Horizon Japan International School vs The British School in Tokyo - Azabudai Hills Campus

	H Horizon Japan International School Tokyo, Japan	T The British School in Tokyo - Azabudai Hills Campus Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,690,000 - 3,140,000	Fees / year ¥2,920,000 - 3,030,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 11 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 530	Pupils 1,300
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2003	Opened 2023
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Horizon Japan International School is located at 1-24 Ono-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 221-0055, Japan. The campus sits along Yokohama's portside waterfront in central Yokohama. It is accessible from Yokohama Station via multiple JR lines (Keihin-Tohoku/Negishi, Tokaido, Yokosuka, Shonan-Shinjuku) and private rail lines (Tokyu Toyoko Minatomirai, Keikyu Main Line, Sotetsu, and the Yokohama Municipal Blue Line).	Location The Azabudai Hills Campus is located at 1-3-3 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan, in the Azabudai Hills development near the Tokyo Tower. The campus opened on 28 August 2023 and houses Nursery to Year 6. It is within a short walk of Kamiyacho Station and Roppongi-Itchome Station via pedestrian routes.
Stages	Stages HJIS offers the full International Baccalaureate continuum from early years through high school. The Early Years Programme (EYP) serves ages 3–5, followed by the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP) in the upper grades.	Stages Nursery to Year 6 at the Azabudai Hills Campus (Primary). Year 7 to Year 13 are taught at the Showa Campus (Showa Women's University, Taishido, Setagaya).
School type	School type HJIS is a co-educational international day school. It operates as a day school rather than a boarding institution.	School type Co-educational international day school. (BST operates two central Tokyo campuses for different age ranges.)
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body represents over 37 nationalities. The school has more than 530 students (Preschool to Grade 12) and 22 nationalities represented among the faculty. The most represented nationality among students is not publicly disclosed.	Pupil nationality mix The school represents 65+ nationalities. About one-third of BST students are neither British nor Japanese, indicating a substantial international presence; exact ratios of Japanese to other nationalities are not published.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for non-native speakers from Early Years to the Diploma Programme. A Student Support & Guidance framework is in place to support learners, alongside related SEN provisions.	Additional learning support BST offers Learning Support services (academic, social and emotional), English as an Additional Language (EAL), counselling and medical support; ASDAN courses are also offered as an alternative pathway.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated. The school is located in Yokohama, Japan.	Country affiliation The school follows the English National Curriculum and positions itself as a British international school.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; the school welcomes students from diverse religious backgrounds.	Religious affiliation Non-denominational.
School day structure	School day structure Lunch is offered through a school lunch program (students may also bring lunch). After-school Daycare runs from 3:30 to 6:00 PM on regular school days. The School Office hours are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM on weekdays.	School day structure The school day generally follows a morning and afternoon timetable with breaks and lunch; typical start times for BST primary hours on the Shibuya campus are around 08:50, with 15:25 as the end of the day, and Azabudai Hills is expected to follow a similar pattern. Exact times vary by year group.
Bus service details	Bus service details Private bus transportation is provided by a contracted bus company for an additional fee. The fleet serves a large region including most major areas of Yokohama and surrounding neighborhoods. Bus routes include Kohoku, Hiyoshi, Yokohama, and Kawasaki, with annual revisions; safety rules and a timetable are published and waitlists may apply when buses reach capacity.	Bus service details BST operates a shuttle bus service between three stops: Azabudai Hills campus, SKG Shibuya, and the BST Showa campus.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and one-time fees - Application Fee (one-time, non-refundable): JPY 30,000. - Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable; payable when a place is offered and accepted): JPY 300,000. - Building Fund (one-time, non-refundable; payable when a place is offered and accepted): JPY 600,000. Tuition fees by year group (term amounts and full academic year totals) - Early Years (Preschool / Pre-Kinder / Kindergarten): 1st term JPY 976,000; 2nd term JPY 732,000; 3rd term JPY 732,000. Total for the academic year: JPY 2,440,000. - Primary School (Grades 1–5): 1st term JPY 1,116,000; 2nd term JPY 837,000; 3rd term JPY 837,000. Total for the academic year: JPY 2,790,000. - Secondary School (Grades 6–12): 1st term JPY 1,156,000; 2nd term JPY 867,000; 3rd term JPY 867,000. Total for the academic year: JPY 2,890,000. Maintenance