Hawks in Action: Service Projects for Learning Beyond the Classroom
- Jun 1
- 3 min read
What is Service Learning?
At Horizon Japan International School, we strive to extend learning beyond the classroom and shape global citizens through Service Action Projects. As part of our mission for life long learning, we shape our students into actionable citizens, ready to spearhead change. Students are exposed to various service opportunities since EYP, working alongside local to international experts.
Our efforts have transitioned from one-time events to long-term projects, harbouring perseverance in our students and enacting real change. See below for 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, successfully installing 30 solar-powered lamps throughout the remote village. As part of their Diploma in Global Citizenship, students worked alongside local professionals, challenging themselves to build infrastructure, to connect beyond the language barrier, and to recognise their privilege.
Grade 9 students exploring Mai Chau
Hard at work: preparing for installation
“I learned that the life in which we live here in Japan is not just normal; it’s a gift, a privilege.” -G9 Student
Within their 5 day journey, they ventured into the worlds of Hanoi and Mai Chau, exploring local cuisine, traditional rhythmic steps, and bamboo weaving. The students reflected on their cultural awareness, ethical maturity, and problem solving skills after the program.
As they step towards their senior high school years, this Vietnam trip remains a testament to their strength and will to grow - academically and socially.
Head start in EYP: Onigiri Action Initiative
We pride ourselves in our students engaging in service learning from the Early Years Program (EYP).
This past month, our preschool students visited the rice fields to plant rice, which they will harvest later on. A year-long project, the Onigiri Action initiative aims to teach 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 imperative part of our community, and we hope to cultivate change makers step by step.
Service Committee and Kodomo Shokudo
Our service committee took part in making HJIS a kid’s cafe or “kodomo shokudo” (子ども食堂). A social initiative running across Japan, kodomo shokudo provides a safe and welcoming environment for kids of all backgrounds to share a meal.
With the support of our Service Supervisor teachers, students prepared a diverse menu of yakisoba, kimbap, potato pancakes, onigiri, and brownies - showcasing our multicultural community.
DP Continuum: Annual Toy Drive Project
Service learning doesn't stop with our younger students; it 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. Working in collaboration with NPO Youth for Future (YFF), one of the non-profit organisations with which our school has a Memorandum of Understanding, the initiative aimed to support children aged 6–18 living in the orphanages that YFF works with.
Alignment with HJIS Core Values
Getting involved in service projects since EYP through DP offers several key advantages:
Respect: Teaches students to appreciate and welcome diversity.
Understanding: Challenges students to learn beyond the classroom, and foster empathy for others.
Community: Encourages students to work with those outside of 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. An embodiment of our HJIS Core Values, these service projects 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Horizon Japan International School
Is Horizon Japan International School an IB school?
Yes, Horizon is an IB Continuum World School offering PYP, MYP, and DP programmes.
What makes Horizon different from other international schools in Tokyo and Yokohama?
Horizon offers a strong balance of academic excellence, wellbeing support, and a diverse international community.
Is there an English curriculum?
Yes, all core academic instruction is delivered in English.
