The British School in Tokyo - Showa Campus vs Yokohama International School

	T The British School in Tokyo - Showa Campus Tokyo, Japan	Y Yokohama International School Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥2,920,000 - 3,030,000	Fees / year ¥2,120,000 - 3,440,000
Age range	Age range 12 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Cambridge IGCSE	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Reggio Emilia Approach
Pupils	Pupils 1,300	Pupils 830
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 19
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2007	Opened 1924
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The British School in Tokyo Showa Campus is located at Showa Women's University, 5th Building, 1-7-57 Taishido, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-8533. It sits in Setagaya Ward and is two train stops from Shibuya, providing easy access to central Tokyo. The campus sits on a university campus with extensive facilities and resources for secondary students.	Location The Yokohama International School campus is in the Honmoku area of Yokohama, located in Naka-ku in a mixed commercial and residential neighborhood. It sits beside the Honmoku Front shopping complex and is well integrated with local shops, parks, and transit routes; there are multiple bus routes serving the area and nearby train access to Tokyo. The campus address is 2-100-1 Kominato-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama 231-0802, Japan.
Stages	Stages BST operates two central Tokyo campuses. The Showa Campus serves Year 7 to Year 13, while the Azabudai Hills Campus (the Primary campus) serves Nursery to Year 6, uniting BST's primary and secondary provision on separate sites.	Stages YIS operates an Early Learning Center for ages 3–5, Elementary School from Kindergarten through Grade 5, Middle School in Grades 6–8, and High School in Grades 9–12. The school follows an IB continuum: Primary Years Program (ELC–Grade 5), Middle Years Program (Grades 6–10), and Diploma Program (Grades 11–12).
School type	School type BST is co-educational and operates as a day school with no boarding facilities. The two campuses accommodate different age ranges: Azabudai Hills for Nursery to Year 6 and Showa Campus for Year 7 to Year 13.	School type Co-educational, day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix BST represents students from over 65 nationalities; the school describes itself as multicultural and international. The most common nationalities are not published; BST does not provide a fixed local-to-international ratio in public materials.	Pupil nationality mix The student body includes more than 50 nationalities (the community is highly international). The school has around 808 students, with faculty drawn from multiple countries; the most common nationality is not publicly disclosed.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support BST provides Learning Support Services, including Learning Support, English as an Additional Language (EAL), counselling and medical teams, to support students across year groups. ASDAN courses offer an alternative, practical pathway for some students, with in-class and targeted support available. The school also offers a dedicated counselling team to assist wellbeing and transitions.	Additional learning support YIS provides Learning Support for diverse learning needs, working in collaboration with Counselors and EAL teachers to support academics, behavior, and social–emotional development. EAL support is provided across core subjects to help students access the curriculum, and wellness/counseling services are available for social-emotional health.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation BST's curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England, reflecting its United Kingdom alignment, while the school operates in Japan.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation; the school serves the international community in Yokohama and the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation is not designated; BST emphasizes a diverse, international community and does not promote a single faith as part of its core identity.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure At Azabudai Hills Campus, students may bring their own lunch or have meals delivered by Kiwi Kitchen, while Showa Campus offers a canteen option for Year 10–13 via Showa Women's University. BST follows a three-term calendar with term dates published annually; some days end with midday dismissal, such as certain term days. Lunch and welfare arrangements are described in BST's School Operation details.	School day structure Daily start and end times vary by division and are provided during enrollment. Breakfast is available on campus before the start of the day, and lunch is served in three sittings via Dragon Dining, with a campus café (The Street Café) for breaks. The First Day of School in August 2025 ran from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm as an example of a full-day schedule.
