Service Learning at Horizon Japan International School: Shaping Global Citizens
Updated: Aug 19
Extending Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Horizon Japan International School, we strive to extend learning beyond the classroom. Our goal is to shape global citizens through Service Action Projects. As part of our mission for lifelong learning, we aim to transform our students into actionable citizens, ready to spearhead change. From the Early Years Program (EYP) onward, students engage in various service opportunities, working alongside local and international experts.
Our approach has evolved from one-time events to long-term projects. This shift fosters perseverance in our students and enacts real change. Below, we highlight some recent Service Action Projects that have excited our HJIS Hawks!
Grade 9 Expedition Week in Vietnam
This April, our Grade 9 students travelled to Vietnam to serve as apprentices. They successfully installed 30 solar-powered lamps throughout a remote village. As part of their Diploma in Global Citizenship, students collaborated with local professionals. They challenged themselves to build infrastructure, connect beyond language barriers, and recognise their privilege.
“I learned that the life in which we live here in Japan is not just normal; it’s a gift, a privilege.” - G9 Student
During their five-day journey, they explored Hanoi and Mai Chau. They indulged in local cuisine, learned traditional rhythmic steps, and tried bamboo weaving. The students reflected on their cultural awareness, ethical maturity, and problem-solving skills after the program.
As they approach their senior high school years, this Vietnam trip remains a testament to their strength and will to grow—both academically and socially.
Head Start in EYP: Onigiri Action Initiative
We take pride in our students engaging in service learning from the Early Years Program (EYP). This past month, our preschool students visited rice fields to plant rice, which they will harvest later. The Onigiri Action initiative is a year-long project aimed at teaching students about rice harvesting through hands-on experiences.
“Our hope is that these early opportunities for service learning nurture empathy and a lifelong sense of gratitude in our youngest learners.”
Our preschoolers are an integral part of our community. We aim to cultivate change-makers, step by step.
Service Committee and Kodomo Shokudo
Our service committee has been actively involved in creating a kid’s café, or “kodomo shokudo” (子ども食堂). This social initiative runs across Japan, providing a safe and welcoming environment for children from all backgrounds to share a meal.
With the support of our Service Supervisor teachers, students prepared a diverse menu. They served yakisoba, kimbap, potato pancakes, onigiri, and brownies, showcasing our multicultural community.
DP Continuum: Annual Toy Drive Project
Service learning continues throughout high school with our Grade 11-12 students.
One of our Grade 11 students recently completed a toy donation drive as part of the Service component of his CAS. He collaborated with NPO Youth for Future (YFF), a non-profit organisation with which our school has a Memorandum of Understanding. This initiative aimed to support children aged 6–18 living in orphanages that YFF works with.
Alignment with HJIS Core Values
Engaging in service projects from EYP through DP offers several key advantages:
Respect: Teaches students to appreciate and welcome diversity.
Understanding: Challenges students to learn beyond the classroom and fosters empathy for others.
Community: Encourages students to work with those outside our school community, making them flexible and global citizens.
Join the Movement
We celebrate our service moments, big and small, with the whole community.
Our HJIS spirit shines through our students’ continuous commitment to service action. These projects embody our HJIS Core Values and set our students up for success in and beyond the classroom.
Want to see the action? Check out our latest reels of the Vietnam trip on our Official Instagram.
Want to get involved? We welcome external collaborators, NPO members, and internship opportunities. Click on "Get involved" to see how you can be part of our projects—or lead a new one!
Ready to join the community? Inquire now to learn more about becoming a student at HJIS
