Teach Abroad at the First British International School in Malaysia

Teach abroad by choosing The Alice Smith School, the original British International School in Malaysia. Alice Smith School is more than just an academic institution; it’s a community that values individual purpose, global awareness, and responsible citizenship. This dynamic, not-for-profit international school community in Kuala Lumpur, known locally as KLASS (Kuala Lumpur Alice Smith School), is committed to academic excellence—achieved through a rich and challenging curriculum—and nurturing the personal growth and development of every child.

In 1946 Alice Fairfield-Smith, a biology graduate from Harvard University, founded the school, and it became the first not-for-profit British International school in Malaysia. The school has a reinvigorated purpose statement inspired by their pioneering founder: “To Spark Courageous Exploration to Inspire a Better World.” Alice Smith School believes in fostering creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of community, equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century.

Accredited by the Council of International British Schools (COBIS), Alice Smith School delivers an international curriculum based on the British curriculum and the International General Certificate of Secondary Education.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city, offers a unique cultural melting pot, exposing those teaching abroad to diverse perspectives and experiences. Truly the heart of Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur is a safe place to live, known for its friendly atmosphere and proximity to stunning natural landscapes via a convenient international airport.

The Alice Smith School comprises two campuses: Primary, set on five acres close to the city centre; and Secondary, resting on 26 acres, 20 minutes’ drive from the centre. Overseas teachers benefit from easy access to the modern amenities offered in Malaysia’s cultural, financial, and economic centre. Traditional classrooms are transformed into modern learning environments filled with the latest technology and spacious grounds for outdoor activities and sports. The school demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices for a healthy and responsible learning environment.

Currently enrolled are 1,400 students, ages 3–18, representing 40 nationalities, with 40% from Malaysia. Academic excellence and support for each student’s individual learning journey are paramount. The school says, “Eighty-eight percent of Alice Smith School graduates gain places at their first choice, world universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Yale.”

Over 100 after-school clubs and activities covering sports, arts, academic interests, and community service allow every teacher at Alice Smith School to share their passions. Encouraging self-discovery, personal growth, and a sense of global citizenship, Alice Smith School’s unique “Exploration Pathway Activities” is inspired by four distinct areas: Health & Wellbeing, Futures, Creativity, and A Better World. The school also offers global learning opportunities, such as exchange programmes, international field trips, and collaborations with global partners such as MUN and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The Alice Smith School hires experienced, certified international teachers of diverse profiles, including couples with a non-teaching partner. Candidates need not hold an academic degree in their teaching subject. As per government regulations, those up to the age of 60 may obtain a work visa.

The overseas teaching benefits package includes allowances for settling in, housing, and flights from London to Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Lumpur to London at the start and end of the contract. Tuition is free for up to three children. The school will contribute 12% to a retirement plan once a teacher has contributed 11%. Alice Smith School provides a professional learning platform and opportunities to attend different courses through organisations such as the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) and COBIS. Worldwide health insurance—except for the U.S.—is covered, with the employee paying 10%. This includes dental and long-term disability.

To gain access to Alice Smith School’s full profile on the Search Associates database, including a list of any vacancies, candidates can apply for membership by clicking here. Candidates already registered can easily access the school profile directly through their dashboards.

Please note: The information presented about this school was valid on the date published. This information may change, and the most up-to-date information can be found on the school profile.