/A, with 71% of students getting at least one A*/A and 82% of grades were A* to B.
Many students attained top scores, with 44% of IGCSE students and 35% of A Level students recognised as high achievers for 2024.
These results position GIS among the top British international schools worldwide, with every student gaining admission to their universities of choice, many of which are among the world’s most prestigious institutions. Think Harvard University, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, and more.
From beginners to budding athletes, GIS offers a range of sports for all skill levels, helping students discover and develop their passions. Source: Garden International School
Having a strong co-curricular background is just as essential for gaining admission to these coveted institutions. To that end, GIS educators use a variety of approaches, offering over 150 co-curricular activities that engage students physically, socially, and cognitively. “I think sport helps you believe in yourself and have confidence in a way that you might not have otherwise,” Derby-Crook says. “You give children these opportunities and they can learn through sports. All sports. Since the vast majority of them are team games, they have to work with others. You have to collaborate.”
The school’s focus on student development is further exemplified by its new 95 million Malaysian Ringgit (approximately US$17.65m) Sports Centre, which enhances its goal of nurturing productive community members. This five-level, 200,000-square-foot facility will house world-class amenities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, two full-length indoor basketball courts, two tennis courts, and a fully equipped gym and fitness suite.
Garden International School’s CCA programme offers a diverse opportunities in sports, music, and the creative and performing arts, along with various enrichment activities to suit all interests and passions. Source: Garden International School
Since GIS participates in associations like the Federation of British International Schools in Asia, it regularly hosts other schools and engages in major sporting events and competitions across Asia. With these new facilities, GIS will be a top venue for these activities. “These facilities are important,” Derby-Crook says. “We’re a city school, so having quality spaces to engage in a range of activities is important to us. We’re very excited about the new facilities.”
Parents will be happy to know this emphasis on continuous growth is not just reserved for older students. From the nurturing environment of the Early Years Centre (EYC) to each study level that follows, Garden International School maintains a balanced focus on academic, social, and emotional development.
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