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Fall 2025 will be remembered as a season of adrenaline, endurance, and an electric atmosphere at Horizon Japan International School. For two unforgettable Saturdays, our campus transformed into an arena of friendly rivalry. The sound of sneakers squeaking on the gym floor and cheers echoing from the rooftop brought us all together. From the 15-meter dashes of our youngest students to the intense volleyball spikes of our seniors, this year’s sports festivals were a testament to the power of athletics to unite students, parents, and teachers alike. Here is the highlight reel of our 2025 Sports Season. Primary Sports Day: Pure Energy and Determination October 4th, 2025 The season kicked off with the Primary Sports Day , a high-energy event that saw the school divided into the classic Red vs. White rivalry. The day began with the unison of Radio Taiso , preparing our young athletes for a packed schedule of physical challenges. For our Early Years and Primary students, this wasn't just playtime—it was a display of genuine athletic grit. Students showcased their speed in the 15m and 20m Sprints , their agility in the Obstacle Race , and their coordination in the Ball Carry and Egg and Spoon Relays . The excitement reached its peak during the team events. The Bamboo Relay and Big Ball Race required synchronized movement, while the Tug of War tested raw strength. Seeing the students push their limits, cheered on by a roaring crowd of parents and families, created an atmosphere of pure joy and motivation. Key Events Included: Speed: 15m/20m Races, Obstacle Race, Shuttle Relay. Coordination: Scarf Game, Basket Toss, 3-legged Race. Teamwork: Partner Relay, Ball Collect Relay, Group Jump Rope. You can find more photos from the Primary Sports Day here. Secondary Sports Festival: The Battle for the Trophy November 1st, 2025 On the first Saturday of November, the intensity dialed up as the Secondary division took the field. The student body was split into four competitive houses— Nova, Peeko, Rusty, and Ash —turning the gym and rooftop into battlegrounds for points and pride. This was a showcase of versatility. Students had to switch gears quickly, moving from the tactical precision required in Futsal and Volleyball to the rhythm and stamina needed for the Long Jump Rope . The Basketball Shooting contest tested nerves under pressure, while the Obstacle Course Race and Running Relay demanded explosive speed. The Champions The competition remained tight throughout the day, with every team having their moment to shine. However, after the final points were tallied, Team Nova emerged as the 2025 Champions! A huge congratulations to them for their victory. See the Action! Catch the highlights, the goals, and the victories here: Watch the Secondary Sports Festival Video More Than Just a Game: Bonding Through Sport While the medals and trophies are exciting, the true success of these festivals was the incredible bonding that happened through sport. Athletics has a unique way of breaking down barriers, and this year, everyone got involved. Fueling the Team The PTA was the MVP of the sidelines, organizing a "food charge station" in the cafeteria. This didn't just keep our athletes fueled with snacks; it served a greater purpose. All funds raised from the station have been pledged to sponsor our school sports teams, directly investing in the future of athletics at Horizon. The Ultimate Showdown: Parents vs. Staff The Secondary festival concluded with the ultimate test of strength and community spirit. After the students finished their grade-level Tug of War , the parents stepped onto the court to face off against the staff. It was a highlight of the year—a moment where titles were set aside, and the only thing that mattered was pulling together on the rope. It was filled with laughter, friendly heckling, and a shared sense of belonging. You can see more photos from the Secondary Sports Fest here . Go Hawks! Thank you to every runner, jumper, parent-cheerleader, and organizer who made these days possible. We are already looking forward to next year!

