Dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals. That’s Koka Gakuen. This school stands as a beacon of Catholic education in Tokyo. Let’s delve into the story of this institution. It emphasizes faith, character, and service.
Koka Gakuen Elementary School finds its home in the western Tokyo suburb of Chofu. Established in 1950, Koka Gakuen’s roots trace back to the Society of Mary. This Catholic organization was founded by William Joseph Chaminade in 1816. Adele de Batz de Trenquelleon brought the Society of Mary to Asia. Since then, it has flourished worldwide. Koka Gakuen is one of five schools in Japan that belongs to this organization.
But what makes Koka Gakuen so special? The school embraces a holistic approach to education. It strives to provide students with a faith based education. It aims to give each student a platform to succeed and grow.
Koka Gakuen lives by five goals. These goals shape the school community. They include teaching about the spirit of Catholicism and developing each student into a high quality person. Providing support and fostering a spirit of service are also important. The school wants to teach students how to adapt to change. Koka Gakuen takes these goals seriously. The school is dedicated to achieving them for every student.
Religious studies form a strong foundation for each student’s life at Koka Gakuen. The school conducts weekly religion classes. Students become familiar with bible verses. They also learn the Catholic Church’s customs, practices, and values. Throughout the year, students have opportunities to attend Mass. These masses take place in the school’s chapel. Easter and Christmas masses are particularly memorable events.
Koka Gakuen also emphasizes English language learning. From first grade to sixth grade, students have three English classes each week. The curriculum covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students use the Smile textbooks. They participate in a variety of activities. ICT is also increasingly used. The students make English presentations and projects. This helps them develop confidence. Special events further support English growth. These include the Recitation Contest and visits from theatre companies. The school also organizes summer English activities.
What about the daily life at Koka Gakuen? Students arrive at school around 8:20 am. The morning homeroom meeting begins at 9:00 am. The school day includes six periods. Lunch takes place in the classroom. Students also have outdoor playtime. The final homeroom meeting concludes the day.
Koka Gakuen Junior and Senior High School celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014. The school motto is Noblesse Oblige. The Daughters of Mary Immaculate run the school. This religious order is engaged in educational work. The order has schools in many countries.
Koka Gakuen aims to provide six years of moral and intellectual education. This education is based on Christian principles. The school hopes to develop refined characters in its students. It also aims to cultivate an international outlook.
Religion plays a central role at Koka Gakuen. Instruction in Christian knowledge is given to all students. Special ceremonies mark Christmas and Easter. Each school day starts with the Lord’s Prayer and a hymn. It ends with the Hail Mary. Lessons begin and end with meditation.
English receives strong emphasis. Foreign teachers help with conversation and composition. Speech contests are held annually. The school organizes a two week home stay in England. This program is for first year high school students. The school also has an active foreign exchange program.
Koka Gakuen offers many club activities. These include sports clubs and study clubs. Volunteer work is required for 9th grade students. The school strives to prepare students for universities.
Koka Gakuen stands as a testament to faith-based education. It blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach. It is committed to developing high quality individuals. Koka Gakuen instills values. These values will guide students toward a bright future.