Tenby Schools Penang vs Stonyhurst International School Penang

Tenby Schools Penang is located in Tanjung Bungah, a residential suburb on Penang Island, approximately 10 km from George Town. The area is popular with local and expatriate families and offers access to beaches, apartments, and local amenities.

Public transport options, including Rapid Penang bus services, are available nearby, though most families rely on private vehicles or the school transport service.

The International School follows the British curriculum, structured into Early Years (ages 3–5), Primary (ages 5–11), and Secondary (ages 11–18). Students progress through Key Stages 1 to 5, culminating in IGCSE and A Level examinations.

Tenby International School is a co-educational, non-boarding day school. Students from diverse nationalities attend, with English as the medium of instruction throughout all year levels.

Support is available for students with mild to moderate learning needs through the Learning Centre. Provision includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Special Educational Needs (SEN) support, coordinated in collaboration with classroom teachers.

The school offers the British curriculum but is not formally affiliated with the UK government.

Tenby International School has no religious affiliation and operates as a secular school.

The school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and ends around 3:00 PM, with slight variations by year group. Students have scheduled morning and lunch breaks, and optional after-school activities several days a week.

The school facilitates access to private bus services managed by third-party providers. Routes generally cover areas such as Tanjung Tokong, Batu Ferringhi, and George Town. Parents contract directly with providers, and the service is widely used given limited on-site parking and traffic congestion during peak hours.

The school has a uniform. It is not included in tuition fees.

The canteen offers a wide variety of Asian and Western food; meals can be preordered; the weekly menu changes; payments are cashless via the Vircle digital system.

The school offers two pathways—the British International School and the Malaysian National School—and it is part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP) network.

Tenby International School Penang follows the British curriculum, beginning with the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) in Nursery and Reception. In Primary School (Years 1 to 6), students follow the English National Curriculum, covering subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Computing, Geography, History, Art, Music, and Physical Education. Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia are also taught as additional languages. In Secondary School (Years 7 to 9), students continue with Key Stage 3, maintaining a broad academic base. From Years 10 to 11, students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations across a range of subjects including English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Languages, and Creative Arts. In Years 12 and 13, students follow the A Level program, selecting from subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Business Studies, Psychology, and Art & Design.

The school integrates SEL into daily routines through its house system, where students are assigned to one of four houses—Ledang, Kinabalu, Jerai, or Tahan—each led by dedicated House Leaders and Tutors. Regular morning and afternoon tutor sessions provide consistent opportunities for students to connect, reflect, and receive guidance. This structure fosters a sense of belonging and encourages the development of leadership skills and peer support.

Tenby International School Penang offers support for students with mild to moderate learning needs through its Learning Centre. A Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) oversees the development and implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), collaborating with teachers and parents to tailor support strategies. The school assesses each student's needs upon entry to determine appropriate accommodations and interventions.

Recognizing the diverse linguistic backgrounds of its student body, the school provides EAL support through its English Learning Centre. Students receive tailored assistance based on their proficiency levels to ensure they can access the full curriculum effectively. Approximately 33% of the student population benefits from EAL programs, which are designed to build confidence and fluency in English.

Mental wellbeing is a priority at Tenby International School Penang. The school employs certified Mental Health First Aiders who are trained to offer immediate support during mental health challenges. Additionally, the Learning Centre provides personalized counseling services for students aged 8 to 17, addressing social, emotional, and mental health needs through collaborative approaches involving parents and teachers.

The school adheres to a comprehensive Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, aligned with the International Schools Partnership guidelines. Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) and Deputy DSLs are clearly identified across the campus, ensuring that all staff are trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns promptly. The policy emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for all students.

1. Book a school visit.
After your enquiry, the admissions team will arrange a personal or virtual tour of the campus. This visit allows you to observe the school's environment and ask specific questions about your child's potential placement.

2. Submit an application.
Applications are accepted year-round, subject to availability. You'll need to complete the application form and provide necessary documents, such as your child's birth certificate, passport, previous school reports, and any relevant medical or learning support information.

