Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool – Waseda Campus is dedicated to creating a nurturing and vibrant environment where each child’s individuality is celebrated. The preschool is committed to fostering the unique strengths of every child while helping them develop the ability to express their thoughts and ideas. Principal Mari Minegishi emphasizes the importance of cultivating an age-appropriate setting that encourages curiosity and adaptability from a young age. This approach prepares children to navigate the complexities of interacting with diverse viewpoints in the world.

One of the standout features of Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool is its commitment to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). As an IB World School since January 2019, the preschool engages in inquiry-based learning that begins in the K3 class. Each year, children explore four thematic units, fostering deep thinking, research skills, and creativity. Even the K2 children participate in activities that bridge them into this inquiry-based approach, promoting a seamless transition into the more structured learning environment of K3. Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool aims to cultivate a global perspective, encouraging children to appreciate diverse cultures, identities, and experiences, effectively preparing them for a connected world.

Situated in the heart of Shinjuku, the Waseda Campus benefits from its proximity to several parks, including the expansive Toyama Park. This natural environment allows children to enjoy outdoor play and encourages them to bring in plants and insects they discover, fostering discussions and research in the classroom. Such connections to nature not only support physical health but also nurture curiosity and a sense of exploration among the children, integral components of their early education.

Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool offers a variety of after-school programs that enhance the educational experience. Options include soccer, gymnastics, karate, ballet, street dance, cheerleading, music, and programming. These activities provide children with opportunities to dive into their interests and develop new skills in a supportive environment. The school’s after-school programs are integrated seamlessly into the regular schedule, making it convenient for busy families. Additionally, a school bus service operates on multiple routes, including areas such as Edogawabashi and Ikebukuro, providing accessibility for families across a wide region.

For parents interested in enrolling their children, Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool hosts information sessions to explain the bilingual education model and the PYP curriculum. Participation in these sessions is mandatory prior to applying, ensuring that families are well-informed about the school’s philosophy and the admission process. The admissions process includes several steps: attending the information session, submitting an application, undergoing document screening, and participating in an interview.

Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool’s Waseda Campus emphasizes not only academic rigor but also the development of emotional and social skills in a diverse, international context. The school is committed to providing a holistic education that nurtures the whole child. Facilities include well-equipped classrooms and a library, alongside stringent safety measures to ensure that children can learn and grow in a secure and stimulating environment. With a focus on nurturing individual growth while preparing children for the global stage, Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool stands out as an exceptional choice for families seeking a comprehensive early education experience.

Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool - Waseda Campus implements the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), having adopted this curriculum in January 2019. As an IB World School, Aoba-Japan emphasizes an inquiry-based approach to learning that begins in the K3 class. Within this framework, students explore four units each academic year, focusing on globally relevant themes that encourage exploration and critical thinking. Even K2 students are introduced to this innovative educational model through exploratory activities that prepare them for the PYP, ensuring a smooth transition into more structured inquiry-based learning.

The preschool prides itself on a rigorous educational philosophy that nurtures the individuality of each child. By encouraging students to express their thoughts and ideas, the school aims to cultivate essential critical thinking skills necessary for navigating complex situations and diverse opinions prevalent in today’s society. Aoba-Japan prioritizes fostering "考える力" (the ability to think critically) and employs teaching methods designed to stimulate children's curiosity through engaging play and learning experiences. This dynamic approach allows children to explore, investigate, and present their ideas creatively, while also embracing a global perspective that celebrates various cultures and identities.

Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool offers a bilingual education primarily in English and Japanese, catering to children aged 1 to 5 years. The school operates Monday through Friday, with structured hours from 8:30 AM to 3 PM, and provides extended care until 6 PM for working families. In addition to core academic programs, the school offers an after-school program (ASP) featuring a variety of popular activities such as soccer, gymnastics, ballet, street dance, cheerleading, music, and programming. This diverse array of extracurricular options enriches the children's daily experiences and allows them to explore new interests and passions conveniently, alleviating transportation concerns for busy parents.

The school community at Aoba-Japan is characterized by its diversity, welcoming children from various cultural backgrounds, including international students from the United States, Dubai, Korea, and China. This rich tapestry of cultural perspectives enhances the overall learning environment, enabling children to engage with different viewpoints and further aligning with the school's commitment to global education. As part of their operational framework, Aoba-Japan requires parents to attend an informational session prior to applying, ensuring they fully understand the curriculum and the school's mission. Overall, Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool at Waseda Campus stands out for its dedication to critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and fostering a nurturing environment that promotes individual growth.

Student life at Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool - Waseda Campus thrives on a vibrant and diverse community that welcomes children from various backgrounds, including those from international locales such as the United States, Dubai, Korea, and China. This rich cultural tapestry is integral to the school’s educational approach, which is grounded in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). The PYP promotes inquiry-based learning, allowing children in K3 to explore globally relevant themes through four thematic units each year. This approach fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. Even K2 students participate in inquiry-based activities, ensuring a smooth transition into the PYP framework that emphasizes exploration and discovery.

Daily life at the Waseda campus is filled with opportunities for exploration and outdoor play, with the nearby Toyama Park serving as a natural classroom. Children engage in activities that involve discovering plants and insects, which they often bring back to the classroom for further investigation. This connection to nature supports physical health and cultivates a sense of curiosity and a desire for discovery among the students. A core aspect of the school’s philosophy is nurturing each child's individuality while providing a supportive environment where they can express their thoughts and ideas confidently.

Extracurricular activities at Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool are designed to enrich the student experience and provide avenues for exploration beyond the classroom. A variety of after-school programs are offered, including soccer, gymnastics, karate, ballet, street dance, cheer dance, music, and programming. These activities encourage students to explore new skills and interests, all while ensuring that busy families do not have to worry about transportation, as these programs take place during regular school hours. The Waseda Campus also provides a comprehensive school bus service covering extensive routes, making it convenient for families living nearby.

In addition to the enriching curriculum, the school organizes various events that foster community and collaboration among families and staff. Workshops for parents are scheduled throughout the year, and seasonal programs, such as the upcoming "Winter Program 2025," are conducted entirely in English. These initiatives reinforce the school's commitment to sharing in the growth and development of each child. The atmosphere at Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool is characterized by enthusiasm and support, with staff actively engaging families in their children’s educational journey. The school’s mission is to cultivate a global perspective in its students, and this dedication is evident through a carefully designed curriculum and a nurturing environment that emphasizes both academic and personal growth.