CCKL officially opens with 180-year British educational legacy
KUALA LUMPUR: As demand for globally recognised education grows among Malaysian families, Cheltenham College International School Kuala Lumpur (CCKL) has officially opened its doors, bringing over 180 years of British educational heritage to Malaysia.
The Malaysian campus of the prestigious Cheltenham College in the United Kingdom, CCKL is now open for student registration, with its inaugural intake scheduled for April 2026.
The opening marks a significant milestone for parents seeking a British education that balances academic rigour with character development and global citizenship.
Founded in 1841, Cheltenham College is widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s leading independent co-educational boarding schools. Over the decades, it has built a strong reputation for producing well-rounded students, with approximately 10 per cent of graduates each year excelling both academically and beyond the classroom and many progressing to top-tier universities and competitive courses.
Drawing directly from this legacy, CCKL adapts the school’s educational philosophy for a Malaysian and regional context.
Guided by Cheltenham College UK’s approach, the Kuala Lumpur campus adopts the 5Cs framework; Curiosity, Creativity, Character, Community and Continuous Excellence reflecting a belief that education should shape confident, ethical individuals alongside strong academic foundations.
“As Malaysia emerges as a leading education hub in the region, CCKL is committed to raising the bar for British education, combining global academic standards with a strong sense of community and purpose,” said Edumaax Education Group chief executive officer Anne Rajasaikaran.
“Our vision is to shape students with character, resilience and a global outlook, ready to lead with confidence in a fast-changing world.”
At the heart of the school’s academic direction is its incoming founding head of school–designate Paul Samuel. He brings decades of experience in British and international education, having led established schools across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and India. Under his leadership, CCKL will reflect the ethos of its UK parent while fostering strong pastoral care, leadership development and a strong sense of community.
“I believe education should be both rigorous and human,” said Samuel.
“By combining Cheltenham’s long-standing traditions with a strong emphasis on pastoral care, leadership and community, our aim will be to nurture students who are confident learners and responsible global citizens.”
CCKL offers a British-based curriculum spanning Key Stages 1 to 4, culminating in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), as well as Key Stage 5 with GCE A-Levels. An extended school day and a broad range of co-curricular activities, including clubs and sports designed to develop confidence, collaboration and leadership skills, complement this academic structure.
Beyond academics, the school’s education model reflects a growing recognition that success in the future workforce requires adaptability, cultural awareness and strong interpersonal skills - qualities increasingly valued in an interconnected global economy.
The campus is designed to support a holistic and engaging learning environment, featuring purpose-built facilities such as dance studios, music and art rooms, science as well as Information and Communications Technology (ICT) laboratories, libraries, a student lounge, an auditorium and indoor sports facilities, including a gymnasium, pickleball and dodgeball courts and multipurpose sports areas.
With registrations now open for its April 2026 intake, CCKL positions itself as a new benchmark for British education in Malaysia that balances academic excellence with character development and a strong global outlook.
Chase your dreams and unlock your full potential at CCKL — one of Malaysia’s premier British schools for boys and girls aged six to 18, established in partnership with Cheltenham College, UK. To learn more, visit https://cheltenhamkl.org/