3. Application review and assessment.
The admissions team will review your application. Depending on the year group and individual circumstances, your child may be invited for an assessment or interview to determine readiness and appropriate placement.

4. Receive an offer.
Following the assessment, there are three possible outcomes: a full offer, a conditional offer with specific goals to be met, or a recommendation to defer entry until a later date.

5. Secure your child's place.
To confirm acceptance, you'll need to submit any outstanding documents and pay the registration fee and deposit. This step finalizes your child's enrolment at the school.

6. Prepare for the start of school.
The school will provide information on orientation sessions, uniform requirements, and any other preparations needed to ensure a smooth transition into the school community.

Tenby International School Penang offers exclusive scholarship opportunities through its affiliation with the International Schools Partnership (ISP). These scholarships provide students with unique opportunities to study with some of the world's most renowned institutions, gaining skills for emerging careers and industries globally. Eligibility criteria and application processes for these scholarships are communicated to students and parents as part of the school's Future Pathways program.

Tenby International School Penang does not operate a formal waitlist or pool system. Admissions are processed on a rolling basis throughout the year, subject to space availability in the desired year group. If a year group is full, applicants may be offered a place in a future term or advised to consider alternative options.

The school is located in Tanjung Tokong, a coastal neighborhood on Penang Island, about 15 minutes by car from George Town. It is situated within a residential area known for its waterfront housing and amenities.

The school caters to students aged 3 to 18 and is divided into several stages: Early Years (Nursery and Reception), Pre-Prep (Years 1–2), Prep and Elements (Years 3–6), Figures to Lower Grammar (Years 7–9), Grammar and Syntax (Years 10–11), and Sixth Form (Years 12–13). Each stage follows a British-based curriculum aligned to the student's age and developmental needs.

It is a co-educational day school, welcoming both local and international students.

While the school emphasizes personalized care, there is no specific mention of a dedicated SEN department or specialist learning support facilities in the current materials.

The school is affiliated with Stonyhurst College in the UK, but operates independently in Malaysia. Its curriculum is based on the British education system.

The school has a Jesuit Catholic heritage and values, though it welcomes students of all faiths and secular backgrounds.

The school day begins with gates opening at 7:35 AM, followed by student registration from 7:50 to 8:00 AM. For both Junior (Nursery to Year 6) and Senior School (Years 7 to 13), academic lessons run from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, including scheduled breaks and lunch.

After the academic day ends, Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) are held from 3:20 to 4:20 PM for students in Year 1 and above. Nursery children finish at 1:00 PM, with an optional “Stay and Play” session available until 2:30 PM.

The school offers a bus service in partnership with Lim Boon Kooi School Bus Service (LBK). This service is available for students from Reception onwards and includes bus monitors for attendance and safety. Routes and pickup times are arranged based on demand, and younger students are only dropped off if a caregiver is present.

The school operates as an international day school and does not offer boarding.

Uniform is compulsory and the correct school uniform must be worn every day. Pupils in EYFS wear their PE kit on PE days (and on swimming days); pupils in Pre-Prep and above wear full uniform on swimming and non‑PE days, and from Pre-Prep 1 upwards all pupils must wear full uniform on Fridays for the weekly assembly. Uniform items are labelled, and there are detailed requirements for footwear, hijab alignment with the uniform, and rules around makeup, hair and jewellery.

The Dining Hall provides meals with a varied and nutritious menu; a dedicated catering team accommodates dietary needs and the dining environment focuses on social dining with peers.

The school is governed by a Board of Governors, whose role is to set strategy and direction for Stonyhurst Penang. The school is affiliated with Stonyhurst College in the United Kingdom.

