Compare Premium International Schools in Tokyo, Japan

Located in the Moto Azabu area of Minato-ku, Tokyo, Nishimachi International School sits in central Tokyo. The campus address is 2-14-7 Moto Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0046. The area is popular with international residents and hosts parks, multinational company headquarters, and embassies. It is a central Tokyo location with straightforward access to public transport.

Nishimachi offers Kindergarten through Grade 9. The campus layout includes a dedicated kindergarten building, a primary building for Grades 1–2, and an upper elementary/middle school building for Grades 3–9.

Nishimachi is a co-educational, private day school. It does not operate a boarding facility.

There are about 35 nationalities represented among Nishimachi students, with around 470 students in total. The school notes a strong international mix, including a significant proportion of students holding dual or multiple passports (about 50%).

Nishimachi provides Learning Services (LS) for students with mild learning needs, including in-class support or specialized instruction and guidance for parents. English Language Services (ELS) support bilingual and multilingual learners, and staff use language assessments (e.g., MAP) to monitor progress.

Nishimachi International School operates in Japan as an international school and has no formal country affiliation.

Nishimachi is non-sectarian and has no religious affiliation.

The school year runs from late August to mid-June. The school day commonly starts around 8:15 am and ends at approximately 3:15 pm for Kindergarten and 3:30 pm for Grades 1–9; after-school care is available for enrolled students.

Nishimachi does not offer a school bus service; families arrange transportation themselves or use public transit as needed.

Boarding arrangements: Nishimachi International School does not provide boarding. It operates as a day school; students must live with at least one parent during enrollment. The school specifically states there is no boarding facility.

Uniform requirement: The school uses a dress code rather than a formal uniform. The dress code aims to keep students neat, clean, and socially appropriate while allowing personal expression.

Food options: Lunch is provided by families (each parent provides a daily lunch to be eaten in classrooms). There is an optional paid lunch service offered by Kiwi Kitchen. Morning recess includes a snack.

Governance and ownership: Nishimachi is a private, independent day school governed as a legal school foundation (Gakko Hojin). The governance framework includes a Board of Trustees and a Board of Directors, the latter including the Head of School.

Nishimachi International School serves Kindergarten through Grade 9, with English as the language of instruction and daily Japanese study for all students. The curricular framework is Understanding by Design, and the curriculum is standards-based, designed to apply learning in real-world contexts. Elementary School (K–5) features small class sizes with specialist-led programs in arts, sports, and language. Middle School (Grades 6–9) has class sizes typically 12–18, is project-based, provides one-to-one access to Apple iPads, uses 60‑minute teaching periods on a five‑day cycle, and includes a daily 15‑minute advisory. The curriculum aligns with CCSS for English Language Arts and Mathematics, NGSS for Science, and AERO for Humanities and Social Studies, with Japanese language standards modified from MEXT and CEFR; other standards cover Digital Citizenship, Digital Literacy, Drama, Health, Music, Physical Education, Visual Arts, and Student Protection. Nishimachi is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS), with CIS reaccreditation completed on 2 February 2022.

Nishimachi's Student Services aims to maximize learning for all students and to help children thrive academically and socio-emotionally. In Grades 6–9, every student has 15 minutes of advisory daily to support social-emotional development.

Learning Services provides support for mild learning difficulties and is not designed to be a formal special education program. The Learning Specialist may conduct assessments, provide in-class support, or refer to external specialists; progress and goals are monitored for the following year.

Two English Language Specialist teachers provide English Language Services (ELS) in collaboration with classroom teachers, offering individualized or small-group instruction as needed. In spring, WIDA-MODEL (Measures of Academic Progress) is administered to all students receiving active ELS.

A school nurse is on the premises every school day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., attending to injuries, illnesses, and overall wellbeing. Health guidelines describe procedures for illness and health management, while the Health Office and Student Services support students' health and socio-emotional development.

Nishimachi maintains a Student Protection Policy aligned with Japanese law (Act No. 82) and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; all employees are mandatory reporters of suspected abuse. Staff receive Student Protection training and sign the Employee Code of Conduct annually, with clear procedures for safeguarding concerns.

Admissions Process

Kindergarten admissions process

1. Start the inquiry and online application. Begin by submitting the online application for the upcoming Kindergarten cycle. The online system allows you to save progress and return later, and after you complete the application you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to pay the non-refundable application fee of ¥30,000 per applicant. Overseas passport holders and residents may apply year‑round, and the September 1 to October 31 window applies to the 2026‑27 cycle.

