Welcome
from the Deputy Head of Secondary (overseeing Boarding)
Here at Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, the boarders constitute the very heartbeat of our school and indeed, the atmosphere that pervades is richer for the presence of our boarding community. While offering a traditional British boarding school model in a Malaysian setting, we are forward thinking in our approach, and while we could never replace the love and care of a student’s home, our boarding houses offer experiences, memories and friendships that are enhanced by the boarding environment. Dedicated house staff are focused on creating a ‘second home’ for our students, making sure our boarding houses are a place of comfort, support and belonging for all who live there.
Our holistic approach to education is rooted in the belief that we should be developing students beyond the bounds of the classroom, allowing them to grow and to prepare for all the opportunities and challenges of life beyond school.
We believe happy students will be successful ones, and therefore we focus on enriching all aspects of our students’ lives, aiding them in their development into confident and well-rounded young adults and global citizens.
Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar is an amazing school, full of happy students who benefit from our diverse pool of teaching experience and the abundance of facilities that sit within our 80-acre site. We are extremely proud of the international boarding provision we provide and are confident that our students are ready to ‘Make it’ in the ever changing global world that awaits them when they leave.
Mr Gary Slade Deputy Head of Secondary
Welcome & Introduction from the Director of Day House Strategy
Andrew joined KTJ after 12 successful years at Rugby School UK, where he became their first ever Artistic Director. In 2017, he became the Housemaster of Town House, Rugby’s day house for boys, and whilst in charge, he was able to see the growth of the house from 65 to 115 pupils. He previously worked for leading companies including the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Royal Opera House and the National Theatre. A keen sportsman, he has completed several marathons, including London, Edinburgh and Venice. He was also the MiC of Skiing and led numerous school ski trips to both Europe and North America. He is married to Dr Rachel Chessell, an Associate Professor in Education.
Mr
Andrew
Chessell
Director of Day House Strategy
Senior Day House Staff
I am excited to be part of the transition to the new Senior Day House! I have been part of the boarding community at KTJ since 2019 and have enjoyed taking part in many co-curricular events that happen across the school during the academic year and watching students grow throughout their time at the school. I am originally from a small coastal town in the UK and enjoy anything on or in the water!! I love life in Malaysia, especially being able to travel around Asia and the amazing food! I am looking forward to the new academic year as part of the Senior Day House team!
Ms Joanne Saunders
Rahman House Assistant Houseparent
Welcome to Rahman House! I am Ms Julie and am looking forward to working alongside you over the coming year. I am really excited to be part of the Senior Day House team at KTJ, being able to support and encourage you in all your endeavours. KTJ is a great place with lots of opportunities and activities to get involved in throughout the year; there is a buzzing atmosphere. As a previous Boarding House tutor, I find it is always an honour to see students rise to the challenge, lead the way for others and flourish via the many avenues offered here. In addition to teaching, I have many years of pastoral experience behind me and want to encourage you all to capture the essence of KTJ and realise your full potential as one of your tutors. Here’s to an amazing ‘24-’25 academic year!
Ms Julie-Anne Davies
Rahman House Tutor
I am Moorthi Velu and I have more than twenty years of experience as a tutor in Imran and Nadzimuddin House. I am really happy to join the Rahman House team at KTJ and assist the house in various aspects. As a tutor, I have the opportunity to support and mentor students in their personal, sports, and academic development. I can also contribute to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment in the boarding house. This involves fostering a sense of community, promoting respect, and ensuring that all students feel valued. The role of a tutor is also a great opportunity for my own personal and professional growth. I will develop skills in leadership, communication, conflict resolution, and empathy, which are valuable in any career.
Mr Moorthi Velu
Rahman House Tutor
