Shohei Junior and Senior High School

I was just on the website for Shohei Junior and Senior High School, and there’s a lot to unpack about what makes this institution unique! Their educational philosophy revolves around four key areas: “talent development education,” which aims to “maximize the abilities of each student,” “human education,” focusing on “cultivating high character and sound judgment,” “international education,” which fosters the ability to “think and act with an international perspective,” and “health education,” dedicated to nurturing individuals who are both physically and mentally healthy.

The school’s history is quite impressive, having evolved significantly since its inception in 1979 as “Towa University Affiliated Shohei High School.” In 2007, it became known as Shohei High School, marking the beginning of a “new Shohei” with a revamped curriculum that included a new course system, syllabus, and uniforms. The school has since introduced specialized classes, such as the “Select Athlete Class” in 2008 and the “T Special Class” in 2014. Additionally, the establishment of the junior high school in 2010 led to the school’s first cohort of students transitioning seamlessly into high school in 2015.

One of the standout features of Shohei is its approach to developing “global human resources” through their “SHOHEI Borderless Program.” This initiative encourages students to “cross borders” and break down barriers between subjects, schools, and communities, which is instrumental in shaping well-rounded global citizens. Furthermore, the school is recognized as a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme, emphasizing its commitment to high standards of international education.

The academic achievements at Shohei are notable, with record university acceptance rates, including 56 students admitted to prestigious national universities such as the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University, alongside numerous students accepted into other top-tier institutions like Waseda, Keio, and G-MARCH universities. This academic rigor is clearly a point of pride for the school.

In terms of character development, Shohei emphasizes its motto: “Rigi, Kinben, Meirō,” translating to “Etiquette, Diligence, and Cheerfulness.” According to the school, “etiquette” involves having a respectful heart towards others, which is essential for maintaining social order. “Diligence” is about actively seeking knowledge and loving learning as a cornerstone of success in life. Finally, “cheerfulness” fosters the courage to embrace life and absorb various experiences, building resilience needed to confront challenges.

Beyond academics, Shohei promotes an enriching school life filled with activities that go beyond the classroom. Their extracurricular programs encourage students to engage meaningfully across different grades and classes. The school has facilities like a new three-story building, a sub-arena, and a synthetic turf ground that enhance students’ learning and extracurricular activities. The “Power English Project” is another initiative aimed at equipping students with practical English skills for global use.

Another noteworthy aspect is their annual cultural festival, known as “Shohei Festival,” which is student-led and showcases the talents and creativity of the students. These events not only foster community spirit but also allow students to take on leadership roles and express themselves outside the academic setting.

For families interested in joining Shohei, the school offers a structured admissions process, including various entrance exams and open house events where prospective families can learn more about the school’s unique offerings. The upcoming events are well-organized, and the school encourages prospective students and parents to attend these information sessions to understand the school’s environment and values better.

In summary, Shohei Junior and Senior High School provides a nurturing and academically rigorous environment that prepares students for the global stage. With a commitment to developing individual talents, instilling strong ethical and academic foundations, and fostering a sense of community, it’s clear that Shohei is dedicated to producing well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society.