The 10 Best International Schools in Japan – 2022

Swift L ft

APRIL 2022

www.swiftnlifteducation.com

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022

JINSEKI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

READ IT FIRST

SUBSCRIBE

NOW

Yes I would like to subscribe to SwiftNLift Magazine.

Subscription Charges 1 Year . . . . . . . . . (12 Issues) . . . . $ 120

6 Months . . . . . . (06 Issues) . . . . $ 60

Months . . . . . . . (03 Issues) . . . . $ 30

1 Month . . . . . . . (01 Issues) . . . . $ 10

Name : Address : Date : City :

Telephone :

State :

Email :

Zip :

Country :

Corporate Office Swiftnlift Media And Tech LLP Headquarter: PUNE INDIA- 411058 Branch Office: DUBLIN OHIO, USA Phone - +1 6143567742 Email - support@swiftnlift.com For Subscription - www.swiftnlift.com

Swift L ft

Cheque should be drawn in favour of : SWIFTNLIFT MEDIA AND TECH LLP

Swift L ft Copyright © 2021 Swiftnlift Media and Tech LLP, All right reserved.

Chief Editor

Managing Editor

Nilesh Sabe

Helen Jones

Executive Editor

Parag Ahire

Business Developement Manager

Amanda Clark

Graphic Design Team Art & Design Director

Assistant Designer

Snehal Sawant

Dhakshanapriya Nadar

Marketing and Sales Advertising & Promotions Manager

Janet Franklin

Digital Marketing

Frank Baskin

Marketing Manager Lisa Devis

Sales Executives

David King

SME-SMO Executives

Alex

Contributors

Sam Methew

Technical Team Technical Head

Technical Specialist

Dipti Paygude

Ankush Katre

Technology Consultant

Circulation Manager

Jenny F

Steve Smith

APRIL 2022 For Marketing & Advertising Reach us at: sales@swiftnlifteducation.com Follow us on

From the

EDITOR J

apan, one of the world’s most technologically advanced and developed nations, has a vast majority of its population literate. The education level in Japan is marked as high in practicals. High levels of achievement are recorded in the field of science.

Various activities are conducted in Japan’s schools from an early stage, making them unique as well as disciplined. Student clubs are one of the most popular educational practices in Japan’s education system. These clubs are considered an essential element for social integration and teamwork in Japan. These clubs are mainly divided into two parts: sports clubs and cultural clubs.

Education is the process of accelerating learning or acquiring knowledge, skills, values, morals, beliefs, habits, and personal development.

Teaching methods include teaching, training, storytelling, discussion, and purposeful research.

Education always takes place under the guidance of teachers; however, students can also educate themselves. Education can take place in a formal or informal environment, and any experience that has a formative influence on the way we think, feel or act can be considered educational. The

teaching method is called pedagogy.

Formal education is often formally divided into phases, such as kindergarten or pre-school, primary education, secondary education, and then college, university, or apprenticeship. In most regions, education is compulsory until a certain age.

Education consists of learning specific skills as well as something less tangible but deeper: giving knowledge, positive judgment, and well-developed wisdom. Education has one of the basic aspects of passing culture from generation to generation. But, it is more of a formal process of education and learning that takes place around the school.

International education can be seen as developing international-mindedness or enhancing international attitudes and awareness. From an ideological perspective, international education focuses on moral development, by influencing the creation of “positive attitudes towards peace, international understanding and responsible world citizenship”.

From a pragmatic approach, international education can relate to economic and cultural globalization. For instance, there is increasing demand for education qualifications to be transferable between schools and education systems. Furthermore, there is a “spread of global quality standards through quality assurance procedures such as accreditation.”

On the cover page of our edition of “The 10 Best International Schools in Japan - 2022,” we have Jinseki International School’s main campus building surrounded by nature. It is a boarding school inspired by European boarding education entangled with Japanese culture.

SwiftNLift is not just an education magazine.

We aim to cover all other topics that are relevant to the betterment of our society. We always try to come up with articles covering the latest trends and essential subjects. We have worked hard for our readers and are introducing you to this edition. I hope you enjoy reading this piece of our efforts!

- Nilesh Sabe Nilesh Sabe Chief Editor

CONTENT COVER STORY

10 JINSEKI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

ARTICLES 24

Effective way of copmmunication

32

Teachings that matter

40

History of Japan

Profiles 18

Seisen International School Saint Maur international School

22

Nishimachi International School Osaka YMCA International School

28

30

AIE International High School Shizuoka Salesio

38

26

DSK International Kspace International School

34

20

Clarence International School

36

Inspired By Culture, Nestled In Nature.

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022

JINSEKI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Jinseki International School

A

beautiful island nation, famed for its ground- The Core Principles breaking technology, automotive industry JINIS aims to nurture friendships and foster the and engineering, Japan has also long been courage to embrace the future. admired for its education system, and ranks near the top of PISA tables.

Japan’s literacy rate has been high for centuries and now stands at 99%, while Japanese people also accord great importance to mathematics and science, ensuring that it emerges well from international comparisons.

Yet, Jinseki International School (JINIS) has an approach that sets it apart from other Japanese educational institutions. In the best Japanese traditions of learning from foreign models and then adapting them to a Japanese context, Jinseki offers a unique blend of the best of Japanese, European and international schools.