September at Horizon Japan International School wasn't just about settling in—it was about taking off! From our youngest learners exploring their artistic talents to our seniors preparing for life beyond graduation, the past month has been packed with meaningful learning, spirited competition, and community building. Here is a comprehensive look at the highlights that defined our September. 🤝 Building Our Community: Nights to Remember We started the month strong by opening our doors for Curriculum Nights . These evenings are the heartbeat of our home-school partnership. Primary & Early Years:  Parents had the chance to step into the shoes of their children, exploring learning spaces and hearing directly from teachers about the year's inquiries. Secondary:  On September 10th, our Secondary families gathered to dive into the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes, setting the stage for a year of rigorous academic growth. The community spirit continued to soar with the launch of the 2025-2026 PTA . We are thrilled to announce that nearly 20 parents attended the first meeting, successfully electing a new Board (Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary) and numerous Class Representatives. Plans are already in the works for Sports Days, Movie Nights, and fundraising initiatives! 🎓 Academic Deep Dives: Inside the Classroom Our students didn't just open textbooks; they engaged with the world around them. In Primary: Early Years:  Our littlest Hawks turned the hallways into a gallery, displaying vibrant "lines" paintings that explored color and form. Grade 1:  Writing became delicious as students tackled their "How To" unit by writing instructions for—and then making!—PB&J sandwiches. Grade 3 & 4:  While Grade 3 began preparations for Sports Day, Grade 4 found inspiration through a session with a visiting artist, sparking their own creativity. Grade 5:  Students learned the power of empathy and initiative during a visit from Emre, an HJIS alumnus and NPO founder, who shared insights on making a difference in the world. In Secondary: Grade 8 Individuals and Societies :   Students investigated the lasting impact of Japan's three great unifiers—Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu—to understand how the past shapes the present. Working collaboratively, they analyzed the accomplishments and setbacks of these historical figures to evaluate their leadership styles and legacies. Grade 10 Math:  Who said math has to stay on paper? Students brought parabolas to life through hands-on activities in the library, visualizing quadratic functions in the real world. Grade 11 Design:   Our Grade 11 students have been working hands-on with mechanical product design, exploring how concepts in physics and design technology can be applied in practical ways. 🚀 Student Life & Wellbeing Beyond academics, September saw the launch of several initiatives designed to support student success and well-being. Breakfast Club:  We introduced a new "Breakfast Club" for Secondary students during Period 0. This initiative provides healthy fruit, a space to organize planners for the week, and a chance to build positive morning routines. Alumni Connections:  We welcomed back Kako (Class of 2024) , who led a powerful session for current Grade 12s. She shared pro-tips on using apps like Structured  for time management and spoke about the importance of consistency and stress management. Extended Library Hours:  To support our seniors, the library is now open until 6:15 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, providing a quiet haven for study and collaboration. CAS Showcase:  Our Secondary students dazzled the community at the Service Fair, presenting their Creativity, Activity, and Service projects. From new clubs to individual initiatives, the leadership on display was inspiring. 🏐 Go Hawks! Sports & Activities The HJIS Hawks  are back in action! Volleyball Victory:  The Girls' Volleyball team started their season with a bang, securing a decisive victory against KAIS. The teamwork and spirit on the court were electrifying. Clubs Galore:  After-School Programs are in full swing. Whether it's the Liverpool Football Academy , Taiko drumming , Robotics , or the student-led Cooking Club  (culinary adventures await!), there is truly something for everyone. 🔜 Looking Ahead As we wrap up an incredible September, we look forward to the Clothing Drive  in October and the upcoming Spirit Week  to celebrate our school pride. Thank you to our teachers, parents, and students for making this first month one for the books. Let's keep the momentum going!

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!

At Horizon Japan International School, the walls may hold our classrooms, but it’s the teachers who hold our hearts. Every day, they open their doors to guide, nurture, and inspire the next generation of lifelong learners . The Silent Heroes in Our Classrooms Ask our students what they remember most, and they rarely mention grades or tests. They talk about the teacher who stayed late to help them understand a problem, who noticed when they were quiet, who celebrated even the smallest victories. “They rarely make headlines, but they shape futures.” These everyday acts of kindness — so small yet so powerful — become memories that last a lifetime. Teaching as a Calling To teach is to believe in tomorrow. At Horizon, our teachers are not only educators; they are mentors, guides, and role models. They foster curiosity, model compassion, and build bridges between cultures in our vibrant international community. - "Every lesson is a chance to change a life." An Invitation to Those Who Feel the Fire As our community grows, we open our doors to new educators who share this calling. If you feel that quiet fire — the passion to inspire and be inspired — we welcome you. Explore current opportunities and join us: View Vacancies → Why Join Horizon? Work within the  International Baccalaureate (IB) framework  across PYP, MYP, and DP. Collaborate in a  diverse, multicultural faculty  with ongoing professional development. Teach in  Yokohama, Japan  — a vibrant, welcoming city blending modern life with rich tradition. Be part of a school community committed to  lifelong learning and holistic education . The Horizon Ahead Our teachers do more than prepare students for exams; they prepare them for life. They nurture confidence, spark creativity, and help every child discover their unique path. And along the way, teachers often discover something profound themselves, that in giving so much, they are transformed too.

