Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS) is a distinguished IB Continuum World School located in Nerima City, Japan, dedicated to transforming education for learners both in Japan and across the globe. Our mission is to develop global leaders who are equipped to make positive changes in the world. This is achieved through an educational philosophy that emphasizes entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and social responsibility. A-JIS provides a nurturing environment that fosters a progressive mindset, encouraging students to thrive in both physical and virtual learning settings.

At A-JIS, the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework is at the core of our educational structure, spanning all grade levels from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school implements the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12, focusing on developing essential attributes like curiosity and integrative learning. Through engaging “Units of Inquiry,” students delve into transdisciplinary themes of global significance, which allow them to connect with the world around them in meaningful ways. One of the highlights of our PYP is the “PYP Exhibition,” a culminating project where students showcase their learning, reflecting on how their actions can inspire and uplift their community.

As students progress to the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP), A-JIS continues to emphasize academic rigor while instilling vital skills in effective communication, problem-solving, and wise risk-taking. Our curriculum prepares students to tackle real-world challenges with optimism and critical thinking. We aim to develop well-rounded learners who are ready to navigate an unpredictable world and make ethical decisions, thus ensuring that each student is not only academically proficient but also socially responsible.

Aoba-Japan International School thrives on its vibrant community, where diversity, connection, and collaboration are fundamental values. Our student body is composed of individuals from various nationalities and cultural backgrounds, promoting true international-mindedness. We actively engage parents and guardians as essential partners in the educational journey, fostering a supportive atmosphere for students. Alumni of A-JIS become lifelong members of the Aoba family, contributing to a strong network that continues to inspire and empower future generations.

Looking ahead, Aoba-Japan International School is excited to announce the opening of a new campus, A-JIS Kanazawa, in August 2026. This expansion will carry forward Aoba’s legacy of quality education, serving children from kindergarten through grade 10, with plans to extend to grade 11 and 12 through an online Diploma Programme. The new campus will uphold our commitment to inquiry-based learning and culturally responsive practices, ensuring that students receive a holistic education that integrates local culture while also preparing them for a global context.

In summary, Aoba-Japan International School stands as a compelling choice for families seeking a well-rounded, globally minded education. Our focus on developing global leaders through a curriculum that balances academic excellence with social responsibility is a cornerstone of our mission. A-JIS is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment that prepares students to be effective communicators and wise risk-takers, ensuring they are ready to face the complexities of the modern world.

Aoba-Japan International School offers a comprehensive academic program structured around the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, catering to learners aged 3 to 18. This curriculum is implemented in phases: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students from K3 to Grade 6, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 7 to 10, and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 to 12. The school's mission is to develop global leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators by fostering essential skills such as effective communication, problem solving, and wise risk-taking. Aoba aims to prepare students to respond to real-world challenges with optimism and make ethical decisions in complex situations.

In the early years, from K2 to K5, Aoba employs a play-based learning environment that emphasizes the development of social, thinking, communication, physical, and self-management skills. The PYP encourages curiosity through Units of Inquiry (UOI), which are transdisciplinary themes of global significance. Students engage in authentic learning experiences, exploring fundamental concepts and constructing their understanding of the world around them. The culmination of this phase is the PYP Exhibition, where students showcase their learning and reflect on the impact of their actions within their community.

As students transition into the MYP, they continue to evolve into well-rounded learners prepared for future challenges. The MYP framework encourages students to make connections across various subjects, promoting interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. In Grades 11 and 12, students undertake the IBDP, which presents a more rigorous academic structure leading to globally recognized qualifications. This phase emphasizes depth of knowledge and critical engagement with complex issues, preparing students for higher education and beyond.

Aoba-Japan International School fosters a collaborative learning environment that values diversity, connection, and community engagement. Students are encouraged to be active participants in their educational journey, embodying the school's educational philosophy, which emphasizes an entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and social responsibility. Through this holistic approach, Aoba nurtures both intellectual and personal growth, equipping students with the necessary attributes to thrive academically and socially in an ever-changing world. The academic program is designed to create a vibrant learning community that reflects the complexities and richness of the global landscape, ultimately guiding students to reach their full potential as international citizens dedicated to lifelong learning and inspired to succeed.

Student life at Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS) is vibrant and community-oriented, fostering an environment that cultivates global leaders prepared to take positive action in the world. The school emphasizes holistic educational practices, encouraging students to engage actively with both local and global contexts. Core values such as global leadership, entrepreneurship, effective communication, wise risk-taking, and effective problem-solving are deeply integrated into the daily life of students, shaping their experiences and interactions.

A-JIS offers a rich array of clubs and activities that cater to diverse interests, allowing students to explore their passions. For sports enthusiasts, opportunities abound in swimming and various team sports, promoting teamwork and healthy competition. The extensive music programs provide avenues for creative expression, enabling students to participate in performances that showcase their talents. Additionally, coding clubs and academic enrichment activities in biology and mathematics engage students in STEM learning, inspiring innovation and critical thinking. Throughout the year, students participate in competitions and performances, allowing them to demonstrate their collaborative skills and individual talents.

A notable highlight of student life is the PYP Exhibition, a culminating project for primary students. This event not only allows students to exhibit their learning but also emphasizes how their actions can positively impact the community, reinforcing their roles as responsible citizens. The school community actively collaborates in planning various events that enhance the overall learning experience. These interactive learning activities draw on the diverse backgrounds of the student body, celebrating A-JIS's international community and fostering true international-mindedness.

The school culture at A-JIS is characterized by connection and collaboration, with a strong emphasis on maintaining lifelong ties through the Alumni Association. This initiative encourages past students to stay engaged and inspire future generations, creating a supportive network that enhances the educational environment. Overall, student life at Aoba-Japan International School transcends academic success; it focuses on developing well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world. With innovative teaching methods, students are encouraged to explore their interests and build essential skills for effective communication and problem-solving. As A-JIS prepares to open an additional campus in Kanazawa in August 2026, it continues to expand its commitment to providing quality international education, ensuring that students are not just learners but also active participants in their communities.