High School

Learning in High School

At ISKL, we believe that education is the foundation for a brighter future, and our High School curriculum is designed to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities that await them beyond school.

Grounded in our Guiding Statements, we are committed to developing empowered global citizens and self-directed learners ready to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. We are committed to providing an educational experience that prepares our students not just for higher education but for life.

Students are encouraged to think critically and analytically, approach problems with innovative solutions, and collaborate effectively with others. We emphasize the importance of research techniques and expose our students to a variety of perspectives and technologies, fostering an environment where learning is both deep and broad.

What sets ISKL apart is our dedication to lifelong learning. Our goal is to ignite a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, empowering students to seek knowledge and growth continuously.

Choosing ISKL means committing to a journey of discovery and transformation. Education is not just about academic excellence; it’s about developing the whole person. We nurture a sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute positively to the world. Our students leave ISKL as well-educated individuals and as compassionate and proactive global citizens ready to make a difference.

Discover more about our curriculum, concepts and skills students will explore during their time at ISKL.

Find out more about our High School Program Guide here

High School Overview

The High School curriculum’s extensive course offerings enable students to explore options and take advantage of global opportunities.

Learning is a highly personal endeavor, each student is unique, and the varied course options offered by our programs support their differing needs and goals.
Technology and internationalization are reshaping geopolitical and economic landscapes. We know how important it is for our students to be equipped with the intercultural competencies and international mindedness they need to be future-ready.
Student voice and choice matter. Learning is enhanced and enduring when students are not only engaged but also empowered to contribute to activities that are authentic, relevant, and meaningful to them.

All students who meet ISKL’s graduation requirements receive an ISKL High School Diploma, including those who complete the Pursuits Program or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

The ISKL experience is designed to inspire and equip students to create a better world. We invite you to join our community, where learning is an adventure, and every student is encouraged to reach their fullest potential.

Welcome From Our Principal

Dear Parents,

Over the years ISKL has built its outstanding international reputation by balancing academic excellence and nurturing student well-being. In the High School, we provide opportunities for a very diverse student body in which to engage and to find success.

Our aim is to provide students a unique educational experience which offers challenging academic programs and co-curricular opportunities designed to serve the differing needs, interests, talents, and aspirations of students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.

Students have a host of initiatives from which to choose in order to develop, grow, and ultimately benefit. Through this, ISKL graduates leave our school community with options. It is our belief that students find the best fit when evaluating post-secondary choices, therefore, we are exceedingly proud of the variety of institutions around the world at which our graduates have been offered positions.

Yours in partnership,
Jeff Farrington
High School Principal

E: hsoffice@iskl.edu.my

Principal's Biography

Jeff is the High School Principal and has been with ISKL since 2014. He has been an administrator for more than 20 years.

Jeff began his international education career in 1994 and is actively involved in leading instruction, assessment, and teacher supervision since 2000 (MS Principal, HS Principal, K-12 Director of Learning).

He was a recipient of the US-based National Association for Secondary School Principals (NASSP) 2021 Principal of the Year.

Jeff holds a Master’s degree in International Education, BEd, and BSc.

Watch Jeff’s Find Yourself at ISKL Story

A group of high school students in classroom having a discussion

Grade 9 Programs

The Grade 9 year marks the beginning of each student’s four-year plan as they start to pursue their academic passions and aspirations. While there is more freedom and flexibility in High School, the Grade 9 program is structured to enable students build a strong academic foundation, develop effective study habits, and acquire the skills needed for future success.

In addition to the option of learning in subject-specific classes, students may choose PRAXIS, a one-year interdisciplinary program that integrates multiple subjects through problem-based learning. In PRAXIS, students collaborate on authentic projects, strengthen communication and research skills, and think critically and creatively to develop solutions with real-world relevance.

Featuring a smaller learning community and flexible timetable, PRAXIS uses a problem-based learning approach, integrating science, English, social studies, and art/design around complex, real-world issues that require interdisciplinary thinking. Mathematics, world language, physical education, and elective courses continue to be taught in the traditional classroom setting.

PRAXIS learning targets and curriculum remain consistent with ISKL's Grade 9 standards and benchmarks.

Whichever option students select in Grade 9, they are fully prepared for Grade 10, a foundational year for making informed best-fit choices about their academic pathway in Grades 11 and 12.

Grade 10 Programs

Flexibility and choice increase as students gain independence, with the Grade 10 program designed to support exploration and self-discovery, so they are ready to make informed decisions about their future pathway.

In addition to ISKL’s range of High School courses, students in Grade 10 and above can undertake Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which provide the opportunity to complete college-level work. Depending on their results, universities may award credit for strong AP results.

Students may also take courses through the Global Online Academy (GOA), a non-profit consortium of leading independent schools worldwide that enables students to explore subjects and interests not typically available on a single campus.

Advanced Placement

Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer students the opportunity to do college-level work while having the support of a High School environment.