2. Prepare and submit required documents. Upload or provide the requested documents through the online application: report cards from the past two full school years (if available), one Confidential Student Recommendation Form (English or Japanese) filled out by the most recent teacher, a copy of the applicant's birth certificate or passport, the applicant's photo, and a family photo. The process specifies a single application portal for document submission and follows up with payment instructions after the completed application is received.

3. Confirm eligibility and age requirements. Kindergarten applicants must be 5 years old by August 31 of the enrolling year. The program notes clear age eligibility and does not make exceptions for Kindergarten entrants based on age.

4. Participate in the admissions screening. A group screening for selected Kindergarten applicants is conducted during the second week of January, with in-person screening preferred whenever possible. Applicants are evaluated for English communication skills and social/behavioral maturity to ensure readiness for Nishimachi.

5. Receive the admissions decision. The admissions result is sent by email in early February. Depending on class composition and space, some applications may be placed in a waiting pool after documents have been reviewed to maintain balance in language and gender.

6. Note special considerations for overseas applicants. For overseas applicants (outside Tokyo), applications are still accepted after the October 31 deadline, and families should plan accordingly for the January screening cycle as applicable.

Grades 1–9 admissions process

1. Start the inquiry and online application. For Grades 1–9, applications for the next school year open on November 1, and online submission is available through the admissions portal. Applications are reviewed after submission and space availability is assessed; Grade 9 is not currently offered.

2. Prepare and submit required documents. Required documents for Grades 1–9 include report cards from the past two full school years, two online Confidential Student Recommendation Forms (preferably from English and Mathematics teachers for Grades 7–8 applicants), standardized test results if available, a copy of the birth certificate or passport, the applicant's photo, and a family photo. The standard application fee is ¥30,000 (non-refundable).

3. Confirm eligibility and grade availability. Nishimachi serves Kindergarten through Grade 9, but Grade 9 admission is not currently offered; age-based placement guidance applies (Kindergarten 5 by Aug 31; Grade 1 6 by Aug 31). Non-Japanese students must have a residential dependent visa to attend.

4. Admissions screening/interview. Applicants for Grades 1–9 are evaluated for proficiency in English and grade‑level Mathematics to ensure suitability for Nishimachi's program. Applications are not prioritized by the date of submission, and some applicants may be invited to be screened before an admissions decision is made. Parent interviews may be arranged for some applicants.

5. How to apply and follow-up. The online application process allows you to save progress and return to finish later; supporting documents can be uploaded online. After submission, applicants progress to the screening/interview phase and wait for notification of decisions.

6. Waitlist considerations. For Grades 1–9, there is no explicit published waitlist policy; admissions decisions are based on the screening outcomes and other criteria rather than a first-come basis. Applicants are informed by the admissions process when decisions are made.

Note on general admissions context

- The school offers an English-language curriculum based on American common core standards, complemented by a Japanese language program. Tours and virtual information sessions are available for prospective families, including overseas families.

- The school also provides a defined set of admissions criteria, including age cutoffs, language readiness, and visa/residency expectations for non-Japanese students.

- Documentation and fee details, as well as the multi-step screening and decision timeline, are outlined in the admissions materials and online application portal.

Waitlist / Pool

- Kindergarten: Some applicants may be kept in a waiting pool after documents are reviewed to help balance language and gender in classrooms. This is part of the group screening process for Kindergarten.
- Grades 1–9: There is no published waitlist policy for these grades; admissions decisions are not strictly ordered by application date and are based on screening outcomes and eligibility rather than a queue.

Scholarships

- Outreach Scholarship Program: Nishimachi offers the Outreach Scholarship Program to provide partial or full scholarships to select students from diverse socioeconomic, racial, cultural, and geographic backgrounds who are currently in Japan and whose families cannot afford international school tuition. Scholarships are designed to augment diversity on campus.

- Program details: Candidates must meet the school's admissions requirements and provide proof of financial need. The scholarship is awarded for one academic year with renewal options, contingent on satisfactory progress. The Headmaster, with the Scholarship Committee, selects recipients according to criteria including financial need, country of origin and cultural background, grade level, academic achievement and talents, and other factors that enrich Nishimachi's educational environment.

- How to inquire: For those interested, contact the Admissions Office by phone or email to learn more about eligibility and the application process.

- Additional background: The Outreach Scholarship program has been active since 2003–2004 and continues to fund a limited number of scholarships to sustain program diversity.