ICF2025 Highlight Video On February 22, Horizon Japan International School’s   Yokohama campus came alive with the vibrant colors, flavors, and sounds of cultures from around the world at our annual International Cultural Festival (ICF) . This year’s event was a spectacular celebration of our diverse community, bringing students, parents, staff, and visitors together to experience the richness of different traditions and heritage. A Feast for the Senses: Global Cuisine at ICF 2025 One of the festival’s biggest highlights was the 14 different food booths , each offering authentic flavors from various regions. From savory street food to sweet delicacies, students and guests indulged in a global culinary journey that truly reflected the multicultural spirit of our school. The aroma of spices, freshly baked goods, and sizzling dishes filled the air, making the food booths a must-visit experience for everyone. Showcasing Talent Through Performance The gymnasium became a stage for spectacular performances throughout the day. Professional performers and our students showcased traditional dances, musical performances, and martial arts demonstrations that left the audience in awe. Whether it was the grace of a classical dance, the rhythm of cultural music, or the energy of a modern fusion act, every performance celebrated the beauty of cultural expression. One of our most memorable was the opening act by the NPO International Circus Village. Engaging Workshops & Cultural Booths Beyond the food and performances, visitors had the opportunity to explore cultural booths and workshops spread across the second and third floors . These interactive spaces allowed students to share their heritage through art, history, games, and hands-on activities. From calligraphy and traditional crafts to language lessons and escape rooms, each booth provided a unique and immersive experience, fostering deeper cultural appreciation among attendees. A Community United by Culture The International Cultural Festival is more than just an event—it is a testament to the inclusive and diverse environment at Horizon Japan International School. Every year, we take pride in celebrating the traditions that make our community so special. The enthusiasm, hard work, and dedication of our parents, students and staff made this year’s festival truly unforgettable. Natsu, our PTA member who played a crucial role in planning this year's ICF receives flowers for her hard work! We are looking forward to next year's event! Thank you to everyone who participated, contributed, and attended! We look forward to making next year’s ICF even bigger and better. Until then, let’s continue embracing and celebrating the cultures that bring us together.

This summer, Horizon Japan International School in Yokohama  was buzzing with energy, creativity, and discovery as we welcomed students to our  2025 Summer School Program . From science and sports to storytelling and stage play, every day brought new adventures — all wrapped in Horizon’s signature blend of inquiry, connection, and fun. A Summer of Exploration Our summer program wasn’t just about filling time — it was about filling hearts and minds. Students explored a wide variety of activities that stretched their imagination and encouraged collaboration. Whether it was a drama workshop, a hands-on science experiment, or a group game on the rooftop field, every experience was designed to spark curiosity and build confidence. Learning Through Joy From colorful art projects to high-energy team games, students learned new skills while building strong friendships. Many worked on creative performances, visual storytelling, and STEAM-based challenges — proving that  learning doesn’t stop just because school’s out . The blend of academic enrichment and social interaction created a vibrant environment where every child could shine in their own way. Until Next Time… Last week, we wrapped up our  2025 Summer School  with smiles, memories, and a few tearful goodbyes. We’re incredibly proud of what our students achieved and the growth we witnessed over the past few weeks. To all our Hawks — we wish you a joyful summer break filled with laughter, sunshine, and new discoveries. See you soon! Stay Connected Visit Our Website Explore Admissions Follow us on Instagram Book a Tour or Contact Us

