Welcome to the Rokkasho International School. Thank you for your interest in our school. As the Head of School of RIS, I witness each day the unique learning that happens here. RIS is an English-speaking school focused on the development of independent, flexible learners, who are fully prepared for advanced study, balanced by innovative programs, emerging skills of global citizenship, and compassion toward all in the dynamic global society of the 21st century.
Our curriculum at the school emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge, vital skills, understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities for all our students. The administration and staff believe that every student is unique and special and that they all can learn.
We believe it is our responsibility as educators to nurture and develop every student to their maximum potential. Students are continually encouraged to appreciate our diverse community and to care for others by becoming transnational citizens, acquiring a concern and active respect for the environment.
Rokkasho International School is run on a commission by the Aomori Prefectural Government to offer an international education primarily for the children of researchers and technicians for the Broader Approach (BA) Activities. It is located in Rokkasho Village, Aomori Prefecture in Northern Japan. Children at Rokkasho International School follow an international style of education based in the English language, setting the groundwork for success wherever their families decide to relocate to after their time in Japan.
The BA Activities is an international collaborative fusion energy research project between Japan and the European Union. It runs in parallel to the ITER Project, based in Cadarache, France, which aims for the early realization of fusion energy.
Our Preschool class at Rokkasho International School implements The Creative Curriculum™. A comprehensive, research-based curriculum designed to help educators at all levels of experience plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, content-rich program for children with diverse backgrounds and skill levels. It guides our teachers to generate high-quality learning experiences that enable all learners to become imaginative, confident thinkers. Using exploration and discovery, enable our children to grow in confidence, creativity, and lifelong critical thinking skills. The 38 research-based objectives at the heart of the curriculum and the corresponding assessment system define the path teachers take with children in their classrooms. The objectives cover 10 areas of development and learning, including age-related content areas, and English language acquisition. The curriculum acknowledges differing learning styles and exposes each child to a variety of learning techniques including audio, visual, and tactile methods.
Rokkasho International School implements the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in the Elementary School Section and the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) in the Middle School Section when these sections are offered. The IPC and IMYC are comprehensive thematic curricula that use current research into how children learn and encourage them to be students of the world. They guide teachers in developing thematic units so that three main aims can be achieved. Helping students:
- Learn subject content, skills, and the understanding they need to become aware of the world around them.
- Develop the personal skills they need to take an active part in the world around them.
They are based on careful attention to student needs and allow us to develop a unique path for every child we have the privilege to educate. Welcomed to a community that promotes trust and teaches character as intentionally as core academics, students quickly find faculty and staff are ready to support them as they explore a rigorous academic program and develop as lifelong learners.
English is the language of instruction in all sections.Elementary/Middle School EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is in place for non-English speakers. Students also study Japanese and share some classes such as physical education with neighboring local Japanese schools. The school is located within the International Education and Training Center, which was constructed in 2010. The Center has several classrooms, a hall, an art room, a broadcasting room, and a library and is located in proximity to local public schools.
Rokkasho is home to an abundant natural environment. The terrain of the village is mountainous at the northern end, with several lakes spreading over the mid-eastern and southern areas, and on the eastern coast is a span of beach facing the Pacific Ocean. Fishing can be enjoyed in its nearby lakes and oceans throughout the year. Taking advantage of the natural environment, residents of Rokkasho can enjoy hiking as well as marine activities such as surfing, jet skiing, and kayaking!