fee - Maintenance Fee (one-time contribution, non-refundable): paid across the three term payments as JPY 100,000 (1st term), JPY 75,000 (2nd term), JPY 75,000 (3rd term); total JPY 250,000. Additional fees and other recurring costs - English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support Fee (if required): 1st term JPY 200,000; 2nd term JPY 150,000; 3rd term JPY 150,000. Total when required: JPY 500,000. - Daycare service (if used; available to students up to Kindergarten): 1st term JPY 300,000; 2nd term JPY 225,000; 3rd term JPY 225,000. Total: JPY 750,000. Day-use daycare is charged at JPY 1,000 per 30 minutes. - School bus (if utilized): Round-trip – 1st term JPY 120,000; 2nd term JPY 90,000; 3rd term JPY 90,000; total JPY 300,000. One-way – 1st term JPY 85,000; 2nd term JPY 65,000; 3rd term JPY 65,000; total JPY 215,000. One-time school bus fee per ride: JPY 2,500. - IB Programme Fee (for Grade 11 and 12 candidates): annual fee JPY 150,000. - Annual PTA Fee: JPY 5,000. - Expenses not included in tuition (paid separately by parents): PE uniforms, classroom supplies, cafeteria/lunch services, after-school activities (ASPs), activity-related travel and expedition/overnight trip costs, technology devices (iPad for Grades 1–4; MacBook for Grades 5–12) and any optional extracurricular fees. - Sibling discounts: 20% discount on tuition for the second child; 30% discount on tuition for the third child. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard term due dates: 1st term payment due June 5; 2nd term payment due October 5; 3rd term payment due February 20. - Tuition may be paid in three scheduled installments aligned to the term due dates. - Payments for admissions-related one-time fees and the first-term tuition must be paid at admissions (new-student invoice payment is required within one week of admission notification). - The school uses an automatic withdrawal system for tuition and other school-related payments; payments are processed via bank arrangements and are automatically withdrawn on the scheduled dates (June 5, October 5, February 20). Admissions, Building Fund, Registration Fees and the first term school fees should be made by bank transfer during the admissions process. The school does not accept cash or credit card payments for tuition and fees. Note: the application fee can be paid by credit card via the online admissions portal or by bank transfer. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; no boarding fees are listed. Uniforms and related costs - The school requires a uniform; uniform items (including PE uniform) are additional costs paid by parents and are ordered through the school's uniform ordering process. PE uniform and other uniform items are not included in tuition and are charged separately. Refund and withdrawal information - Application, Registration and Building Fund fees are one-time and non-refundable. - Tuition and maintenance fees are non-refundable. The school will not reimburse payments for a current term because of a student's absences, suspension or expulsion. In the event of natural disasters or adverse weather conditions resulting in school cancellations, no refunds will be provided for affected days. Tuition and fees are not transferable to another student. - Withdrawal procedure requires completion before the last day of the next term's tuition payment deadline; official transcripts and records are released only after all financial obligations are met. Late enrollment requires payment for the entire term even if attendance is for only part of the term. Fee payment instructions and bank information (methods) - Accepted payment method for ongoing tuition and term payments: automatic bank withdrawal / bank transfer. Parents are responsible for any bank transaction fees and charges. - Admissions, Building Fund and Registration Fees and the first term school fees should be paid by bank transfer during the admissions process; subsequent scheduled payments are processed by automatic withdrawal from the bank account arranged by the family. - The school does not accept cash or credit card for tuition and fees; the application fee may be paid by credit card through the online admissions portal or by bank transfer.	Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Application fee: ¥40,000. - Enrolment fee: ¥500,000 (one-time, non-refundable). - Educational resources fee: ¥680,000 (one-time, non-refundable). Tuition fees (annual and per-term by year group) - Primary School (including Nursery & Reception): Annual tuition ¥2,820,000. Term amounts: Term 1 ¥980,000; Term 2 ¥940,000; Term 3 ¥900,000. - Secondary School (Year 7 to Year 9): Annual tuition ¥2,840,000. Term amounts: Term 1 ¥990,000; Term 2 ¥950,000; Term 3 ¥900,000. - Secondary School (Year 10 to Year 13): Annual tuition ¥2,930,000. Term amounts: Term 1 ¥1,030,000; Term 2 ¥980,000; Term 3 ¥920,000. - Capital development tuition fee (payable for the whole school): Annual ¥100,000. Term amounts: Term 1 ¥40,000; Term 2 ¥30,000; Term 3 ¥30,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are normally issued 8–14 weeks before the end of the previous term. Existing student tuition invoices must be paid in full within 4 weeks of the invoice date. New-student one-time fees must be paid in full within 2 weeks of the invoice date. The school does not accept payment of fees in