The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL)

Open Day Guide: Questions Every Parent Should Ask

Are you seeking an educational journey for your child that extends beyond the textbook and classroom walls? If so, an Open Day is the perfect avenue to explore the depths of a school's offerings. The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) is a big believer in the idea that asking questions and being curious is the key.

But to truly maximize your open day experience, knowing what questions to ask can make all the difference.

1. Understand the Basics:

• Curriculum Context: Familiarize yourself with the curriculum on offer. If you're transitioning from a different curriculum, ask how the school facilitates this change.
• Co-curricular: Dive into the after-school activities available and explore opportunities for involvement.
• Size and Structure: The size of a school can deeply influence a student's experience. Discuss the optimal balance of size versus opportunities with the admissions team.
• Logistics: Consider how easy it will be to get to and from school. Does the school offer a busing service? Are buses well monitored and available for students participating in after-school activities?
• Demographics: Investigate the school's demographics – what is the balance between nationalities, and does the diversity meet your expectations?

2. School Leadership and Governance:

• Decision-making: Look into the school's governance. How are crucial decisions made, and is there room for parent participation?
• Profit Structure: Is the school a ‘not-for-profit’ or ‘for-profit,’ and how does this impact decision-making and allocation of funds to facilities, learning, and faculty?
• Stability: Frequent shifts in leadership can be a red flag. Investigate the tenure of key administrators such as the Head of School and Principals
• Faculty Credentials: Get a sense of teacher qualifications, their origin, and the hiring process.

3. Community Engagement:

• Parental Bodies: Check for active parent-teacher associations to support your transition into the community.
• Direct Testimonies: Talking to families or students from similar backgrounds as yours can provide invaluable insights.
• Alumni Involvement: A vibrant alumni community can be a hallmark of a school’s lasting positive impact.

4. Support Systems:

• Adaptability and Integration: Especially crucial for non-native English speakers or students requiring special educational resources. Ask about their EAL programs and provisions for gifted students.
• Social Transition: Moving can be daunting. Ensure the school is equipped to handle your child's emotional and social integration.
• Future Relocations: As difficult as it is to look beyond the present, understand the school's resources for subsequent relocations, be it international or local.

Ultimately it’s about finding the ‘best fit’ school for your child. Taking the time to research and ask lots of questions is critical and a good admissions team will be more than happy to help you. 

See our Featured School page with webinars and articles featuring ISKL

Address

No. 2, Lorong Kelab Polo Di Raja,

55000 Ampang Hilir, Kuala Lumpur | Malaysia

Tel

+60 3 4813 5000

Email

admissions@iskl.edu.my

Website

https://www.iskl.edu.my

Social media links

Facebook: facebook.com/ISKLOfficial

Twitter: x.com/ISKLofficial

Instagram: instagram.com/isklofficial

YouTube: youtube.com/@ISKLOfficialChannel

About ISKL

Since 1965, The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) has been a center of excellence in international education. ISKL is a co-educational, private, non-profit school responsible for the learning journey of over 1,700 students aged 3-18, representing more than 70 nationalities, at its campus in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

ISKL offers a robust international curriculum that combines leading North American educational frameworks and global best practices. This curriculum, which recognizes that students are on a lifelong learning journey, is driven by ISKL's purpose to prepare our students for life itself. We believe in the importance of helping students shape their own paths, supporting them in discovering their passions, developing their competencies, and having an ethical impact on the world. At ISKL, every student's journey is unique, and we are committed to nurturing their growth.

ISKL is accredited internationally through the Council of International Schools (CIS) and in the United States through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Across its divisions, ISKL strongly focuses on service and sustainability and is a member of the Eco-Schools organization and the Green Schools Alliance.

As ISKL celebrates its 60th anniversary, we reflect on six decades of nurturing passions and competencies, fostering a caring community, and striving to create a better world. Join us in honoring the legacy that has shaped us for 60 years, and find yourself at ISKL!