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service is available to BST families, connecting the two campuses; many students also use public transport given the central Tokyo locations. Public transport access and the presence of a campus-side bus option are noted in BST materials and independent guides.	Bus service details The school offers a bus service with nearby pick‑ups and stops. From Sakuragicho Station or Ishikawacho, take buses 101, 105, or 106 to Kominato-cho; From Negishi Station take buses 58 or 101 to Honmoku-Miyabara; bus stops near the campus are indicated in the access information.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and one‑time enrolment fees - Application Fee: ¥40,000. - Enrolment Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥500,000. - Educational Resources Fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): ¥680,000. - These one‑time fees for new students are non‑refundable and must be paid in full within two weeks of the invoice date for new admissions. Tuition fees by year group (per full academic year and per term) - Primary School (Nursery & Reception included): Annual tuition ¥2,820,000; Term 1 ¥980,000; Term 2 ¥940,000; Term 3 ¥900,000. - Secondary School Year 7–Year 9: Annual tuition ¥2,840,000; Term 1 ¥990,000; Term 2 ¥950,000; Term 3 ¥900,000. - Secondary School Year 10–Year 13: Annual tuition ¥2,930,000; Term 1 ¥1,030,000; Term 2 ¥980,000; Term 3 ¥920,000. - Capital Development Tuition Fee (payable for all students): Annual ¥100,000; Term 1 ¥40,000; Term 2 ¥30,000; Term 3 ¥30,000. This charge is applied in addition to the regular tuition amounts listed above. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are normally issued 8–14 weeks before the end of the previous term. - Payment deadlines: - New students: all fees invoiced for new admissions must be paid in full within 2 weeks of the invoice date. - Existing students: tuition for continuing students must be paid in full within 4 weeks of the invoice date. - Accepted method for payment of school tuition and related fees: bank transfer only, from an account in the name of the registered parent or guardian, or from an account whose name has been notified to the school in writing in advance. The School does not accept cash for tuition payments. - Mid‑term enrolment: fees for students who join after the start of a term are charged by term; attendance for any portion of a term requires payment for the full term or half a term depending on the enrolment date. - Notice period on withdrawal: a minimum of one complete term's prior written notice is required; if proper notice is not given, one complete term's fees are payable in lieu of notice. - Late payments: failure to pay may lead to prohibition of attendance, withholding of school records/reports, and reallocation of the student's place (the school may seek to reallocate a place no later than four weeks before the term begins). Parents remain responsible for timely payment even when a third party (for example an employer) pays the fees. Boarding fees - There is no boarding provision at the Showa campus; boarding fees do not apply. The campus operates as a day school. Other costs and optional charges - Costs explicitly included in tuition: routine textbooks required by all students, curriculum residential and day trips and events that are part of the curriculum. - Costs not included in tuition (examples parents should expect): school lunches; non‑curriculum residential and day trips; specialist SEN support where applicable; some external examination fees; certain sports events and tournaments; instrumental (private) music lessons; and some optional clubs or activities. These items are charged separately when applicable. - Uniform: school uniform is purchased through the official uniform suppliers. Orders for standard uniform for the campus can be placed online; the primary supplier accepts payment by bank transfer, PayPal or credit card. Secondary PE uniform is supplied by a different vendor with its own ordering channel. Expect to pay separately for uniform items. - Extra / voluntary programmes: activities run by third parties (for example external sports academies or clubs) may carry separate membership or tuition charges. Parents should budget for optional extracurricular and incidental costs beyond the tuition and mandatory one‑time fees. Refund information - The School's refund position: fees are not refunded except where the required prior notice of withdrawal has been given as described in the notice period and a term has been wholly unattended. In other words, refunds are only considered where appropriate notice has been received and a full term is not attended. Discounts, hardship and special arrangements - Sibling discounts: the school does not offer standard sibling discounts. Payments for elder siblings are taken into account when assessing means for bursary decisions. - Special postponement of fees: the Bursar may consider a special postponement of payment for existing students where verifiable and significant hardship is demonstrated. Any postponed arrangement is assessed case‑by‑case, subject to reassessment each term, and may be varied. - Corporate Contribution Programme: an option exists for organisations to participate in a corporate contribution scheme under which companies make agreed donations to fund corporate scholarships; different billing/donation arrangements apply for participating organisations. Accepted payment channels summary - Tuition and mandatory school fees: bank transfer only (no cash). The transfer should be from an account in the name of the registered parent/guardian or another account previously notified in writing. - Uniform and supplier charges: payable to the uniform vendor; accepted methods include bank transfer, PayPal and credit card (supplier site). Separate suppliers may have different payment methods for PE kit. If further discrete line‑item detail is required (for example a full invoice breakdown for a particular year group or the cost of specific optional activities), those items are charged separately from the tuition and one‑time enrolment/educational resources fees listed above.	