St.Joseph’s Primary School

St. Joseph’s Primary School in Yokohama, Japan, is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where each child feels excited about sharing their experiences. The school’s philosophy centers on creating a friendly atmosphere that encourages students to express their daily learning journeys, often beginning their conversations with, “今日、学校でね…” (“Today, at school…”). This sense of belonging and community is integral to the educational experience at St. Joseph’s, where the focus is not merely on academic achievement but also on personal growth and development.

Recognized as the first International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) school in Japan since January 2018, St. Joseph’s is proud of its commitment to academic rigor. This prestigious designation aligns with the IB’s mission to develop caring, knowledgeable, and internationally-minded individuals. The school strives to cultivate “国際的な視野を持つ人間” (individuals with an international perspective), which reflects its educational goals and the preparation of students for a globalized world. The curriculum at St. Joseph’s has been thoughtfully designed to encourage inquiry-based learning, which is essential for nurturing critical thinking and exploration from an early age.

In a recent initiative, St. Joseph’s has rebranded its “総合的な学習の時間” (Comprehensive Learning Time) to “探究の時間” (Inquiry Time), emphasizing a shift towards conceptual learning that begins as early as first grade. This approach aims to develop students who are not only academically successful but also engaged and responsible members of society. The school articulates its vision by stating, “私たちは、この世の様々な問題を他人事にせず、自らの課題として積極的に捉え” (“We aim to educate students who face various issues in the world as their own challenges”), which underscores their commitment to instilling a sense of responsibility in their students.

St. Joseph’s also offers a range of specialized programs and activities designed to provide a well-rounded education. The “アスリート教室” (Athlete Classroom) promotes physical education, while experiential learning opportunities, such as visits to the “国立西洋美術館” (National Museum of Western Art) for fifth graders, broaden students’ horizons beyond traditional classroom settings. Furthermore, the integration of technology into the curriculum is evident through the provision of a dedicated computer room and various educational facilities, including an auditorium, science room, and library, enhancing the learning experience for all students.

Religious education is a cornerstone of St. Joseph’s mission, which is built on the principles of faith, hope, and love. Regular religious ceremonies, such as the “創立記念みことばの祭儀” (Founding Memorial Ceremonies), reinforce the school’s commitment to nurturing students’ spiritual growth alongside their academic development. This holistic approach to education ensures that students are not only well-prepared academically but are also instilled with strong moral values and a sense of purpose.

Safety and well-being are paramount at St. Joseph’s Primary School. The institution has implemented robust safety measures, including a “登下校管理システム” (School Arrival and Departure Management System), which provides parents with confirmation emails regarding their children’s arrival and departure from school. The school prioritizes the safety of its students, stating that “平常時や非常時の、児童・生徒の安全を第一に考え” (“the safety of students is our primary concern during both normal and emergency situations”). This proactive approach fosters a secure environment conducive to learning.

St. Joseph’s Primary School actively engages with the local community, exemplified by its collaboration with the Nissan Foundation and participation in various public events. Parents are encouraged to take part in the vibrant school community through school events and open days, fostering a transparent and collaborative environment that enriches the educational experience for both students and families. Overall, St. Joseph’s Primary School stands as a beacon of academic excellence, nurturing a generation of well-rounded, socially responsible global citizens, equipped with the skills and values necessary to thrive in an interconnected world.