I was just on the Shizuoka Salesio School’s website, and here’s what makes this school stand out. The school emphasizes a strong foundation in the “教えの教え,” or “teachings of Christ,” which guides their educational philosophy. They aim to provide a nurturing environment that cultivates not just academic excellence but also character development. The school is very proud of its reputation for “academic rigor,” which is reflected in their curriculum that integrates the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs across all grades. They are recognized as the first school in Japan to offer a continuous IB education from the kindergarten level through high school.

One of the most exciting developments is the ongoing construction of the “ドン・ボスコハウス” (Don Bosco House), which is designed to provide enhanced facilities for their younger students. This facility will include a childcare area and a playroom for children, constructed with a significant amount of wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The school has shared updates, highlighting how children are engaged and excited as they witness the construction progress, cheering on the workers as they build their new environment.

Shizuoka Salesio also places a significant focus on improving educational accessibility. For instance, starting in the 2025 academic year, private high school tuition will be effectively “無償化” or “free of charge” for families in Shizuoka Prefecture. This policy removes income restrictions, allowing all households to benefit from this financial support, making quality education more attainable. Their commitment to accessibility is further demonstrated through various scholarships and initiatives aimed at supporting families.

Academically, the school adopts a model that emphasizes “4・4・4制,” which refers to their integrated approach of four years each for elementary, middle, and high school. This structure is designed to provide continuity in education and to better prepare students for future challenges, particularly those aspiring to enter top universities. They have formed partnerships with prestigious institutions, such as Sophia University and Nanzan University, which further solidifies their commitment to preparing students for higher education.

The school’s strong track record of university placements, especially in competitive programs such as medicine, reflects their rigorous academic standards. They offer specialized courses like the エグゼコース (EXE Course), aimed at students who are preparing for medical schools and other challenging academic paths, which showcases their dedication to student success in higher education.

Their approach to learning is holistic, integrating both academic pursuits and character development, preparing students to thrive in a global society. They provide a variety of extracurricular activities and emphasize the importance of community service, aligning with their mission to cultivate well-rounded individuals. The sense of community is palpable, as the school invites parents to engage in various activities, fostering a collaborative environment between families and educators.

In summary, Shizuoka Salesio School is a unique institution that blends rigorous academic programs with a nurturing environment grounded in Christian values. Their focus on accessibility, innovative facilities, and a strong partnership with higher education institutions sets them apart as a leader in education in Shizuoka. The buzz surrounding the Don Bosco House and their dedication to both student development and community engagement truly highlights what makes this school special. If you’re looking for a place where your child can grow intellectually and spiritually, this might just be the perfect fit.

Shizuoka Salesio School adopts a comprehensive educational philosophy grounded in the teachings of Christianity, emphasizing a global learning experience right from Shizuoka. Their academic programs span across different school levels, including kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school, all designed to provide a seamless educational journey. They pride themselves on their rigorous curriculum, which prepares students to excel academically while nurturing their personal development. As they describe, the school aims to cultivate young individuals who are capable of thriving in a global society.

The school implements the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, featuring the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for elementary students, the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for middle schoolers, and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) for high school students. This approach not only promotes a robust academic foundation but also encourages exploratory learning and critical thinking. For instance, the PYP focuses on inquiry-based learning, allowing students to engage deeply in their subjects, while the MYP emphasizes connections between disciplines, fostering adaptability and creativity. Meanwhile, the DP prepares students for higher education with an emphasis on research, analysis, and a broad understanding of global issues.

In terms of assessment methods, Shizuoka Salesio School employs various evaluation techniques aligned with the IB standards. These include formative assessments, which provide ongoing feedback, as well as summative assessments that evaluate students' knowledge and skills at the end of units or courses. The school recognizes the importance of qualifications and outcomes, especially as students progress into their high school years, where specialized tracks such as the EXE Course focus on medical and advanced university entrance preparation. This ensures that students not only meet academic benchmarks but are also well-prepared for their future endeavors.

Overall, Shizuoka Salesio School’s educational philosophy champions a holistic approach to learning. They aim to develop well-rounded individuals by fostering a supportive environment where students can grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally. The combination of rigorous academics, exploration, and character development underpins their mission to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world, making them competitive and compassionate members of society.

Here’s what I learned about student life at Shizuoka Salesio School. The school places significant emphasis on holistic development grounded in the teachings of Christianity, aiming to foster capable global citizens. One of their key approaches is a comprehensive education system, which integrates early childhood, elementary, middle, and high school education, allowing for a seamless learning experience. This is further enhanced through their commitment to international education, as they have achieved recognition as the first International Baccalaureate (IB) school in Japan, offering students a global perspective.

The student life at Shizuoka Salesio is vibrant and engaging, characterized by a variety of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests. The school boasts a wide array of clubs and sports teams, including the volleyball club and tennis club, which promote physical fitness and teamwork. Notably, the students participate in various competitions, showcasing their talents and skills in events that foster school spirit and camaraderie. The atmosphere encourages creativity, illustrated by activities such as the summer essay, painting, and calligraphy competitions, where students can express themselves through art.

Additionally, the school organizes numerous events throughout the year to enhance the community spirit. Upcoming events include the “プロジェクションマッピングで秋祭り” (Projection Mapping Autumn Festival) and a Halloween celebration, which provide opportunities for students to engage socially and culturally. The school also focuses on community involvement, encouraging students to participate in various local initiatives. The building of the “Don Bosco House” is an exciting development, aimed at providing a new facility that combines educational and recreational functions for younger students, reinforcing the school's commitment to a nurturing environment.

Lastly, Shizuoka Salesio School emphasizes character development through its academic programs and community commitments. The culture is one of inclusivity and support, where students learn not only academic skills but also values such as respect, compassion, and responsibility. This enriching environment ensures that students not only excel academically but also grow into well-rounded individuals ready to take on the challenges of the future.