Middle School (11-14 years)

Our Middle School is built on the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP), offering a dynamic, future-focused education that combines academic rigour with meaningful, real-world learning.

At the heart of our programme is a commitment to developing confident, capable and internationally minded learners. Through inquiry-driven lessons and interdisciplinary connections, students learn to think critically, communicate effectively and apply their learning with purpose.

What sets our Middle School apart is the flexibility within a strong academic framework. Students benefit from a broad and balanced curriculum while also having the opportunity to shape their own learning journey—exploring interests, developing strengths and discovering new passions.

This is brought to life through two distinctive programmes: ENCORE and FLEX.

Our ENCORE electives allow students to personalise their learning through a diverse range of courses across the arts, sciences, technology and beyond—encouraging curiosity, creativity and exploration.

Complementing this, our FLEX programme provides dedicated time within the school week for targeted support and extension. Whether students need to consolidate understanding, receive personalised guidance, or be challenged further, FLEX ensures that every learner is supported, stretched and empowered to succeed.

English

Students develop strong communication, analytical and language skills through differentiated pathways tailored to their level of English proficiency.

• Language and Literature for native or near-native speakers
• Language Acquisition for students with intermediate proficiency
• English as an Additional Language (EAL) for students who require intensive language support in Grades 1 to 8.

Mathematics

Mathematics empowers students to think logically, solve complex problems and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Students build a strong foundation that prepares them for advanced study in the IB Diploma Programme.

Science

Students engage in a comprehensive science programme that introduces them to key scientific principles across multiple disciplines:

• Biology
• Physics
• Chemistry

The programme encourages inquiry, experimentation and critical thinking.

Design & Technology

Students follow the design cycle to investigate problems, generate ideas, create solutions and evaluate outcomes.

This subject develops creativity, innovation and practical problem-solving skills through hands-on learning experiences.

Individuals & Societies

Students explore human societies, cultures and global systems, gaining a deeper understanding of how the world works.

Key areas include:

• Geography
• History
• Economics
• Business Studies

Physical Health Education (Sports)

Students develop physical fitness, health education, teamwork and personal well-being through a diverse range of activities, movements, and skills. Our aquatics programme is part of PHE.

The focus is on building lifelong healthy habits, discipline and resilience.

Arts

All students engage in at least one specialist arts discipline, with opportunities to explore:

• Music
• Theatre
• Visual Arts

Additional elective arts opportunities are outlined in the ENCORE section below.

All students study at least one language, with the option to study both an acquisition and a mother tongue language.

Language Acquisition

Builds students’ proficiency in a new language and understanding of other cultures.

• Mandarin
• French
• Spanish
• German

Language and Literature

For students who have advanced knowledge and proficiency.

• Dutch
• Danish
• German
• Mandarin*
• French*
• Spanish*
• Portuguese*
• Swedish*
• Others#

*At additional cost
#Check with the Admissions Team for other language options that may be available

ENCORE-Programme

(Integrated into the regular school day)

This unique GESS programme goes beyond the standardised MYP curriculum and enables students to pursue their passions in a variety of ways.

Depending on their interests, students can choose from foreign languages, creative and performing arts, design & technology, performance sports, as well as English. The learning experience is hands-on, immersive, and project-based, fostering engaged and well-rounded learners.

Further details about the ENCORE options can be found further down on this page.

Flex-Programme

(Integrated into the regular school day)

Based on the individual needs of each learner—whether support, additional challenges, exploration, or self-directed learning—teachers design and deliver content accordingly within the Flex Programme.

• Learning Extension: For students with higher achievement levels who seek additional challenges.
• Academic Support: Targeted support to address learning gaps in specific subjects.
• Exploration: Opportunities to discover different areas through clubs and activities.

Mentoring and Coaching

Teachers mentor and coach students to develop the executive functioning skills they need as they progress to high school. Students learn how to plan effectively, take manageable steps towards their academic and personal goals, and monitor their progress over time. Eventually, students can take ownership of their learning and handle projects, assignments, and exams with preparation and confidence, achieving better outcomes.

After-School Learning Lab

(delivered after school)

These sessions are designed for those students who require extra support with their learning can use these sessions to clarify doubts, reinforce understanding of concepts, and work on weaker areas. Students progressing at a faster pace can undertake more advanced tasks and assignments that stretch their abilities and extend their learning.

With our award-winning BeyondClassrooms approach, students can actively connect their learning to the real world and build a portfolio of practical experiences that gives them a competitive edge at graduation.

The many initiatives in the BeyondClassrooms Programme include:

• Internships with leading global companies
• Industry expert talks
• Career counselling and guidance from industry leaders
• Junior Engineer Academy
• Competitive sports
• Over 100 after-school co-curricular activities
• Vocal and Instrumental Programme
• Student-led Clubs and Societies

Junior Engineer Academy

In Grades 8 and 9, students explore real-world engineering challenges focused on sustainable living, working with experts from partners like Bosch.

Service Learning and Sustainability

Middle School students complete three service projects each year, including one independent initiative, building their skills as changemakers. GESS is proud to be accredited by The Alliance for Sustainable Schools. Projects include:

• Mangrove planting
• Beach cleanups
• Mental health and environment awareness days
• Community engagement and festive volunteering

School Trips and Enrichment

From outdoor adventures to cultural exchanges, our trips help students grow in character, confidence, and global understanding. Highlights include:

• Bintan outbound trip
• Tioman watersports
• Theatre in Malaysia
• Social projects in India and Cambodia
• Language immersion trips

Homeroom Advisory Lessons

Weekly small-group sessions provide teachers with an opportunity to check in on students’ emotional well-being and lead activities that foster social-emotional skills and community.

Professional Counselling

Experienced counsellors offer a safe, welcoming space for students to discuss personal challenges, from academic stress to peer conflicts—always with an understanding of international school life.

School-Family Partnership

We work closely with families to gain a deeper understanding of each student’s background and needs, while keeping parents informed so they can effectively support their child's learning at home.