Fee details One-time fees - Application Fee: JPY 50,000 (non-refundable). - Registration Fee: JPY 1,350,000 (non-refundable; payment due within 14 days of acceptance). Annual tuition by year group (with per-term amounts) - Early Learning Center – Half Day: Annual tuition JPY 2,025,000. Per term (two equal installments): JPY 1,012,500. - Early Learning Center – Full Day: Annual tuition JPY 2,495,000. Per term: JPY 1,247,500. - Kindergarten – Grade 5: Annual tuition JPY 3,060,000. Per term: JPY 1,530,000. - Grades 6 – 11: Annual tuition JPY 3,190,000. Per term: JPY 1,595,000. - Grade 12: Annual tuition JPY 3,285,000. Per term: JPY 1,642,500. - Campus Development Fee (annual): JPY 385,000. This fee is charged annually and is not prorated. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing: Tuition is billed in two equal installments (two terms). Installment due dates: July 31 and December 8. - Mid-year enrollments: Tuition is prorated by quarters for mid-year entries; the Campus Development Fee is not prorated. - Re-enrollment deposit: JPY 300,000 due by April 15 to secure placement for the following year. - Late payment: Fees overdue by 30 days incur a 2.5% monthly late charge. - Registration fee payment: Due within 14 days of acceptance and non-refundable. Application fee is non-refundable. Payment methods and banking details - Primary payment method indicated: international bank transfer. Include the student's full name or invoice number in payment details for correct processing. - SMBC Trust Bank (SMBC信託銀行): - SWIFT: SMTCJPJT - Yokohama Branch (736) - Savings Account: 7579973 - Account Name: Yokohama International School. - Bank of Yokohama: - SWIFT: HAMAJPJT - Motomachi Branch (311) - Savings Account: 1708779 - Account Name: Yokohama International School. What the tuition covers - Tuition includes school‑issued technology (computers/tablets), most expeditions and field trips, and IB Diploma (IBDP), ISA, and PSAT examination fees (excluding resits). Additional costs billed separately - School bus service (separate charge). - Uniforms (separate charge). - Cafeteria services (separate charge). - Certain extracurricular activities (separate charge). All of the above are billed in addition to tuition where applicable. Boarding fees - Boarding fees: Not applicable. No boarding or boarding fees are listed in the school's tuition and fees schedule. Refund and withdrawal policy - Notice of withdrawal must be submitted in writing. - In principle there are no refunds of tuition. The only exceptions noted are partial refund of deposit or in cases where the student has been enrolled for less than the first five days of that semester. Other financial notes - Scholarships: Scholarships are available through a Corporate Contribution Program for students whose parents' employers participate; details are managed by the school's Business Office. - For payment processing, always include the student's full name or invoice number to ensure correct allocation of funds. Contact for billing enquiries - Admissions/Business Office email provided for payment inquiries.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements BST does not provide boarding facilities. Students must reside in Japan with at least one parent. The school does not sponsor or support student visas; students are expected to be dependents under their parents' visa and must have the appropriate visa in place before starting school.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement BST uniform can be purchased online through the official uniform supplier. A Uniform Guide and Uniform Policy govern requirements; orders can be delivered next business day and sent to either the Shibuya or Showa campus, with Friday collection available. The secondary school PE uniform is supplied by a separate company.	Uniform requirement YIS operates a school uniform system that includes a PE uniform. Uniforms and other YIS-branded apparel are sold on campus through the Dragon's Den, the on-site school store. Families are advised to purchase the PE uniform, with specific colours and design details not published on the site.
Food options	Food options Most students bring their own lunch. At the Azabudai Hills Campus, lunchtime meals can be delivered from Luca Deli for Nursery–Year 6 or Kiwi Kitchen for Year 3–Year 6. At the Showa Campus, Years 7 and above can order Kiwi Kitchen delivery, and there is a canteen for Year 10–13 run by Showa Women's University.	Food options Dragon Dining runs the on-campus cafeteria, offering a rotating weekly menu with Western, Asian, vegan and vegetarian options. Meals are prepared on site with locally sourced ingredients where possible, and some herbs and vegetables are grown on campus in collaboration with students. The Street Café, located between the North and South buildings, provides coffee, tea and baked goods, and the cafeteria uses a cashless payment system with allergen labeling for menu items.
