A New Chapter Begins: Welcome to the 2025-2026 Academic Year at HJIS

We have just wrapped up our first week of school, and what an incredible start it has been! From our youngest learners in the Early Years Program (EYP) to our Diploma Programme (DP) seniors, the hallways are once again buzzing with energy, laughter, and a whole lot of "nice to see yous."

Whether you are a returning family or one of the many new faces we welcomed this week, we are thrilled to have you as part of the Horizon Japan International School community. The vibe on campus has been nothing short of electric.

A Note from Head of School

Our Head of School, Mr. Mehmet Deniz, shared a message reflecting on the smooth start to the year. One of the biggest highlights? bringing everyone together again.

"Watching students and staff come together in one space again, sharing in the spirit of learning, empathy, and togetherness, reminded me of the strength of our community bonds." 

He also emphasized the fresh energy in the classrooms and thanked our admin team for a seamless orientation week that prepared our staff to hit the ground running.

Hitting the Ground Running: Classroom Highlights

We didn't waste any time diving into learning! Here is a snapshot of what our students have been up to in just the first few days:

Primary Action: Our Grade 2 students had a blast in their first PHE class with Mr. Watanabe, our new Primary PHE teacher. The gym was filled with laughter as they focused on teamwork and movement.  Meanwhile, Grade 4A discussed the "Power of Communication" with Mr. R, exploring how body language and tone shape our interactions.

• Real-World Connections: In Secondary, Grade 7 kicked off their UNIQLO "Fuko no Chikara" project. They joined an online session with UNIQLO staff to learn about refugee issues, setting the stage for a semester of meaningful service learning.

• Creative Arts: Grade 8 Media students jumped right into film techniques with Mr. Aidan, analyzing editing choices like jump cuts, while our Early Years students explored rhythm and role-play in drama class with Ms. Shermaine.

Get Involved: What’s Happening Now

The school year moves fast! Here are the key dates and opportunities you need to know about right now:

1. After-School Programs (ASPs) are Open! Registration is officially open (as of August 21) for our Semester 1 ASPs. We have over 50 programs available this term, from Liverpool Football Academy and Taiko to Minecraft and Robotics.

• Registration Closes: Thursday, August 28 at 18:00

  Programs Start: Monday, September 8

2. Parent Wellbeing Orientation: Tomorrow! Join us Saturday, August 23 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) for a session on "Positive Self-Talk" with Dr. Richard Tighe and Dr. Hitomi Nakamura. It’s happening in the Secondary Library and via Zoom.

3. Calling All Volleyball Players The Hawks Volleyball season is starting! Tryouts are next week:

• Boys: Monday (8/25) & Thursday (8/28)

• Girls: Tuesday (8/26) & Friday (8/28)

• Time: 3:30 PM in the Gymnasium

Join the PTA

We are also looking for parents to join the 2025-2026 PTA. Whether as a Board member or a Class Representative, it’s a fantastic way to support the school and foster relationships within our community. You can use this link to sign up

Here is to a year of growth, empathy, and success. Let’s keep this momentum going!

Go Hawks!