Top After-School Courses for Primary School Students (2025)

Enrollment Trends & Parent Review Insights in Malaysia

When it comes to choosing the right after-school program, many parents ask the same question:
“There are so many classes — which one is truly worth it?”

To help you make informed decisions, we analyzed HiParents platform data from May 2024 to April 2025, including:

• Course views and trial sign-ups

• Enrollment trends across major cities

• Verified parent reviews and satisfaction rates

Here are the Top 5 Most Popular After-School Classes for Primary Students in Malaysia, based on real engagement and growth data.

About the Data

• Timeframe: May 2024 – April 2025

• Regions covered: Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru, Ipoh & more

• Sources: HiParents.com.my course page traffic, sign-up records, trial class requests, and parent reviews

#1: Art & Creative Craft Classes

Popularity Score: (Long-standing favorite)
Parent keywords: Focus building · Self-expression · Stress-free learning

Trends:

• Consistently ranked top 3 for the past 3 years

• Highly favored by lower primary parents (ages 7–9)

• Art studios with small-group classes receive better reviews than large commercial chains

#2: Coding & STEM Tech Classes

Popularity Score: (Rapid growth)
Parent keywords: Logic training · Future-ready skills · Engaging & fun

Trends:

• 38% year-over-year increase in sign-ups

• Popular platforms: Scratch, Roblox Studio, Micro:bit

• Many parents report increased motivation: “My child actually finishes the project at home!”

#3: Dance Classes (Ballet / Modern / Hip-Hop)

Popularity Score: (Stable and growing)
Parent keywords: Confidence · Body coordination · Stage experience

Trends:

• Still most popular among girls, but hip-hop attracts more boys now

• Graded classes (RAD, CSTD, etc.) are more trusted by parents

• Performance and competition opportunities increase retention

#4: Music Classes (Piano, Ukulele, Violin)

Popularity Score: (Consistent demand)
Parent keywords: Rhythm development · Patience training · Long-term skill

Trends:

• Piano remains the top entry-level instrument

• Ukulele rises as a budget-friendly & portable option

• Classes with strong parental involvement show higher continuity

#5: Sports & Movement Classes (Football, Martial Arts, Fitness)

Popularity Score: (Regionally strong)
Parent keywords: Physical outlet · Discipline · Confidence building

Trends:

• Popular among boys, especially as an energy-release class

• Martial arts preferred in suburban areas; football dominates in cities

• Programs with clear values (teamwork, respect) receive better parent reviews

How Should Parents Choose?

Consider these 3 key factors when selecting a course:

1. Child’s personality

   • Introverted: art, music

   • Energetic: sports, dance

2. Parental involvement ability

   • Can you attend recitals? Help with practice? Budget?

3. Course longevity

   • Does it offer progression? Exams? Performances? Competitions?

Want to Find the Right Class Near You?

Explore Malaysia’s top enrichment courses at HiParents.com.my
Use filters by age, location, interest, and language to easily compare and discover the best options for your child.

Final Thought: After-School Classes Should Build Confidence, Not Just Fill Time

The right enrichment class does more than teach skills — it helps your child build self-discipline, enjoy learning, and feel proud of progress.

Let the data guide your direction — but let your child make the final choice.
That’s the key to long-lasting motivation and growth.