House system	House system BST uses a four-House system: Amaterasu, Bishamon, Izanami and Tsukiyomi. Inter-House competitions take place throughout the year in sports and arts, including Sports Day and the House Singing competition.	House system YIS uses a house-based system to foster student leadership and community. Students participate in House events across divisions, and leadership opportunities related to Houses are available; there are Student Councils in Elementary, Middle and High School to support student voice and governance.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership BST is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Trustees set strategic aims and the budget, appoint the senior leadership, and oversee policies and performance. The Board comprises a mix of parent and international members, and meetings are held regularly with governance structures described on the Trustees page.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Directors (elected at the AGM) and a Board of Trustees, with Auditors monitoring governance and financial status. Day-to-day operations are led by the Head of School and the Senior Leadership Team. Foundational governance documents include the Act of Endowment, the Constitution, and the Board Governance Manual; the site does not indicate that YIS is part of a larger group of schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details BST operates two campuses: Azabudai Hills Campus (Nursery to Year 6) and Showa Campus (Year 7 to Year 13), with the curriculum based on the English National Curriculum and taught in English. The Primary programme at Azabudai Hills delivers a broad, balanced, skill-based English National Curriculum with strong literacy and numeracy foundations and extensive extracurricular opportunities. In Secondary Showa (Year 7–11), core subjects include English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Science, and a Modern Foreign Language (French, Japanese, Mandarin or Spanish), plus Core PE and Learning for Life and Work, with three additional subjects drawn from Art, Business, Computer Science, Drama, Economics, Geography, History, Music and Spanish. From August 2025 BST delivers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Years 12–13, with the last A Level cohort completing in 2026. BST previously introduced BTEC Level 3 in Enterprise and Sport from August 2024 to broaden the senior curriculum, and ASDAN remains available as an alternative pathway. Enquiry-based learning and the BST Learner Profile underpin teaching, with the English National Curriculum enhanced by concept-based enquiry and a focus on international-mindedness.	Curriculum details YIS delivers instruction in English and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) runs from the Early Learning Center through Grade 5; the Middle Years Programme (MYP) runs from Grades 6 to 10; and the Diploma Programme (DP) runs in Grades 11 and 12. In addition to the IB Diploma, students may earn IB Certificates, the YIS Diploma, and the Global Citizen Diploma. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, service learning, and well-being, with field trips, expeditions, and a range of clubs. English is the language of instruction, with an English as an Additional Language program to support learners.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results External examinations are part of the Diploma Programme assessment. YIS publishes external exam results. Details are accessible through the DP results reporting.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Graduates are well prepared for higher education at universities around the world. YIS offers pathways including the IB Diploma, IB Certificates, the YIS Diploma, and the Global Citizen Diploma. Graduates pursue higher education worldwide with the credential mix available through YIS.
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 The British School in Tokyo (BST) integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into its approach to student wellbeing, treating wellbeing as both an ongoing, individual support need and a discrete area of focus. A multidisciplinary Student Support Services team delivers SEL-related support, including Social and Emotional Learning, English as an Additional Language (EAL), Counselling and Medical care, to help students thrive academically and socially. The Learning Support team provides in-class and additional targeted support across all year groups, while the Social and Emotional Support team offers individual and group interventions to develop practical social skills and executive functioning. Staff work in collaboration with families to reinforce SEL strategies and ensure consistent support across home and school. Safeguarding is embedded in the wellbeing framework, with trained staff and established procedures to promote student safety and resilience.	Social & emotional learning Counseling is available across Elementary, Middle, and High School, with counselors providing individual and group support, social-emotional learning, wellness programs, and academic advising delivered in classroom and tutor group settings. Students reflect on strengths, set personal goals, and develop resilience through a structured wellbeing program and university/career guidance. The community emphasizes mindful choices, belonging, and personal growth, with orientation and ongoing family meetings for new students.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) BST provides an inclusive learning environment with a dedicated Learning Support team that delivers specialised in-class and additional support across year groups. The school also offers ASDAN Courses as an alternative curriculum for students with special needs, and BST is currently the only school in Japan to offer ASDAN. The presence of Learning Support and ASDAN indicates provision for a range of needs within a mainstream setting, rather than a specialist SEN institution. BST does not describe itself as a specialist SEN institution on its public materials.	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support collaborates with counselors and EAL specialists to support students with diverse learning needs, offering observations, consultations, and targeted instruction to help students access the curriculum and reach their potential in an inclusive environment. The program is designed to celebrate learning differences and provide individualized or small-group support as required.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language BST welcomes students who require English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, with EAL specialists who work with students, their teachers, and their families to develop English proficiency so students can access the full curriculum confidently. EAL provision is implemented through BST's multidisciplinary Student Support Services, indicating coordinated support across classroom and school life.	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction. The EAL program provides developmentally appropriate language support to help students access all learning programs, with targeted instruction across speaking, writing, listening, and reading. The school recognizes a multilingual environment, with home-language programs and a diverse student body speaking many languages.