Garden International School, Kuala Lumpur
Key Stats
Annual Fees: US$11K – US$26K
Curriculum: British
Age Range: 3–18
Students: 2,200
Location: Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Updated February 2026
In Brief
Garden International School Kuala Lumpur is one of Malaysia's oldest and largest international schools, founded in 1951 and serving over 2,000 students. Following the British curriculum through A Levels with a unique GIS Diploma program, it has established itself as a well-regarded institution in Kuala Lumpur's competitive international education market.
Founded in 1951 by Mrs. Sally Watkins, Garden International School has grown from its original Lake Gardens location to become one of Malaysia's most established international schools with over 70 years of heritage. Under Principal Peter J. Derby-Crook MBE, the school serves over 2,000 students from Early Years through Year 13, making it one of the largest private co-educational schools in the country. The school maintains accreditation from the Council of International Schools and has built a substantial global alumni network.
The British curriculum spans all educational stages from Early Years Foundation Stage through to International AS and A Levels in the Sixth Form. What distinguishes GIS is its comprehensive GIS Diploma program in Years 12-13, which combines traditional A Level studies with Social/Emotional Learning components, THRIVE internship opportunities, and elective courses. This approach emphasizes whole-child development alongside academic achievement, with extensive extracurricular programming including camps, trips, and international awards available across all year groups. Parent feedback consistently highlights children's enthusiasm for school, with strong teacher dedication and a welcoming community atmosphere.
What parents value
- –Over 70 years of established educational heritage since 1951
- –Large, diverse community of over 2,000 students creating extensive networking opportunities
- –Comprehensive British curriculum with unique GIS Diploma combining academics and life skills
- –Strong parent satisfaction with children showing genuine enthusiasm for school
- –Experienced leadership team with UK qualifications and international education expertise
- –Council of International Schools accreditation providing quality assurance
- –Extensive extracurricular programming including camps, trips, and international awards
- –Successful alumni placement at prestigious universities including Cambridge
- –Established reputation among KL's international school community
Points of consideration
- –Large school size may not suit families preferring smaller, more intimate educational environments
- –Limited specific academic results data available for A Level performance comparison
- –No IB programs offered, which some families may prefer over A Level pathway
- –Fee structure not publicly detailed, requiring direct school contact for financial planning
- –Campus facilities details limited in available information
Annual Fees
| Year Group | Age | USDTotal Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery | 3 | 12,806 |
| Reception | 5 | 15,221 |
| Year 1 | 5 | 20,503 |
| Year 2 | 6 | 21,122 |
| Years 3, 4 | 7 | 23,431 |
| Years 5, 6 | 9 | 24,503 |
| Years 7, 8 | 11 | 27,446 |
| Year 9 | 13 | 28,751 |
| Years 10, 11 | 14 | 29,400 |
| Years 12, 13 | 16 | 29,823 |
Fees converted from MYR. For the most up to date and accurate figures please double check with the school.
Additional Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 377 |
| Registration Fee (Nursery & Reception) | 2,515 |
| Registration Fee (Year 1 - 13) | 5,031 |
Photos
Academic Results
Year of Results: 2025 A-Level: 66% A -A, 85% A -B, 95% A -C. 49% of students achieved at least 3 A /A grades. IGCSE: 71% A -A, 90% A -B, 97% A -C.
Extra Curriculars
Sports Offered: Football, Basketball, Swimming, Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball, Netball, Athletics, Rounders. Arts/Music: Drama performance programs, orchestra, choral music, visual arts (ceramics, photography). Clubs: Over 200 co-curricular activities including Student Leadership, Language Clubs (multiple languages), and Service Learning.
Campus Size: Main campus in Mont Kiara (approx. 9 acres) and Early Years Centre in Desa Sri Hartamas. Sports Complex (opened 2025): 200,000 sq ft over 5 levels; Olympic-sized (50m) swimming pool; 2 full-length indoor basketball courts; 2 tennis courts; fully equipped gym and fitness suite; FIFA-standard youth football field; underground car park.
Inspections & Accreditations
Inspection
- Not publicly listed.
Accreditations
- CIS 19th year, WASC, GL International Centre of Excellence first in Asia, Apple Distinguished School 2025-2028
Memberships
- FOBISIA, EARCOS, SEASAC, AIMS, Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Great Teaching Toolkit, Taylor’s Education Group, Chartered College of Teaching, Apple Distinguished School
Student Body
Total Enrolment: Over 2,000 students. Number of Nationalities: Over 65 nationalities represented. Student-Teacher Ratio: Not published.
Leadership
Peter J. Derby-Crook MBE - Principal
Peter J. Derby-Crook MBE is an experienced international educator with over 38 years in school leadership, including roles as Principal/CEO, Senior Vice-President, and Director of Education across Singapore, Indonesia, UAE, and Oman.