The Inspiration JINIS is based on the founder’s own experience of European boarding schools, and was born of a desire to recreate their qualities in a Japanese setting.

The Mission

JINIS sets out to develop the passion, skills and The Curriculum personal qualities which will allow its pupils to make JINIS, an ‘Article 1’ school, accredited by The Japanese Ministry of Education, integrates the a positive contribution to the world.

International Primary Curriculum, or IPC (with official accreditation in the pipeline), into Japanese The Founder’s Background national curriculum guidelines.

JINIS’s founder is the Chairperson and publisher of a JINIS also offers a farm programme that includes 125-year-old English-language newspaper.

safety and disaster prevention education in a beautiful natural environment. In addition, its boarding programme incorporates learning into every aspect of daily life, including areas such as food education and citizenship by taking advantage of the boarding school environment.

Japanese Educational Culture Japan is well known for embedding its holistic cultural practices and respect for the environment in its educational system. From the start, Japanese school culture encourages students to clean their school at the beginning of the day, while taking care of the garden is also a task assigned to a group of students. The idea behind such tasks is to

emphasize ‘group consciousness’ creating the sense of togetherness between pupils that will make them responsible citizens.

JINIS’s weekend activities include work on farms and ranches, as well as project-based learning focusing on traditional local culture. This helps pupils to absorb Japanese culture and keep them in touch with nature.

The Unique JINIS Experience JINIS is Japan’s first full-boarding primary school, in a country where boarding schools are not as popular as they are in other parts of the world, such as Europe or North America. Uniquely in Japan, JINIS provides an environment where children can be children in a natural setting.

The Campus and Facilities As well as excellent academic and boarding facilities, JINIS has a Japanese garden of over 33,000 square metres, four Japanese tea rooms, a farm and a Bizen pottery workshop.

And COVID? JINIS is a full boarding school where teachers and staff also reside, so students wear no masks on campus, despite COVID-19. This meant that JINIS could continue to provide a normal learning environment during the pandemic.

The Appeal for Students and Parents JINIS parents entrust their children to Jinseki -Japan’s first full-boarding primary school - because they understand the value of a new style of learning. So popular is the varied programme on offer that many parents are enrolling siblings to join their older brother or sister.

Michael Rob Gray ☐ Headmaster of Institut Le Rosey, Switzerland 2002-2019 ☐ Senior Advisor and Board Member, Le Rosey 2019-to date ☐ Headmaster of Le Régent International School 2020-to date JINIS is the first fully fledged junior boarding school in Japan and is set to become one of the most prestigious schools of its kind anywhere. Those of us who know the advantages of boarding schools have always felt that this kind of education was lacking in Japan - in fact in Asia in general. JINIS is inspired by the best schools in the UK, continental Europe and the US, where the quality of education gains enormously from the full learning experience that only the best boarding schools can provide.

But JINIS is more than that, since it also provides a bilingual Japanese-English education, with respect for both languages and the strengths of the various curricula and cultures that accompany them. In doing so, it draws on the experience of many international schools and especially the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland, where I was Headmaster for 17 years. I am proud to be associated with this groundbreaking initiative.

John Baugh ☐ Headmaster of the Dragon School, Oxford 2002-2017 ☐ Director of St Andrew’s School, Turi, Kenya 2018-2021 Jinseki International School (JINIS) is a school that prepares children for life in many ways. While ensuring that the highest academic standards are met, children grow socially and emotionally in a caring and special boarding environment.

The school is intentionally small to meet the personal needs of each child and to better understand that learning comes in all forms and sizes.

It is a school where children learn how to learn, instead of what they learn, where children learn that service and leadership are inextricably linked – that it is only by learning to serve does one learn to lead; where children learn to balance the heat of competition with the good grace of sportsmanship; where children learn that showing kindness and consideration for others is a sign of strength of character not a weakness. In this world, where materialism is great and consumption is a powerful force, it is a joy to find a school that puts children at the centre and learning is at everyone’s heart.

☐ Founded: April 2020 ☐ Founding Members: Minako Suematsu, Board Chair of the Jinseki Kogen gakuen Institution ☐ School Location: 5020-77 Tokiyasu, Jinsekikogen‒cho, Jinseki‒gun, Hiroshima, Japan ☐ Defining Characteristic: Jinseki International School (JINIS) is Japan’s first full-boarding primary school, as well as an ‘Article 1’ school, accredited by the Japanese Ministry of Education. We provide the children with a happy, safe environment round the clock as their ‘home away from home’, and we support them to build strong relationships with their peers and their families. ☐ Website: https://jinis.jp/en/

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 Colette Rogers, Head of School

Seisen International School Seisen is an international Catholic school that accepts students from all ethnic cultures, groups, and religious traditions in a happy, caring, and respectful atmosphere.

At Seisen they bring their commitment to Love in Action to which they are passionate about international education. They believe that international education helps create caring youth and critical thinkers who can contribute to creating a better and more peaceful world.

staff, students, parents, and alumni, enriched by over 60 different nationalities, who all work together for the betterment of every student.

