Bunka Suginami Canadian International School

I was just on the Bunka Suginami Canadian International School (BSCIS) website, and I learned a lot about what makes this school unique. Established in 2015, BSCIS offers “one campus, two schools, two diplomas: bilingual and multicultural.” It’s positioned as a place where students can experience “real Canadian education in Tokyo,” blending together the strengths of both Canadian and Japanese educational systems. This integration is done through a thoughtful partnership with the Bunka Gakuen University Suginami Junior and Senior High School, which has a rich history of over 50 years and is known for its focus on academic depth and character development.

One of the standout features of BSCIS is its dual diploma program. Students enrolled in this program graduate with both the Japanese High School Certificate and the British Columbia Dogwood Diploma. The school emphasizes this dual certification as a significant acknowledgment of the students’ engagement with both cultures and curricula. They state, “we believe this dual certification… is a meaningful recognition of the students’ deep engagement in both cultures and curricula.” This unique aspect not only broadens students’ educational experiences but also enhances their opportunities for further studies, as the graduates are welcomed by leading universities both in Japan and globally.

The curriculum at BSCIS is built around the “dynamic, competency-based framework of the British Columbia curriculum.” This approach aims to transcend rote learning; instead, it encourages students to develop core competencies in critical thinking, communication, and social responsibility. As they put it, the learning style “challenges them to apply their knowledge creatively to solve complex problems.” This methodology aligns with the school’s commitment to providing students with a comprehensive education that meets their academic and social-emotional development needs. This philosophy is further supported by the school’s dedicated faculty, who focus not only on academic excellence but also on nurturing the overall well-being of the students.

Graduates from BSCIS have had notable success in gaining admission to prestigious universities. In Japan, their students have been accepted into top-tier institutions such as Waseda University, Keio University, and Tokyo University of Science. Internationally, graduates have been welcomed by institutions like the University of British Columbia, the University of Toronto, and even universities in Europe and Australia. The school’s website highlights that “91% of graduating students earned a BC graduation diploma with an ‘Honours’ designation,” which speaks volumes about the academic rigor and commitment to student achievement at BSCIS.

In addition to academic offerings, BSCIS also has programs that enrich the student experience through cultural immersion. One notable program is the “Study In Canada” initiative, where students can participate in a study program in Canada during their first year. This opportunity allows students to experience Canadian culture firsthand, which complements their bilingual education and leads to a deeper understanding of both Japanese and Canadian societies.

Overall, the Bunka Suginami Canadian International School presents itself as an innovative, challenging, and creative educational environment. As the principal notes, the double diploma program is “truly global-minded and exclusive,” providing students access to the best of both worlds. The school’s commitment to meeting students where they are in their academic journey, while also focusing on their social and emotional development, makes it a distinctive choice for families looking for a comprehensive education in Tokyo.