Relocating abroad involves numerous choices, accelerating certain life challenges, particularly regarding children's education. Selecting the right school requires careful consideration. This article details one family's experience as they navigate this process, focusing on schools in Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia.
The Initial Decision and Considerations
The family initially planned for their child to study abroad after secondary school. However, circumstances changed their plans. They decided to explore international schooling options earlier.
Evaluating Family Resources
Before looking at schools, they conducted a realistic self-assessment. They acknowledged their modest financial situation and lack of influential connections. This meant focusing on schools that were academically suitable, but also a good fit for their family dynamic. They wanted to avoid schools requiring excessive parental involvement or extensive extracurricular commitments.
Child's Maturing Independence
Their nearly 12-year-old child was showing signs of independence. They recognized that forcing choices upon her was counterproductive. They embraced a DIY approach to school selection.
The School Selection Process
The family used a traditional approach. They began by identifying a region and listing potential schools. Then, they evaluated each school based on:
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Location
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Reputation
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Tuition fees
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Future academic pathways for older students
They contacted shortlisted schools directly via email. They prepared questions based on information gathered beforehand, aiming to verify details during campus visits. They intentionally avoided using educational agents, preferring to rely on their own judgment.
School Visits: Penang and Johor Bahru
In 2023, they visited several international schools in Penang. The actual conditions largely matched their expectations. They applied the same methods in JB. Due to time constraints, they only visited a few schools.
Invictus School Johor Bahru
Their first visit was to Invictus School JB, a British school that opened in January 2023. Its marketing materials were geared towards Chinese parents.
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Location: Located next to two roads, with noticeable noise from the highway side classrooms.
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Facilities: Limited campus size and outdoor activity space. CCA activities and some sports classes were conducted off-site.
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Student Demographics: Seemed to cater more to younger children. Their nearly 12-year-old child stood out as being older.
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Interaction with Staff: The consultant was delayed and seemed disinterested, giving a dismissive impression.
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Child's Reaction: Their daughter showed no interest, comparing it to a tourist visit, similar to her experience at international schools in Hainan, China.
Following the visit, their daughter expressed her disinterest in the school, noting the consultant's apparent disregard for her presence. This prompted the parents to reconsider their selection criteria.
Adjusting the Criteria: Educational Philosophy
The family added a new criterion: the school's educational philosophy. This would provide insight into the school's values and direction, aiding their decision-making process.
Tenby Schools Setia Eco Gardens, Johor Bahru
They visited Tenby Schools JB in the afternoon. They had a positive experience with Tenby's Penang campus in April 2023. The JB campus was larger with more extensive facilities.
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Campus Environment: Beautiful natural surroundings and comprehensive facilities. The presence of many Korean students contributed to activities like archery.
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Student Atmosphere: Active and cheerful students created a lively and engaging atmosphere.
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Child's Reaction: Their daughter showed a positive change in demeanor, actively observing the students. She finally seemed to view the school from a student's perspective.
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Staff Interaction: The Chinese consultant was friendly, engaging, and proficient in both Chinese and English, which impressed their daughter.
Overall, Tenby left a favorable impression, and their daughter enjoyed the atmosphere. However, as their JB school visits weren't complete, they didn't proceed with the application test.
Crescendo HELP International School
Their final visit was to Crescendo HELP International School. They originally intended to visit Austin Heights International School but were unable to secure a visit.
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Campus Features: Large campus with complete facilities and unique art displays.
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Unique Programs: Their daughter was drawn to the woodworking and metalworking classes, as well as the cooking classes.
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Child's Enthusiasm: Their daughter enjoyed the visit, finding many aspects appealing.
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Staff Interaction: The Chinese consultant engaged with their daughter in English, leading her to agree to take the entrance test the next day.
The parents were surprised by their daughter's willingness to take the test, as she typically avoids examinations.
Post-Visit Reflections
The family returned to Beijing and received the test results via email. Their daughter felt discouraged about some unanswered questions. They reflected on their parenting style and realized they tended to be overly controlling. The JB school visits highlighted their daughter's growing ability to make informed decisions. They realized they should offer support and encouragement rather than imposing constraints. They should allow their daughter to chart her own course, using their experience as guidance. This trip helped the parents recognize that their daughter should be at the center of the decision-making process. The family continues to contemplate the future and how to best support their daughter's path. They recognize the risks that come with change, but are committed to trying to figure it out together.
The schools visited included: Invictus, Tenby, and Crescendo HELP.
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