What is IB PYP? The Primary Years Program (PYPP) is a transdisciplinary curriculum model where teaching and learning are organized around six transdisciplinary themes:

Their faculty members love their areas of expertise and they love young people. They believe that every student has a unique potential that they can achieve with their  Have global significance for all students in all cultures care and guidance. They also offer an educational  Provide students with the opportunity to explore the program called “prepares today’s students for the world commonalities of the human experience of tomorrow”. Their program spans the preschool, elementary and high school years, K-12, and focuses on  Incorporating knowledge, concepts, and skills from very high academic standards as well as social, physical, traditional subject areas aesthetic, cultural, and spiritual development.

The International Baccalaureate Program (IB) offers  Provide real opportunities for learners to connect with the world around them high school students a diploma that grants them university admission certificates to colleges around the world. Seisen is a community made up of faculty, 18

 Provide engaging, relevant, challenging, important learning opportunities.

APRIL 2022

and

SwiftNLift

Their student life

Conclusion

While academic achievement is central to life at Seisen, they also emphasize student leadership, spirituality, and service. Students are encouraged to reach out both locally and globally. They are challenged to “exercise love”. Their students are also invited to enjoy a variety of school activities that represent their interests and strengths and the faculty members that accompany these activities. There is something for everyone: debate and drama, band and orchestra, arts and textiles, math and science, environment and model United Nations, along with a host of sporting activities. They regularly compete in all local and Far East competitions and championships.

Seisen International School was founded by a community of Catholic Sisters, maidservants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The school reflects the Sisters’ special identity and educational philosophy while respecting common Judeo-Christian values and adopting the spiritual wisdom of other religious traditions.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

At Seisen, they foster a vibrant, faith-filled environment where students can experience God’s love for every one of them and grow into people who care for others and cherish that love. put into practice.

Website- https://www.seisen.com/

19

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 Annette Levy, Interim School Head

Saint Maur international School Founded in 1872, as the innovators of international education in Japan, the school continues to serve the needs of children (co-educational, from 2½ years old to grade 12) of the multi-cultural, multi-faith international community. Undoubtedly, one of the most valuable benefits of Saint Maur education is the preparation for the future. They offer students rigorous education and strong extra-curricular options, resulting in 100% matriculation rates in four-year colleges and universities.

Since 1872, St. Maur’s has served as a school community where moral values govern all that they do to help students, parents, and staff reach their full potential.

They are an inclusive center that supports every member of their school community, and students receive unparalleled care in a safe, supportive, diverse, and inclusive learning environment.

20

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Their Values  Traditional Values For nearly 150 years, the school at Saint Maur has emphasized strong character and moral citizenship in all areas of life. They believe that their student behavior profiles, required outcomes, and restorative practices are important guiding principles throughout the development of their students. A Saint Maur student works ethically and collaboratively with all people and takes on the necessary responsibility to combat social injustice.

 Progressive In Education Although the school is traditional in values, it is progressive in educational innovation. St. Maur has consistently been one of the first schools in Japan, Asia, and the world to adopt and develop the Montessori system, the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) program, and the first schools in the world. IB) program.

Conclusion

Since 1872, St. Maur’s has served as a school community where moral values govern all that they do to help They prepare students from over 40 countries students, parents, and staff reach their full potential. to become global citizens through a dynamic, They support every member of their school community, international curriculum. As a Catholic foundation, and students receive unparalleled care in a safe, St Maur’s serves as a community that respects and supportive, and diverse learning environment. values cultural and religious differences. The cultural One of the most valuable benefits of Saint Maur diversity inherent in their school is one of their education is the preparation for the future. A balanced, strengths, and students develop the knowledge, skills, quality academic and extra-curricular program is and internationally-minded attitudes necessary provided to the students, which has resulted in a 100% to contribute productively to an increasingly matriculation rate in four-year universities and colleges. interdependent global society.

 Polytheistic And Multinational

Website- https://www.stmaur.ac.jp/

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

21

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 Karen O’Neill, Head of School

Nishimachi International School

Founded in 1949, Nishimachi has been known in Japan for its innovative international educational excellence for over seventy years. The language of instruction is English and all students study the Japanese language and culture daily. Working with a dedicated faculty and staff, students benefit from the school’s rigorous curriculum, close community, and interaction with the vibrant local culture. Students leave Nishimachi fully prepared to continue their education in first-class educational institutions around the world. As part of a community of learners, students are empowered to take personal ownership of their learning, build meaningful relationships with others, pursue challenges and persevere, act ethically and respectfully, and think, innovate and reflect on many The procedures are directed to be used. Nishimachi learners take action 22

to bring value to others and they want to be a positive influence in their world.

Nishimachi promotes the all-around development of individuals via education which focuses on the development of their intellectual, creative, personal, social, and physical abilities. The school is committed to educating students of all nationalities as international and independent thinkers. Nishimachi’s educational motto is to allow children to learn in a supportive caring environment that follows a .philosophy based on a spirit of internationalism and humanism that

Why choose Nishimachi?

Academically rigorous. Full of variety. Intimate school community. Their commitment to lifelong learning.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

They are much more than subject offerings or academic programs. What makes their school special is their culture of community and respect, the way they embrace diversity, their focus on active learning, trust, and communication, and their strong commitment to language learning in both English and Japanese. Is. Every member of their community is part of an ongoing process of growth and learning.

