Compare British Curriculum International Schools in Kobe, Japan

Instructs in English, Japanese

Ages 2 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,151,000 - 1,871,000

Pupils 70

Type Co-educational

Ascot International School Japan is a Cambridge International School in Kita-ku, Kobe City (Hyogo), serving students from Early Years through Upper Secondary. The school opened its Early Years section in January 2018 and joined the Cambridge International network in May 2022. Students follow Cambridge pathways leading to IGCSE and A-levels, with the curriculum noted as aligned to the English National Curriculum, and Japanese learning offered alongside the English-language program. The campus includes a gymnasium and a full artificial turf soccer pitch, and the school highlights woodland areas used for nature-based learning. After school, students can join activities such as AFA Soccer, basketball, badminton, gaming and homework club.

Location

Ascot International School Japan is in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, with the campus at 1-11-2 Kanokodai Minamimachi, Kita-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo 651-1514, Japan. The nearest rail access is Dojo-Minamiguchi Station, about a 15-minute walk from the campus. The site sits on Kanokodai in a green, semi-rural area and includes woodland on campus, offering a natural learning environment. Bus services connect key areas such as Sannomiya, Rokko Island, Sumiyoshi, Hankyu Mikage, Takurazuka, and Sanda.

Stages

Ascot International School Japan offers Early Years, Primary (Key Stage 1 & 2), Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3) and Upper Secondary (Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5) within a Cambridge International framework. The curriculum provides a clear pathway through IGCSE and A-levels, with transition planning from Early Years through to Upper Secondary. The Cambridge alignment has been in place since May 2022.

Type

AISJ operates as a private international school on a day-cum-boarding model, with on-site boarding options available for secondary students in separate Boys' and Girls' dormitories located within walking distance of the school. The day school follows a Cambridge/English-national framework for its curriculum and assessment. Boarding facilities are offered specifically for certain year groups in the secondary program.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The student body represents more than 15 cultures; the school notes a diverse, intercultural community supported by staff from six continents. Specific counts of nationalities or the local-to-international student ratio are not published.

Additional learning support

No formal SEN policy is published on the AISJ site. The school integrates Japanese language learning alongside its Cambridge English-language curriculum, and staff are described as bilingual, which supports language learners and bilingual students. Specific SEN provisions or facilities are not publicly detailed.

Country affiliation

No formal country affiliation is published; AISJ presents itself as an international Cambridge International School serving families in Kobe.

Religious affiliation

No religious affiliation is published or stated by the school.

School day structure

The school opens at 8:30 a.m. Monday–Friday. Teaching runs from 8:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with extended care available from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. School lunch options are available, with students bringing lunch or choosing a school-provided option.

Bus service

AISJ operates bus services serving areas including Sannomiya, Rokko Island, Sumiyoshi, Hankyu Mikage, Takurazuka, and Sanda, providing transport for students as part of its campus services. The bus network is a stated part of the school's offering to support families.

Initial (one-time) fees
- Application Fee: JPY 22,000. (Payable once only; non-refundable.)
- Enrollment Fee: JPY 165,000. (Payable once only; non-refundable.)
- Enrollment Fee – sibling discount (for Ascot student's sibling): JPY 110,000. (Payable once only; non-refundable.)
- Assessment Fee (where applicable; after Year 1): JPY 11,000.

Tuition fees by year group (Annual and half-term amounts)
- Nursery Full (9:00–16:00), age 2–3 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,030,000; Half-term amount shown: JPY 515,000.
- Nursery Half (9:00–12:30), age 2–3 — Annual Tuition: JPY 530,000; Half-term amount: JPY 265,000.
- Kindergarten, age 3–4 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,090,000; Half-term amount: JPY 545,000.
- Reception, age 4–5 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,090,000; Half-term amount: JPY 545,000.
- Key Stage 1 (Year 1 and 2), age 5–7 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,160,000; Half-term amount: JPY 580,000.
- Key Stage 2 (Year 3 and 4), age 7–9 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,210,000; Half-term amount: JPY 605,000.
- Key Stage 2 (Year 5 and 6), age 9–11 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,320,000; Half-term amount: JPY 660,000.
- Key Stage 3 (Year 7, 8 and 9), age 11–14 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,470,000; Half-term amount: JPY 735,000.
- Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11), age 14–16 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,600,000; Half-term amount: JPY 800,000.
- Key Stage 5 (Year 12 and 13), age 16–18 — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,750,000; Half-term amount: JPY 875,000.
- In-school Instructor (16–18) — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,750,000; Half-term amount: JPY 875,000.
- Online Learning (16–18) — Annual Tuition: JPY 1,750,000; Half-term amount: JPY 875,000.