Stonyhurst International School Penang follows a UK-based curriculum from Early Years through Sixth Form. Children in Nursery and Reception follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, with a focus on play-based learning and early literacy and numeracy. In Years 1 and 2 (Pre-Prep), students begin formal instruction in core subjects, supported by specialist teaching in music, physical education, swimming, and languages such as French, Bahasa Malaysia, and Mandarin. From Years 3 to 6 (Prep and Elements), students follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) alongside English, mathematics, and science. In Years 7 to 9 (Figures to Lower Grammar), the curriculum expands to include humanities, computing, and creative subjects, leading to the IGCSE program in Years 10 and 11. Sixth Form students (Years 12 and 13) follow the A-Level curriculum, selecting individual subjects based on interest and university pathways.

The school incorporates social and emotional development through its Jesuit-inspired framework, known as the Jesuit Pupil Profile, which promotes values such as compassion, attentiveness, and discernment. Teachers integrate these themes into lessons and school life, encouraging reflective discussions and positive behavior. Each student is supported by form tutors and pastoral staff who monitor their personal growth and social interactions. In addition, co-curricular programs and service opportunities are designed to build resilience, empathy, and teamwork. Senior students are encouraged to take on leadership roles to foster responsibility and self-awareness.

Stonyhurst Penang is not a specialist SEN institution, but it offers support for students with mild to moderate learning needs. A Learning Support Fee of MYR 2,500 per year applies if additional support is required. Support is coordinated in consultation with teachers and pastoral staff, focusing on classroom accommodations and individual monitoring.

While there is no separate EAL department outlined in public materials, the school welcomes students from diverse language backgrounds and provides language support through its teaching teams.

Stonyhurst Penang provides mental wellbeing support through a structured counselling program and regular pastoral check-ins. A team of trained staff, including a Head of Pastoral, oversees emotional development and offers individual support as needed. The school’s emphasis on values-based education encourages a caring environment where students feel comfortable seeking help. Advisory and counselling services are accessible throughout a student’s time at the school. Activities that promote mindfulness, reflection, and peer support are embedded within the curriculum and extracurricular program.

Safeguarding is overseen by the Designated Safeguarding Lead (the Head of Pastoral), supported by school-wide policies and training. All staff involved with students undergo regular child protection training, including bus monitors and drivers. The school enforces secure pickup procedures, mandatory background checks, and standardized reporting for all safeguarding concerns. Protocols for absences, transportation, and adult authorization are documented and strictly followed. The school follows a structured safeguarding policy aligned with international school standards in Malaysia.

1. Book a campus visit or attend an open house.
Families are encouraged to visit the school to better understand the learning environment and facilities. Open houses or private tours can typically be arranged through the admissions team.

2. Submit an application form and required documents.
To begin the formal admissions process, parents need to complete the application form and provide documents such as a copy of the student’s passport, birth certificate, previous school reports, and any relevant medical or learning support documentation. A non-refundable application fee of MYR 1,000 applies.

3. Assessment and interview.
Applicants may be invited to take an age-appropriate assessment. Depending on the year level, students may also attend a short interview with the academic or pastoral team, either in person or online.

4. Offer of place and acceptance.
If successful, families will receive a formal offer letter. To secure the place, parents must sign the acceptance documents and pay the required enrolment and security deposit fees.

5. Orientation and start of school.
Once enrolled, students and families are invited to attend orientation sessions to become familiar with school routines, uniforms, and timetables. The admissions and pastoral teams provide support to ensure a smooth transition into school life.

The school offers a limited number of merit- and means-tested scholarships for academically strong students. Applicants who meet both academic and financial eligibility may apply for funding of up to 100% of school fees. Full scholarship recipients entering Sixth Form (Years 12–13) receive comprehensive support covering tuition, uniform, meals, books, equipment, residential and day trip fees, transportation, and—if applicable—boarding and insurance costs. These scholarships are awarded for the full two-year Sixth Form term and are subject to ongoing review.

In addition, the school previously offered Honorary Scholarships for high-achieving students who did not qualify for financial support. However, this category has now closed, as all honorary scholarships have been fully awarded.

Stonyhurst International School Penang does not publicly state whether it operates a waitlist or pooled admissions system. However, admissions are subject to availability in each year group.