I was just on the Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool Harumi Shibaura’s website, and I learned about their unique approach to early childhood education. The school prides itself on creating a “nurturing environment” that supports both the cognitive and emotional development of children aged 1 to 5 years. They emphasize that “learning happens through hands-on exploration and discovery,” which is evident in their daily activities that seamlessly blend play with learning. They truly believe that “if it’s not fun, nothing starts,” making it clear that a joyful atmosphere is pivotal to their educational philosophy.

The Harumi campus is strategically located in a bustling office district. Despite the urban setting, it is surrounded by “a lot of natural environments,” including large parks where children can experience the changes of the seasons. This connection to nature is seen as vital for the children’s emotional growth and overall well-being, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of the world around them.

A significant aspect of the school’s curriculum is its affiliation with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Starting from the K3 class, students engage in inquiry-based learning through four Units of Inquiry each year. The school emphasizes that this approach helps to expand each child’s potential, allowing them to explore concepts of “what the world is” and “who I am” from various perspectives. They are committed to supporting the development of a global outlook in children, nurturing their curiosity, and encouraging them to ask questions and seek answers.

Furthermore, the Harumi campus offers a variety of after-school programs that are quite appealing to parents, especially given that popular extracurricular activities in the area often have waiting lists of 2 to 3 years. The after-school offerings include piano, classical ballet, hip-hop dance, programming, and gymnastics, with classes taught in English. This is particularly attractive for parents who appreciate the convenience of having diverse programs available on-site, eliminating the need for transportation to external activities. The school also provides a school bus service that runs routes in the Toyosu, Ariake, and Shinonome areas, which is operational from age 2.

The school operates Monday through Friday, running from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, with basic care hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They offer extended care as well, which allows parents a bit more flexibility in their schedules. Additionally, they hold seasonal programs during summer vacation that are conducted entirely in English, further emphasizing their commitment to bilingual education. From the principal’s greetings, you can sense a deep commitment to fostering not only language skills but also a strong understanding of Japanese culture and heritage. The principal, Chikako Sasaki, highlights the importance of understanding Japan’s rich traditions while developing a global perspective. She shares a personal story about her experiences with cultural identity, underscoring the school’s philosophy that while learning English is essential, it is equally important for children to appreciate their roots.

Overall, Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool Harumi Shibaura sets itself apart with its engaging and immersive bilingual education rooted in the IB framework. The combination of a nurturing atmosphere, inquiry-based learning, and a strong emphasis on cultural appreciation creates a rich educational environment. The active inclusion of play in the learning process and the wide variety of programs available make it a standout choice for parents looking for a well-rounded preschool experience for their children.

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.

Student life at Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool Harumi Shibaura is characterized by a vibrant and engaging environment where learning is seamlessly integrated with play. The school embraces the philosophy of "Learning Through Play," allowing children to explore a variety of developmentally appropriate and globally inspired activities. Each day is filled with the laughter and joy of children, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters curiosity and exploration. This approach to education ensures that learning is not only effective but also enjoyable, capturing the wonder of childhood and making every day an adventure.

Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool is an International Baccalaureate (IB) certified institution that introduces its Primary Years Programme (PYP) starting from the K3 class. Throughout the academic year, students engage in four Units of Inquiry (UOI), which are designed to support inquiry-based learning. This method encourages children to explore their individual potentials while fostering international perspectives. The curriculum is tailored to the age and individuality of each child, emphasizing the importance of understanding their cultural roots alongside a broader global context. This holistic approach cultivates well-rounded global citizens who appreciate both their heritage and the world around them.

The after-school programs at the Harumi campus enhance the student experience by offering a diverse array of activities. Children can participate in classes such as piano, classical ballet, Hip-Hop dance, programming, and gymnastics, all conducted in English. These programs, held on campus, provide convenience for parents, as they alleviate the need for long waits associated with similar activities outside of school. Additionally, the school hosts seasonal programs, including a 100% English winter program, which further emphasizes its commitment to immersive language learning. This offers students the opportunity to deepen their English language skills in a fun and engaging manner.

The culture at Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool is one of growth, exploration, and community. The school strives to balance international education with a profound appreciation for Japanese culture and traditions. Students are encouraged to develop not only linguistically but also culturally, fostering a love for learning, creativity, and a strong sense of achievement. This nurturing environment lays the foundation for a generation of individuals who are not only academically prepared but also culturally aware and globally minded, equipped to thrive in an interconnected world.