Notes on language and tone

- Nishimachi offers an English-language program with a strong Japanese language component, aiming for a balanced, bilingual-friendly educational environment. This context informs the admissions and screening focus, including English proficiency assessments and readiness for an international school setting.

- Beyond the core admissions steps, the school runs monthly Head of School Tours and virtual information sessions to help families learn about the campus, programs, and admissions process.

- Family eligibility considerations include the expectation that students live with at least one parent in Japan, and non-Japanese students generally require a residential dependent visa; boarding is not offered.

Scholarships

- Outreach Scholarship Program: Nishimachi offers partial or full scholarships to select students from a variety of socioeconomic, racial, cultural, and geographic backgrounds who are currently in Japan and whose families cannot afford the international school tuition. The program is intended to augment campus diversity.

- How it works: Candidates must meet admissions requirements and provide proof of financial need. The scholarship lasts for one academic year with potential renewal, subject to satisfactory progress. Selection is made by the Headmaster on the recommendation of the Scholarship Committee and considers family need, origin, culture, grade level, academic performance, talents, and other factors that enrich Nishimachi's educational environment.

- How to inquire: Interested families should contact the Admissions Office by phone or email for details on eligibility and the application process.

Waitlist / Pool

- Kindergarten: Some applicants may be placed in a waiting pool after document review in order to maintain language and gender balance in the class. This waiting pool is part of the Kindergarten screening process.
- Grades 1–9: There is no published waitlist policy for Grades 1–9. Admissions decisions are based on screening outcomes and other criteria rather than a first-come, first-served waitlist.

The Tokyo International Progressive School is at 1-5-20 Kamata, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-0077, Japan. The campus sits in a calm residential area in Setagaya along the Tama River, close to Futako-Tamagawa. Access from Futako-Tamagawa Station (Denentoshi Line and Oimachi Line) is about a 15-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride, and there is nearby car parking.

TIPS serves grades 4–12, organized as Elementary (G4–G5), Middle (G6–G8), and High School (G9–G12).

The school is coeducational and operates as a not-for-profit organization within the Tokyo International School Group.

Nationalities represented range widely; the school reports 22–25 different nationalities in a typical year. Approximately 65% of students hold foreign nationalities, with the student body representing more than 17 countries; common nationalities include Japan and the United States among others.

TIPS specializes in supporting students with mild learning differences. It offers individualized learning, small classes (up to about 10 students per class), and a team of specialists including an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, counselors, and a learning support coordinator.

No formal country affiliation. The school is part of the Tokyo International School Group.

No religious affiliation.

The school day typically runs from about 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A lunch service is organized by the ACE class every day, with students also able to buy lunch nearby if they prefer.

A regular bus service is available for registered riders, though it operates at cost. Bus routes focus on areas such as Minato-ku, Meguro-ku, and Shibuya-ku, with designated drop-off/pick-up locations and clear expectations for riders.

The school does not have a formal uniform. Students wear everyday clothing within a reasonable dress code, and school-logo-attached clothing is available through Land's End for the school community. For Physical Education, students are required to wear a school PE T-shirt.

The school offers a daily lunch program. The weekly menu lists Monday: Domino's Pizza; Tuesday: Peito; Wednesday: Big Boy; Thursday: Ryuen; Friday: Ido Kitchen; Everyday: Snack Shack. Lunch is provided through the student-led Entrepreneurship program and daily lunch deliveries.

Tokyo IPS operates as a not-for-profit school and is part of the Tokyo International School Group. The school has a Chairperson on its leadership board, indicating governance by a school board.

The school uses American Common Core standards for Grades 4–8, and the high school program mirrors the University of Nebraska High School (UNHS) curriculum for Grades 9–12. The high school diploma is earned through UNHS and UNHS is accredited by AdvancED and the Nebraska Department of Education; UNHS courses include NCAA-approved core courses and AP courses. The TIPS high school diploma requirements include 40 English credits, 40 Social Studies (including 10 American History, 5 American Government, 5 Multicultural Studies), 30 Mathematics, 30 Science, 10 Career and Finance, and 50 credits from Complementary Courses (including 30 PE credits), with additional requirements in Japanese language or English as an Additional Language (EAP) as needed. Course outlines cover Grades 4–12 in English, Science, Mathematics, and Social Studies, with electives and Complementary Courses such as ICT, Journalism, Art, and Life Skills, aligned to UNHS in the senior years. In addition, EAP (one academic year) and a Certificate of Completion (COC) program are offered; typically less than 10% participate; safety and wellness education is integrated into the curriculum.