AP exam scores can earn credits or advanced placement, or both, at the majority of colleges and universities in the US and Canada. Enrollment in AP classes at ISKL requires:

Meeting the established course prerequisites.
Teacher and counselor recommendations.
A commitment to academic achievement.
An understanding and acceptance of workload expectations.

Congratulations to our High School students who completed Advanced Placement (AP) courses

A program that can help students earn university credit or advanced standing at most colleges and universities in the U.S. and Canada.

101

AP candidates

4

Average subject score: 4.1 out of 5

83%

of students scored a 4 or 5, scores classified as ‘very well qualified’ or ‘extremely well qualified’

Grade 11 & 12 Programs

ISKL is committed to assisting students in developing a program of study that meets their academic, higher education and career goals, supports a healthy lifestyle, and allows for participation in meaningful activities.

In Grades 11 and 12, students can choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the Pursuits Program. Both are rigorous two-year academic pathways tailored to each student’s strengths, abilities, and goals.

These programs provide graduates with the skills and opportunities to pursue future success based on their individual interests. Both pathways meet ISKL’s graduation requirements and prepare students for higher education at global institutions or for pursuing non-college pathways beyond High School.

All students who meet these requirements earn the ISKL High School Diploma, equivalent to a secondary High School Diploma in the US.

Two high school students learning using a white board

Find out more

About International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP), Advanced Placement (AP) & Pursuits Program

Define Your Future

Student Leadership Team
ISKL's Global Action Program (GAP): Inspiring Global Citizens

Student Leadership Team

In High School, the Student Leadership Team (SLT) is a dynamic group of students elected by their peers and representing each grade level.

The SLT is mission-driven and forms committees as necessary to achieve a variety of goals related to student clubs and activities, student voice, and community spirit. The SLT is committed to learning and practicing effective leadership skills through an extensive mentorship program.

ISKL's Global Action Program (GAP): Inspiring Global Citizens

The Global Action Program (GAP) at ISKL is an experiential learning initiative that immerses High School students in real-world challenges through hands-on service, cultural exchanges, and environmental projects. Designed to develop global citizenship and leadership skills, GAP encourages students to apply classroom knowledge to solve problems in diverse communities. This program fosters personal growth, cross-cultural understanding, and social responsibility, providing students with meaningful opportunities to engage with global issues and make a positive impact beyond the classroom.

Our Global Action Program (GAP) embodies ISKL’s holistic approach to education. Each year, students in Grades 9-11 choose from a variety of projects and destinations across South Asia and collaborate in small groups of 14-16.

As a mandatory High School curriculum component, GAP takes students on a week-long journey of meaningful engagement in community partnerships (service, social entrepreneurship), cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure. Participation is a graduation requirement, indicating the level of importance we place on these unique learning experiences

Aligned with ISKL’s Vision, “Know yourself, care for others, and create a better world,” GAP empowers students to engage with global challenges while fostering self-awareness. Each project connects to one or more of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, deepening students' understanding of their host country, the SDGs, and their role in creating positive change.

For many, GAP represents a defining moment in their ISKL journey, creating lasting memories and personal growth.

While our Grade 9-11 students are on GAP, our Grade 12 students remain on campus for Senior Week to prepare university applications, undertake real-life experiences such as job shadowing and internships, and learn skills for life after graduation.

For more information about our GAP program, please click here.

Global Online Academy at ISKL

ISKL partners with Global Online Academy (GOA), a non-profit consortium of leading independent schools from around the world. GOA offers ISKL students the opportunity to learn alongside peers worldwide and take courses that further enrich the ISKL experience.

Find out more about GOA

Mission-driven

GOA’s mission is to reimagine learning to empower students and educators to thrive in a globally networked society.

Learner-centered

To reimagine learning includes reimagining inequitable systems and structures to create a more socially just world in which students and educators can thrive.

Non-profit

There are more than 120 high-performing independent schools in the consortium, representing over 25 countries.

ISKL Students at the GOA Catalyst Exhibition Showcase

Yuna Y. ('24)

Haruka S. ('23)

Pursue Your Passion! Check Out Our Students' Experiences

Interested in pursuing your passion?

Please complete the inquiry form below for more information.

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Useful Links

For more information about the Global Online Academy, please click on these links to find out GOA Courses Offered read about frequently asked questions, to view a list of participating schools, and to view the Course Catalog.

Notes:

Courses and units may be subject to change and depend on the dynamic nature of learning as well as student demand and/or grade level needs.
For a course to run in High School, ISKL must be in a position to provide a qualified instructor, and there must be a sufficient number of interested students. The same is valid for World Language courses.
World Language courses are based on language proficiency and may vary based on the student’s language level in either Spanish or Chinese.
This information is subject to change. For the latest information, please get in touch with our Admissions team at admissions@iskl.edu.my

Beyond ISKL

It’s Time to Find Yourself Beyond ISKL

Students today have more choices than ever, with an increasing number opting for diverse pathways after graduation. At ISKL, we are committed to guiding and supporting students in finding the best-fit path that aligns with their goals and aspirations.