Service Learning

What Service Means at HJIS

Service is the act of meeting a genuine community need in a way that fosters respect, empathy, and collaboration. Through service experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves, strengthen their connection to others, and develop the skills and mindset needed to become global citizens who lead positive change.

Action at Primary Years Program (PYP)

In the PYP, students engage in meaningful action that responds to authentic needs within the community. They are encouraged to act with empathy, respect, and responsibility. Through their units of inquiry, students explore sustainable solutions and learn how to problem-solve challenges in their local communities. These experiences help them see their capacity to make a real impact on the world.

Service as Action at the Middle Years Program (MYP)

In the MYP, students engage in Service as Action by using their subject knowledge to address genuine needs in real-world contexts. They are encouraged to think critically, act with empathy, and take responsibility for the impact of their choices. Through interdisciplinary learning and sustained inquiry, students explore complex global and local issues. These experiences empower MYP learners to become active, principled participants in their communities and beyond.

CAS at Diploma Program (DP)

Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) is central to student growth at HJIS.

CAS at HJIS is built on student initiative. Students design and lead their own projects, collaborate with peers, and transform ideas into action.

Our service philosophy emphasizes authentic, sustained, and community-focused engagement whether through tutoring, leading clubs, hosting MUN conferences, or supporting local organizations.

CAS develops reflective, resilient, and internationally minded individuals who serve with purpose.

PYP Service Projects

Service Learning at Horizon Japan international school

Preschool: Rice Harvest Project

As part of their inquiry into gratitude and community, preschoolers harvested the rice they planted last May. This hands-on experience strengthened their appreciation for nature and food.

The harvested rice will:

Support the Onigiri Action Campaign, providing meals for children in need.
Be donated to Kodomo Kitchen, a local food bank HJIS partners with.
Complement the school-wide Food Drive, where students contributed additional items.

Through these experiences, students are developing the IB Learner Profile attributes of Caring, Reflective, and Principled, while enhancing their social and communication skills. These early opportunities nurture empathy and a lifelong sense of gratitude in our youngest learners.

MYP Service Highlights

Literacy Club

Our club’s goal is to promote literacy in all its forms, whether that is classic literacy in the form of reading, or other diverse forms like media, or scientific literacy. We strive to make an impact on our community, hoping to bring awareness of the diversity literacy holds. Starting small from events like Literacy Week, to larger-scaled events that expand our reach beyond this community. Our club works to create an environment where literacy is not overlooked, but is accessible and enjoyable in all its varied forms. Knowledge comes diversely, and we make the most of that opportunity!

CAS Project Highlights

Student-Led In-School MUN Conference

Our DP students are hosting a two-day Model United Nations conference for HJIS and partner schools. Their work supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

The event includes:

A two-day conference
60+ participants
Representation from three or more external schools
Five student-led training sessions

Students are building leadership, teamwork, communication, and research skills while engaging deeply with global issues such as human rights, education, and child protection.