About AHIS
Is AHIS a “Ichijo-ko” (Article 1 school)?
No, AHIS is not classified as an “Article 1 school” under Japan’s School Education Act.
Rather than following the Japanese national curriculum, we offer an independent program grounded in internationally recognized educational standards.
As such, our curriculum, assessment methods, and approach to learning differ from those of Japanese public schools.
What educational standards is the curriculum based on?
Our curriculum is built upon a globally respected, inquiry-driven educational framework, designed to provide a coherent learning journey grounded in both nature and technology.
Students explore the natural world through hands-on experiences while also learning to engage thoughtfully with modern technologies, including emerging digital tools.
We emphasize interdisciplinary learning, conceptual understanding, and student agency. Our approach reflects international best practices widely adopted by leading international schools around the world.
We are currently preparing for our formal school authorization process and will share further details as the process progresses.
What language are classes taught in? Is English proficiency required?
Instruction at AHIS is primarily conducted in English, with students learning and engaging across all subject areas in an English-speaking academic environment.
We also offer dedicated Japanese language classes to support the development of Japanese language and literacy.
English proficiency requirements are considered on an individual basis, taking into account a student’s age and prior educational experience. Structured support is provided to help students whose first language is not English develop the language skills needed to fully participate and thrive in our program.
Is there a school bus? What transportation options are available?
We are planning to offer multiple commuting options:
1. Car drop-off and pick-up: On-site parking will include approximately 50 spaces for school-related use and 51 general parking spaces.
2. School bus service: We plan to operate our own school buses. Routes will be finalized based on the needs of enrolled families.
3. Public transportation: In coordination with Keikyu Bus, we anticipate establishing a bus stop directly in front of the school.
These options are designed to make commuting accessible not only from Akiya and Hayama area, but also from Zushi, Yokosuka, Kamakura, and surrounding areas.
Will lunch be provided?
We plan to offer a school lunch program, while also allowing families the option of bringing a packed lunch (bento) if they prefer.
Lunches will be prepared in partnership with a locally rooted provider, offering nutritious, balanced meals. We aim to incorporate locally sourced ingredients and create meals that children look forward to each day.
We are also carefully reviewing allergy accommodations and will establish appropriate safety measures to support students with dietary needs.
Is there an after-school program?
Yes, we are currently planning a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and enrichment programs designed to extend students’ interests and talents beyond the school day.
We are also developing an extended care program to support working families. Further details will be shared as they are finalized.
Admissions
Is there an entrance screening? When does the admissions process begin?
As part of the admissions process, we plan to conduct an application review and interviews to better understand each child’s individuality.
Applications are expected to open approximately one year prior to opening (Fall 2026), with multiple stages in the admissions process.
Further details will be announced on our website and at upcoming information sessions.
What are the tuition fees? Is there a sibling discount?
Tuition is expected to be approximately JPY 2,000,000–3,000,000 per year. In addition, an admission fee as well as fees for materials and facility maintenance will apply. Optional costs include school lunch and bus services.
Further details, including whether a sibling discount will be offered, will be confirmed and announced around one year prior to the school’s opening (expected in Fall 2026).
We also plan to introduce a scholarship program that may cover part or all of the tuition for selected students. More information will be shared in due course.
My child will be Grade 2 age in 2027. Can they enroll in Grade 1?
In principle, grade placement is determined based on a child’s age as of August 31 of the enrollment year. However, placement is not strictly automatic.
We consider each child’s individual development, personality, and learning readiness, and aim to place students in the environment where they can thrive and feel supported.
Is mid-year enrollment possible?
Mid-year enrollment may be possible, depending on availability in each grade level.
Additional details regarding timing and procedures will be shared as they become available.
Are there nationality restrictions?
AHIS welcomes students of all nationalities. Dual citizenship does not affect eligibility for enrollment.
At AHIS, we value an international and diverse learning environment where students from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds learn together.
Will there be information sessions?
We plan to begin hosting information sessions around the time of our summer school in July.
Both in-person sessions in the Akiya/Hayama area and online sessions for families joining from afar will be offered over several months. Details will be announced on our website.
Summer School
When does registration begin? What is the participation fee?
Applications for the Summer School are expected to open in April. The application period will close in May, and results will be announced later that month through a lottery if applications exceed the available places.
Further details, including the participation fee, will be shared when applications open.
My child is slightly younger than 5 or older than 10. Can they still participate?
The stated age range is a guideline rather than a strict cutoff. Children who are 4 or 11 years old may also be able to participate.
If your child falls outside the listed age range, please feel free to consult with us when applications open in April.
What are the daily hours? Is lunch provided?
As most activities will take place outdoors in Meguri no Mori during the summer season, we are planning a daily schedule of 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. (subject to change)
Each day, participants will be provided with a balanced lunch made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as snacks to help keep students refreshed in the summer heat.
What transportation options are available during the Summer School?
We kindly ask families to arrange drop-off and pick-up by car or public transportation. The meeting and dismissal point is planned to be either the Shonan Village Center or the Meguri no Mori entrance.
There is no school bus during the Summer School.