The world is changing faster than ever, with political polarisation, economic uncertainties, and a climate crisis reshaping how we live, work, and relate to each other. Darren Tolan, the new Director of Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar International School (KTJ) Sixth Form, is preparing students at one of the top schools of choice in South East Asia for this. “To navigate this increasingly unpredictable world, a KTJ education helps students develop curiosity, imagination, resilience, and self-regulation,” he says.
Set in the picturesque Malaysian countryside, about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, KTJ empowers students aged three to 19 years to become responsible leaders of a sustainable, global community. Over its 30-year history, the school is always learning, growing, and redefining what learning means. Today, it has the data and insights to provide a holistic, British-style day and boarding school education in a Malaysian setting that leads to success in school, university and beyond. Tolan will play a key role in continuing this legacy, particularly for Sixth Form students.
Darren Tolan holds an MSc in Professional Education and Leadership and is pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Career Guidance. Source: Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar
A first class ticket to the world’s top universities
KTJ Sixth Form provides a strong foundation for admission to top universities worldwide. Students are encouraged to achieve the best possible results while exploring opportunities that prepare them for higher education and life beyond school. Supported by experienced teachers, KTJ students consistently surpass global A Level averages. In the 2025 external examinations, 45% of A Level entries earned an A*, and 92% achieved grades between A* and B, reflecting the commitment and ambition of the Sixth Form community.
Tolan brings extensive experience to his role. In his previous school, he oversaw all aspects of Sixth Form life, ensuring students developed academically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
“I have a strong understanding of competitive university applications and have driven innovative approaches to life skills provision and academic intervention plans,” he says. “These experiences make me well-suited to lead our large Sixth Form team and help KTJ students gain admission to some of the finest universities in the world.”
Exclusive and accelerated A Level programme
Building on this foundation, KTJ will soon offer an accelerated A Level programme tailored for high-achieving students aiming to excel academically and gain a competitive edge for selective universities.
“We offer an A Level pathway that focuses on subjects highly desired by top-ranking universities,” Tolan says. “These facilitating subjects provide students with the skills, knowledge, and understanding needed for success in higher education. Most of our students take four A Levels throughout Sixth Form, and many also add an Extended Project Qualification to their curriculum.”
Students are supported every step of the way. The Sixth Form team provides guidance and advice on university admissions and life in higher education. Support covers everything from interview and admissions test preparation to budgeting and cooking. Specialist classes are offered for those preparing for IELTS or SATs.
At KTJ, Iman Khadeeja could do it all – excel in academics, co-curriculars, sports, and more. Source: Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar
From students to young global citizens
KTJ is a place where students “Make It,” and Sixth Form is the culmination of the school’s full range of guidance, and resources. Students benefit from round-the-clock support, a second family on campus, appreciation for diverse perspectives, enrichment activities, and co-curricular opportunities.
“There is always something going on — a house sport to take part in, a talk to attend, a committee to join,” says Iman Khadeeja, Head Prefect and Upper Sixth student. “KTJ makes you feel like you always belong to something. Friends are a huge part of my life here. This past year has been my first in a boarding school and being surrounded by people my age who genuinely care makes an amazing support system.”
Outside the classroom, Iman Khadeeja (second from right) have built friendships to last a lifetime. Source: Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar
Despite being at KTJ for only a year, Khadeeja still ran for Head Prefect. “I knew it would be challenging, but what really defines you here is your passion and commitment,” she says. “I was excited to take on the role and actively contribute to the community.”
Her achievements include conducting primary leadership workshops, coordinating the induction event for Year 7 and 8 students, and creating opportunities for anonymous feedback so every student can share their thoughts. She has worked to bridge gaps between prefects and students by collaborating across departments, participated in the annual Oxbridge and KTJ Law Moot, and organised projects such as the Nights of Rights movie night.
“On one occasion, we even contacted two professors from the University of Nottingham to discuss a movie we watched during the project, ‘The Children’s Act’,” says Khadeeja, who plans to read law in the UK. “The Sixth Form team is very supportive, and I have received immense guidance in my university applications.”
Learn more about KTJ Sixth Form and the 18-Month A Level Pathway here.
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