CfBT Education Malaysia | Our Projects

PIERS | Our Projects | CfBT Education Malaysia

Project to Improve English in Rural Schools (PIERS)

The Project to Improve English in Rural Schools (PIERS) is unique among in-service teacher training projects. Aimed at rural English language, Mathematics and Science teachers, focusing on subject methodology and classroom delivery, ICT skills, and leadership in schools. This, in turn, drives improvement in English fluency, proficiency and confidence in using the language, where substantial gains have been measured.

2006 saw two PIERS programmes in the State of Negeri Sembilan, one in Sri Menanti, sponsored by the combined Education and Welfare Trusts of the Negeri Sembilan Royal Family and the other in Rantau, sponsored by the Yayasan Negeri Sembilan (State Foundation).

In 2007, the PIERS programme is further supported by the Royal Trusts, involving a cluster of 15 primary schools in the Senaling and Johol areas of Kuala Pilah. A second PIERS cluster, sponsored by HSBC is centred in Port Dickson, involving 17 rural primary schools.

Why is PIERS effective?

Educationally, PIERS improves standards and is sustainable because participants put theory into practice immediately in their schools, and their effectiveness is monitored. Teachers do not miss classes for training sessions.

Financially, PIERS is cost-effective, as it does not involve removing teachers from schools, with minimal cost for accommodation, transport or replacement teachers.

Economically, Malaysia increasingly requires a skilled workforce able to use English, in order to enhance global and regional competitiveness. Trade, foreign direct investment and tourism directly benefit from good English skills.

Politically, English is important for equality of opportunity for rural people, providing access to employment, higher education and life long learning.

PIERS has proven to be a success. As such we are constantly seeking sponsorship to develop PIERS nationwide. Please call us at +603 7958 1782 for further information.

Please click here to go to the PIERS website.