Why Choose a Private School in Tanjung Bungah, Penang? The Benefits of the National Curriculum in a Modern Setting

Discover how Tenby Schools Penang combines the Malaysian National Curriculum with individual care, English-rich learning and a balanced school life

Making the Right Choice for Your Child

Choosing where your child studies is one of the biggest parenting decisions you’ll ever make. Parents in Penang often tell us they want the rigour of Malaysia’s National Curriculum but in a setting that offers smaller classes, supportive teachers and better exposure to English.

A private national school like Tenby Schools Penang bridges that gap – offering the same recognised qualification (SPM) but taught in a way that brings out the best in each child. At Tenby Schools Penang, students follow KSSR/KSSM standards in a dual-language environment that encourages curiosity and confidence.

Parent Pain Point: Overcrowded Classrooms and Limited Attention

Many parents worry their child will get lost in large public-school classes. In private schools, class sizes are typically half the national average – around 20–25 students per teacher – allowing educators to tailor lessons and spot when a student needs extra help.

This means stronger teacher-student relationships, early academic intervention and more meaningful progress conversations with parents. The average class size at Tenby Schools Penang is 25, giving each learner space to grow.

Academic Structure with Modern Delivery

Private schools deliver the same Malaysian National Curriculum leading to SPM, but the teaching style differs. Lessons are more interactive, incorporating technology, inquiry-based projects and English-medium discussions through the Dual Language Programme (DLP).

This approach helps children understand concepts, not just memorise them – a key difference in long-term learning.

English Exposure and Global Confidence

Parents consistently rank English proficiency as a top priority. In Tenby Schools Penang, students learn key subjects in English while maintaining strong Bahasa Malaysia skills. From assemblies to science fairs, English communication is naturally integrated – building confidence for future studies and careers.

Parent pain point: “I want my child to be fluent in English but not lose their Malaysian identity.” Response: Private national schools nurture bilingualism – your child grows in both languages.

Balanced Education – Learning Beyond Books

Co-curricular programmes are not an afterthought – they’re part of the learning journey. Sports, music, community projects and STEAM clubs teach teamwork, resilience and leadership. Students at Tenby Schools Penang get to participate in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Roblox, robotics, rock-climbing and many more.

This balance ensures students excel academically while developing the confidence and values needed to thrive in a fast-changing world.

Transparent Communication and Parental Partnership

Private schools encourage parents to be part of the learning journey through regular updates, digital platforms and teacher conferences. You won’t be left guessing how your child is doing – you’ll have a clear picture of their progress throughout the year.

FAQs for Parents

Q: Is SPM in a private school the same as in a public school? 
A: Yes – the syllabus and exam are identical; the difference lies in teaching quality, class size and support.

Q: Does private mean international school fees?
A: Private national schools are more affordable than international schools but offer a similar level of care and facilities.

Q: How do students perform at SPM?
A: Most private national schools consistently outperform national averages in key subjects like English, Science and Mathematics.

A School That Feels Right for Your Family

Every parent wants a school where their child feels known and motivated. By combining national curriculum standards with private school values, Tenby Schools Penang offers a balance of academic rigour, personal attention and holistic growth.

Discover how Tenby Schools Penang can support your child's learning journey.