Education is very important in Japan. While Japanese schools, both primary and secondary schools, have much in common with Western schools, some aspects may surprise visitors. Japan has helped shape its youth into a safe and harmonious society through its unique education system.
Everyone had the same lunch that the students served
Students are expected to serve food to their classmates while wearing white masks, dresses and bandanas from the school lunch area. Students clean and return food containers in the afternoon under the supervision of the teacher. Traditionally in Japan, students are taught to eat the same type of food (regardless of their preferences) and finish it within a set time.
Students and teachers eat together in class
Tables and chairs in the best schools in Tokyo and especially in secondary schools are arranged in such a way that teachers and students eat lunch together. Except in some elementary schools, there are no cafes or dining rooms.
Students and teachers also work during school holidays
Junior high school students become members of their club and the teacher directs them; Therefore, sports activities and exercises will continue throughout the holiday. In addition, students are expected to study and complete their homework during the summer holidays.
There are no janitors
The Japanese school system does not rely on janitors for cleanliness. Instead, students clean their campuses, including the toilets. Souji, or daily cleaning, is part of everyday school life at every international school in Japan. Cleaning involves the vice principal and principal, students, teachers and other school staff, and each person is assigned to a specific area.
A student should not fail in class
No matter how they do or test scores, Japanese kids definitely go up. Even though students may miss exams and classes, they can still attend graduation. Their high school or university test scores count only for the entrance exam.
Students are not asked to leave the classroom by the teacher
Article 26 of the Japanese Constitution states that “everyone has the right to an equal education…” Therefore, Japanese teachers cannot exclude students from classes. That’s why Japanese teachers are used to staying calm and composed during class.
Morning activities and after school clubs
International schools in Japan have a variety of clubs that offer students the opportunity to explore and practice what they love. Students belonging to sports clubs participate in extracurricular and pre-school activities. This is a sports club where kids run several kilometers every day to stay in shape. Students are also highly involved in clubs, with most participating in at least one club.
Japanese international school
The established sector of international schools in Japan is located in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nagoya, while others are spread across the country. Most international students attend international schools, which are also popular among Japanese students.
Substitution is not possible at school
There is no substitute teacher concept in Japanese schools! In Japanese schools, students are expected to work in silence without a teacher present. They have to study all day long even if their teacher is not around.
The students are trained in self-defense
Did you know that Japanese students are trained to fight against dangerous invaders? even get a gun? In an emergency, teachers and students will use guns that are hung on the walls of the school. They are called “Sasumata”.
No exams in the first 3 years of school
Taking tests is a common practice since kindergarten, making educating young children a challenge for both teachers and parents. The Japanese prioritize personal development in the first three years of school, believing that people are primarily tested by their character.
So now you know what you need to consider before enrolling your child in a Japanese elementary school. Discipline like that found in the classroom prepares children for life’s difficulties, which will require hard work, determination, and motivation to succeed.
