On 13th July 2025, a group of our learners embarked on the first of three exciting Turing Scheme trips to Malaysia! This marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey of cultural exchange, learning, and exploration.
We’ll be launching a live, day-to-day blog for our upcoming August trips, but in the meantime, we’d love to share a glimpse of our first impressions of this incredible country.
👇 Take a look to see what our July learners have been up to!
Video Diary & Interviews
Learner Reflections
During my time at Integrated Islamic School Shah Alam, I was struck by how welcoming and respectful both staff and students were. Classrooms were structured with dedicated learning areas, much like in the UK, but the student body was more multicultural and international, with English often being a second language. The atmosphere was calm, organised, and respectful, with smooth transitions between lessons and a strong sense of routine. Children greeted us individually with warmth and politeness, showing a high level of respect for visitors, peers, and teachers alike. Play was well integrated into the curriculum, blending structured and unstructured activities. Teachers facilitated rather than directed, encouraging children’s creativity, problem-solving, and emotional development through open-ended play. This approach, rooted in Islamic values, offered a refreshing contrast to the often secular play environments back home.
Culturally, I was amazed at how quickly we were able to connect with the locals through simple greetings in Malay. The heat and humidity were intense, but Malaysia’s use of air conditioning made it manageable. Health and safety were taken seriously, with clear protocols and visual reminders embedded in daily routines. Safeguarding practices aligned with Islamic values and Malaysian law, with trained staff and strong parental communication. I also saw how language development was supported through bilingual strategies, visual aids, and group interactions that encouraged children to express themselves confidently. My placement deepened my understanding of how education is shaped by cultural and religious context, and how inclusivity and respect can be seamlessly woven into every aspect of school life.