Nishimachi Learner Expectations  They Build Relationships: They develop meaningful connections between people, cultures, and ideas.

Conclusion They believe that learning a second language is not just limited to language skills, but also develops an international perspective and understanding, allowing their students to transcend culture. They believe that classroom and co-curricular activities should foster sensitivity and respect for individual talents as well as differences. They believe that every student should learn to function as an individual and as part of a group. Their ultimate goal is that every Nishimachi student learns to live and contribute harmoniously to the world society.

Website- https://www.nishimachi.ac.jp/

 They take ownership: They take the initiative, explore their questions and accept responsibility for their actions.  They pursue and persevere.

challenges:

They

take

risks

 They act ethically: They respect differences, are empathetic, and work to find solutions on a global and local level.  They are creative: They use many processes to think, innovate, and reflect.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

23

Effective way of communication

E

ffective communication is one of the important skills to achieve success in life. It’s the premise of any successful and lasting relationship, whether personal or professional. Many of us hold a misconception that communication is about choosing the correct words and saying what the opposition wants to listen to, but there’s more to that. Communication can take many shapes, and navigating them effectively can help us build better relationships with others and find greater fulfillment in altogether corners of our lives.

Effective communication feels like it should be spontaneous. But lots of times after we try and communicate with others something goes wrong. we are saying one thing, the opposite person hears something else, and misunderstandings, frustration, and conflict arise.

effectively requires learning some important skills.

Whether you’re trying to enhance communication together with your kids, spouse, boss, or coworkers, learning some skills can facilitate strengthening your relationships with others, build more trust and respect, and may improve teamwork, problem-solving, and your overall social and emotional health.

Barriers To Effective Communication:  Feeling stressed and out of control: When you’re stressed or emotionally overwhelmed, you’ll misread people, send confusing or nonverbal cues, and fall under an unhealthy Knee-Jerk pattern of behavior. To avoid conflict and misunderstandings, you’ll learn to calm down quickly before continuing the conversation.

For many folks, communicating more clearly and  Lack of attention: You can’t communicate 24

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

effectively once you are multitasking. If you’re you will not learn to steer around or convey an checking your phone, planning what you excessive amount of information. are going to mention next, or daydreaming, you’re almost sure to miss nonverbal cues  Empathy: Empathy means both understanding and regarding someone else’s feelings. Exhibiting in conversation. You would like to avoid high emotional intelligence and therefore distractions and stay focused. the ability to empathize builds a connection  Inconsistent body language: Nonverbal between you and enhances your ability to speak. communication should reinforce what’s being said, not contradict it. Your listener will feel that  Think before you speak: Always pause before speaking, don’t say the primary thing that you just are dishonest if you say one thing but involves the mind. Take it slow and listen to your visual communication indicates something what you wish to mention and the way you say else, for instance, you cannot say “yes” while it. This one habit will prevent embarrassment. nodding your head.  Negative body language: If you disagree  Express Yourself: Communication is about expressing yourself. It’s about sharing your or don’t like what’s being said, you will use thoughts and feelings with others honestly and negative visual communication to contradict openly. Plus, you’ll be able to assert yourself, the opposite person’s message, like avoiding which suggests you arise for your beliefs while eye contact, crossing your arms, or using your respecting the opinions of others. tapping feet. It is vital to avoid sending negative signals because it helps to speak effectively and  Control Your Emotions: Too often, once not put the opposite person on the defensive. we touch on a sensitive topic, we allow our feelings to shadow the conversation.

Sometimes, we forget the entire point of Why is effective communication that conversation, resulting in an unpleasant situation where we are saying things that we important? later regret.

Effective communication is vital both inside and out of doors the workplace because it allows you to translate your intentions and feelings into easily understandable messages. Effective communication causes you to be a more productive employee and cuts down on the unintended consequences which will arise as a result of miscommunication. By developing a good communication process, you understand what others are saying which causes you to be a far better colleague and member of the team.

Ways to speak More effectively

Conclusion Even time we communicate with one another, we should always listen to those little details like gestures and sight, because communication isn’t almost words. Indeed, communication could be a complex process that forces our entire existence to talk in our hearts and minds.

- Amrin Ahmed

 Be concise, yet specific: For written and language, practice being brief but specific enough that you just provide enough information for the opposite person to know what you’re trying to mention. And if you’re replying to an email, ensure you read the complete email before preparing your reply. With enough practice, APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

25

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 Kazuki Yamane, Head of School

Osaka YMCA International School

Osaka YMCA International School is an independent, non-profit, co-educational preschool-grade 12-day school established in 2001 to serve the needs of the bicultural, international, and internationally-minded community of the Kansai region of Japan. OYIS serves students whose parents work in the international business community, as well as Japanese citizens and other long-term foreign residents of the Kansai region.

Osaka has traditionally been considered the economic center of Japan and is the largest city in western Japan. Because of its central location and its role as an international port city, many of its students attend school, even from other prefectures such as Hyogo, Kyoto, and Shiga.

OYIS is an inclusive school, and they enroll students with diverse interests, creative talents, and serviceoriented ideals, who benefit from both the programs we offer and the opportunity to achieve our mission objectives.

