Location – 1-24 Onocho, Kanagawa Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 221-0055, Japan
Website – http://www.horizon.ac.jp/
Contact – +81 45-624-8717
Introduction
Located on the picturesque waterfront of Yokohama’s central coast, Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) has been a cornerstone of international education since its establishment in 2003. Just a seven-minute walk from the Yokohama Station, HJIS provides a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and state-of-the-art facilities. This article delves into the history, mission, and distinctive attributes of HJIS, highlighting what sets it apart in the landscape of international education in Japan.
History and Vision
HJIS was founded with a vision to offer an exceptional education fostering a deep understanding of the world and empowers students to contribute positively to its transformation. The school’s mission is to prepare students only for academic success but also for lifelong learning, instilling a passion for knowledge and personal achievement. As an IB (International Baccalaureate) World School, HJIS is authorized to offer the PYP (Primary Years Programme), MYP (Middle Years Programme), and DP (Diploma Programme), underscoring its commitment to high-quality, challenging international education.
Infrastructural Facilities
HJIS boasts a recently built campus equipped with state-of-the-art amenities supporting a comprehensive educational experience. The facilities include a professional-sized gymnasium complete with a spacious stage for events, dramas, and stage shows. The entire rooftop is transformed into a playground, offering ample space for outdoor activities, while a large garden adjacent to the Early Learning Center (ELC) classes provides students with direct access to nature. These facilities not only support physical education and extracurricular activities but also enhance the overall learning environment by integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.
Distinguishing Features of the Nursery/Pre-School
One of the key factors that distinguish HJIS’s nursery and pre-school programs is the dedication of its teachers to create a nurturing, inclusive, and bullying-free environment. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach within the IB framework, educators at HJIS foster a love for learning, creativity, and curiosity. Each child is seen as unique, and the curriculum is tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring a personalized educational experience.
The school emphasizes building a strong foundation in English language education and employs a learner-centered, inquiry-based curriculum that adapts to each student’s interests and passions. The integration of state-of-the-art facilities supports a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education that nurtures their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Ensuring a Safe and Nurturing Environment
HJIS places a paramount emphasis on creating a safe and nurturing environment for all students. This is achieved through stringent safety measures, a tailored student support system, and a curriculum designed to promote personal growth and well-being. Regular evacuation drills and an active emergency response team ensure preparedness for unexpected circumstances. The school’s commitment to safety creates a secure space where students can confidently learn and grow.
Unique Teaching Methods and Philosophies
HJIS integrates the IB educational framework with the Reggio Emilia approach, a philosophy viewing children as having strong potential for development and learning through multiple forms of expression. This dual approach promotes cognitive development, personal confidence, and independent thinking. The school’s teaching methods encourage students to explore the world, express themselves, and understand the impact of their choices and actions.
Balancing Technology and Traditional Learning
HJIS strikes a balance between technology and traditional learning methods. The school recognizes the importance of social interactions and hands-on activities for personal and academic development. Technology is integrated primarily for research purposes, enhancing students’ understanding of various subjects. This approach ensures that while students benefit from technological advancements, they also engage in face-to-face communication, collaborative projects, and traditional learning activities.
Incorporating Outdoor Play and Nature-Based Activities
HJIS believes in the power of experiential learning and integrates outdoor play and nature-based activities into its curriculum. The school’s outdoor spaces are designed to facilitate a connection with nature, allowing students to explore, discover, and grow. Weekly activities include water play stations in the backyard gardens, excursions to local parks, community walks, and observational drawings of local monuments. These activities foster a stronger appreciation for the natural environment and enhance the overall learning experience.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are core values at HJIS. The school incorporates diversity education into its curriculum, encouraging students to understand, respect, and appreciate differences among individuals. Various cultural events and activities provide opportunities for students to broaden their perspectives. HJIS continually reviews and improves its practices to uphold its commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community.
Parental Involvement in the Learning Journey
HJIS recognizes the pivotal role parents play in their children’s educational journey. The school encourages open and consistent communication between teachers and parents through regular parent-teacher meetings, updates on the child’s progress, and invitations to school events and activities. Parents actively participate in their child’s learning through class activities, school events, and student-led conferences. This collaborative approach fosters a supportive and nurturing environment that enhances the educational experience.
Special Programs and Extracurricular Activities
HJIS offers a variety of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. The After School Programs (ASPs) are designed to provide quality training in a range of structured activities, balancing academic challenges with opportunities for self-exploration. Past ASPs have included study skills, robotics, soccer, graphic design, 3D design & printing, basketball, volleyball, chess club, Model United Nations, programming, school band, and running club. These programs enrich the students’ educational experience and support their holistic development.
Future Growth and Improvement
Looking ahead, HJIS is committed to continuous improvement and growth. The school plans to refine its curriculum to meet the highest standards of early childhood education, integrating the latest educational research and best practices.Strengthening partnerships with families and the local community through workshops, events, and open houses is a key focus, fostering a sense of community and providing essential support for parents, children, and staff.
HJIS is also dedicated to creating an inclusive environment that caters to the diverse needs of all children, including developing tailored programs for children with special needs and ensuring accessibility throughout the school. Additionally, the school promotes environmental stewardship by incorporating sustainability practices into daily operations and teaching children the importance of caring for the environment.
Conclusion
Horizon Japan International School stands as a beacon of global education in Yokohama, offering a rich, diverse, and nurturing environment for students from preschool through grade 12. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, personal growth, and community involvement, HJIS prepares students to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities, unique teaching philosophies, and emphasis on safety, diversity, and inclusion make it a distinguished institution in the landscape of international education in Japan.