Osaka YMCA International School (OYIS)

Osaka YMCA International School (OYIS), founded in 2001, stands as the only International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum school in Osaka City. With a vibrant community of over 300 students from 40 different nationalities, OYIS embraces its mission of fostering an inclusive and international environment. The school offers a seamless educational journey through the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the IB Diploma Programme (DP), all designed to cultivate not only academic excellence but also personal growth and development in a nurturing setting.

At OYIS, the educational philosophy is encapsulated in the slogan “Encounter. Connect. Transform.” This reflects the school’s commitment to providing world-class, inquiry-based lessons delivered by fully qualified and experienced teachers. The focus is on developing each child academically while also preparing them to become responsible, globally-minded individuals. The warm, inclusive atmosphere at OYIS is further enhanced by its accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring a high standard of education that promotes both academic and personal success.

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) is particularly noteworthy, as it emphasizes the holistic growth of students, encouraging them to become internationally-minded individuals equipped with life-relevant, transdisciplinary skills. OYIS nurtures a sense of responsibility towards the global community, helping students from preschool to grade 6 develop into “powerful thinkers” and empathetic classmates. A key component of the PYP curriculum is the major research project undertaken in the final year, allowing students to present their findings to the school community. This project not only builds confidence but also enhances public speaking skills, preparing students for future academic endeavors.

Central to the teaching and learning process at OYIS are the “units of inquiry,” which combine multiple subject areas and promote student ownership of their learning experiences. These transdisciplinary units are guided by six key themes, such as “Where We Are in Place and Time” and “How We Express Ourselves,” which deepen students’ understanding of the world while fostering essential skills like communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared for future learning challenges.

The Early Childhood programme at OYIS is often regarded as the “jewel” of the school, featuring a modern facility designed specifically for preschool and kindergarten students. Utilizing a play-based learning approach, the programme allows young children to explore and discover through creative play, thereby developing essential early literacy and numeracy skills in an engaging environment. The joy of seeing 3 to 6-year-olds learn to coexist and collaborate with one another is a testament to the heartwarming atmosphere that OYIS strives to cultivate.

Academically, OYIS integrates various subjects seamlessly into its curriculum. The English Language Arts program employs a Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop model, which promotes student creativity and independence through individualized lessons. In Mathematics, the focus is on big concepts, encouraging students to explore and create mathematical representations that foster curiosity and independence. The Japanese Language Programme emphasizes inquiry learning and collaboration, helping students enhance their communication skills in a culturally rich context.

In addition to academics, OYIS places a strong emphasis on the arts. The Visual Arts and Music programs encourage creativity and self-expression while connecting students to the world around them. Art lessons are thoughtfully designed to complement the units of inquiry, allowing students to explore various materials and mediums, express their ideas, and forge meaningful connections with their environment.

In summary, Osaka YMCA International School stands out as a premier choice for families seeking an international education rooted in values of inclusivity, academic rigor, and holistic growth. With its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to thrive in a global society, OYIS is dedicated to transforming the educational experience for all its students. Families exploring options for their child’s education will find that OYIS offers a unique and enriching environment that prioritizes both academic achievement and personal development.