Whole campus

Why SIS Penang is a top international school

29-08-2025

Discover why Penang SIS Group stands out among international schools in Penang - from strong academics to global learning, real-world exposure and a focus on every child’s success.

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make - a choice that shapes not just academic success, but character, curiosity and confidence for life. At Straits International School (SIS) Penang, we inspire, challenge and empower young minds to excel in a rapidly evolving world. Recognised as one of Penang’s premier international schools, SIS blends academic rigour with transformative learning experiences, ensuring every child discovers their potential.  

Karlie Walsh

We're not only enhancing educational pathways but fostering an environment where every individual can flourish and realise their potential.

Karlie Walsh, Campus Principal

Exceptional academics, extraordinary outcomes


At Straits International School Penang, academic excellence is just the beginning. Our students consistently achieve outstanding results, mastering core subjects like Mathematics, Science and Literacy while developing critical thinking, creativity and resilience. With dedicated educators who personalise learning, we don’t just prepare students for exams - we prepare them for life. 

For families seeking the best primary school in Penang, SIS offers a foundation for lifelong success, where curiosity is nurtured, challenges are embraced and every achievement is celebrated.  

Excellent academic results

Students at Straits International School Penang consistently achieve outstanding exam results. Read the highlights from the IGCSE Class of 2024.

51%

Of all grades were A* - A

100%

All pass

100%

A* - A  First Language Malay

100%

A* - B  First Language Mandarin

100%

A* - B Foreign Language Mandarin

A world-class curriculum for tomorrow’s leaders


Unlike traditional schools, Straits International School Penang delivers a dynamic education designed to cultivate independent thinkers and problem-solvers. Our forward-thinking approach encourages students to question, innovate and engage deeply with their learning - equipping them with the skills to excel in an interconnected world.  

As a leading international school in Penang, Malaysia, we offer a seamless educational journey from kindergarten through secondary, ensuring students graduate with the confidence and adaptability to succeed anywhere in the world. 

Alex

We're here for the kids - to help them learn and encourage them to learn.

Alex, Head of Humanities

Learning,First.™ methodology


As part of International Schools Partnership – ISP,  SIS embraces the Learning,First.™ framework - that adds value by giving teachers and leaders clear direction to deliver personalised student-centred education and evaluate the impact on learning.   This means cutting-edge teaching methods, innovative classroom experiences and an unwavering focus on how learning can be more engaging, effective and inspiring.  

Beyond academics, Learning,First.™ nurtures resilient, self-assured learners - students who are not just prepared for the future but eager to shape it.  

Where learning comes first 

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Curiosity fuels our learning Confidence drives lifelong learning The power of 'Good Struggles' Teachers as co-pilots 

Curiosity fuels our learning

The best learning happens when students are actively engaged. We ignite curiosity through hands-on projects and inquiry-based learning, making learning exciting, memorable and full of exploration.

Confidence drives lifelong learning

Our students trust in their abilities, build confidence and lead their way forward. This mindset helps them believe they can learn and achieve anything, fostering a love for lifelong learning.

The power of 'Good Struggles'

We believe great learning happens just beyond the comfort zone. That’s why we create purposeful challenges, or 'good struggles', that help students stay motivated while they grow. Through these experiences, students build resilience, solve problems, and learn to keep going – even when it’s hard.

Teachers as co-pilots 

Learning here is a partnership. Teachers work alongside students as guides, helping them navigate choices, embrace good struggles, inspire those 'aha' Amazing Learning moments of self-discovery and grow in confidence.

Where learning comes first 

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Beyond the classroom - discover, explore, excel


At Straits Penang, education extends far beyond textbooks. Our students immerse themselves in sports, arts, music, robotics and leadership programmes, unlocking new passions and honing their talents. Through global exchanges, cultural trips and ISP network collaborations, they gain real-world perspectives, building confidence and connections that last a lifetime.  


A school where every child excels 


At Straits International School Penang, we believe every student is unique - and so is their journey. Our teachers partner closely with families to nurture individual strengths, foster growth and cultivate a love for learning. Here, children succeed and belong.  

We also prioritise parent partnerships, offering guidance on digital literacy, AI readiness, and holistic development, because raising future-ready learners is a shared mission. 

Jessie

My kids absolutely love going to school. They're comfortable, constantly sharing stories about their activities, especially the CCAs. It's clear the school values us as parents, which makes us feel truly part of the community.

Jessie, Parent of International Primary

Your child’s future begins here


Whether you are looking for the best primary school in Penang, a top-tier international curriculum in Malaysia, or simply a place where your child will be seen, challenged and inspired - Straits International School Penang is where great minds grow.  

Visit us today. See the difference. Imagine the possibilities

 

Latest news

2 May 2025

Wear a hat day

Students and staff came together in style for Wear a hat day - a celebration filled with creativity, colour and compassion.

7 April 2025

Multilingualism Day

Our students didn’t just speak - they performed, acted and expressed their way through English, Mandarin and Malay during this joyful celebration of language and culture!

4 April 2025

Selamat Hari Raya Celebration

Straits International School Penang came together in a joyful celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri!