Yokohama International School

Founded in 1924, Yokohama International School (YIS) stands as a leading international institution in Japan, distinguished by its commitment to a holistic, student-centered approach that nurtures curiosity and resilience. The school’s mission encourages students to “Live, Learn, and Lead” with purpose, fostering a positive impact within the community. At YIS, education transcends traditional boundaries, emphasizing authentic learning experiences that empower students to engage actively with their environment through challenging expeditions, enriching service projects, and skill-building leadership retreats.

YIS prides itself on its intimate class sizes, which range from 16 to 22 students, ensuring that every learner’s voice is heard and valued. This personalized educational experience promotes inquiry, creativity, and responsibility for one’s own learning. The school’s diverse community enriches the learning environment, comprising students from over 50 nationalities and faculty from 26 countries. YIS actively integrates principles of diversity and inclusion into every aspect of school life, fostering a supportive atmosphere where all members feel valued and successful. Rigorous safeguarding and well-being policies, reinforced by regular staff training in Child Protection, create a nurturing environment conducive to thriving and exploration.

The YIS campus, opened in January 2022, spans an impressive 14,685 square meters and features bright, flexible learning spaces equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to encourage exploration, collaboration, and community. The school adopts the philosophy that “every space is a learning space,” reflecting a commitment to blending global values with the rich host culture of Japan. This commitment is particularly evident in the unique Japanese Culture Program (JCP), where students engage in cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy, deepening their appreciation and understanding of Japanese heritage.

YIS offers a comprehensive curriculum anchored in the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, encompassing the IB Primary Years Programme, IB Middle Years Programme, and IB Diploma Programme. In the Early Learning Center (ELC), children aged 3-5 are nurtured through the Reggio Emilia Approach, fostering curiosity and creativity. The Elementary program focuses on developing globally minded learners through an inquiry-based curriculum, while Middle School students are empowered through technology and service learning opportunities. In High School, students are guided to define their own rigorous learning pathways, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to a global society.

Extracurricular activities are a vital component of the YIS experience, providing students with a spectrum of opportunities to explore interests and develop talents beyond the classroom. From athletics and artistic pursuits to student-led clubs, there are ample avenues for collaboration and personal growth. The school emphasizes service learning, encouraging students to transform empathy into action through hands-on projects and community partnerships, fostering a sense of responsibility towards both local and global challenges.

At YIS, the sense of community is strong, encompassing students, parents, alumni, and staff. The school invites potential families to visit and learn more about its offerings, demonstrating its openness and commitment to collaboration in the educational journey. The supportive parent community actively collaborates to enhance student success, further enriching the holistic experience that YIS provides. Overall, Yokohama International School’s dedication to nurturing a lifelong passion for learning and empowering students to carve their own pathways truly distinguishes it in the realm of international education.