The school supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a formal pastoral care framework. It operates a Teacher Advisory Programme (TAP) and Personal Counselling to provide ongoing social and emotional support to students. The Counseling section lists TAP, Personal Counselling, and Career Counseling as core services. Counselors are among the specialist staff, alongside an occupational therapist and a speech therapist who support learning and wellbeing. The Curriculum for Student Safety and Wellness integrates wellbeing topics into the broader curriculum, and staff participate in safeguarding training as part of the school's wellbeing approach.

Tokyo International Progressive School specializes in alternative education for students with mild learning differences. Specialist staff include an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, counselors, and a learning support coordinator. Typical learner profiles include mild learning differences, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, social/organizational difficulties, and anxiety. The school states it is unable to meet the learning needs of students with extensive learning differences, and is not described as a specialist SEN institution. SEN provision is therefore targeted to mild differences within a small-class, highly individualized setting.

English proficiency is required for admission and is reviewed during the interview. If a student does not meet the English standard, the English for Academic Purposes Program (EAP) may be recommended. The EAP program places students with low English ability into English-focused work and allows them to engage in class activities with age-appropriate peers. The work covers one year of English acquisition, followed by a year of continuing academic content at the same grade level. The program is designed to enable language development and peer inclusion within the standard classroom setting.

Mental wellbeing is addressed through a pastoral care framework that includes TAP and Personal Counselling to support students' social and psychological needs. The Student Care page emphasises education, social and psychological care as priorities and documents the two-system approach (TAP and Personal Counselling). The Counseling section lists TAP, Personal Counselling, and Career Counseling as formal services. Staff include counselors and other specialists to address wellbeing, alongside the broader support network (e.g., occupational and speech therapists). The Curriculum for Student Safety and Wellness integrates wellbeing education into the curriculum, with age-appropriate lessons on recognizing unsafe situations and seeking help.

The school maintains a comprehensive Child Safeguarding Policy with defined terms, safeguarding procedures, and a Code of Conduct. Staff training is mandatory: new teachers complete a 3-hour Child Safeguarding Course through ChildSafeguarding.com (valid for two years) and a suicide-prevention course through LivingWorks; returning staff receive refreshers. The safeguarding structure includes a designated Child Safeguarding Team (CST) comprising school counselors, the principal, and Lead and Deputy CSTs who manage incidents and communications with authorities. A Flowchart for Reporting and Allegations Action Plan guides safeguarding responses, with an incident-reporting process kept in a secure digital environment. Emergency safeguarding contacts are published, and a Public Reporting Form is available for anonymous reporting of concerns.

1. Initial Communication: Prospective families can inquire by phone, email, or an initial contact form, and may arrange a school visit by appointment to learn about the programs. Parents provide a brief introduction of their child through the initial contact form so TIPS can determine if the child meets the school's application requirements. This step sets up the information exchange and helps families understand whether the school's program aligns with their child's needs.

2. Application: To apply, submit the application package with a 33,000 yen application fee; the package is sent to you by email. An interview with the Principal follows as part of the assessment. An English proficiency assessment may be required, and in some cases a writing sample may be requested. A 1–2 day trial period is offered to experience the class environment, and all applicants must provide transcripts in English.

3. Offer of Placement: After reviewing the application package and observing the trial day, if TIPS can meet the child's needs, an acceptance letter and the registration package are sent by email from the Principal within about one week. In some cases, an undiagnosed student may be referred to meet with the school psychologist to ensure the school can provide appropriate services. This step confirms the school's fit with the student's needs and outlines next steps for enrollment.

4. Registration: Enrollment is confirmed upon receipt of the registration package and the 378,000 yen registration fee, with the package and fee requested within two weeks of offer of placement. Families should complete the registration process within that two-week window to secure placement.

Source references: Admissions Process page (Initial Contact, Application, Offer of Placement, Registration).

Scholarships: Tokyo International Progressive School offers a scholarship program to assist new and returning students whose parents are solely responsible for education expenses and who require financial assistance. Scholarships are not available to students whose tuition is paid, in part or wholly, by an employer or other sponsoring organization. The program includes two tiers with specific discounts on tuition and related fees and requires annual reapplication.

Tier 1 Scholarship: School Development Fee reduced from 550,000 yen to 275,000 yen (before tax); 2022–2023 Scholarship Tuition reduced from 2,636,800 yen to 2,300,000 yen (before tax).

