Cheltenham College KL opens registrations for April 2026 intake

Student registrations have officially opened for the first intake at Cheltenham College International School Kuala Lumpur (CCKL), with the inaugural cohort scheduled to begin classes in April 2026.

CCKL is the Malaysian campus of Cheltenham College in the United Kingdom, a British educational institution founded in 1841 with more than 180 years of heritage. Its arrival reflects the growing interest among Malaysian families in internationally recognised pathways that balance strong academic foundations with student wellbeing and personal growth.

The school will offer a British curriculum spanning Key Stages 1 to 4, culminating in the IGCSE examination, followed by Key Stage 5 where students will pursue GCE A-Levels. In addition to academic learning, the programme integrates co-curricular activities, leadership opportunities and pastoral support designed to nurture confidence and independence.

“Parents today are looking for more than strong academic outcomes. They want an education that builds resilience, values, and global perspective,” said Anne Rajasaikaran, Chief Executive Officer of Edumaax Education Group. “CCKL is our long-term commitment to delivering a values-led British education that prepares students not just for the next examination, but for life beyond the classroom.”

The opening of registrations for the April intake positions CCKL among a growing group of international schools expanding options for Malaysian parents who are seeking alternative educational pathways aligned with global standards.

Values-driven approach

The launch of CCKL coincides with Malaysia’s rollout of the National Education Plan (RPN) 2026–2035, a decade-long blueprint aimed at strengthening critical thinking, holistic development and global readiness among students.

The school will adopt a development framework centred on five core principles — Curiosity, Creativity, Character, Community, and Continuous Excellence — designed to guide both academic learning and personal growth.

Paul Samuel, who will serve as Founding Head of School-designate, is expected to lead the institution as it prepares for its first cohort of students. Samuel brings leadership experience from British and international schools across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and India.

“Education should be both rigorous and human,” said Paul Samuel. “We want to help students grow into confident learners and responsible global citizens, while supporting their personal development every step of the way.”

Beyond academics, the campus has been purpose-built to encourage holistic learning and student engagement. Facilities include science and ICT laboratories, music and art rooms, dance studios, libraries and an auditorium, as well as indoor sports facilities such as a gymnasium and multipurpose courts.

With student registration now underway for the April 2026 intake, CCKL is inviting families to join its founding community as the school prepares to establish itself within Malaysia’s expanding international education sector. The initiative aims to provide students with an academically robust, values-driven education that prepares them for higher learning and the demands of an increasingly globalised world.