cash. All school fees must be paid by bank transfer from an account in the name of the registered parent/guardian or from an account previously notified in writing. - Bank transfer details are provided separately by campus: Azabudai Hills Campus (Primary) and Showa Campus (Secondary) have distinct MUFG Bank accounts; parents are required to indicate the student's surname on transfers. Mid-term enrolment and notice period - Mid-term enrolments are billed by academic term; attendance for any portion of a term requires payment for the full term or half-term depending on enrolment date. Parents wishing to withdraw a student must give at least one complete term's written notice or pay one complete term's fees in lieu of notice. Refunds and late payment - Fees are not refunded except where the required notice has been given and a term has been wholly unattended; no other fee refunds are provided. Late or unpaid fees may result in prohibition of student attendance and withholding of records; the school will seek to reallocate places where fees remain unpaid. Items included and not included in tuition - Included in tuition: the costs of books used by all students and curriculum residential and day trips and events which, in principle, all students are expected to attend. - Not included in tuition: lunches, non-curriculum residential and day trips, specialist SEN support, some examination fees, some sports events and tournaments, instrumental (private) music lessons, and some optional activities. These incur additional charges as applicable. Sibling discounts, bursaries and special arrangements - The school does not offer sibling discounts. Families who may have difficulty paying fees can apply for special postponement of fees or consider bursary options; decisions on postponement or bursaries are handled case by case. The school operates a Corporate Contribution Programme for organisations sponsoring employee dependants. Uniforms and other routine costs - School uniform is sold through the designated supplier(s). Orders and payments for uniform can be made online; supplier payment methods include bank transfer, PayPal and credit card. Separate PE uniform suppliers apply for Secondary School items; costs for uniform items vary by item and size. - Additional routine costs that may arise include lunches, optional activities, instrumental lessons, non-curriculum trips and some exam fees; these are payable in addition to tuition and one-time enrolment charges. Boarding / residential arrangements - The school operates curriculum residentials and uses partner residential satellite facilities for school trips and outdoor programmes; these are for short-term curriculum activities rather than daily boarding provision. There is no regular full-time boarding programme for students. Fee payment options (methods accepted) - Accepted method for payment of school fees: bank transfer only (from the parent/guardian's account or a notified account). Cash is not accepted for school fee payments. Separate suppliers (uniform vendor) accept bank transfer, PayPal and credit card for uniform purchases.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is not offered. The school operates as a day school. For families needing after-school care, Horizon Daycare provides a supervised after-school program for children aged 3 to 6 from 3:30 to 6:00 PM on regular school days. Daycare is also available during midterm holidays and summer school days, with sign-up allowed up to 24 hours in advance.	Boarding arrangements BST does not offer regular on-site boarding. The school runs overnight residential trips for students from Year 1 through Year 13 as part of BST Outdoors, designed for experiential learning and outdoor education. These residential trips are trips rather than permanent living arrangements, and they form part of the school's programme rather than a boarding facility. Examples of residential experiences include trips to Hakuba Valley, Minakami, Moriumius in Miyagi, and Waku Waku Village in Tokyo.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform dress is required for all students from Monday to Friday; uniforms must be neat and clean and students are expected to present a formal appearance. There are exceptions for special events, and a Dress Code Policy governs attire; uniforms can be ordered through the online ordering link.	Uniform requirement BST requires students to wear the school uniform. Uniform items can be ordered online via Top of the Class; deliveries can be made the next business day and sent to either the Shibuya or Showa campus, with Friday collection. The secondary PE uniform is supplied by a separate provider (bstuniform.net).
Food options	Food options Nutritious meals are prepared by Cezar's Kitchen, designed to meet daily nutritional needs under the supervision of nutritionists. Vegetarian options are regularly updated, and meals are prepared with appropriate utensils; students may opt for the hot lunch program or bring lunch from home, with microwaves available in the cafeteria.	Food options Most BST students bring lunch from home. At the Azabudai Hills Campus, lunchtime meals can be delivered to the child via Luca Deli (Nursery–Year 6) or Kiwi Kitchen (Year 3–Year 6). At the Showa Campus, Years 7–10+ can order Kiwi Kitchen for delivery, and there is a canteen run by Showa Women's University for Year 10–13.