Tier 2 Scholarship: School Development Fee reduced from 550,000 yen to 275,000 yen (before tax); 2022–2023 Scholarship Tuition reduced from 2,636,800 yen to 2,300,000 yen (before tax); Educational Enhancement Fee reduced from 200,000 yen to 0 yen (before tax).

Application is annual for each enrolled child. Required submissions include a Scholarship Application Form, a Financial Worksheet, the most recent income certificate (gensenchoshuhyo) or equivalent, and any optional documents to support the application. The scholarship decisions are confidential and final, with notifications issued by the end of April.

Waitlist/Pool: The official admissions materials do not publish a waitlist or pool system. The Admissions Process page outlines the steps for inquiry, application, placement, and registration but does not describe any waiting list or pool process. Therefore, there is no publicly documented waitlist policy on the school's admissions pages.

Rugby School Japan is located in Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. It sits within the Kashiwanoha Smart City education and innovation hub, near Chiba University, University of Tokyo and other academic institutions. The nearest rail link is Kashiwanoha Campus station on the Tsukuba Express line, about 30 minutes from central Tokyo by train, with the campus a short 3-minute walk from the station. The postal address is 6-2-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa City, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.

Year 7 through Year 13 (ages 11–18). The curriculum follows a British model with IGCSE in Years 10–11 and A-levels in Years 12–13.

Rugby School Japan is a co-educational school offering both day and boarding options. It provides day school as well as full (7-day) boarding and weekly (5.5-day) boarding arrangements, with a house system and 6 boarding houses.

Pupils come from 25+ nationalities. The most represented nationality is Japanese (40%). The school has a strong international community and a substantial proportion of boarders (about 56% in 2025).

RSJ operates a Personalised Learning (PL) department with SEND and EAL support, using Pupil Support Sheets and targeted interventions, and coordinating with external specialists as needed. Admission may be granted to pupils whose learning needs can be met within the mainstream programme with adjustments; RSJ does not offer dedicated SEN programmes.

British international school in the Tokyo area.

No religious affiliation.

The school runs 5.5 days a week, Monday to Saturday, with Saturday morning including enrichment activities. Both day and boarding pupils use the boarding houses, which are open from 7:00am and extend to the final co‑curricular and supervised homework sessions in the evening. Typical day pupils finish around 5:30pm after lessons and activities.

RSJ does not operate a school bus service. Transport to/from school is not included in standard fees.

RSJ offers day pupils, weekly boarders (5.5 days) and full boarders (7 days). Full boarders reside in purpose-built boarding houses with access to facilities seven days a week. Weekly boarders stay overnight Monday to Saturday morning and leave the campus by Saturday lunchtime. Every pupil belongs to a House, led by a Housemaster or Housemistress with a core House team providing pastoral and academic support; boarding life includes a weekend activity program.

All pupils must wear the mandatory RSJ uniform before their first day; uniform items can be purchased directly from Tombow or by appointment at RSJ's school shop. If uniform items are out of stock or delayed, pupils may borrow uniform or wear appropriate alternatives; if items are missing for reasons other than stock/delivery, RSJ may purchase them on the pupil's behalf and bill the family.

All meals are served in the Dining Hall. Breakfast is served 7:00–8:00am, lunch 12:30–1:30pm, and supper 5:30–6:45pm, with snacks available in boarding houses during breaks. At mealtimes there is a choice of nutritious options, including European, Asian and vegetarian dishes, alongside salad, soup and dessert.

Each RSJ pupil belongs to a House, creating a community across day pupils, weekly boarders and full boarders. The House system is led by a Housemaster or Housemistress with a core House team and tutors, and provides pastoral care, social opportunities and cross-year collaboration.

RSJ is a school corporation established under Japan's Private Schools Act and accredited by the Governor of Chiba Prefecture. It operates as part of Rugby School Global and is developed in partnership with Clarence Education Asia.

Rugby School Japan follows a British international curriculum for pupils aged 11–18, structured as Years 7–9 (Lower School), Years 10–11 IGCSEs, and Years 12–13 A levels, with an EPQ available in the Sixth Form. The curriculum is delivered in English. Lower School (Years 7–9) offers a broad, balanced programme including Mathematics, English, History, Geography, Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and there will also be an emphasis on lessons in the creative arts such as Music, Art and Drama as well as lessons in Design Technology.

Japanese is taught in two streams - one for first-language learners and one focusing on Japanese as a foreign language - to prepare for the Japanese IGCSE in Years 10–11.

