Parent's Review of Utama International School in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

What is the name of your child's school? (Please report on one school per survey.)

Utama International School

In what town or city is this school located?

Kuala Lumpur

How would you describe this school? (i.e. American, British, International, Local, etc.)

Setapak, KL

What grade levels are represented at this school?

Kindergarten to Secondary

How do most children get to school everyday? (bus, train, walk, etc.)

School bus, own transport & walk.

How would you describe the facilities at this school? What extra-curricular activities are available?

The school has a swimming pool, a quite big school field, library, labs, hostel, canteen but NO proper school hall. Not many extra-curricular activities - may be choir, martial arts and cheerleading. Others not so sure.

What has this school done to help your child transition from the curriculum in your home country into the curriculum in your new country? Are there programs to prepare your child for repatriation?

Not much as curriculum quite similar. Only thing primary school students also learn other subjects like History, Geography, Living Skills & few others. Principal is a lady who doesn't do much to improve the quality and standards of teaching in the school. Not firm enough I guess. Communication among teachers lacking so students sometimes get misunderstood.

How would you describe the social activities available for parents through this school? Are there parent-teacher organizations?

There are few activities like Sports Day, Swimming Carnival, etc but parents do not have proper channel to voice opinions; only through correspondence with teachers. that also after exams to talk about your child's progress. Other issues difficult to raise as answer is the same all the time. Also many issues raised by parents not addressed. The canteen sucks as students need to buy coupons to eat. Very limited choice of food as mostly local fare served. Prices are more expensive than 'ouside' food and not vey tasty.

What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling their child in this school?

Think carefully as the teachers are mostly locals who many don't speak good English (cheap may be). There seems to be biasness against foreign students compared to local ones. May be it's the language thing. School still old-fashioned in terms of teaching methodology and technology. Facilities alone not good enough, the quality of education should be the main priority in choosing a school. This school lacks in that aspect.

William Russell
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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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