At OYIS they strive to support all their students with a special focus on their three guiding principles of Encounter, Connect and Transform. As a starting point, 26

they intend to help students learn to be independent as they confront diversity and engage with internationalminded development.

Although OYIS has grown significantly with the opening of its second campus, they still have a small school spirit of personal support and care. It is their commitment as a learning community to work closely with their students and families to maximize growth and development.

OYIS is a fun, vibrant, and caring community.

Their Leadership Their leadership team is dedicated to creating a learning environment where every student feels free to freely explore, explore and build relationships, Where families are welcomed into a bright and dynamic community. Composed of a global group of educational and operational experts, their leadership ensures that teaching and learning remain the heart of the school and that OYIS provides an incredible experience for everyone who joins their family.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Their Mission In Action

Conclusion

At Osaka YMCA International School, students actively develop knowledge, skills, and an international mindset through student-centered, inquiry-based learning. Their programs are designed to empower students to achieve personal success while contributing compassionately to their local communities and a more peaceful world.

Through their teaching and learning, they aim to help their students discover who they are and connect people to an inquiry-based learning environment based on an international-class conceptual framework. Lastly, they are committed to serving or changing their community.

This is most clearly demonstrated by their commitment to service-learning and community engagement.

They are committed to empowering their students to become independent and world-minded. They will create an engaging learning environment by delivering academic excellence through the core YMCA values of building a global mindset and a healthy spirit, mind, and body.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Website- https://oyis.org/

27

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 The Team

DSK International

DSK International (DSKI) is a German school abroad pickup and return locations are discussed with parents and an IB World school for children aged 2 to 11. At to ensure the shuttle bus is as convenient as possible.

DSKI, they provide an exceptional, innovative education based on their German heritage and are recognized for embracing the rich diversity of their learners and their What they offer world. , they look at education holistically to ensure that  One Student - Three Languages: At DSKI they are students learn using their hearts, heads, and hands. proud to offer all their students three languages: At DSKI they offer much more than a school. They offer English, German and Japanese. They are a true an enjoyable and stimulating journey from the age of multilingual school and the only primary school in one year up to the age of eleven. They strive to develop Japan to offer three languages Japanese as a foreign their students into well-rounded, multilingual global language (JFL) and Kokugo (native language). citizens who will have a passion for learning for life and a desire to make a difference in the world.  An award-winning eco-friendly campus: The unique and eco-friendly DSK International Under the expert guidance and care of their teachers, Schoolhouse was completed in 2009. It has been built your child will develop in an environment that covers from sustainably sourced timber to form a two-story a wide range of subjects through our programs and wooden modern school building. The classrooms are co-curricular activities. They provide a variety of tastefully designed and are fully equipped, providing tasks, activities, and services to ensure that your a perfect learning space. There is a library, art room, child’s development and your family’s experience are outdoor play area, an EAL support room, and further world-class. rooms for carrying out specialist classes and project At DSKI they provide a daily school shuttle bus plying related tasks. from multiple locations. Every September and February 28

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

 Learn An Instrument Through their Concerts:  DSKI. information communication technology: Their commitment to 21st-century learning and ICT At DSKI, students have the opportunity to learn a classical instrument that can help children skills development has prompted the school to invest in a range of new multimedia technologies and strengthen their creativity and self-expression. hardware. These skills, concepts, and competencies Music can enrich a child’s educational experience will be incorporated into the units of inquiry to and they at DSKI are proud to facilitate this. increase opportunities for learning and presentation.

Getting involved in art and music is wonderful for children’s development.  Develop Creativity Through their Art Club: Their Art Club is open to all students who are interested in developing their artistic talent through art activities.

The club aims to help students develop the confidence to express themselves artistically and creatively. They will have the opportunity to build a portfolio of their artwork as well as display some of their work to the school.  DSKI. Swimming training: At DSKI, all students take swimming lessons until the age of 10. Swimming is a skill for life and they place great emphasis on safety and fun in the water. Swimming lessons are incorporated into the timetable and students get used to it as part of their weekly schedule. They have fully trained swimmers teaching swimming at the Kobe Municipal Pool, which is a short bus ride away.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Conclusion Their mission is based on their German heritage and European values and beliefs. As a school community, they strive to be a lifelong inquisitor, inspired by and challenged by authentic and meaningful learning experiences. Being committed to providing exceptional education, they foster an international mindset, critical thinking, respect for inclusion and diversity, and a willingness to act with honesty and compassion.

Website- https://dskobe.org/en/

29

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022

Juliet Rogove, Principal

Kspace International School

Kspace is a thriving international school located in Shirokanedai, Tokyo. With their highly successful nursery and preschool programs, they offer a wide range of extra-curricular options for children ages 14 months to 9 years, as well as seasonal camps throughout the year! Take a look at each of our fun places to find the class that best fits you and your child’s needs. In collaboration with reputed architects and child experts, they created the ultimate facility with state-of-the-art safety and grooming features. Their location is serene, surrounded by nature, and amidst a loving community.

the happiest experiences with thousands of children and their families representing nearly 40 countries around the world! Parents love our international environment, which provides a ‘home from home environment for expatriates.

The ‘K’ in their name represents children, kind, and Kodomo. It’s amazing how the word for kids in so many languages begins with a ‘k’! they have created an amazing space for their children’s education and development.