In Years 10–11 students pursue IGCSEs across a wide range of subjects, including a Japanese IGCSE; in Years 12–13 the Sixth Form offers A levels (typically three subjects, with the option to take four), externally assessed at the end of Year 13, and may include the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ); examination boards include Cambridge, AQA, OxfordAQA and Pearson Edexcel.

Co-curricular life is integral, with basketball, football, and other sports, drama, music, debating, and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

5:1

2024/25 IGCSE results:
- 31% of grades were awarded at A/9+8
- 59% of grades were awarded at A–A/9–7
2024/25 A-Level results
- 25% of grades were awarded at A
- 56% of grades were awarded at A-A

RSJ places wellbeing at the heart of education and supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a structured pastoral framework and PSHE curriculum. Assemblies, tutor groups, and wellbeing activities reinforce values such as kindness, respect, and positive relationships. The school runs whole school Wellbeing Days and uses Lea Waters' Visible Wellbeing framework, with six domains (strengths, emotional management, attention and awareness, relationships, coping, and habits and goals) to guide activities and reflection. The pastoral framework includes a bilingual Designated Safeguarding Lead team, house-based pastoral staff, and tutor-led support across year groups. Staff training and ongoing evaluation of pupil wellbeing are integrated into school life.

RSJ provides SEN and EAL support within a whole-school approach. The Additional Needs Policy defines SEN and EAL and describes a graduated approach to support. Levels of support include Additional Academic Support, SEN Support, and EAL Support, with progress reviewed by the Personalised Learning Department and tutors. On entry, pupils are baseline-screened for language and learning needs, and information is shared with staff to tailor support. The policy emphasizes collaboration with parents and health professionals, and documents processes for assessment, targets, and review. RSJ is not described as a separate specialist SEN institution.

RSJ recognises English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners and provides appropriate support under its Additional Needs framework. Pupils are screened on entry to establish baseline English language proficiency. Support may include Personalised Learning lessons delivered during or outside curriculum time, depending on need. Progress and targets are reviewed regularly by the Personalised Learning Department in collaboration with parents. The policy indicates that EAL support is available to pupils who meet admission criteria and require language support.

RSJ aims to promote positive mental health and wellbeing for all pupils through universal and targeted approaches.

The Pupil Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy identifies leadership by the Deputy Principal (Pastoral), the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and the boarding Housemaster/mistresses (HMs), and requires concern reporting via CPOMS.

The school provides a trained counselling psychologist offering bilingual sessions and regular drop-in appointments; confidentiality is maintained with safeguarding exceptions.

Teaching about mental health is included in the PSHE curriculum (Personal, Social, Health Education), with signposting to internal and external support.

In addition, the School is a member of the online platform The Wellbeing Hub and uses this train and support staff, pupils and parents in topics on mental health and wellbeing.

Parents are supported with resources and guidance, and referrals to health professionals are coordinated with staff.

Safeguarding and the welfare of pupils are paramount at RSJ. The Safeguarding Policy outlines roles, responsibilities, and a safeguarding committee led by the Designated Safeguarding Lead with deputy leads and health centre involvement. It references UK guidance (Keeping Children Safe in Education) and Japanese legislation, and requires staff training and adherence to reporting procedures. The policy covers a wide range of safeguarding issues, including child protection, reporting concerns, and wellbeing planning linked to education. RSJ integrates safeguarding with wellbeing and mental health provisions to ensure a safe school environment.

Rugby School Japan (RSJ) was founded in 2023 as Rugby School's second international school in its 450‑year history, following Rugby School Thailand. It is Greater Tokyo's first British boarding school and is based in Kashiwanoha Smart City, about 30 minutes from central Tokyo. The school is a partnership between the Rugby School Group and Clarence Education Asia (CEA), combining Rugby's heritage with a Japanese‑based pathway for students aged 11 to 18. RSJ operates a six‑house pastoral system—School House, Rupert Brooke, Tudor, Sheriff, Southfield, and Town—to anchor community life and lifelong friendships. Since opening, RSJ has drawn pupils from 26+ nationalities and plans to reach 500 pupils by 2027 with a full capacity of 780; its first leavers have progressed to universities including UCL, King's College London, McGill, Edinburgh, Hong Kong University, and Waseda.

