Rugby School Japan (RSJ) has recently been awarded COBIS Beacon Status for outstanding pastoral care, recognising us as a leader in student well-being. This honor highlights RSJ’s dedication to creating a supportive, nurturing environment where pupils can grow socially, intellectually, and emotionally. It is all the more remarkable because Rugby School Japan is only the second school in Japan to receive this level of recognition, and we achieved this result less than 2 years after opening our doors.
Our Approach to Student Well-Being
At RSJ, we believe that well-being is at the heart of student success. Research shows that emotional challenges—such as sadness or depression, or feeling disconnected—can impact academic performance by up to 40%. That is why we prioritise happiness, mental health, and personal development alongside academic achievement.
Our commitment is reflected in key policies such as the Pupil Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy, Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, and Anti-Bullying Policy. These policies emphasize:
- A zero-tolerance approach to bullying and unkindness
- A safe, inclusive environment where pupils feel seen and heard
- A focus on real-world friendships and meaningful relationships
- Responsibility and pupil mentorship programmes that encourage peer support
- Balanced technology use with a structured screen time and device policy
One example of our approach is our strict screen time policy. With research showing that excessive technology use can negatively impact mental health and social skills, RSJ takes proactive steps to foster in-person connections. Pupils hand in their phones at the start of the school day, with day students receiving them back at the end of the day. Boarders, on the other hand, have limited access during breaks, specifically after their evening’s supervised homework or prep time and several hours before lights out. Our academic and boarding staff are also constantly on hand, ready to provide guidance and support.
Creating a Sense of Belonging
The COBIS award sets us apart as a leader in pastoral care, not just because of our policies but because of the warmth and family spirit we have cultivated within our school community. We bring this to life through a variety of activities designed to help pupils feel at home, including game nights, bake-offs, wellbeing days, trips, and cultural events. These experiences build friendships, boost confidence, and create lasting memories.
The Future of Pastoral Care at RSJ
At RSJ, student well-being is not a one-time initiative—it is a long-term commitment. We foster a culture of care, respect, and open communication, equipping pupils with the resilience and emotional intelligence to thrive beyond school.
Achieving COBIS Beacon Status is a milestone we are incredibly proud of, but it is also just the beginning. We remain dedicated to setting new benchmarks in student well-being, ensuring that every pupil feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. As we look ahead, we will continue to enhance our pastoral care programmes and strengthen the support systems that nurture every aspect of our pupils’ development.