House system	House system HJIS uses a house system as part of student life. House-based activities and house competitions are included in the extracurricular program.	House system BST uses a four-House system: Amaterasu, Bishamon, Izanami and Tsukiyomi. Inter-House competitions take place throughout the year in various sports and arts, including Sports Day and the House Singing competition.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership HJIS is a not-for-profit educational institution governed by a Board of Directors. It holds Gakko Hojin (educational corporation) status granted by Kanagawa Prefecture. The school operates within a Horizon-branded network of international schools in Japan, as shown by sister campuses such as Horizon Sendai.	Governance and ownership BST is governed by a Board of Trustees. The trustees' role is strategic, setting aims and the budget, appointing the senior leadership team, approving policies, and monitoring performance. The Board is composed of a minimum of 16 members, including both parent and international representatives, and trustees meet regularly with open meetings for parents and staff at least once a year. Current trustees are named on the Trustees page.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details HJIS offers an IB Continuum from Early Years through Grade 12, including the Early Years Programme (EYP), Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). Instruction is in English, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to ensure full access to the curriculum. The Diploma Programme follows the IB framework with six subject groups and a DP core to prepare students for higher education. The school holds accreditations as an IB World School and is accredited by CIS, WASC, and ECIS. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and global citizenship across all grade levels.	Curriculum details The Azabudai Hills Campus houses The British School in Tokyo's Primary School from Nursery (3 years) to Year 6 and opened on 28 August 2023. The Primary curriculum is broad and balanced with foundations in the English National Curriculum, adapted for an international setting; it includes English, Maths, Science, Computing, History, Geography, Art, Design Technology, Religious Education, Music, and Physical Education, with Japanese taught from Nursery and French from Year 4. Secondary education is provided on the Showa Campus, covering Key Stage 3 (Year 7–9) and Key Stage 4 (Year 10–11) with IGCSE examinations at the end of Year 11, and a core of English Language and Literature, Maths, Science, a Modern Foreign Language (French, Japanese, Mandarin or Spanish), Core PE and Learning for Life and Work, plus electives such as Art, Business, Computer Science, Drama, Economics, Geography, History, Music and Spanish. From August 2025, Years 12–13 can pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) with the IB Core and subject groups including Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics and The Arts, with a full enrichment programme. From August 2024 BST also offers a BTEC Level 3 in Enterprise and Sport to complement existing A-Level options. BST emphasises broader curriculum opportunities beyond exams through music, sport, art and drama, and supports independent, inquiry-based learning across the full 3–18 age range.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning HJIS prioritizes student social and emotional wellbeing as a core part of its safety and learning culture. The Student Support & Guidance program combines academic assistance, language learning, and career preparation into one seamless framework. The IB continuum and guiding statements promote global citizenship, high quality learning, and a collaborative community, which underpin SEL. The school offers more than 60 after-school clubs to support social development and peer connections. Digital Citizenship and Global Citizenship are highlighted as core values in the guiding statements, reinforcing responsible, empathetic participation in school and beyond.	Social & emotional learning The British School in Tokyo supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Student Wellbeing framework. Student wellbeing is treated as both ongoing individual support and a discrete subject within BST's approach. A multidisciplinary Student Support Services team delivers SEL-related support, including Learning Support Services (Social & Emotional), English as an Additional Language (EAL), Counselling and Medical services. The team collaborates to help each student thrive academically and in extracurricular activities. Pastoral support emphasises a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment to foster emotional resilience.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) An ILP (Individualized Learning Plan) is used during admissions to tailor support for students with identified needs. EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is provided for non-native speakers from Early Years to the Diploma Programme. Placement assessments determine whether EAL or other specialized assistance is required. Horizon is an IB World School (PYP, MYP, DP), with SEN support described as integrated within the IB framework rather than as a separate SEN department.	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support Services (including Social & Emotional) are listed as part of BST's Student Support Services, with EAL, Counselling and Medical teams also included in this multidisciplinary approach. The information does not specify particular categories of Special Educational Needs (SEN) BST can support or indicate a dedicated specialist SEN department. This suggests a broad, school-wide approach to supporting diverse learner needs rather than a standalone SEN institution. Provision is delivered through the Learning Support Services and related teams rather than a separate SEN facility. The campus structure supports these services within BST's central Tokyo campuses.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language HJIS provides tailored English support for non-native speakers from Early Years to the Diploma Programme. Lessons focus on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and are integrated into the IB curriculum. During admissions, a WIDA test is used to assess EAL needs and determine the level of support required.	English as an additional language EAL support is provided as part of BST's multidisciplinary Student Support Services. This EAL component is integrated with Learning Support, Counselling and Medical services to help students access the curriculum. The pages describe EAL as a formal element of Student Support Services but do not detail specific programmes or staffing. EAL support is described as available across BST's central Tokyo campuses. This confirms EAL is embedded within the school's wellbeing and academic support framework.