At Horizon Japan International School , we believe learning doesn’t end when the bell rings — and it certainly isn’t limited to students. Our community thrives when families and educators come together to share ideas, experiences, and stories. That’s the heart behind our  Parent-Staff Book Club  — a growing initiative that brings together Horizon parents and staff members for monthly conversations centered on a shared book. Horizon Book Club: A New Space for Parent-Staff Collaboration Launched this term, the  Horizon Book Club  brings together staff and parents for thoughtful conversations on books related to psychology, parenting, and education. This monthly initiative will be hosted in a relaxed, welcoming format and led by Mr. Philip (Primary Dean of Students) and Ms. Elif (Secondary Librarian). By creating this new space for exchange and dialogue, we’re deepening the relationships that strengthen our school community across cultures, grade levels, and family backgrounds. Sign up for the Horizon Book Club A Space to Reflect, Connect, and Grow The club was launched as a way to  bridge school and home , inviting participants to engage in meaningful dialogue about education, culture, parenting, and the world around us. Each session creates a space for thoughtful reflection — not just on the book itself, but on how its themes apply to our lives as caregivers, educators, and lifelong learners. From parenting books to fiction to education-centered titles, the selections reflect the values and diversity of the Horizon community. Most recently, the group explored  Raising Critical Thinkers  by Julie Bogart — a timely and thought-provoking read that led to open discussion on how we support children in becoming independent, reflective thinkers. Truly an International Exchange As an international school in  Yokohama  with families from across  Tokyo ,  Kanagawa , and the world, the book club naturally becomes a space where perspectives intersect. It’s not unusual to hear stories from different countries, teaching styles from various systems, and personal experiences that highlight our diversity — all within a single evening. These moments create bonds. They turn hallway greetings into friendships. They build trust between parents and teachers. And most importantly, they model the very values we seek to instill in our students: open-mindedness, respect, and community. The Parent-Staff Book Club meets monthly at school and is open to any Horizon parent or staff member who would like to read, reflect, and connect. You don’t need to be a fast reader or a literary expert — just someone who’s curious and willing to share. If you’re interested in joining the next session, reach out to your child’s homeroom teacher or keep an eye out in the Horizon newsletter for the next book and meeting date. Stay Connected Visit Our Website Explore Admissions Follow us on Instagram Volunteer or Learn More About ICF 2025

At Horizon Japan International School , located in  Yokohama, Kanagawa , just outside central Tokyo, the second term began with energy, engagement, and connection. Students across all grade levels participated in hands-on learning, meaningful celebrations, and new community initiatives. From global culture to collaborative sports, the past few weeks have been a powerful reminder of how Horizon’s international curriculum is brought to life through experience. Here are three standout highlights from this term. International Cultural Festival (ICF 2025): A Celebration of Diversity As one of the most anticipated events of the year, the  International Cultural Festival (ICF)  showcases what makes Horizon truly unique as an  international school in Yokohama . Representing more than 40 nationalities, students and families will gather next month for a vibrant event filled with performances, global cuisine, workshops, and cultural experiences. Organized with the help of the PTA and our broader parent community, this year’s ICF promises to be the most expansive to date, featuring student talent and hands-on engagement across the entire campus. ICF 2025 is open to the public, and we invite all families in Kanagawa and Tokyo to join us. Learn more about ICF 2025 Horizon Book Club: A New Space for Parent-Staff Collaboration Launched this term, the  Horizon Book Club  brings together staff and parents for thoughtful conversations on books related to psychology, parenting, and education. This monthly initiative will be hosted in a relaxed, welcoming format and led by Mr. Philip (Primary Dean of Students) and Ms. Elif (Secondary Librarian). By creating this new space for exchange and dialogue, we’re deepening the relationships that strengthen our school community across cultures, grade levels, and family backgrounds. Sign up for the Horizon Book Club Sports, Spirit & Teamwork: Horizon on the Move Physical education and teamwork have taken center stage this term at Horizon. We began with our  first-ever Parent/Staff/Alumni Sports Event , which brought together current and former members of the Horizon community for an exciting volleyball match and more. It was a joyful and energetic event that demonstrated the power of collaboration and school spirit. Elsewhere on the court, our  Girls’ Basketball Team  earned a decisive victory against NEW International School with a final score of 39–22. In PHE,  Grade 8 students  took part in strategic  tag rugby drills , and  Grade 10 students  visited Nihon University College of Sports Sciences in Setagaya for a hands-on field trip exploring advanced sports science techniques. These experiences remind us that learning happens everywhere—and that the Horizon community continues to grow through action, movement, and shared success. A Message from the Head of School “These past weeks have been full of meaningful learning, joyful connection, and renewed enthusiasm across all areas of school life. Thank you for supporting these opportunities and for being such a vital part of Horizon.”– Mehmet Deniz, Head of School Why These Events Matter At Horizon Japan International School, we believe in education that goes beyond the classroom. Our programs are designed to develop curious, compassionate learners who are equipped to lead in a global world—whether they’re collaborating in a science lab, reading together in a book club, or sharing food at an international festival. As one of the leading international schools in  Yokohama, Tokyo, and greater Kanagawa , we’re proud to continue offering experiences that shape the whole child. Stay Connected Visit Our Website Explore Admissions Follow us on Instagram Volunteer or Learn More About ICF 2025