Since 2001 they have achieved great success and enjoyed 30

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Their facility  Their lower school/preschool children enjoy the designated areas of their floor, where they have a vast array of props, educational toys, percussion instruments, art materials, and tools to enrich inquisitive minds and engaged bodies. When their students need a nap they enjoy their ‘cocoon club’ an especially cozy place with cots, blankets, and a sense of security.

their knowledge of the many issues affecting families around the world.

KSpace supports working and busy parents, so they work together to create hassle-free projects and a lot of fun, with an emphasis on enriching experiences.

Conclusion

They offer something for every stage of childhood. They help parent and child strengthen bonds and experience  Their colorful storage and library passage is a bridge exciting new things together – and they’re here to between the buildings and a spectacular feature that educate and care for kids when they step out on their floods in light and houses some fantastic equipment. own. They are a ‘one-stop’ facility for families.  Dramas, media presentations, and art exhibitions Websitecome alive in this beautiful underwater-themed https://www.kspacetokyo.org/main/index.php room! Their waving stage is the perfect stage for the many performances and concerts performed by their children. The room is also great for an after-school dance show.  Their kindergarten pre-graduates spend their final terms here in a classroom environment conducive to exploration and focused study. The bright setting becomes a canvas for the children’s intense and varied project work.

Their Charity Organization ‘Cspace’ is the name of their fundraising group. They bring their entire community together to support projects that positively impact the lives of those less fortunate, in the knowledge that they can all take steps toward making the world a better place. They believe that involving their children in Cspace projects gives them greater care and empathy, as well as broadens

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

31

Teachings that matter In recent months, teachers have had the difficult task of asking and answering, “What does teaching mean now?” Effective teaching isn’t straightforward and plenty of aspects together form up great learning.

Learning isn’t just learning the ABCs and 123s. it’s about instilling confidence within the students to assist them in their drive to succeed. Academically, it can help a baby get through a lesson they find particularly difficult.

Spending a bit little bit of that beyond regular time trying to induce over what they’re fighting and seeing how excited they’re once they start having a relationship makes it all worthwhile.

Teaching means a day is different, no mundane or repetitive work here! Sure, you’ll need to grade papers, hold regular meetings, and do paperwork, except for the foremost part, no two days are identical. Daily you may work together with your students on different tasks, and in fact, they’re going to never bore you. A day could be a chance to figure out with young minds and teach new things. However, one thing you’ll notice a day is the smiles on children’s faces as they work and play within the classroom that you simply have found for them.

Some Key Signs of excellent Quality

It’s not almost academic things; It may well be about making friends, finding encouragement to seem before Teaching: class, or some guidance on what to try to do for the  Material Knowledge: It’s when teachers have a longer term and apply for university. You are your deep knowledge of the topic they teach and may students’ biggest cheerleader in class, so tell them about communicate the fabric to their students effectively. it and provide them with the boldness they have to Furthermore, as a powerful understanding of the stay going.

32

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

and managing student behavior with clear rules that fabric being taught, teachers must also understand are consistently enforced. how students consider the fabric and can evaluate students’ thinking behind their methods and  Teacher Trust: There’s some evidence to indicate why students’ common misconceptions. teachers adopt particular practices, and therefore the objectives or goals they need for their students also  Quality Of Instruction: There’s also strong evidence are important. that the standard of education can have a sway on learning. This includes teachers skilled in the use of effective inquiry and evaluation. Good teachers  Professional Behavior: Developing professional skills and practice, participating in professional also deploy techniques like reviewing past learning development, supporting peers, and a wider range of and giving children ample time to practice, meaning contact and communication with parents also play a skills are safely embedded. When done well, teachers task in effective learning. help students learn by progressively introducing new skills and knowledge.  Learning Environment: The standard of the teaching and learning relationship between teachers and students is additionally important. Good teaching creates an environment that constantly demands more, and drives students to succeed. a decent learning environment challenges students, develops a way of competence, attributes success to effort instead of ability, and values resilience to failure.  Classroom Management: There’s moderate evidence of impact on students’ learning: efficient use of lesson time; coordinating classroom resources and space;

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Conclusion Teachers want each of their lessons to demonstrate excellence when it involves subject knowledge, classroom management, climate, and relationships with students. It also is sensible that if teachers give some thought to whether what they are doing is effective, also as recognizing what’s not, they’ll continually improve professional teaching practice.

-

Amrin Ahmed

33

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022

AIE International High School AIE International High School is a broad sector communication/credit high school with international and general courses. Since 1981, the mother body, the AIE (Academy of International Education), has been advocating for the development of “international Japanese”, supporting Japanese international students in partnership with American universities, and engaging in English education activities in Japan. A school where youth with rich sensibility discover a new self and develop their motivation and ability to contribute to the world at large.

orientation” that focuses on the world and wants to be a member of the international community. The goal is to improve your ability to learn relations with different countries while gaining a solid understanding of your country.

