VISUAL ARTS & DESIGN
Welcome to Horizon Japan International School, where creativity is a part of everyday learning — from early exploration in the arts to advanced work in performance, design, and creative technology.
IB Continuum | Yokohama | Visual Arts, Music, Design & Creative Technology
A Continuous Journey in the Arts
Visual, performing, and digital arts across curriculum and co-curricular learning
VISUAL ARTS
Students explore materials, techniques, and ideas through drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and hands-on making, developing both technical skill and personal expression.
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Drawing, painting, and mixed media
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Sculpture and material exploration
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Arts and crafts
Digital art and visual storytelling
Exhibition-based presentation of work
Performance
Students develop confidence in expression through music, drama, movement, and collaborative performance, both in class and through school showcases. Horizon’s materials already describe choirs, ensembles, instrumental classes, drama, and movement-based work as central parts of student life.
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Music exploration and ensemble work
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Instrumental learning
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Drama and performance-based activities
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Choir, band, and group performance
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Collaborative performances and showcases
DIGITAL DESIGN
Students engage with contemporary forms of creativity that combine storytelling, design, technology, and problem solving. Horizon’s current public offering already supports robotics, graphics design, programming, and 3D Design & Printing, and the campus includes both design labs and a robotics lab.
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Digital storytelling and media-making
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Photography, animation, and visual media
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Robotics and coding
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3D design and 3D printing
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Design thinking and project-based exploration
IB & Creative Pathways
Creative learning continues across the IB continuum and is strengthened through after-school programmes, student-led initiatives, and independent work.
HJIS's public materials note more than 50 ASPs, with over 300 student enrolments, including Robotics, Graphics Design and many more.
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Creative learning across PYP, MYP, and DP
Portfolio-based artistic development
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Student-led projects and CAS-linked initiatives
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Preparation for future creative study
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After-school opportunities in arts and design
Creativity as a Way of Learning
Creativity is part of everyday learning at Horizon Japan International School. Rather than being confined to one subject or classroom, it helps students learn to observe, experiment, solve problems, and express ideas with confidence. Through visual arts, music, performance, design, digital media, robotics, and hands-on making, students develop both technical skills and a strong sense of personal expression.
As an IB Continuum international school in Yokohama, Horizon supports creativity across every stage of learning. From early exploration in the Primary Years Programme to more advanced work in the Middle School and High School Programmes, students are encouraged to create, reflect, collaborate, and share their work in meaningful ways.
This approach offers more than isolated arts classes. It allows students to grow through making, performing, designing, and presenting — building confidence, independence, and creative thinking that support both academic success and future pathways.
Arts Across the IB Continuum
PYP – Preschool to Grade 5
Early Exploration & Creative Confidence
In the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the arts are introduced through exploration, play, and inquiry.
Students are encouraged to experiment with materials, sounds, and movement — building confidence in expressing ideas.
Focus areas:
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Creative play and imagination
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Introduction to visual arts and music
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Expression through storytelling and movement
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Developing curiosity and confidence
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drawing and painting
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music and rhythm
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arts and crafts
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storytelling through creative activities
MYP - Middle School
Grades 6 to 10
Developing Skills and Personal Expression
In the Middle Years Programme (MYP), students begin to refine their artistic skills and develop a deeper understanding of creative processes.
They are encouraged to connect their work to real-world contexts and explore their individual style.
Focus areas:
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Technical development in visual and performing arts
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Introduction to media and design
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Interdisciplinary creative projects
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Reflection and critical thinking
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robotics and digital creation
DP - High School
Grades 11-12
Independent Practice and Formal Exhibition
In the Diploma Programme (DP), students engage in advanced artistic exploration and present their work through formal exhibitions and performances.
These experiences reflect a high level of independence, conceptual thinking, and personal voice.
Focus areas:
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IB Visual Arts Exhibition (culminating project)
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Portfolio development and curation
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Independent artistic direction
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Public presentation and critique
Spaces for Creative Work
Creative work at Horizon is supported by dedicated spaces that allow students to make, perform, experiment, and collaborate. These include the Art Room, Music Room, Design Labs, Robotics Lab, and hands-on tools such as the 3D printer that support learning across arts and creative technology. Horizon’s virtual tour publicly lists all of these spaces, including the Art Room, Music Room, Robotics Lab, Design Lab 1, and Design Lab 2.
Exhibitions & Showcases
Throughout the year, students share their work through exhibitions, performances, and collaborative showcases. These moments are an important part of the learning process, giving students the opportunity to present, reflect, and grow.