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the Counselling team, social and emotional interventions, and medical care as part of BST's Student Support Services. Counselling involves one-to-one, class, and transition sessions, while the Social and Emotional Support team provides interventions to build emotional health and wellbeing alongside academic progress. BST emphasizes a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment as central to student happiness and resilience. BST Nurses and the Health & Safety structure underpin day-to-day wellbeing and safety, including health promotion and psychological care where needed.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through counseling services, social-emotional learning, and wellness programming integrated into the school's counseling and health offerings. The health office provides resources and support for student health needs, and counselors partner with families and teachers to support emotional and psychological development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding BST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all students, with a designated safeguarding framework and trained staff to respond to concerns. The school maintains a Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) team that coordinates safeguarding responses and provides staff with guidance on safety and child protection, with regular training aligned to international best practices and local regulations. The BST Safeguarding Policy informs trustees, staff, students, families, external providers and volunteers about responsibilities for safeguarding, and procedures are linked to Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. For Showa Campus, the Designated Safeguarding Lead is Kelly Diaz, and contact details are provided for reporting concerns.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in daily practice with a designated safeguarding framework, staff training, and a student-protection policy aligned to international standards. The school provides clear safeguarding contacts and a responsive child-protection structure, with ongoing monitoring and reporting procedures.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Showa Campus provides a university-like environment with modern classrooms, libraries and study spaces. The campus houses two art studios, Computer Science and Science laboratories, two sports halls, three sports pitches, and an on-site swimming pool. In August 2022 BST opened the Senior School Study Centre to provide Year 12 and 13 students with independent and collaborative study spaces, plus a conference room for student leadership meetings and a Higher Education counselling area. The campus includes the School Building and Senior School Study Centre, along with spaces such as Astro Athletic Field, Green Hall and Hitomi Hall for performances, a canteen and social spaces like the Global Lounge and The Boulevard. The on-site facilities also include dedicated exam rooms and reception areas to support senior students.	Facilities overview YIS has a 14,685-square-meter campus designed so every space is a learning space, with flexible environments and communal hubs. It blends Japanese design with global values and emphasizes sustainability. Opened in January 2022, the campus supports exploration, collaboration, and a sense of community. The campus hosts a library, an Early Learning Center, a science wing, Visual Art & Design studios, performing arts spaces, a multipurpose auditorium, a double gym, and outdoor areas such as The Street and Dragon Dining.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Two sports halls and three sports pitches support PE, team training and fixtures. The Showa Campus also includes an on-site swimming pool.	Sports facilities The athletics program is supported by world-class campus facilities, including a 25-meter heated indoor swimming pool, a 90m x 46m artificial turf field with floodlights, netting and a digital scoreboard, a double gymnasium with two official-size basketball courts and spectator seating, outdoor basketball courts, and an indoor dance studio. The secondary athletics program is organized in three seasonal offerings (Fall, Winter, Spring) with opportunities across multiple sports, and teams compete under the Dragons banner.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include modern classrooms, libraries and dedicated Computer Science and Science laboratories, and the Senior School Study Centre provides targeted spaces for higher education guidance and leadership meetings.	Academic facilities The campus includes a Library with satellite libraries and study spaces, a Codependent Science Wing with six laboratories, and Classrooms designed with movable furniture and large glass doors to support inquiry-driven learning. The Early Learning Center (ELC) serves ages 3–5 with floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a fluid layout. Visual Art & Design Studios, Black Box Theatre Rooms, and Music Studios support arts learning, while a Multipurpose Auditorium accommodates performances and gatherings. A solar energy system on the roof, a Deck Garden, and Chowa-an (teahouse) and gardens integrate sustainability and host-culture elements into daily learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Two art studios support visual arts on campus, and performance spaces such as Green Hall and Hitomi Hall enable music, drama and assemblies. Social spaces include the Global Lounge and The Boulevard.	Extra curricular facilities Expeditions provide hands-on, experiential learning beyond the classroom. The Japanese Culture Program (JCP) integrates activities and events that celebrate Japanese culture while primarily teaching in English. Service Learning connects empathy with action through community partnerships. The Elementary School Activities program (ESA) offers clubs such as Gardening, LEGO, Robotics, and Book-related activities; Secondary Activities include Model United Nations, Robotics, Environment Club, and Student Councils. Athletics and Artistic Opportunities further broaden experiences through team sports, performance, and visual/performing arts showcases.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History BST opened in 1989 with 63 students at its Shibuya campus and was inaugurated by UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. By 1993 BST had grown to over 200 students, teaching children aged 3 to 10. In 1998 BST relocated to a larger Shibuya campus to accommodate over 300 children aged 3 to 11. In 2006 BST opened a facility on the Showa Women's University campus, establishing the BST Showa campus, and Upper Primary Years moved there between 2006 and 2010. The Senior School was introduced in 2010–2011, with the first Year 13 graduates in 2012; August 2022 saw the opening of a Senior School Study Centre at Showa, and August 2023 saw the opening of the Azabudai Hills Primary Campus; in 2025 the Secondary School was refurbished.	History Yokohama International School was founded in 1924 and opened on October 27, 1924 in a YMCA classroom with six students and one teacher. It was among the first schools to include 'international' in its name, and by the late 1930s enrollment exceeded 100 students with a boarding facility added in 1936. The school closed during World War II, its campus was destroyed by fire in 1945, and it was rebuilt and reopened in 1955 on its original Yamate site. YIS became a registered School Juridical Person in 1969, introduced the IGCSE in the 1990s, and offered the IB Primary Years Programme from 2001 with a full Early Learning Centre–High School structure by 2003. In January 2022 the school moved to a new Honmoku campus designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, and the centenary was celebrated on October 27, 2024.