In language learning, the goal of “English that can be understood” in a world where information flies borderless, is the “reception capability” of correctly interpreting a message sent from the other party, and of the other party in response. AIE, the mother of AIE International High School, operates a dormitory in AIE has partnered with American universities since Washington State, USA, and a “residential program” 1981 to implement programs for young people wishing to support regular study abroad programs for Japanese to study abroad in the United States. They have an students in collaboration with partner universities. office in Washington State, and while operating their Regular study abroad is a study abroad program aimed dorm, they practice “study abroad” and produce many at obtaining a degree, and students will study and earn graduates. As a core educational program of AIE, they credits on an equal footing with local students. For plan and manage theater performances by students in international students to obtain a bachelor’s degree at the USA, lectures for skill development, training camps, a US university, they need to have high language skills etc. In addition, in Japan, they are developing a full-time and mental ability to tolerate study abroad, and the study abroad preparation program and English classes. success rate is generally said to be around 20%. More Elementary, junior high, and high school students. than 90% of Japan’s international students have earned At AIE, in the global age, they foster an “international a degree under the AIE residential program.

34

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Students who meet standards such as English proficiency set by each university and the standards recommended by AIE can go on to universities affiliated with AIE in the United States.

Conclusion AIE International High School acknowledges young people who have a high awareness and sensitivity to society, and students’ enthusiasm and ability to pay attention to the world, be aware of social problems, and try to solve them. However, their goal is to lead people to become human resources with a high sense of ethics and a sense of mission.

Website- https://www.aie.ed.jp/

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

35

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 The Team

Shizuoka Salesio Shizuoka Salesio Kindergarten / Elementary School Elementary Phase became an International Baccalaureate PYP (Elementary Year Programme) authorized school on February 26, 2020. Shizuoka Salesio Kindergarten is a day to open kindergarten for pre-admission children and parents as a place to expand the scope of parenting of children and play with many friends with peace of mind.

standard under the school philosophy of “promoting an honest and a good person in society” to foster children’s ability to live as a true international person.

The founder, Saint Don Bosco, based his teaching on “living together (assistenza in Italian)” to express “love”.

By sharing space and time, children and faculty members themselves can feel that they are really important.

At Shizuoka Salesio, they value their relationships with people. They hope that school is a place where people can share space, communicate with each other, that is, feel comfortable with each other. The basis of Shizuoka Salesio’s teaching is the “Teaching of Christ”. Education is “love”. It is based on nurturing and nurturing a love for oneself and for others.

The main reason why Shizuoka Salesio Kindergarten and Elementary School has launched the International Baccalaureate Educational Program is that the founding spirit based on the Catholic spirit and the International Baccalaureate IB Mission Statement are exactly the same.

Shizuoka Salesio Primary School, based on Catholic teachings, provides PYP education to an international 36

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Preventive Education System

 To show and educate a new human image (faith/ belief): Don Bosco’s educational beliefs are rooted in Don Bosco had an original idea of practicing education his relationship with Christ. Therefore, they laid the

by Assistenza. He hoped that by giving children a better foundations of their faith with the goal of educating experience and knowing their attractiveness, they to realize a new human image, which Christ Himself would be independent and ready to choose their own shows, “a free and irreplaceable one who is loved by good ones. To this end, teachers try to consider children his Father, God.” to be “preventive” rather than “preventive”, and this is called preventive education law.

Their philosophy:  Have a Compassionate Attitude: They believed that teachers should love and be loved by children.

Shizuoka Salesio’s teacher is a teacher who has abundant creativity and flexibility to interact with youth with a charitable heart to foster friendship with children.  Building a Relationship of Trust Through Dialogue (Cause): It was through dialogue that they made it a major cornerstone of education that children should be convinced and cooperated with the teacher with an independent mind. In keeping with the words of Don Bosco, “Love builds trust and faith creates education,” Shizuoka Salesio will continue to provide education that meets the needs of modern society.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Conclusion In today’s rapidly changing world, by understanding Don Bosco’s way of living, they aim to foster children who understand that other people, with their differences, can be right. In addition, they also develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring youth who help build a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

Website- https://ssalesio.ac.jp/

37

BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN JAPAN- 2022 Kirsten O’Connor, Interim Head of School

Clarence International School

Established in 2016 in Omotesando, Tokyo, Clarence International school offers discerning families a unique opportunity to access a culturally rich international education. Working closely with the prestigious British royal founding charity in the United Kingdom – Children and the Arts (CATA), founded in 2006 by HRH The Prince of Wales –they want to do their part in introducing children to the arts in Japan.

the center of their curriculum, they equip children with all the necessary academic and social abilities without giving up the magic of childhood.

Their students and families are truly international with backgrounds from all over the world. They embrace diversity and learn about each other’s traditions and cultures in many different ways; Whether through traditional Japanese poetry, German folk songs, South African poetry or tribal artworks, our students love to discover and connect with the wider world and its people through art.