RSJ supports an 11–18 community drawn from 30+ nationalities, with about 56% of pupils boarding. The house system anchors pastoral life, building long‑term friendships within a shared culture. The co‑curricular program includes 70+ enrichment activities, spanning sport, arts, and service, and is designed to extend learning beyond the classroom. Community life is reinforced by events such as School Assembly, Sports Day, and other school gatherings; for example, Year 13 leavers are celebrated as they move into higher education, and inter-house and Derby Day gatherings with other British schools in Japan reflect the school's sport and community spirit.

RSJ engages families through a formal Parent Forum. In February 2025, more than 40 parents attended the forum to discuss six key areas of school life, providing constructive feedback to shape future initiatives. The forum highlighted a desire for more accessible information about school events and for stronger parent connections; in response, RSJ has launched Classlist to connect parents and improve communications, and to host additional informal parent events on campus. This demonstrates an active, structured channel for parent input alongside ongoing school communications.

Rugby School Japan sits on a Garden Campus in Kashiwanoha Smart City, featuring twelve green spaces around a central green courtyard, with around 300 existing trees preserved and more planted. The campus combines heritage and contemporary design and hosts a range of modern academic and co-curricular spaces. Core academic facilities include science rooms, visual art studios and a gallery, design & technology rooms, a medical centre, a lecture theatre, a library and reading rooms, plus a Sixth-form Centre. Co-curricular and creative facilities include a Blackbox theatre, a Harlequin floor Dance Studio, music rooms and recording studios. The sports complex includes a 25m indoor swimming pool, a gymnasium, rugby and soccer pitches, tennis courts and multi-purpose courts, along with a dining hall and common rooms.

The campus includes a 25m indoor swimming pool, a gymnasium, rugby and soccer pitches, tennis courts and multi-purpose courts.

Science labs, visual art studios and gallery, design and technology studios, medical centre, lecture theatre, library and reading rooms, Sixth-form Centre.

Blackbox theatre, Harlequin-floor dance studio, debate room, music rooms and recording studios.

RSJ offers an extensive programme of academic enrichment beyond the classroom. Pupils participate in national and international competitions and benefit from collaborations with universities that bring regular lectures and visiting speakers to campus. A broad range of societies supports learning across subjects, encouraging deeper exploration and interdisciplinary thinking. Departmental visits and external collaborations are used to challenge pupils and broaden their intellectual horizons.

RSJ places strong emphasis on the creative arts as part of a holistic education. The campus houses facilities including a Black Box theatre, a Music Centre and dedicated Art studios to support performing and visual arts. The co-curricular programme includes music, drama and dance opportunities, with pupils able to perform in events and exhibitions. Creative arts are integrated with the wider curriculum to develop confidence, collaboration and creativity.

Rugby School Japan celebrates a vibrant and diverse student body representing over 25 nationalities. In 2026, the school launched its inaugural Global Day, an annual highlight that fosters cultural appreciation and inspires inclusive global perspectives. While English is the primary language of instruction and community life, pupils are encouraged to broaden their horizons through dedicated language programs in Chinese, German, French, and Japanese.

RSJ offers a vibrant array of co-curricular clubs and societies, including debating, financial investment clubs and ecological clubs. A House system underpins pupil life, providing leadership opportunities and a sense of belonging across year groups. Boarding and day pupils have access to activities in the evenings and on weekends, fostering social engagement and a balanced school experience.

The Rugby School Japan Enrichment Programme integrates community engagement and service directly into the student experience. Through partnerships with local and international organisations—including the Kashiwa Exchange Society, United World Schools, and the Postcard Collective—pupils move beyond theoretical learning into active social participation. Many initiatives, such as Profit with Purpose and the Sustainability Society, are student-led to prioritise leadership, project management, and a sense of ownership. Practical activities ranging from the School Cleaning initiative to charity sales require students to apply planning, collaboration, and resilience in real-world contexts. These service-oriented projects are designed to nurture empathy and inclusive perspectives, demonstrating the measurable impact of collective effort.

Leadership development is embedded in RSJ life. Every pupil belongs to a House, which builds responsibility, teamwork and leadership through interactions within and across year groups. The co-curricular programme includes clubs such as debating and financial investment, offering opportunities to develop presentation, analytical, and collaborative skills.

RSJ supports physical health and wellbeing through a broad sports programme beyond rugby, including football, basketball, hockey, tennis, badminton and swimming. The campus provides indoor and outdoor courts, a sports hall and a swimming pool to support a wide range of activities. Boarding life includes evening and weekend activities that contribute to a balanced lifestyle and social wellbeing.