Community	Community BST's community is diverse, with families from all backgrounds, cultures, languages and ethnicities, and the PTA invites every parent to get involved. BST operates across two central Tokyo campuses, with the Azabudai Hills Campus housing Nursery to Year 6 and the Showa Campus housing Year 7 to Year 13, creating a connected urban community. The community hosts regular events and performances, including BST's 35th anniversary concert with the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra at Hitomi Hall in March 2025. The Spring Fair 2025 brought 1,000+ attendees and highlighted sustainability initiatives with student involvement and community participation.	Community The close friendships and cooperation between students, staff, parents and alumni lie at the heart of YIS. A range of events and activities are offered by the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), supporting learning opportunities and community engagement. The Food Fair is a hallmark event that unites the YIS community and nearby neighborhoods in a festival of food and culture. Alumni remain connected after graduation, with many returning as staff or as parents of current students.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The PTA welcomes and represents all BST parents in fostering a sense of engagement and belonging in both the school and the wider community. The PTA is diverse, inclusive, and engaged, with members from many backgrounds and languages. Over the course of each academic year, the PTA collaborates closely with the school to organise monthly, termly, and annual events, including monthly coffee mornings. Charity drives and fundraisers take place each term, and on an annual basis formal galas support initiatives such as the Annual Fund. All PTA activities are volunteer-based and led by an Executive Committee. For more information, parents can contact pta@bst.ac.jp.	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) provides a calendar of events and activities for families, supports learning opportunities, and drives community engagement. The Food Fair is the largest annual PTSA-led event, attracting thousands of attendees and involving hundreds of volunteers across many booths and cultural presentations. Proceeds from the Food Fair fund the PTSA Grants Program, which supports student and wider-community projects. Culture Workshops at Food Fair bring immersive country experiences to the school community, expanding intercultural understanding. The PTSA and school collaborate to foster parent involvement, fundraising, and service opportunities across the year.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual BST Showa Campus offers extensive academic activities beyond class time. Secondary clubs include MUN (Model United Nations), Debating, KS4 Maths Club, KS5 STEP Maths Club and VEX Robotics. These activities strengthen research and problem-solving alongside the curriculum.	Academic & intellectual Expeditions are a key experiential opportunity at YIS. They connect wilderness engagements to classroom concepts and personal growth, with clear learning intentions. They promote resilience, collaboration, and a deeper respect for nature. Expeditions encourage stepping outside comfort zones, reflection, and returning to campus with new skills, stronger relationships, and a richer understanding of themselves.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts and creative activities are strong at Showa Campus. Key music ensembles include Advanced Secondary String Ensemble, Brass Band, BST Orchestra and Chamber Choir. Drama, Film Review, Photography and Writing Club are among other offerings. Externally Run Clubs also expand opportunities in calligraphy, dance and other arts partnerships.	Arts & creative Artistic Opportunities at YIS include visual and performing arts driven by student choice, creative exploration, and collaboration. Learners pursue personal expression and cultural insight through arts activities. They gain confidence in creative abilities and connect with others through showcases and exhibitions. They build skills, confidence, and empathy through artistic exploration.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Language development is supported through multiple clubs. These include French Enrichment, Japanese and Spanish for Learners. NHK Learning Japanese and Japanese Calligraphy appear through externally run clubs. These activities promote cultural awareness alongside language proficiency.	Cultural & language Japanese Culture Program (JCP) offers immersion in Japanese culture through an integrated program. Although we primarily learn in English from the ELC to High School, students engage in activities, workshops, and community partnerships that celebrate our host culture. Activities include tea ceremonies, calligraphy, festivals, and traditional cultural experiences that cultivate appreciation, respect, and a deeper understanding of Japan.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Social and hobby activities include Board Games, Debating and E-Sports. Additional options include Creative Writing, Photography and Space Explorers. Clubs foster peer-to-peer learning and social connections.	Social & hobbies Student Activities offer clubs and organizations enabling students to explore interests, develop talents, and challenge themselves. Activities promote creativity, collaboration, and pursuing personal passions. Based on diversity and inclusion, a vibrant range of clubs enables students to try new things and collaborate with peers.
