UWC ISAK Japan: Japan's First Full-Boarding International High School
- egcisjp
- 1月26日
- 読了時間: 3分
About UWC ISAK Japan
UWC ISAK Japan is an international boarding school situated on the scenic slopes of Mount Asama in Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan. It is part of the global United World Colleges (UWC) network, a movement dedicated to fostering peace and sustainability through education.
Founded in 2014 as the International School of Asia, Karuizawa (ISAK), the school became a member of the UWC network in 2017, adopting the name UWC ISAK Japan. The school accommodates approximately 200 students from over 80 countries, creating a vibrant, multicultural community where students develop global perspectives and leadership skills.
UWC ISAK Japan is an IB World School and is accredited by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) in Japan. This dual accreditation ensures students receive a comprehensive education rooted in both Japanese standards and global academic frameworks.
UWC Mission
The UWC mission is to unite people, nations, and cultures for peace and a sustainable future. UWC ISAK Japan empowers its students to become agents of change through its motto: One Life. Realize Your Potential. Be a Catalyst for Positive Change.
Curriculum Overview
UWC ISAK Japan offers both the Japanese High School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), ensuring a robust academic foundation with a global outlook.
Pre-IB (Grade 10) & Japanese High School Diploma
The Grade 10 curriculum blends MEXT-approved courses with foundational IB principles. It emphasizes skill development in critical thinking, leadership, and interdisciplinary learning. Key subjects include:
English (Levels 1, 2, 3)
Japanese (Levels 1, 2A, 2B, 3)
Mathematics
Science
Humanities
Visual Arts & Film
Information Science
Physical Education
Leadership Program: A cornerstone of Grade 10, focusing on project-based learning and real-world problem solving.
Grade 11-12 - International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Students in Grades 11 and 12 undertake the IBDP, selecting six courses across the following groups:
Core components include:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A critical exploration of the nature of knowledge.
Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent research project.
Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS): Projects that encourage holistic personal growth.
Beyond the Classroom
Outdoor Education
UWC ISAK Japan integrates outdoor education into its curriculum, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, kayaking, and rock climbing. Seasonal trips and weekend excursions provide opportunities for students to develop resilience, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
Clubs and Activities
The school offers over 30 clubs and sports, including robotics, debate, and environmental sustainability. Core activities like TEDx, Theater, and Makers allow students to explore their passions while developing leadership skills. Competitive sports include tennis, volleyball, and swimming.
CAS Leadership Projects
Students dedicate two full weeks annually to developing and implementing leadership projects. These initiatives often extend beyond the campus, involving travel across Japan and internationally.
Academic Achievements
UWC ISAK Japan students consistently achieve strong results in the IBDP. Highlights from recent cohorts include:
2024 Cohort:
Total graduating students: 89
Full IB Diploma candidates: 85 (95.5% of students)
Diploma awarded: 96.5%
Average total points: 35 (world average: 30)
Students scoring 35 or above: 51.8%
Bilingual Diplomas: 35.3%
Short Courses
Summer School
The Summer School program is a two-week experience for 13-14-year-olds. It combines workshops, outdoor adventures, and the exploration of global issues, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and teamwork skills.
Winter School
A one-week program for 12-13-year-olds, Winter School integrates intellectual growth with winter sports and problem-solving activities to nurture collaboration and resilience.
Admission Process
The admissions process ensures alignment with the school’s mission and values. It includes:
Online Application: Submission of essays, academic records, and teacher recommendations.
Interview and Evaluation: Shortlisted candidates are assessed for leadership potential and compatibility with UWC values.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: Approximately 70% of students receive financial aid, with an average scholarship of 32,681 USD per student.
Why UWC ISAK Japan?
UWC ISAK Japan offers a unique boarding school experience that combines academic rigor, cultural diversity, and personal development. Key features include:
Cultural Diversity: Over 80 nationalities and 45 languages represented, fostering an environment rich in cross-cultural understanding.
Small Cohorts: A student body of around 200 ensures personalized attention and strong community ties.
Boarding School Life: Fully residential, students live on campus, learning independence and forming lifelong friendships.
Student-Led Culture: Students take ownership of their learning through clubs, projects, and leadership initiatives.
Serene Location: The Karuizawa campus provides an inspiring environment for reflection, study, and connection with nature.
Conclusion
UWC ISAK Japan provides an education that equips students to address global challenges and make meaningful contributions to society. For more details, visit their official website.
Comments