In addition to their emphasis on academic excellence in literacy and numeracy, their teaching and learning philosophy places a strong focus on developing inner curiosity, building confidence, and becoming a social, responsible individual. Mastery of languages and arts is essential for these purposes. They tend to think of art Premises And Facilities as an intermediary field between the magical world of When establishing the school, they chose a house infancy and the world we live in. By placing the arts at in the heart of Omotesando. They believe that this 38

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

children and parents to enjoy reading and to feed environment has a huge impact on young children on their imaginations! their spatial identity and their relationship with the world around them. A home is a warm, nurturing place where children feel comfortable stepping out of their  Rooftop Garden: Every spring their roof begins to burst in color as the seeds we plant grow and bloom. comfort zones and growing up. There are lots of parks Here their kids learn about the germination process, and green areas to visit in the neighborhood where how plants grow from seed, how they flower and they go to learn and play every day. They even use their develop fruit and how they can use those from fruit school bus to get on the move to explore the exciting to seed again! Not only this but their kids use the areas around Tokyo. fruits and vegetables we grow to prepare healthy The comfortable spaces within the main building have dishes and snacks. been individually designed to meet the educational needs of all their students. Classroom spaces and resources are clearly delineated on each floor, and the Conclusion shared space is designed to ensure that staff can support each other in providing the highest quality learning At Clarence our vision is to shape confident, imaginative experiences. They have a comfortable new library where and inquisitive learners with a foundation of academic kids can come to work, read and borrow from hundreds excellence. They achieve this through personalized, game-based learning experiences that focus on the arts of English language books! and are based on the British EYFS curriculum.  Library: They have a dedicated school library where hundreds of English language titles are available Website- https://www.clarenceschool.jp/ to children. It is a cozy space designed to invite

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

39

History of Japan Japan has always held pride to have one of the richest cultures and history in the world. No two ways about it. Japanese civilization can be traced back to the first pottery - around 16,000 years ago! Most of us know Japan for the bright, neon lights and current, trendy fun facts of karaoke. But are we well aware of its history?

happened next, which led to the passing of this law, but Japan faced a slight technical lag due to this shutdown.

The US Navy forced the closure of Japan in 1852, which helped the country develop the unique culture that we now know and love.

We all know Japan has natural landmarks like Japan Is Japan the cleanest country in Cherry Blossom and Mount Fuji, cutting-edge technology like Japanese cars and bullet trains, wacky inventions the world? like karaoke and vending machines, cultural values like If you think a country is clean when pollution levels are politics and punctuality, popular anime and manga, and low, then Japan might not be the most pristine country mouth-watering food like Famous Ramen and Sushi. globally. However, if you consider that a country is clean, Japan had little or no contact with the outside world, for with low levels of litter and people using fewer plastic just over two centuries. From 1635 to 1852, travel abroad bags than others, Japan will top the list. was banned because of a law called the Sakoku Edict. This I don’t think Japanese people are naturally clean included foreign trade and anyone moving in and out compared to other nationalities. Instead, I believe that of Japan. The law was enacted because the country had the whole purpose of their life is to keep everything experienced considerable trouble, especially with foreign clean and organized to create a sense of beauty in powers. We won’t go into gruesome details about what their life.

40

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

Why is there an obsession with cleanliness in Japan?

Japanese are both Shinto and Buddhist The culture of Japan embodies the answer to this question. In Japan, people are expected to be disciplined when it comes to working and following the rules. So that means they shouldn’t leave trash or dirt behind after a meal. In short, you can say that cleanliness is part of Japanese culture.

Population Japan is home to approximately 126,672,000 people.

Today, the country suffers from a very low birth rate, making it one of the fastest aging societies in the world.

The Yamato Japanese ethnic group makes up 98.5 percent of the population. The other 1.5 percent include Koreans (0.5 percent), Chinese (0.4 percent), and indigenous Ainu (50,000 people). The Ryukyuan people of Okinawa and neighboring islands are not sure to be 100% ethnically Yamato.

Japan developed color printing in 1765 Woodblock printing is huge in Japan. Originally, they were in black and white, but in 1765, colored woodblock printing was invented. Woodblock printing was used for graphic novels and advertisements. It was sometimes seen as a threat to Japan’s elite as they were often used to cover up political disputes.

Robots Already Existed in the 1600s In the 1600s, Japan was already making robots! Japanese written records from the 8th century contained records of automatons such as water clocks. By the turn of the 17th century, the Japanese were already making mechanical puppet-like mechanisms, known as Karakuri, which were used for entertainment.

Japan is full of temples and shrines. There are two different places of worship for two different religions.

In Japan, the people follow both Shinto and Buddhist cultures. It is called shinbutsu. Some say there is no real difference between the two.

Only 40% of Japanese people follow the religion.

The majority of Japanese people, about 80%, are Shinto and practice Shinto rituals, and 34% practice Geospatial rituals.

Christianity Was Kept Secret in Ancient Japan In 1549, Francis Xavier took Christian missionaries to Japan. He concentrated on the southern part of the nation in Kyushu. During that time, Christianity was repressed and there were loose restrictions on it. Sometimes, there were even crucifixes. Until the 1650s, all this led to Christianity being kept a secret.

In 1864, a commercial treaty took place that allowed Christianity among foreigners in Japan, but not the Japanese themselves. The ban on Christianity was lifted in 1873, and churches began to be built on the islands and coasts of Nagasaki and Kumamoto.

Conclusion Japan is a nation molded from isolationism to beautiful fusion between Western cultures.

because of rapid transitions globalism. Its culture is a its old cultures and new

-

Amrin Ahmed

In the 19th century, these mechanical puppets were capable of shooting arrows or serving tea.

APRIL 2022

SwiftNLift

41