Doshisha International Academy Elementary School

I was just on the Doshisha International School, Kyoto (DISK) website, and I gathered a lot of interesting information about the school and what makes it unique. One of the key highlights is that DISK is not just any school; it’s an IB World School that offers a “comprehensive international curriculum delivered in English,” specifically designed to set children up for success in the International Baccalaureate (IB) and beyond. Established in 2011, DISK is a proud member of the Doshisha family of schools and operates as part of the Doshisha International Academy (DIA). They emphasize a nurturing environment that promotes “friendship, respect for all cultures, academic achievement, collaboration, balanced living, community, health and well-being, creativity, and expression”—all central to their educational philosophy.

Another aspect that stood out is their commitment to academic rigor. As stated on the website, DISK “ensures its academic program meets rigorous international standards for educational excellence,” which is backed by being a WASC-accredited school. This means that students receive a globally recognized education that prepares them for future challenges. Additionally, their class sizes are small, which they believe fosters strong student-faculty relations and contributes to a family-friendly community that supports each child’s growth. The school’s location in the ‘Keihanna Hills’ within the Kansai Science City region is another bonus, providing a beautiful and inspiring setting that’s conveniently situated between Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara Prefectures.

DISK also boasts a robust extracurricular program. For instance, students recently participated in the Kansai Math Olympics, where they showcased their skills and teamwork, with one student receiving an Individual Excellence Award. It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to engage in both competition and cooperation. Similarly, the Model United Nations Club provided students with the chance to tackle global issues alongside peers from various international schools, enhancing their critical thinking and communication skills. Events like these contribute to the school’s ethos of developing “internationally minded learners,” as they encourage students to engage actively with the world around them.

Another point that was really touching was the positive feedback from parents. One parent highlighted how much their child enjoys the learning environment at DISK, expressing that it offers a place where their son can “grow academically, socially, and artistically.” They appreciated how assignments focus less on memorization and more on critical thinking and presentation skills, which aligns better with real-world applications. This reinforces the school’s dedication to a balanced educational approach that nurtures the minds of the children in their care, as they believe strongly in preparing students for a future where they can be active participants in a changing world.

In summary, Doshisha International School, Kyoto stands out for its commitment to a comprehensive, internationally recognized curriculum delivered within a nurturing and supportive environment. Their emphasis on academic rigor, creativity, and respect for all cultures positions their students for both personal and academic achievements. With a wide array of extracurricular activities and a strong focus on building a community, DISK seems to be a school that genuinely prioritizes the overall development of its students, preparing them for success in a global society.