At Horizon Japan International School , education is not merely the transfer of knowledge. It’s the  awakening of possibility . In February, we witnessed something powerful. Not just lessons or programs, but  moments of transformation . Across our  Yokohama  campus, students took the stage in classrooms, auditoriums, and even the hallways to express their voice, honor their heritage, and step confidently into the world they’re preparing to lead. Here’s what we saw. And what it taught us. “When a child tells a story, they’re not just reading. But they’re remembering who they are. ” During  World Read Aloud Day , our students weren’t just listening to stories. They were being invited into new worlds. Authors like  Lois Lowry ,  Phaea Crede , and others didn’t just speak. They ignited something. For a moment, screens disappeared, and what remained was a human truth:  Stories connect us . Across both Primary and Secondary, students explored the power of language to inspire, provoke, and heal. It reminded us that literacy isn’t just about books alone, it’s about  belonging, curiosity, and courage . “Speak your truth, even if your voice shakes.” This month, our  Grade 10 students  stood tall, presenting their  MYP Personal Projects , the culmination of months of research, reflection, and risk-taking. From global issues to deeply personal themes, their work revealed not just knowledge, but  purpose . Meanwhile, students in Grades 6–12 began preparing for  TEDxYouth@HJIS 2025 , a stage where ideas are not just shared, but shaped into movements. Some will speak . Others will volunteer. All will grow. Because here at Horizon, we believe that  when young people speak , the world should listen. “The culture you carry is the map of your soul.” Kindergarteners marched through our halls carrying a dragon handcrafted and full of symbolism as part of our annual  Chinese New Year celebration . They danced. They laughed. They unknowingly honored centuries of tradition. Elsewhere, students experienced  Setsubun , shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” as they scattered soybeans and cast out bad luck. And in Grade 1, parents joined classrooms to teach paper cutting and share stories from their own Lunar New Year traditions. In these moments, we saw more than festive learning, we saw the  heartbeat of Horizon : a school where culture is not simply acknowledged, but  lived . A Message from the Head of School “At Horizon, we believe that education is most powerful when it connects learning with purpose. The events highlighted this month, from student-led projects and global storytelling to cultural celebrations, remind us that our students are not just preparing for the world, they are already shaping it. Thank you to our parents, staff, and students for continuing to build a school culture rooted in curiosity, respect, and community.” - Mehmet Deniz, Head of School Why These Events Matter At Horizon Japan International School , we are committed to nurturing well-rounded, internationally minded learners. Events like World Read Aloud Day, TEDxYouth@HJIS , and multicultural celebrations enrich our curriculum and align with our belief that education should prepare students to lead with empathy, creativity, and global awareness. Whether they are writing a speech, presenting a project, or celebrating new year traditions, Horizon students are actively building the knowledge, confidence, and cultural fluency they will carry for life. Stay Connected Visit Our Website Explore Admissions Follow us on Instagram Volunteer or Learn More About ICF 2025

And the winner is... Our Sports Day was a great success! Originally scheduled for October 5th, we had to postpone due to rain, but October 26th brought us just the weather we needed—cloudy but dry. Students showed incredible energy and team spirit as they participated in a range of activities, from the typhoon relay and sprint relays to the ever-popular tug of war. Parents and staff even joined in for a friendly tug of war competition, making it a day filled with fun and community spirit. Congratulations to the red team (Foxes) who won the overall event and a big thank you to everyone who came out to make Sports Day such a memorable event! PTA FOOD BOOTH A big thank you to our wonderful PTA, who wrapped up Sports Day with a fantastic food booth! After the event, families and friends enjoyed delicious treats, including hot dogs, popcorn, chips, and scones, with refreshing water and tea available on the rooftop. All proceeds from these sales will go toward supporting PTA initiatives for our school throughout the year. We’re grateful to our PTA for their hard work and dedication to making this day even more enjoyable!

