Introduction
Japan is one of the globally recognized countries for its high educational standards. The organization for economic co-operation and development (OECD) ranks learners from Japan first in the world for math, and second for scientific literacy. It has achieved a large number of Nobel prizes compared to any Asian country.
Japan has over 700 universities with 10 ranked in the top 200 universities in the world. The curriculum system of Tokyo includes curriculums from different parts of the world like ICSE, CBSE, IGCSE Cambridge, IB etc. The curriculum followed by the Tokyo international school is well aligned with that of competitive examinations such as the Joint Entrance Exam and the Medical entrance examinations.
Their renowned method of teaching allows students from Classes 1 to 12 to prepare for competitive examinations while facilitating entry into the world’s leading universities. This approach to holistic education enables students to focus effectively on academics, as well as pursue their interests in sports and extracurricular activities.
Here are few of the best two Tokyo International Schools:
Global Indian International School, Tokyo
Global Indian International School provides the acclaimed Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) programme for students from Class 1 onwards. The programme emphasises academic excellence by providing innovative learning methodologies through student-friendly and student-centric paradigms. The qualified faculty also makes sure that students learn to adapt between classroom learning and real life, by practical applications of the skills learnt. Their commitment to imparting knowledge in the best possible way, through best possible means, finds success in the outcomes of their efforts.
Modern times demand modern education. Holistic development, self-confidence, professionalism, efficiency, etc are the promises that international schools make with modern-day education. These schools obviously aim at obtaining the best results but along with this they also value turning the students into fine individuals who go out into the world and make a name for themselves.
International Christian University High School
International Christian University High School describes itself as one of the best international schools in Tokyo. International Christian University (ICU) campus is located in the city of Koganei, in western Tokyo. Over 65% of its students are national students, whereas the remaining 35% are international students from different countries. All classes are taught in Japanese, except those taught by English speakers. ICUHS is a designated “Super Global High School” under a government program that focuses on encouraging leaders who are capable of playing an active role on the international stage. This ensures that the students get a more wholesome education and not just academic excellence. ICUHS also provides great accommodations for both indigenes and international students.
Curriculum in Tokyo International Schools
The approved curricula offered across Tokyo go up to as many as 14 educational approaches. From the American and British curriculum to IB and Indian, choosing the right one for your child will decide how their future is shaped for the better. They also include the Montessori school, whose program is a hands-on, project-based learning program for children.
It is basically manifested for children from the age of three to six years old. However, there are certain schools that offer Montessori programs for students from 10 months old. With the program, children are in control of their learning from a very young age. It is more student-focused and is unlike the traditional educational system where teachers are more focused on the syllabus. All Montessori schools in Tokyo are student-centred. Teachers are less authoritative figures and more supportive of a student’s learning process.
Admission Process
The admissions for Tokyo International Schools are open all around the year. The admission is given mainly on the availability of seats therefore it’s good to get in touch with the school before the academic year begins in April. The admission process of these schools is very simple. Most of the schools provide an enquiry form which is available on the school’s official website, the parents can fill the form with all the queries regarding the admission or about the school; The school counsellor team will get back to you, clearing all your doubts as soon as possible. The school also provides a school campus tour or a virtual counselling guide which will help you make a better decision whether to admit your kid or not.
School Fees
Although the cost of living and education is relatively higher in Japan , a reasonable annual fee ranges anywhere between JPY 290,905 – 632,500 per term depending on the curriculum chosen by the student. But parents need to make sure that they select a school whose school fees they can afford for their child’s entire tenure of schooling.
Extracurricular and Co-curricular activities
The Tokyo international school campus is structured to be resource efficient and contributes towards wellness and pragmatic experiences to everyone.
The International high Schools have a wide spectrum of spaces that ensures quality campus life for students in a multicultural, diverse environment. They understand how the children are benefited academically as well as personally when they are a part of both extracurricular and co-curricular activities. This not only allows the students to explore their interests and develop a passion for something outside of academics, but it also teaches them concepts of working as a team and good sportsmanship.
The vast range of ECAs and CCAs appeal to children to cater to their interests and backgrounds. May it be swimming, martial arts, clay making or needlework, they provide options that will appeal to nearly every student on the campus. These events and activities are an opportunity for parents, students and educators to come together and enjoy themselves while still working toward fulfilling our mission as a leader in global education.
After-schools activities and value-added programs.
It is a constant effort to encourage the students to be a step ahead of the rest. The school provides ‘After School Activities(ASA)’. These activities play a prominent role in holistic development. Under ASA, the school ensures that a safe environment is provided along with a rewarding experience for students to learn a new skill. ASA mainly includes classes teaching sports like gymnastics, tennis, karate, cricket, swimming, basketball and football; leisure activities like dance, ballet, art and music; value-added programs and academic workshops like robotics for primary students.
Human Resource
Choosing a school that is very particular with its teacher recruitment process is something that can be overlooked by most parents. However, it is important to enrol your children in a school that has well-trained, professional teachers who will mentor their students every step of the way.
Modern Teaching Approach
The old traditional method of teaching isn’t acceptable anymore. With the world turning into a global village, many new modern techniques of teaching have been shared across and have been accepted by all the schools. Learning by experiments and practical experiences is the new normal for schools. The old method of mugging up lines and judging the student’s intelligence based on their grades has been deleted from the official rulebook of the school. With technological advancements, most of the schools have digital classrooms to make the student’s experience better.
Montessori School Approach for preschoolers
Few schools in Japan follow the Montessori Approach. The Montessori approach to education was promoted by the physician Maria Montessori. The model supports a well-equipped environment for students to learn and grow at their own speed. There are different activity stations placed, and students can select any activity based on their area of interest. Unlike the traditional approach, in a Montessori school classroom, students are divided into groups of 5 to 6 students, and each student receives individual attention to learn and grow in their field.
Conclusion
From teaching faculty to campus, a lot of characteristics need to be analysed to select one the best school that focuses on the all-round development of your child and individual growth. Above mentioned are some of the key points a parent needs to keep in mind before picking up a school. The parents should select schools that ensure provision of an independent environment to students for them to grow. You can explore more schools and don’t forget to share this article with your folks, you might never know who needs this.
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