Seven hundred and twenty children. That’s how many applied for just 36 spots at Tokyo University of Agriculture’s Toka Elementary School. Imagine the fierce competition.
Tokyo University of Agriculture’s Toka Elementary School opened in 2019. It’s a private school in Setagaya Ward. The school is unique. It’s built on the philosophy of “cultivating a spirit of adventure”. This comes from the words of Tokyo University of Agriculture’s founder Kenji Takamoto. He believed adventure is the highest virtue.
Toka Elementary School’s educational approach is quite distinctive. It focuses on experiential learning. Daily English classes are a core part of the curriculum. Native English-speaking teachers teach these classes. They aim to develop strong communication skills. This is highly valued by many families. The school also provides locally sourced meals. They incorporate diverse culinary cultures. The meals are prepared daily within the school’s kitchen.
Another unique aspect of Toka Elementary School is its after-school program. It’s called the Toka After-School Club. Nearly 100 percent of the children participate. It extends school hours until 7 pm. This offers families a safe and enriching environment. It helps support working parents.
Toka Elementary School’s location in the heart of Tokyo is also noteworthy. It offers children daily interaction with nature. This is a deliberate choice. It aims to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world. The children’s interactions with nature are planned activities. The application process itself is quite rigorous. It involves an interview and a test. This ensures they choose children who are a good fit. The application process has made this school incredibly popular.
The school’s commitment to experiential learning extends beyond the classroom. Field trips are frequent. They often involve hands-on experiences in agriculture. These include visits to the university’s farms. Here the children learn about various plants and fruits like peaches and lemons. They even get to harvest and taste the fruits of their labor.
The school’s emphasis on experiential learning isn’t only about nature. The children also engage in projects using digital technology. These encourage collaborative learning and creativity. This prepares them for a rapidly changing world.
So here we stand before Tokyo University of Agriculture’s Toka Elementary School. A place where adventure and learning thrive together. A place where children develop a love for nature. A place shaped by a unique vision. A testament to innovative education. A school setting a new standard.