CONNECTED THINKING

Education is an all-round experience at Nexus International School Malaysia. Its modern campus and facilities are based on an expansive site in the garden city of Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia. It’s conveniently located for Kuala Lumpur, but also offers a breath of fresh air in its own right.

“Malaysia is a friendly and open place, culturally,” says Principal Alison Hampshire. “At Nexus, we cultivate an ethos with a focus on learning from one another. Outcomes are important, but so too is the learning journey. We cater for every child’s talents and gifts so they have many opportunities to experience a wide range of activities that help them find and develop their individual strengths.”

Nexus has certainly earned a reputation for exceptional results; in 2017, its students achieved amongst the highest International Baccalaureate Diploma results in Malaysia, as well as demonstrating excellence in fields from sports to music. The school accommodates early-years children through to diploma students, and all ages benefit from its ethos and environment.

Space to learn

“The school building provides a lot of space for learners,” says Hampshire. “The early-years section is right in the middle of the school. There is a real sense of respect and care as older learners look out for younger ones. We have a number of flexible spaces and ‘learning hubs’ that promote teacher and learner collaboration.”

The school’s exceptional site encompasses ten-and-a-half acres of land, including a sports field, swimming pool, gym, state-of-the-art science labs, 500-seat theatre and recording studio. Facilities are made fully available to students, including weekend use for those who board at Nexus. “We are very tech-savvy,” says Hampshire. “Our ICT infrastructure is incredible; we’re an Apple Distinguished School and encourage innovative and appropriate use of devices so that all our students use technology for learning.”

Students from the age of three present and collaborate in school performances. “Every child will take the microphone at least once a year,” says Hampshire. “We get everybody to participate; it’s all about building confidence and working together.”

The school has students from 38 countries. “We try to transcend cultural boundaries and get children talking about differences, in order to develop a much deeper understanding,” says Hampshire. “My proudest moments are when the learners take ownership of their actions. We’re about helping young people to become motivated, dynamic individuals that can go on to make a difference in the world.”