Community & service	Community & service Community engagement is encouraged via Creative Crafts and Volunteering and Sustainability clubs. These projects provide opportunities to contribute to local and global communities. They help students develop service-minded attitudes.	Community & service Service Learning at YIS turns empathy into action. Through hands-on projects and partnerships, students address community and global challenges, learn diverse perspectives, and experience teamwork. It fosters a sense of responsibility for local, national, and international communities and breaks down barriers. Making service a core part of learning nurtures compassionate students who understand that real change starts with them.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is integral at Showa Campus. Model United Nations builds diplomacy and public speaking; the Senior School Study Centre supports prefect roles and leadership meetings. Participation in MUN helps students build confidence and teamwork.	Leadership & professional Expeditions build leadership, self-management, and collaboration skills through challenging journeys. Grade-specific expeditions develop leadership across grades 3–10, culminating in experiences such as the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and a diving expedition. The program includes leadership retreats and service leadership opportunities as part of authentic learning, enabling students to lead with confidence. Students reflect on leadership and apply it in teamwork and community projects.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Lifestyle and wellbeing are central, with sport emphasised from Year 7 to Year 13. The programme includes swimming, Football, Netball, Badminton and Yoga. These activities promote health, resilience and teamwork.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Safeguarding and wellbeing are integral to YIS. Safeguarding is woven into every aspect of the community, with staff undergoing regular training in child protection and adherence to international standards for safe recruitment. The middle school program includes a supportive wellbeing program. Expeditions and outdoor education contribute to wellness by promoting resilience, physical health, and mindful connection with nature.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The language of instruction at BST is English. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided to assist non-native English speakers in accessing the curriculum. Language learning is supported through dedicated language learning spaces, including a Language Classroom at the Azabudai Hills Campus, within BST's overall English-language, international education model.	Language provision English is the language of instruction across Yokohama International School. The EAL program personalizes language support to help multilingual learners participate across all subject areas and activities. Japanese language is offered as part of the language program; in Grades 1–5, students new to English may attend EAL instead of the Japanese Language class to access the curriculum, while other students study Japanese in the regular language program. The school offers additional modern foreign languages as IB/DP options, including Spanish, French, German, and Japanese; the Home Language program supports more than 20 home languages, with over 90% of students speaking two or more languages.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs English is the language of instruction. The Early Learning Center and Kindergarten are fully English-language immersion. In Grades 1–5, students new to English may attend a specialized EAL class instead of the Japanese Language class to access the curriculum with language support. In Secondary (MYP/DP), language progress is monitored by an EAL specialist who collaborates with subject teachers to provide differentiated instruction.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Awards won by BST in the past 5 years (awards credited to the school, not individuals or students): - Company of the Year, British Business Awards (BCCJ), 2025 — BST was named Company of the Year at the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan's British Business Awards, a recognition of excellence, leadership and impact within Japan's international community and aligned with BST's 35th anniversary year.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The British School in Tokyo (BST), including its Showa Campus, holds the following accreditations. - COBIS Patron's Accreditation — BST is the first school in Japan to receive Patron's Accreditation from the Council of British International Schools, confirming adherence to COBIS standards for this accreditation level and signaling high-quality British international education. - CIS Membership — BST became a member of the Council of International Schools in 2023, aligning with CIS's drivers for purpose and direction, high-quality student learning, wellbeing and global citizenship, and gaining access to CIS programs and services. - IB World School (IBDP authorization) — BST was officially authorised as an IB World School and will offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) to Years 12–13 from August 2025. - BTEC Centre — BST was approved as a BTEC centre, enabling delivery of BTEC Level 3 in Enterprise and Sport from August 2024. - ASDAN Centre — BST was approved as an ASDAN centre, and is the only school in Japan offering ASDAN courses.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Admissions Process (Showa Campus, Year 7–13) 1. Check Eligibility. Review BST's admissions policy and guidelines, and verify the child's age against the UK year-group system to determine the correct year group. Showa Campus serves students from Year 7 (around 11 years old) to Year 13 (up to 18 years old). The school is located at Showa Women's University, and enrollment materials specify the age-to-year alignment for ongoing intakes. 2. Complete Enquiry Form. Submit the Enquiry Form and create an account to begin the process. An admissions representative will contact you within 1–2 business days after the enquiry is received. If you already have an account, use the existing one rather than submitting a new enquiry. 3. Application Forms. Access to the Application Form is provided after the Enquiry Form is reviewed. An application fee of 40,000 JPY (non‑refundable) is payable on the Application Form. Ensure all required information is accurate before submitting the form. 4. Confirmation of Application. After submitting all checklist items and receiving a reference from the applicant's current school or teacher, the applicant is placed in the school's application pool. An interview or assessment is scheduled after documents and references are reviewed, and when space is foreseen for the applicant. 