東京学芸大学付属国際中等教育学校

“Did Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School always go by that rather long name?” wondered a student aloud in 2007. That year, Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School, or TGUISS, opened its doors. It emerged from a merger of the former Oizumi Junior High School and Oizumi Senior High School, both affiliated with Tokyo Gakugei University. This marked the start of a new era in international education in Tokyo. TGUISS became a beacon for students seeking a global perspective. The school, with its focus on international education, quickly gained recognition. In 2010, TGUISS achieved a milestone. It became an IB (International Baccalaureate) World School, authorized to offer the Middle Years Programme (MYP). This was a significant achievement. It solidified TGUISS’s position as a leader in international education within Japan’s public school system. Later, in 2015, the school expanded its IB offerings to include the Diploma Programme (DP), further strengthening its international focus. About a third of the student body participates in the “ISS Challenge,” a unique research contest. This contest encourages students from grades 7 to 12 to conduct independent research. They present their findings at a school-wide research presentation event held in February. Imagine the buzz and excitement as these young minds share their discoveries! From its inception, TGUISS has embraced the principles of inquiry-based learning. It has woven these principles into its curriculum through the “International Education” program. This program spans all six years of the combined middle and high school curriculum. Students delve into global issues, fostering critical thinking and understanding through research, fieldwork, and classroom discussions. TGUISS prides itself on providing language support for its diverse student population. The JSL (Japanese as a Second Language) program assists students needing extra help with Japanese language skills. This ensures that all students, regardless of their background, can fully participate in the school’s academic and extracurricular activities. The school promotes international exchange. Students have opportunities to interact with students from around the globe. Imagine, students from Canada, America, France, China, and various other countries sharing experiences and perspectives. TGUISS also actively participates in the UNESCO Associated Schools Network. This fosters collaboration with schools worldwide on projects related to peace, human rights, and sustainable development. The school boasts modern facilities, including a well-stocked media center, science labs, and even two gymnasiums. TGUISS is not just about academics. It offers a vibrant range of extracurricular activities. From sports like soccer and basketball to cultural clubs such as drama, music, and art, there is something for everyone. This balance between academic rigor and extracurricular engagement creates a well-rounded educational experience. TGUISS continues to evolve and innovate. It constantly seeks ways to enhance its programs and provide the best possible education for its students. It remains committed to nurturing globally minded individuals equipped to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.