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Safety Protocols state that the safety, health, and emotional wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors are top priorities. The protocols outline emergency communications and a culture of safety and trust. During incidents, families are updated via emails, website posts, social media, and phone where available, and no child is dismissed from school without a parent or approved designee with photo ID.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through BST's Pastoral Support and the inclusion of Social & Emotional aspects within the Student Support Services. Pastoral Support emphasises a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment to promote emotional resilience. The Student Support Services team includes counselling resources to support students' mental health and wellbeing as part of a holistic approach. The school's wellbeing content highlights a holistic framework that links emotional health with academic and social development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding HJIS is a JCIS World School (joined 2024) and CIS-accredited (since 2018), with ECIS membership; these accreditations emphasize safeguarding, inclusive practices, and strong governance. Safety Protocols describe a culture of safety and trust and robust emergency communications. During emergencies, updates are provided through multiple channels (email, website, social media, phone), and dismissal follows strict identification and designee rules. The admissions policy states Horizon is non-discriminatory in admissions.	Safeguarding BST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all students, with all adults in the school sharing responsibility for safeguarding. The school provides a caring, positive, safe and stimulating environment that promotes the welfare and wellbeing of students. BST operates a Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) team to manage safeguarding situations and coordinate responses, supported by a wider staff network. DSLs and staff receive regular training and access best practices internationally. The Safeguarding Policy informs Trustees, staff, students, families and external providers about safeguarding responsibilities, and its guidance aligns with the DfE Keeping Children Safe in Education framework.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Opened in 2019, Horizon Japan International School's Yokohama campus was purpose-built for 21st-century learning. It features bright, flexible classrooms, dedicated science laboratories, and creative studios to support IB programs. The Library & Media Center houses over 30,000 books, two librarians, and digital library resources. The campus includes expansive athletic spaces and a rooftop sports area known as The Nest for PE and events. The on-site cafeteria provides nutritious meals with vegetarian options, and microwaves are available for student use.	Facilities overview The Azabudai Hills Campus opened on 28 August 2023 and serves Nursery to Year 6 on a purpose-built site in central Tokyo. The main building features bright, flexible classrooms and year-group shared spaces, including two libraries (Upper School Library and Junior Library), a language classroom, a Digital Technology Studio, and an Art and Design Studio. The campus provides a range of performance and creative facilities, including an Auditorium and multiple Music Rooms. For sport and physical education, the campus includes a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, a gymnasium, a sports hall, and two sports pitches. Outdoor spaces include a roof garden and Central Park within Azabudai Hills for outdoor learning and recreation.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Expansive athletic spaces include a rooftop sports area called The Nest. There is also a rooftop gym (Hawks gym) that supports athletic activities.	Sports facilities The campus includes a gymnasium for indoor PE and fitness, a sports hall for indoor activities, two outdoor sports pitches for football and other field sports, and a 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lessons and clubs. These facilities support comprehensive physical education and a wide range of sports programs.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Opened in 2019, the campus features bright, flexible classrooms, dedicated science laboratories, and creative studios. The Library & Media Center houses over 30,000 books, two librarians, and provides a digital library and catalog to support research.	Academic facilities The campus houses an Upper School Library and a Junior Library for study and research, along with a Language Classroom to support language learning. A Digital Technology Studio supports computing and design, and an Art and Design Studio provides dedicated space for visual arts. The Discovery Centre for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) learning offers hands-on inquiry spaces.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities HJIS offers a wide range of after-school programs, with over 60 ASPs, plus daycare services and summer programs. ASPs cover areas such as arts, robotics, chess, and athletics.	Extra curricular facilities Music spaces include multiple Music Rooms and a suite of music studios, while the Auditorium serves as a venue for performances and exhibitions. An Art and Design Studio supports creative projects, and outdoor spaces such as the Roof Garden and Central Park enable outdoor learning and recreation.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History HJIS began life in 2003 as a Gakkō Hōjin (educational corporation) in Yokohama. It is a preschool through Grade 12 international school located along Yokohama's portside waterfront. Horizon Japan International School is an IB World School authorized to offer the PYP, MYP, and Diploma Programme. Over the years, it earned ECIS membership in 2010, CIS membership in 2011, WASC accreditation in 2012, IB authorization in 2013, and CIS accreditation in 2018. In 2019 the school opened a purpose-built campus in Yokohama to support 21st-century learning.	History BST was established as a trust in 1988 to provide a British-style education in Tokyo and officially opened in September 1989 with 63 students, an occasion marked by the attendance of then-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. By 1993 enrolment had grown to over 200 students, prompting the expansion to a Shibuya campus that opened in May 1998 to accommodate more than 300 children aged three to eleven. In 2006, part of the school moved to the Showa Women's University campus, and the Shibuya site now housesNursery to Year 3. In August 2023, BST opened the Azabudai Hills Campus for Nursery to Year 6, and the formal opening ceremony on 4 November 2023 marked a new chapter as primary pupils from BST's Showa and Shibuya campuses joined on the Azabudai Hills site.
