Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool Harumi Shibaura

Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool Harumi Shibaura offers a comprehensive academic program based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, specifically the Primary Years Programme (PYP), for children starting from the K3 class. This curriculum is designed to be rigorous and exploratory, focusing on broadening each child’s potential through inquiry-based learning. Each academic year, students engage in four Units of Inquiry (UOI), which allow them to investigate and explore various themes and concepts from multiple perspectives. This approach not only encourages students to understand the world around them but also supports their growth into internationally-minded individuals, fostering a sense of identity and belonging in a global context.

In addition to the IB curriculum, Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool emphasizes the philosophy of “Learning Through Play.” This belief underscores the importance of playful experiences in effective learning, creating an environment rich in laughter and joy. Activities are carefully designed to align with the developmental stages of each child, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. The school asserts that when learning is enjoyable, it lays the groundwork for a deep and lasting understanding. Daily experiences are crafted to instill excitement and wonder, which are fundamental components of the children’s academic journey, ultimately aiming to cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

Furthermore, the school offers an After School Program (ASP) that includes a variety of extracurricular activities such as piano, classical ballet, Hip-Hop dance, programming, and gymnastics. These activities are conducted in English, providing immersive language experiences while allowing students to develop various skills. Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool is well-equipped with facilities that cater to different educational needs, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all children. Transportation options are also provided, simplifying logistics for parents and expanding access for families in nearby areas.

The educational philosophy at Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool aims to cultivate global citizens who can communicate effectively in English while also instilling a strong understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and customs. The principal, Chikako Sasaki, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a connection to one’s roots while engaging in an international education. The inquiry-based approach is designed to develop critical thinking skills and ensure that children are immersed in an English-rich environment. This holistic educational strategy fosters curiosity and action-oriented learning, promoting language proficiency and laying a foundation for lifelong skills in exploration, intercultural understanding, and communication.