SEPANG: Concord College International School Malaysia (Concord), the first Concord-branded school in South-East Asia, is steadily shaping its identity as a home for future-ready thinkers guided by the ethos of Rigour, Kindness and Creativity.

Since opening its doors on Sept 1 last year with a small pioneering cohort, the school has grown into a vibrant community of learners, reflecting the trust families place in its blend of British academic excellence and holistic care.

“While we grow, we maintain our small class sizes and personalised approach where we know every student.

“The quality will always come before the quantity of students,” said Concord executive principal  Dr Philip James Outram, who spent 16 years at Concord College UK before taking on his current role in Malaysia.

A former astrophysicist and researcher, Outram was the founding head of Concord Malaysia’s secondary school and played a key role in establishing its academic and pastoral systems.

He brings a diversified career that bridges science and education, combining analytical precision with a passion for nurturing curious, independent minds.

Guided by ethos

Outram said the Concord ethos of Rigour, Kindness and Creativity shapes every part of school life.

“Everything we do is infused by that ethos,” he shared. “Rigour means we follow the systems I helped implement at Concord UK, including weekly tests for older students, which give them focus and quick feedback.

“Kindness comes through our strong pastoral system — tutors, boarding staff, counsellors and teachers who look after every student.

“And creativity helps them make critical judgments and become thinkers — people who can ask good questions, make a difference in the world and become future leaders.”

He added that academic excellence at Concord is not only about grades but continuous progress.

“It means every student is always trying to improve — to push and challenge themselves toward the next step in their education.”

Nurturing growth and belonging

Concord’s learning environment blends English National academic structure with a deeply human approach.

Small classes, personalised tutoring and experienced teachers ensure that every student feels seen and supported.

“Education is not just about teaching facts — it’s about providing a whole, rounded education,” Outram said.

He noted that education at Concord goes far beyond academics, focusing on shaping well-rounded individuals with empathy, communication and leadership – qualities nurtured through dedicated support for university preparation, interview and internship experiences that build confidence beyond the classroom.

Most teachers at Concord are British or have experience within the English National education system. They bring subject expertise, rigour and care – creating a balance of high expectations and strong pastoral support.

He added that Concord’s goal is to help students develop both intellectual confidence and emotional maturity, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.

Building a connected community

Beyond academics, Concord places strong emphasis on community engagement and parental partnership.

Parents are invited to experience school life through open days, classroom visits and events that showcase student creativity.

Outram said that direct engagement with schools and parents is important, as it helps them experience Concord’s ethos in action – built on kindness, connection and shared purpose.

To extend awareness of its educational philosophy, Concord teams also connect with families and education partners across the region through school visits and fairs.

These efforts are rooted in the same value of kindness – building bridges and trust within a global community of learners.

Concord’s close link with its founding college in the UK further strengthens its academic culture and global perspective.

Future plans

With its current facilities, Concord can accommodate around 600 students and expansion plans are underway to meet growing demand.

“We plan to build an auditorium and another teaching block with more social spaces and support for design technology,” said Outram. “In time, we may also add new residences to expand our boarding capacity.”

Boarding, he added, fosters independence and belonging. The current seven-storey residence can accommodate up to 200 students in a supportive environment that feels like home.

“It’s important to have a proper forum where we can gather as a community and share the joy of what people are doing within the school,” he said.

A-Levels, fast-tracked

Concord’s Sixth Form offers an accelerated 18-month A-Level programme. In this fast-track pathway, students take three or four A-Level subjects, with AS exams held at the end of Year 12.

The results from these exams contribute to the final A-Level grade awarded at the end of Year 13 – except for those taking both Mathematics and Further Mathematics, where Mathematics is completed in Year 12.

Subjects offered include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Economics, Computer Science, English, Mathematics and Further Mathematics.

Students also have the option to pursue the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), equivalent to half an A-Level. This involves undertaking an independent research project that begins in Year 12 and is submitted in Year 13.

View original article from The Star