Across from the bustling JR Ueno Station stands Iwakura High School. This isn’t just any high school. Iwakura is a vocational school with a unique history and focus.
Originally known as the Railroad School Iwakura was founded to train aspiring railroad employees. The school welcomed both male and female students. Around 1300 students sought training here.
In 1987 the school was renamed Iwakura High School. This honored Tomomi Iwakura a significant figure in Japan’s early railroad development. He championed the infrastructure and commerce that railroads brought.
Iwakura offers two three-year courses. The General Course provides a broad education. The Transportation Course focuses on the railway and transportation industries. Many students in the Transportation Course plan to work in the railway industry immediately after graduation. Others continue their education at a college or university.
Students come from all over Japan. Iwakura is one of only a few schools offering this specialized training. A dormitory provides housing for students who live too far to commute. Some students travel long distances even using the Shinkansen bullet train daily. Their dedication to their chosen field is truly remarkable.
Many students in the General Course also consider careers in the railroad industry. Some even take the recruitment exams offered by railway companies.
The Transportation Course curriculum is well-rounded. About 70% of classes cover general subjects like English and Japanese. The remaining 30% are railroad-specific. These include railroads and tourism.
The school’s location near the JR East Ueno Shinkansen No 2 Operation Office is a huge advantage. Students visit the office regularly. They learn about the Shinkansen bullet train system from the people who operate it. They also have workshops and Q&A sessions with Shinkansen operators. This gives them a realistic view of the industry.
Another important extracurricular activity is a tour of the Keisei Electric Railway rail yard. Students observe the technical work done there. They see train inspection and maintenance firsthand.
Iwakura offers internships with several railway companies. This gives students valuable hands-on experience. Many graduates work in the railroad industry. The interns often receive guidance from these alumnae.
In 2016 130 graduates received job offers from railroad companies. Seventeen were from JR East or JR Tokai. Thirty-two were from Keikyu Corporation and other private railways. The others worked for companies in other areas of Japan.
The employment situation in the railroad industry has changed. It’s become more challenging for high school graduates to find jobs. However Iwakura High School continues to support students in their career goals. Its strong partnership with railroad companies helps students secure employment. Iwakura helps maintain the high standards and safety of Japan’s railroads. The school’s dedication ensures a bright future for the industry.