Other mandatory and exam-related fees
- Building & Development Fee: JPY 110,000.
- Technology Fee: JPY 11,000.
- Cambridge assessment/test fees (by year group, payable as applicable):
- Cambridge (O) / IGCSE tests for Years 1–5: JPY 15,000 (per indicated test item).
- Cambridge (O) / IGCSE tests for Year 6: JPY 23,000.
- Cambridge MidYIS tests for Years 7–8: JPY 20,000.
- Cambridge MidYIS tests for Year 9: JPY 26,000.
- Cambridge Yellis tests for Year 10: JPY 26,000.

School bus fees
- Sanda Area — Round-trip: JPY 25,000; One-way: JPY 20,000.
- Takarazuka Area — Round-trip: JPY 40,000; One-way: JPY 32,000.
- Rokko Area — Round-trip: JPY 40,000; One-way: JPY 32,000.
- Sannomiya Area — Round-trip: JPY 50,000; One-way: JPY 40,000.
- Notes on bus billing: the bus fee is charged monthly; priority is given to round-trip users; semi-annual (longer-term) bus users are charged the applicable rate even if the service is used once in a month; one-way single-trip use is charged at the stated one-way rate divided by 20 days; refunds are not offered after use.

After-school care and tutoring fees
- After School Care (16:00–17:30): JPY 3,300 (per session/period as shown).
- After School Tutoring (16:00–17:00): JPY 5,100 (per session/period as shown).

Dormitory / boarding fees (where applicable)
- Dormitory initial (one-off) fee: JPY 22,000. (Non-refundable after the academic year starts.)
- Dormitory Monthly Fee (weekday, Monday to Friday): JPY 30,000.
- Per non-school day (Saturday, Sunday and holiday): JPY 4,000.

Cash-handling, issuance and small administrative fees
- Cash Handling Fee (payable upon receipt of cash or before certificate is issued): JPY 550.
- Reissue of Student ID Card: JPY 500.
- Issuance of Transcript (per copy; issued up to 3 years): JPY 1,000.
- Issuance of Certificate of Graduation: JPY 1,000.
- Issuance of Certificate of Expected Graduation: JPY 1,000.
- Issuance of Report Card (per year; issued up to 3 years): JPY 1,000.
- Translation of documents specified by the school: JPY 500 per page.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Initial fees (application, enrollment and similar initial charges) are payable once and are non-refundable.
- Tuition figures are presented as annual amounts and as a half-term figure (labelled on the schedule as “Half Term x2”); tuition and other ongoing fees are non-refundable once the academic year has started where stated.
- School bus fees are charged monthly; one-way single-trip usage is calculated using the one-way rate divided by 20 days. Refunds for bus usage are not provided once the service has been used.
- Specific invoicing cycles (dates of invoice issue and exact due dates) are issued by the school at enrolment; administrative handling fees apply for cash payments or re-issued documents.

Refund information
- Initial fees (application, enrollment) and certain charges are explicitly non-refundable.
- Tuition and ancillary fees are described as non-refundable after the academic year starts where indicated.
- Bus fees and individual ride charges are not refundable after use; refunds are not offered under the circumstances described for bus service.

Fee payment options
- Accepted payment methods listed: bank transfer, cash, and PayPal.
- Small cash-handling and issuance fees apply when paying by cash or when certificates/documents are issued.

Notes and caveats
- Cambridge exam fees (IGCSE / AS / A-level) are charged separately and are not included in the listed tuition amounts.
- All prices are subject to change and specific dates, invoicing cycles and any additional optional charges (for example, extra-curricular or international shipping for documents) are handled and confirmed by the school at enrolment or on invoices.