Exibition for all ages
At Horizon Japan International School, creativity is an integral part of everyday learning. Rather than being confined to a single, it empowers students to observe, experiment, and express their ideas confidently. With a diverse range of activities in visual arts, music, performance, design, digital media, and, students cultivate technical skills and personal expression.
As an IB Continuum international school in Yokohama, we support creativity at every stage, encouraging collaboration and meaningful sharing of their work, fostering confidence and innovative for academic and future success.
About Me.
2015-2017
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2011-2014
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2007-2010
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MUSIC
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Frequently Asked Questions.
As you move through the admissions process, you may have questions. Here we’ve answered the most common ones to help make your experience with Horizon Japan International School clear, smooth, and reassuring.
1. How can I apply to an international school in Yokohama?
Applying to an international school in Yokohama can feel like a big step, but at Horizon Japan International School (HJIS), the process is designed to be clear and supportive for every family.
Most families begin by contacting the admissions team or booking a school tour, where you can learn more about the school’s approach, curriculum, and community. After this, you will be guided through completing an online application form and submitting the required documents, such as school reports and identification.
Depending on your child’s age, they may be invited to take part in an assessment or informal interview. This helps ensure that each student is placed in an environment where they can succeed and feel confident.
Once all steps are completed, the school will share an admissions decision and support you through the next stages of enrollment.
At Horizon Japan International School, the goal is to make the application process as smooth and welcoming as possible for families moving to or living in Yokohama.
2. What is the admissions process for Horizon Japan International School?
At Horizon Japan International School (HJIS), the admissions process is designed to be clear, personal, and supportive for families at every stage.
Rather than focusing only on procedures, the admissions journey is centered on understanding each child as an individual—their background, strengths, and needs. From your first inquiry, the admissions team works closely with you to answer questions, explain expectations, and guide you through each requirement.
Families are encouraged to connect early, whether through a campus visit or an online meeting, to get a genuine sense of the school community. Throughout the process, communication is open and responsive, ensuring that parents feel informed and confident in their decisions.
Because HJIS is an IB Continuum World School serving students from early learning through high school, the admissions approach is designed to support smooth transitions at any age or entry point.
The goal is not only to complete an application, but to help each family feel welcomed, prepared, and confident about joining the Horizon community.
3. What documents are required to apply to an international school in Japan?
When applying to an international school in Japan, including Horizon Japan International School (HJIS), families are asked to prepare a few key documents.
These typically include:
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A completed application form
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Your child’s passport or identification (Japanese Residence Card or Japanese Passport required)
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Recent school reports or transcripts
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Teacher recommendations (for older students)
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Relevant health or immunization records
In some cases, additional information—such as English language background or learning support details—may be requested to ensure the best possible support for your child.
The HJIS admissions team will guide you through each step and ensure the process is clear and straightforward.
4. How long does the international school admissions process take in Yokohama?
The admissions process for international schools in Yokohama usually takes around two to six weeks, and Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) aims to keep this process as efficient and smooth as possible.
Once your application and documents have been submitted, the school will review everything and arrange any necessary assessments or meetings. For younger children, this stage is often quicker, while older students may require additional evaluation.
HJIS offers rolling admissions, which means families can apply throughout the year depending on availability in each grade level.
To help the process move quickly, it is recommended to submit all documents early and stay in touch with the admissions team. They are there to support you and answer any questions along the way.
5. What curriculum does HJIS follow?
Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) is an IB Continuum World School, offering internationally recognized programmes from early learning through high school.
The IB curriculum focuses on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and global perspectives to prepare students for future academic pathways.
8. Are there after-school activities available for students?
Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) in Yokohama offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and enrichment programmes. These activities are designed to support students’ personal development, interests, and social growth beyond the classroom, and are available across different age groups.
6. What language is used for teaching at HJIS?
English is the primary language of instruction at Horizon Japan International School (HJIS). Students develop strong English communication skills within a diverse and international environment.
Japanese is supported across all grade levels, with instruction tailored to each student’s ability. In secondary school, students also have the opportunity to study Spanish as part of the curriculum.
9. Is transportation available for students at Horizon Japan International School?
Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) in Yokohama provides school transportation options for families in Yokohama and surrounding areas.
Routes and availability may vary, so families are encouraged to contact the admissions team for details.
7. Does HJIS offer support for students new to English?
Students who are developing their English are supported through structured programmes at Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) in Yokohama. This includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, helping students build confidence and access the curriculum effectively.
In addition, HJIS provides broader learning support tailored to individual needs.
10. What kind of school community can families expect at Horizon?
The community at Horizon Japan International School in Yokohama is diverse, welcoming, and internationally minded. Students and families from many cultural backgrounds come together, creating an environment where everyone feels supported and encouraged to grow.
