I was just on Camelot International School’s website, and here’s what makes this school different. Founded in 2014 and located in Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Camelot International School has developed a unique educational philosophy that emphasizes a “nurturing environment” for its students. They truly believe that “learning can only be fostered from a sense of mutual respect, guidance, and direction,” which is reflected in the way they structure their programs and support their students. With just 88 students and over 15 dedicated teachers and staff, they aim to create a close-knit community where each child can thrive academically and personally.

At Camelot, they prioritize building foundational knowledge and skills from an early age, following the Cambridge Primary Curriculum for Grades 1 to 5. They specifically use the Singapore Math Curriculum to foster advanced mathematical skills, which helps students develop strong cognitive abilities early on. The school emphasizes the importance of instilling “positive learning habits and routines” that will not only prepare students for secondary school but also encourage lifelong learning. They aim to create students who are not merely academically proficient but also possess “a kind and thoughtful heart” – a balance they value deeply.

As students transition into the Lower Secondary division (Grades 6 to 8), Camelot continues to uphold its values by providing an affordable yet friendly environment that meets the unique needs and goals of each student. The curriculum during these years focuses on essential skills within an international framework, with English as the medium of instruction across all subjects. Students in this division continue with the Singapore Math Curriculum, which sets a solid foundation for those preparing for the extended IGCSE Mathematics curriculum. The school prides itself on allowing students to explore their individual strengths and interests, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and participation.

In September 2019, Camelot introduced the Cambridge IGCSE Programme, followed by the GCE A-Level Programme in September 2021. This progressive approach has led to their first graduating class entering university in June 2023, with the second class set to graduate in June 2025. They emphasize that students should possess a functional level of English and be willing to respect the learning environment, which plays a crucial role in maintaining their high standards. The website notes that the transition from primary to secondary and beyond is not guaranteed solely by enrollment; the school regularly assesses students to ensure they are meeting academic expectations.

The facilities at Camelot International School are designed to support their educational programs effectively, showing their commitment to providing a comprehensive learning experience. With a focus on both academic rigor and personal development, they believe that the transformative learning experiences provided will help students grow in and out of the classroom. The school also encourages parents to schedule visits and engage with the community, reinforcing their belief in the importance of parental involvement in education.

For those considering applying, the school has a clear application process. They accept students who are foreign nationals or Japanese returnees from English-speaking countries, as long as they demonstrate a sufficient level of English language proficiency. The application periods and requirements are well laid out, showcasing the school’s organization and dedication to finding students who will thrive in their environment.

Overall, Camelot International School appears to be a place where individual student needs are respected and nurtured, and where a solid academic foundation is built alongside personal character development. They strive to prepare students not just for academic success, but for making a positive impact on the world, all while providing a safe and welcoming environment. Their approach, commitment to the Cambridge Curriculum, and dedication to fostering thoughtful, independent individuals clearly sets them apart in the competitive landscape of international education in Tokyo.

Camelot International School, founded in 2014 and located in Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, offers a transformative learning experience that prioritizes the individual wants and needs of each student. The school’s educational philosophy is built on mutual respect, guidance, and direction, fostering both academic and personal growth. Camelot is committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also thoughtful and kind-hearted members of society.

The Primary School program at Camelot serves students from Grade 1 to Grade 5 and follows the Cambridge Primary Curriculum. This curriculum emphasizes building foundational knowledge and skills early on, promoting positive learning habits that prepare students for their secondary education. A distinctive feature of the program is the implementation of the Singapore Math Curriculum for mathematics, which is designed to cultivate advanced mathematical skills from a young age. The school encourages participation and collaboration among students, emphasizing the importance of both academic and personal development to create balanced individuals who excel in multiple facets of their lives.

In the Lower Secondary School, catering to students in Grades 6 to 8, Camelot continues to uphold its core principles by providing a safe and welcoming learning environment. The curriculum is structured around the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme, which allows for individual choices and recognizes students' strengths. The Singapore Math Curriculum remains in place during these years, ensuring students develop a robust foundation in mathematics that prepares them for the more challenging IGCSE Mathematics curriculum. Camelot places a strong emphasis on essential skills necessary for a successful international educational experience, with English serving as the primary language of instruction across all subjects.

The Upper Secondary School at Camelot introduced the Cambridge IGCSE Programme in September 2019, followed by the GCE A-Level Programme in September 2021. Students in Upper Secondary engage with a wide array of subjects, strictly adhering to the Cambridge Curriculum, which is designed to lead to official qualifications. The school has meticulously structured its program to ensure a smooth progression from Primary to Lower Secondary, then from Lower Secondary to IGCSE, and from IGCSE to A-Level. It is essential to note that while this progression is designed to be seamless, it is contingent upon meeting academic expectations. Camelot International School emphasizes a rigorous educational framework that supports individual strengths and addresses the diverse needs of its students, all within a respectful and nurturing learning environment.

Here’s what I learned about student life at Camelot International School. The school prides itself on creating transformative learning experiences that support both academic and personal development. They emphasize mutual respect, guidance, and a nurturing environment where each student feels valued and encouraged. The culture at Camelot is built on the belief that learning flourishes when students are respected as individuals with unique wants and needs. Their approach is not just about academic excellence but also about cultivating students who are thoughtful and kind-hearted.

Camelot offers a rich variety of programs and clubs designed to enhance student life beyond the classroom. From Grades 1 to 5, the school adheres to the Cambridge Primary Curriculum, focusing on foundational knowledge and skills, particularly through the Singapore Math Curriculum, which aims to develop advanced mathematical skills from a young age. As students transition into the lower secondary division, they continue following the Singapore Math Curriculum along with the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme, which allows them to explore their individual strengths. The school ensures that students are well-prepared for the IGCSE Mathematics curriculum, further reinforcing their educational foundation.

In addition to core academics, Camelot International School also places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities. Students are encouraged to participate in teaching, music, biology, chemistry, and mathematics clubs, promoting collaboration and fostering a sense of community. The school’s activities are designed to provide opportunities for students to engage deeply in their interests while developing social skills. The atmosphere is one where creativity and teamwork are highly valued, with students participating in various competitions and performances that enhance their learning experience. Camelot's commitment to student growth is further exemplified through school trips and events, which enrich their educational journey and provide real-world experiences. Overall, the culture at Camelot International School is one of support, encouragement, and dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared to make a positive impact on the world.