5. Interview/Assessment. If required, interviews or assessments begin in late February and continue into late June. The schedule depends on space availability and the applicant's year group. Parents should plan for possible in-person interactions as part of the decision process. 6. Admissions Decisions. Admissions decisions begin in early March and continue through the summer. For year groups that are full, openings may not be clear until May or later, so families should not expect immediate offers in all cases. 7. Enrolment and Fees. If a place is offered, enrolment steps proceed with the school's fee schedule: a non‑refundable enrolment fee of 500,000 JPY and an additional Educational Resources fee of 680,000 JPY are due as part of joining the school. Tuition is billed annually with per‑term breakdowns (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3) and is payable by bank transfer within the terms specified. Invoices are usually issued 8–14 weeks before the end of the previous term, and existing students' tuition is due within 4 weeks of the invoice date; the school does not accept cash payments. Notes: BST shows that Showa Campus is Year 7–13 and located at Showa Women's University, with Showa address and contact details provided on the campus page. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are open.	Admissions 1. Eligibility. The school accepts applicants who are foreign nationals or Japanese nationals with prior international education. At least one residing parent must be fluent in speaking, reading, and writing English. Applicants must live with at least one parent within commuting distance while enrolled at YIS. 2. Admissions Portal and Pre-application. Start with the Pre-application Form to provide basic information and create an account for the Admissions Portal. If a child is already enrolled at YIS, begin the process in the Veracross Parent Portal under the Admissions option. The school year runs from August to June. 3. Our Admissions Team Reviews Your Pre-application. The Admissions Team reviews the pre-application to confirm eligibility and may request additional information by email. If there are issues regarding eligibility, follow-up communication will occur. 4. Complete Application in The Admissions Portal and Pay Application Fee. Return to the Admissions Portal to complete the forms and upload required documents so the school can form a full picture of the child's suitability for the program. Payment of the application fee is part of this step. 5. Document Submission. Submit all requested documents through the Admissions Portal to support the application review. Ensuring all documents are uploaded helps avoid delays in processing. 6. Application Review & Notification Of Admission Decision. The Admissions team reviews the complete application and aims to notify applicants within a few weeks for overseas submissions. There is rolling admission for overseas applicants due to space constraints. For entry at the beginning of the school year (August), apply by early March (early February for high school). 7. Respond To Admissions Decision. If admitted, the family should respond to the admission decision to indicate whether they will enroll. This response typically follows the notification of the decision. 8. Complete Online Enrollment and Pay Registration Fee. After accepting the offer, complete online enrollment and pay the registration fee to secure a place.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships and Financial Support Bursaries: BST offers a limited number of bursaries intended to assist eligible families who cannot meet the full fees. The bursaries cover up to 100% of the enrolment fees and up to 50% of tuition (including Capital Development Funds). The total number of bursaries is limited to about 7% of the student roll, and the availability may vary by year. Bursaries are not awarded to Nursery or Reception students and are subject to annual reassessment based on family means and progress. Eligibility requires meeting normal admissions requirements plus evidence of financial need and a demonstrable benefit of a British education; decisions are final and may not be renewed every year. The 2025–26 bursary cycle closed, with plans for the 2026–27 cycle to be published in February 2026. Corporate Contribution Programme (CCP): BST also operates a CCP, a program that allows organizations with foreign employees to contribute to the school to fund corporate scholarships for dependents. The CCP is tax-efficient for participating companies and supports scholarships funded by corporate donations. To join, a company should contact the Development Office (or complete the form) to initiate the process; the arrangement can also be updated for existing enrollees. This program helps fund the school's scholarship offerings and facility improvements.	Scholarships Corporate Contribution Program (CCP): The CCP is a corporate scholarship program for organizations that cover expatriate employees' educational expenses. Donations fund corporate scholarships for dependents and support the school's fundraising and facilities. CCP donations are not taxable as personal income in Japan under an authorized agreement; contact the business manager for details on eligibility and participation. Chowa Scholarship Fund: The school is launching the Chowa Scholarship Fund in 2026–2027 to provide need-based financial assistance to students facing hardship. The fund is designed to promote equity and inclusion so students can continue to thrive at YIS.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waitlist / Pool (Showa Campus, Year 7–13) BST uses an application pool system for admissions when year-group spaces are limited. After you submit the complete application and a reference is received from the current school or teacher, the applicant is placed in the application pool. Any interview or assessment is scheduled once space is foreseen for the applicant. Admissions decisions begin in early March and continue through summer; for full year groups, openings may not be clear until May or later, so applicants may remain in the pool for an extended period.	Waitlist When the number of eligible applicants exceeds available spaces, applicants may be placed in a wait pool if deemed acceptable. Priority is given to siblings of current students, children of YIS staff and alumni, returning students, and dependents of organizations participating in our Corporate Contribution Program (CCP). Applicants in the wait pool are requested to submit updated school reports to confirm continued interest.
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