Why are parents opting for private learning centres over traditional schools?

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Parents are choosing private learning centres due to their offering of international curricula at a lower cost compared to traditional private and international schools.

Parents are increasingly enrolling their children in private learning centres as an alternative to conventional schools. These centres provide access to international curricula, such as the IGCSE and Cambridge primary education, alongside flexible timetables and extracurricular activities, all while maintaining a dress code instead of a uniform. A significant draw for parents is the cost, with these centres typically being 20 to 30 per cent less expensive than established private or international schools, potentially saving families considerable sums annually. The number of these centres is on the rise, with projections indicating a 15 per cent annual growth over the next five years, and an estimated 50 to 100 are already operating in the Klang Valley, often situated in shoplots and commercial areas.
International Curricula and Flexible Schedules Appeal to Parents

The appeal of private learning centres stems largely from their ability to deliver international educational programmes, a feature that aligns with the aspirations of many parents for their children's future, particularly if they plan to pursue higher education abroad. Programmes like the IGCSE and Cambridge primary education are offered, providing a pathway recognised internationally. Furthermore, these centres often operate with variable timetables, sometimes accommodating students between 9 am and 5 pm, which can be more convenient for some families than the structure of traditional schooling.
Significant Cost Savings Compared to Formal Institutions

A primary driver for parents' shift towards these centres is the considerable cost advantage. Fees at these private learning centres are reported to be 20 to 30 per cent lower than those charged by full-fledged private or international schools. This financial differential can translate into substantial savings, especially considering the high annual tuition fees that can reach as much as RM100,000 at more established international schools. This affordability makes international education accessible to a broader segment of the population.
Regulatory Concerns and Ministry Advisories

Despite their growing popularity, the Ministry of Education has expressed concerns regarding the registration status of many of these private learning centres. The ministry has advised parents to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of these institutions. Certificates issued by unregistered centres will not be endorsed by the ministry, a crucial requirement for students intending to study overseas. The ministry has noted an increase in complaints related to these centres and has conducted inspections, as they are not classified under the 18 registered categories of private educational institutions.
Operational Irregularities and Ministry's Stance

Some of these centres, while licensed as tuition centres, are reportedly operating in a manner akin to full schools, which contravenes the compulsory education provisions stipulated in the Education Act. The ministry has emphasised that institutions wishing to offer international courses like IGCSE must be registered as international schools. The ministry has indicated it will not approve international curricula being taught in settings not designated as international schools and is prepared to take legal action against non-compliant educational institutions.

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Why are parents opting for private learning centres over traditional schools?

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