Community	Community HJIS brings together a diverse community with families representing more than 50 nationalities, and an alumni network spanning graduates in 30+ countries. The school supports formal community groups including a Parent Teacher Association (PTA), an Alumni Association, and Horizon Connect to keep current families, graduates, and staff connected. The International Cultural Festival and Sports Day are central events on the calendar, complemented by coffee mornings, cultural exchanges, and other community activities. Alumni events and reunions are held in Yokohama and Tokyo, reflecting the school's long-standing international connections.	Community BST's community is guided by a Senior Leadership Team and a Board of Trustees who oversee the school's development. The school sits in central Tokyo and serves a diverse international community, fostering strong connections among families and local partners. BST also maintains active community channels, including an Alumni network and regular News & Events coverage that highlights student activities and community engagement across campuses.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) coordinates volunteering, workshops, and school events to connect families with the school community. The PTA organizes major events such as the International Cultural Festival and Sports Day, as well as seasonal celebrations that bring families, students, and staff together. It runs volunteer opportunities through event committees, cultural booths, fundraising, and classroom support, inviting participation from all parents. Coffee mornings, socials, and cultural exchanges provide regular ways for families to connect and share experiences. Membership is open to all HJIS parents, with sign-up available on the PTA site or via a membership form, and volunteers are encouraged to contribute in any capacity.	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) welcomes and represents all BST parents, fostering a sense of engagement and belonging in both the school and the wider community. Membership is diverse, with families from many backgrounds, cultures, languages and ethnicities. Every parent is invited to get involved in whichever capacity they choose, and PTA activities are entirely volunteer-based and led by an Executive Committee of parents. Throughout the academic year, the PTA collaborates with the school administration to organise monthly, termly and annual events, including monthly coffee mornings, charity drives and fundraisers (culminating in an annual gala to support initiatives such as the Annual Fund). The PTA also hosts seminars and webinars on health and lifestyle, disaster preparedness, current events, and other topics of interest to BST families.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The ASP offers more than 50 clubs and more than 300 student participants, spanning sports, music, art, robotics, and debate. Secondary ASPs include Model United Nations, advanced robotics, visual media, performing arts, and competitive sports, enabling students to deepen passions and take on leadership roles. Horizon also hosts IYPT Japan as the national organizer, coordinating training and national selection for the International Young Physicists' Tournament.	Academic & intellectual BST Azabudai Hills Campus offers a broad programme of clubs and activities that extend academic learning beyond the classroom. Primary students can participate in Maths Club, STEM and Space Explorers as part of Extracurricular Clubs, with secondary students having access to KS4 Maths Club, KS5 STEP Maths Club and related academic societies such as MUN and debates. Other academically oriented options include NHK Learning Japanese Club and Japanese Language Proficiency Tests study groups, which support language development alongside subject-based inquiry. The programme is designed to foster independent learning, problem solving and collaborative skills across age ranges.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Primary ASPs provide creative arts and language, along with sports, robotics, and dance. Secondary ASPs include visual media and performing arts. During ASPs, students have opportunities to engage in music and other arts, supported by dedicated facilities such as creative studios on campus.	Arts & creative Arts and creative opportunities are a strong feature of BST, with extensive Music Clubs across primary and secondary, including Advanced Aural Training, Advanced String Ensemble, BST Windstars and the Primary Production, among others. Drama, Art and a range of visual arts activities sit alongside photography, screen printing and crafts in the extracurricular offerings, allowing students to develop performance and creative skills beyond the timetable. The Primary School also runs productions and choral/instrumental ensembles, while Secondary offers an array of music ensembles such as Orchestra, Chamber Choir and Rock Band.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language HJIS hosts international cultural events, including the International Cultural Festival (ICF), representing more than 40 nationalities with performances and workshops. The school provides cross-cultural exchanges and opportunities through activities such as Model United Nations and IYPT Japan, which Horizon organizes as Japan's national organizer. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support helps non-native speakers access the curriculum and participate in cultural and linguistic activities.	Cultural & language Cultural and language activities are available through Language Clubs such as French Enrichment, French for Learners of French, Japanese Enrichment and Japanese as a Foreign Language Club, plus Spanish for Learners of Spanish. Externally run clubs provide access to additional language and cultural experiences, including Chinese Language Club and Korean classes, among others. These offerings support international mindedness and cross-cultural communication within the BST community at the Azabudai Hills Campus.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Students can join a wide range of ASP clubs—over 50—spanning social, artistic, and recreational interests, with hundreds of students participating each term. The school also runs inter-house competitions to promote teamwork and school spirit. Horizon's athletics program includes futsal, basketball, volleyball, and badminton with multiple age-group teams that compete in ISTAA leagues and regional tournaments. The campus features a rooftop sports area, The Nest, in addition to a full gymnasium to support informal and organized activities.	Social & hobbies Social and hobby-oriented clubs cover board games, chess and Shogi, film review, photography, knitting and various creative crafts, Lego and Lego Technic, and a range of strategy and games clubs. Extracurriculars include E-sports, Debating, Minecraft and Space-themed activities, as well as performance and visual arts clubs, enabling students to pursue personal interests and build peer connections. Externally run clubs further expand social options, from clubs focused on dance and street performance to martial arts and calligraphy.