Happy New Year from Horizon Japan International School! As we step into 2025, the entire HJIS community is buzzing with excitement and purpose. After a well-deserved winter break, students, staff, and families have returned refreshed and ready to embrace the adventures, opportunities, and goals that lie ahead. January is a time for renewal, a chance to reflect, establish new goals, and prepare for a meaningful period. At HJIS, we are committed to cultivating excellence in all areas of learning, and this year promises to be filled with academic breakthroughs, character development, and unforgettable milestones. Over the break, our Grade 12 students engaged in focused study camps designed to strengthen their preparation for exams, university admissions, and their final semester. These camps not only provided academic guidance but also supported students’ mental resilience and goal-setting strategies. We aim to make this initiative a cherished annual tradition at HJIS. We're excited to welcome the new families who have become part of our vibrant international community this year. Through orientation sessions, classroom integration, and peer mentoring, HJIS ensures a smooth transition that fosters connection and belonging from day one. This year, our collective vision is based on connection, creativity, and ongoing growth. We’re grateful to every parent and guardian for their unwavering trust and partnership. Your involvement strengthens our mission to create meaningful, student-centered learning experiences that inspire success in and beyond the classroom. Together, let’s make 2025 a truly memorable year at Horizon — filled with new milestones, deeper relationships, and a vibrant global learning environment. Explore More: View Academic Programs Check the School Calendar Learn About Our Admissions Contact Horizon Japan International School

At Horizon Japan International School, we believe that every child is a unique and capable learner. Guided by our mission to cultivate  lifelong learners , our Early Years Programme (EYP) lays the foundation for a future of inquiry, creativity, and global citizenship. In these formative years, we don’t just teach, we inspire discovery, encourage curiosity, and foster a deep sense of community within a safe, nurturing environment. Childhood Education Strategies Learning Through Play and Inquiry Our youngest Hawks are naturally curious and we embrace that. Using a play-based, inquiry-driven approach rooted in the IB Early Years Programme, we encourage children to explore, question, and engage with their environment. Whether they’re building with blocks or role-playing with peers, students are developing critical thinking skills and laying the groundwork for lifelong learning. Actionable Tip : At home, create opportunities for free play. Offer sensory materials, open-ended toys, and art supplies that encourage children to imagine, create, and explore. Language as a Bridge to the World Language development is central to success both in and beyond the classroom. At HJIS, we nurture effective communication by embedding storytelling, song, and conversation into daily routines. We also celebrate linguistic diversity and support children as they grow in both English and their mother tongue. Insight : Research shows that children who are regularly read to in early years develop a richer vocabulary and stronger comprehension. Daily reading, at school and at home, is a key part of our EYP culture. Statistics: Studies indicate that children who are read to regularly have a richer vocabulary and better comprehension skills than those who are not. Social-Emotional Learning: Building Community From the Start Emotional literacy is as important as academic readiness. Our Early Years educators guide students in building empathy, resilience, and self-awareness through structured social-emotional learning. Group activities, circle time, and peer collaboration help children navigate relationships and express their feelings confidently. Actionable Tip : Encourage your child to describe how they feel and why. This builds emotional vocabulary and strengthens the connection between home and school. Curiosity That Reaches Beyond the Classroom HJIS students are encouraged to ask, “Why?” and “What if?” Whether it's during nature walks, science explorations, or art provocations, we nurture their sense of wonder. Our classrooms are designed to reflect the world around us—colorful, inspiring, and full of hands-on learning opportunities. Try This at Home : Set up a “discovery corner” with found objects like shells, leaves, or rocks. Invite your child to share what they see, feel, and wonder. Educators Who Guide With Heart and Expertise Our team of skilled educators knows that learning begins with connection. At Horizon, small teaching groups allow us to meet the individual needs of each child. Teachers act as facilitators, observers, and nurturers, helping students find meaning in their experiences while developing confidence and independence. Example: Nature walks are a splendid way to stimulate curiosity. Taking children outside to observe plants, animals, and the environment encourages them to ask questions and explore. An inviting natural playground encouraging exploration and creativity. Horizon’s Philosophy in Action At Horizon Japan International School, we don’t simply teach early education—we  live  it. Every moment in the EYP is intentionally crafted to reflect our core values:  Community, Respect, and Understanding . We believe that young children thrive in a setting that celebrates their individuality while preparing them to be compassionate, creative global citizens. From the first day they enter our classrooms, our students are part of something bigger: a vibrant, multicultural school in the heart of Yokohama that is proud to be “ A Community of Lifelong Learners .” Join Summer School!