Ohana International School

Location

• Ohana International School: 3-12-36 Motoazabu, Minato City, Tokyo (nearest station: 7–10-minute walk from Azabu-Juban Station (Exit 4 or 7))

Ages

15 months to 5.5 years, usually until moving on to kindergarten. Summer and winter schools accept children up to age 7.

Curriculum

A preschool for 15 months to 5.5 years that started in 2010 with 6 students. The name "Ohana" comes from the Japanese "hana" (flower) and the Hawaiian word for "family and friendship". All classes are mixed-age: Buds (15 months–3 years, up to 20 children with 5 teachers), Petals (2.5–4 years, up to 18 children with 3 teachers) and Flowers (3.5–5.5 years, up to 21 children with 3 teachers). The play-centered curriculum builds activities from children's interests, with a special focus on art. Lessons are in English. As an inclusive school, it also accepts children who need special support. Every Monday there is Young Athletes for physical development, and every Friday Spin and Shine for dance. Every Friday is a plastic-free "Zero Plastic Friday", and children plant flowers in the school's flower bed in a Minato City park. The school year has 2 terms, August–December and January–June, plus summer and winter schools. Choose 2–5 days a week, full day or half day. Care hours are 8:30–14:00 for full day and 8:30–12:30 for half day. Early care is from 8:00, and extended care until 18:00. After-school classes (from 14:30 on the English page; Monday–Friday 14:30–15:30 on the Japanese page) are also open to children from other schools.

Tuition

Tuition amounts are not published on the official website. The hours and fees page says "contact the school directly for tuition details", and the FAQ says you can receive a fee list on request.

Japanese lessons

Lessons are in English. Japanese songs and words are used when Japanese festivals are covered. Teachers speak English, Japanese and other languages.

Lunch

In the youngest class, the morning snack is brought from home. Children in after-school classes and extended care can also bring snacks.