Community & service	Community & service Service Learning is integrated across the IB continuum, with PYP projects like Rice Harvest and partnerships with local food banks (Onigiri Action and Kodomo Kitchen). The MYP highlights a Literacy Club and DP CAS projects include a student-led in-school MUN conference, building leadership, teamwork, and research skills. The school's PTA and broader Horizon community offer volunteering opportunities and events that foster community involvement.	Community & service Community service and volunteering are built into BST's club offerings, notably through Creative Crafts and Volunteering, which combines creative activities with service projects. Sustainability initiatives are also part of the extracurricular mix, encouraging students to engage with environmental and social responsibility. These experiences help students develop a sense of civic engagement and contribution to the school and wider community.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership is embedded in ASP offerings, including Model United Nations and opportunities for students to lead clubs and organize events. Service Learning features student-led MUN conferences and training sessions that develop public speaking, collaboration, and project management. Horizon MUN is an active program with annual events (e.g., Horizon MUN '26) that provide ongoing leadership and professional development experiences.	Leadership & professional Student leadership is a core feature of BST life. Primary students participate in their own Student Council and House Captains, with Wellbeing Ambassadors and Art Ambassadors contributing to school life and events. The Secondary School has Prefects, House Leadership Teams, a Sports Council and Subject Ambassadors, providing formal channels for student voice, event leadership and cross-curricular project leadership. These structures enable ongoing development of leadership, teamwork and organisational skills across the two campuses.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing A strong athletics program runs futsal, basketball, volleyball, and badminton across grade levels, with teams competing in ISTAA leagues and tournaments to promote discipline and resilience. Facilities include a rooftop sports area (The Nest) and a three-story gymnasium that support physical education and healthy activity. The school also offers extended programs, including Summer School and other enrichment activities, to promote physical activity, social interaction, and well-being outside regular hours.	Lifestyle & wellbeing BST Outdoors provides year-round outdoor learning and residential trips, including activities such as canyoning, rafting, hiking and skiing, to promote physical activity, resilience and teamwork. The Azabudai Hills Campus itself offers wellness-focused facilities and programs, including a Wellness Program at Azabudai Hills and on-site amenities like a swimming pool, music rooms, an art and design studio and an auditorium, supporting physical, artistic and social wellbeing. Wellbeing is embedded in school life through roles like Wellbeing Ambassadors and a dedicated Wellbeing focus such as Wellbeing Week, aligned with BST's Five Ways to Wellbeing.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The main language of instruction is English across the IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP). English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided from Early Years through the Diploma Programme, with integrated classroom support, small-group or one-on-one sessions, and focused development of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. In the Diploma Programme, Japanese is offered as DP language options (Japanese B and Japanese A LAL), alongside other language offerings such as Spanish AB, French AB, and English B, with a Language and Culture option listed among DP subjects.	Language provision BST provides instruction based on the English National Curriculum. From Nursery onward, BST children study Japanese as part of the school's Japanese language context. English as an Additional Language (EAL) specialists support non-native English speakers to access the curriculum. The Azabudai Hills Campus includes a Language Classroom to support language work and targeted language development.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
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Accreditations	Accreditations Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) holds several formal accreditations and memberships that define its international standards and governance. Key accreditations include: - Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): WASC is a U.S.-based accrediting body focused on educational quality, student outcomes, and institutional effectiveness. Horizon was accredited in 2019. - IB World School (PYP, MYP, DP): HJIS is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate continuum (Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme), reflecting adherence to IB's framework and international standards. - Gakkō Hōjin Accreditation (Kanagawa Prefecture): The school has official recognition by Kanagawa Prefecture as an educational corporation since 2004. - Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS) World School: JCIS membership was established in 2024, placing HJIS among a selective group of international schools in Japan. - Council of International Schools (CIS): CIS accreditation was achieved in 2023; CIS is a globally recognized accrediting network focused on learning, global citizenship, and well-being. Note: the school site also shows a past year of 2018 for CIS accreditation, but CIS's own accreditation notice confirms 16 February 2023. - European Council of International Schools (ECIS): Horizon is a long-standing ECIS member (more than 15 years), a professional learning community for international schools.	Accreditations :[
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1 – Gather the documents. Collect the items listed in the admissions guidance: Academic Records for applicants in Grade 1–12; Proof of payment of the application fee of 30,000 JPY; a scan of the student's passport or birth certificate for birth-date verification; photos of the student and guardian(s); a guarantee letter from the employer if the company will pay school fees; and any individualized learning plan (ILP) or other supporting documents. This collection ensures the admissions team has complete material to begin with and supports a smooth review. The documents are used to determine eligibility and placement, and to facilitate the review of the application package. Step 2 – Submit your application. Submit the online application and complete all checklist items in your account. The online submissions are routed through the school's admissions portal, and submitting the form triggers the review process once all required documents are received. This step marks the transition from document gathering to formal review. Step 3 – Submission Review. After online submission, the child may be invited for an interview and a placement assessment. The placement assessment helps determine the appropriate class placement and whether English as an Additional Language (EAL) support or other specialized assistance is required. The outcome of the assessment informs next steps and potential supports. Step 4 – Application Decision. Following the assessment and review of prior school records, the school decides whether the child may register. Families are notified by email as soon as possible of the outcome, and the actual registration occurs at this stage if a place is offered. This decision ties together assessment results, records, and space availability. Step 5 – Enrollment Begins. The admissions office determines the first day of the school, and a family orientation may be organized if applicable. A WIDA test for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners will be conducted as part of the enrollment process. Enrollment activities culminate in the start of the new school term.	