RSJ provides English as the language of instruction and teaches Japanese as a core subject. Beginning in the earliest years, pupils have the opportunity to study at least one modern language in addition to English and Japanese. In Years 10–11, pupils typically study one foreign language for IGCSE, with French, German, and Japanese offered in the opening year.

RSJ does not offer bilingual education. The language of instruction is English, and all campus communications are in English. Japanese is taught as a subject with two programmes in Years 7–9: a Japanese language programme for first-language learners and a separate programme to teach Japanese as a foreign language. In Years 10–11, students study Japanese as part of the Japanese IGCSE qualification.

Rugby School Japan has been awarded COBIS Beacon Status for pupil welfare. This COBIS designation recognizes exceptional pastoral care and welfare for students, and RSJ is noted as one of the few schools in Japan to receive it. The award was announced in November 2024 as part of COBIS recognition.

Rugby School Japan holds the following accreditations:

- COBIS membership and accreditation (Council of British International Schools). In November 2024, Rugby School Japan gained accreditation and membership to COBIS, joining a global network of British international schools that meet robust international standards and pursue high academic and pastoral provision. rsj also holds COBIS Beacon Status for pupil welfare as part of this COBIS recognition.

- Governor of Chiba Prefecture accreditation. Rugby School Japan is a school corporation established under Japan's Private Schools Act and is accredited by the Governor of Chiba Prefecture (School Code H212310000206).

doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

1. Application submission and initial eligibility. Applications are accepted for Years 7 through 12, with spaces strictly limited in each year. Applications are processed on a rolling basis throughout the school year, but early applications are encouraged and some year groups may close once full. If a year group is full, a waiting list will be used to manage demand. The online application is completed via the OpenApply system, and after submission a member of the Admissions team will contact you to outline next steps.

2. Application fee payment and Confidential Reference Form request. All families must pay a 40,000 yen application fee and request a Confidential Reference Form through the OpenApply system at this stage. The Confidential Reference Form asks the nominated referee for comments on your child's academic and pastoral suitability. If there are issues requesting the form, contact the admissions team for assistance.

3. Admissions assessments and testing. Applicants will complete the CAT4 assessment and the Oxford English Placement Test, followed by an interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Before these assessments, families are invited to a pre-screening interview with a member of the Admissions Team. Year 12 applicants will also take English and Maths assessment papers (30 minutes each) plus additional subjects as chosen by the pupil.

4. Decision and communication of results. After completing the assessments, the Admissions Team will contact you with your results in approximately 1–2 weeks. For successful overseas applicants who will travel to Japan alone, a student visa application is required at this stage, and the visa process typically takes about three months.

5. Open Days, visits, and arranging in-person meetings. The School holds regular Open Days, and prospective parents are encouraged to register to visit the campus. If in-person attendance is not possible, online sessions can be arranged, and private campus visits can be coordinated by emailing admissions@rugbyschooljapan.ed.jp.

6. Next steps and ongoing communication. Following initial contact, families will continue to engage with the Admissions Team as the process progresses, with annual year-group considerations and potential updates to timelines based on year-group capacity and admissions decisions. Waiting lists and capacity constraints may influence the timing of offers.

RSJ offers a multi-faceted Scholarships Programme across several disciplines, with Awards lasting for the duration of a pupil's time at RSJ, subject to annual review. The main scholarship types are Academic, Expressive and Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Sports, and All-Rounder (by invitation). Each award typically includes a tuition-related waiver, with other fees payable; boarding fee support may be offered at the Principal's discretion. Details: Academic Scholarships (Years 7–12) may include up to a 10% waiver of Day Pupil Annual Tuition Fees, plus 100% waivers of Enrolment Fee and School Development Fee; other fees remain payable. Expressive and Visual Arts Scholarships include a 10% tuition waiver and 100% waivers of Enrolment and School Development Fees, with other fees payable; Performing Arts Scholarships mirror the same structure, and Sports Scholarships offer similar waivers with an additional practical assessment component. All-Rounder Scholarships (By Invitation only) are for pupils contributing across multiple life areas and follow a tailored programme with mentor support; award details are shared upon invitation. All scholarships require annual review and adherence to RSJ values. Application basics: RSJ's Scholarship process involves an initial RSJ Admissions application, then a separate Scholarship path for eligible candidates, including interviews, portfolios, or auditions as appropriate; internal candidates may be considered.

The school uses a waiting-list system when a year group is full. If a year group has no remaining space, waiting lists are activated to manage interested applicants and determine potential offers as spaces become available. This approach is taken because year-group spaces are limited and the school reserves the right to close applications to certain year groups when full.