Admissions 1. Admissions Process The British School in Tokyo operates two central Tokyo campuses: Azabudai Hills Campus for Nursery to Year 6 and Showa Campus for Year 7 to Year 13. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are open, with a defined timeline that begins in November and runs through summer. The school bases eligibility on age-appropriate UK year groups and a standard admissions policy; parents should confirm the child's year group and ensure eligibility before starting. 2. Complete Enquiry Form To begin, submit the Enquiry Form and create an account. An admissions representative will contact you within 1–2 business days after the form is received. Do not submit a new enquiry if you already have an account. 3. Application Forms Access to the Application Form is provided after the Enquiry Form has been received and reviewed. There is a non-refundable application fee of 40,000 JPY that must be paid on the Application Form. 4. Confirmation of Application After you have submitted all items on the application checklist and a reference is received from the child's current school or teacher, the applicant will be placed in the application pool. The school will schedule any required interview or assessment only if space is foreseen for the applicant. 5. Interview/Assessment If required, the interview or assessment appointment begins in late February and continues into late June. Scheduling depends on the reviewed documents, references, and available space in the relevant year group. 6. English Language Proficiency All subjects are taught in English, so English language proficiency is an entry requirement. If English is not the applicant's first language, the school will assess spoken and written English skills. At least one parent must be able to communicate effectively in English. 7. Admissions Decisions Admissions decisions begin in early March and continue into the summer; for year groups that are full, clarity about openings may not emerge until May or later. 8. Enrollment and Fees If space is offered and accepted, families proceed to enrolment by paying the Enrolment Fee (500,000 JPY) and the Educational Resources Fee (680,000 JPY), which are non-refundable and due within two weeks of the invoice date. The Capital Development Fee is payable for the whole school year (100,000 JPY full year; 40,000 JPY Term 1; 30,000 JPY Term 2; 30,000 JPY Term 3). Tuition is charged as shown in the annual fee schedule (primary: 2,820,000 JPY per year; secondary Year 7–9: 2,840,000 JPY; Year 10–13: 2,930,000 JPY), with term breakdowns of 980,000/990,000/1,030,000 JPY for Term 1, Term 2, and Term 3 respectively. Payments are by bank transfer and not cash, with invoices typically issued 8–14 weeks before the end of the previous term. Existing students' fees are due in full within four weeks after the invoice date. Sibling discounts are not offered, though bursaries may be considered. The Corporate Contribution Programme (CCP) provides a mechanism for organisations to sponsor education expenses for employees' children. 10. Campus and Tour Details BST's Azabudai Hills Campus serves Nursery to Year 6, while the Showa Campus serves Year 7 to Year 13; visits and tours can be arranged to experience a day in BST. English language proficiency, visa expectations (BST does not sponsor student visas; dependents must hold a visa), and space availability all influence the admissions timeline. 11. Documentation For all applicants, references from the current or previous school are required and should accompany the application. 12. Next Steps After an offer, families will receive enrollment instructions and payment details for the enrolment, capital, and resources fees. 13. Final Notes The school publishes annual tuition and enrolment figures in Japanese Yen, and fees are reviewed each year. Invoices, payment methods, and terms are subject to change with notification.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships are available through the Corporate Contribution Plan. Scholarships are granted to students whose parents are employed by companies that participate in this plan. Detailed information about eligibility and how to apply is provided by the Business Office. Families interested in this option should contact the Business Office for further information.	Scholarships 3. Scholarships BST offers bursaries for eligible families who are unable to afford the full fees. The bursary program is limited in scope, up to 7% of the total student roll, and bursaries are not guaranteed from year to year. Eligibility requires meeting normal admissions requirements plus demonstrable financial need, detailed financial information, and a commitment to the British education offered by BST. Bursaries can cover up to 100% of enrolment fees and up to 50% of tuition, but are not available for Nursery and Reception. Bursaries are awarded for one academic year but may be renewed, subject to reassessment of family means and satisfactory student progress; the number of bursaries and criteria may change over time. Applications are reviewed by a bursary committee, and the decision is final. The 2025–26 application window has closed; the schedule for 2026–27 will be published in February 2026. For those sponsored by an employer, the Corporate Contribution Programme (CCP) funds corporate scholarships via donations by organisations.
Waitlist	Waitlist Horizon Japan International School uses a rolling admissions policy with a space-available basis. Applications are reviewed and considered as spaces open up, and there is no published waitlist system; families are typically informed by email if a place becomes available or if further steps are required. This approach means that admissions can occur at various times during the year depending on vacancies.	Waitlist 2. Waitlist/Pool The British School in Tokyo uses an application pool rather than a traditional waitlist. After you submit the Enquiry Form, complete documents, and obtain a reference from your child's current school, the applicant is placed in the application pool. Interviews or assessments occur only when space is anticipated for the applicant. Admissions decisions begin in early March and continue into the summer; in year groups that are full, openings may not be clear until May or later. This pool-based process means that placement depends on space availability and the timing of reviews and interviews. BST has two campuses: Azabudai Hills Campus (Nursery–Year 6) and Showa Campus (Year 7–13), and spaces are allocated according to year group and campus availability.
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