Boarding Arrangements

Boarding is provided for secondary students through separate boys' and girls' dormitories, located within walking distance of the school. The dormitories indicate on-site housing for boarders. The exact boarding model (full, weekly, or flexi) and specifics on meals or dormitory supervision are not published. This arrangement supports students who live on campus during term time.

Uniform Requirement

Nursery students do not wear a school uniform. From Kindergarten onwards, students wear the school uniform daily. The uniform is described as comfortable, attractive, and easy to maintain.

Food Options

School lunch is available from the school kitchen, and students may either bring lunch or order the daily lunch. Lunch is supervised by staff while on campus. Dietary options are not specified on the page.

Governance and Ownership

The Kobe campus operates within the Ascot International School network, with a sister campus in Bangkok. The school is Cambridge International School and WASC accredited. Ownership or formal governance details are not published.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

AISJ emphasizes student wellbeing as a core consideration, though a formal SEL program is not named in public materials. The staff page states that administration and support staff place the wellbeing and education of students at the center of their efforts. There are social development opportunities through after-school clubs such as AFA Soccer, Badminton, Basketball, Gaming Club, and Homework Club. AISJ maintains small class sizes (no more than 15 students per classroom), which supports individual attention and peer interaction.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

A named SEN provision exists, with Claire Pontvienne listed as Special Needs on AISJ's Our Staff page. An EAL provision exists, with Wakako Tameoka listed as Secondary Japanese EAL. The curriculum includes a bilingual approach, with Japanese language integrated alongside English to foster dual language learners. The site does not publicly disclose the kinds of SEN it can support or whether AISJ is a specialist SEN institution.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

There is EAL provision with Wakako Tameoka (Secondary Japanese EAL) listed on the Our Staff page. All staff are native English speakers and many are bilingual, according to AISJ's staff description. The Japanese language program is integrated with the international English curriculum to foster dual language learners. The school offers Japanese Early Years, Primary and Secondary curriculum in tandem with English, supporting dual language learning.

Mental Wellbeing

AISJ states that the wellbeing of students is central to the efforts of staff. There is an on-site Nurse Station in the Early Years building, reflecting health support on campus. Social and extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs, provide social engagement that can support emotional wellbeing. Public materials do not describe a separate mental health programme or counsellor role.

Safeguarding

The Safety and Security page documents campus safety measures including controlled access, fencing, CCTV with facial recognition, and 24/7 Secom security. Visitors sign in and wear badges; end-of-day dismissal is by Class Teachers to parents or designated caretakers. The campus is described as earthquake-safe and well-ventilated. Public information on safeguarding and child protection policies is not publicly disclosed on AISJ's site.

Admissions

1. Inquiry. An admission inquiry can be made at any time. You can reach out by email or phone to request admission information, and the school will provide the relevant details for your family. You may be asked for basic information about your child to help tailor the information you'll receive.

2. Admission Period. Admissions are possible throughout the year, space permitting. The most popular entry times are late August (predominantly international students) and early April (predominantly Japanese students). Space availability can vary by grade and year, so early contact is advised.

3. Book a tour or Open House. You may attend an Open House or arrange a school visit by email or phone. The visit typically includes a Head of School meeting, a guided tour, and opportunities to interact with teaching staff. During this visit, you can ask questions about curriculum, facilities, and student life, and you may also arrange a Trial Day for your child.

4. Application. Applications are submitted in person after completing the necessary forms and paying the application fee. The school will then arrange an interview with the Headmaster, which can be conducted in person or online. The one-time application fee is ¥22,000 and the one-time enrollment fee is ¥165,000. There are annual charges including Building and Development ¥110,000 and Technology ¥11,000, and the annual tuition starts at ¥1,030,000, with the first-year total at ¥1,338,000.

5. Interview with the Headmaster. The interview helps clarify how well the child's needs align with the school's offerings, and it can involve both the family and the child. Interviews can be conducted on site or online if needed. Staff may participate to discuss English proficiency, learning support needs, and overall fit with Ascot's program.

6. Acceptance. Admission decisions are communicated in a timely manner, along with additional forms for acceptance. Once the offer is accepted, families receive further instructions about enrollment steps and timelines.

7. First Day of School. The school will welcome the child on the agreed start date and place them in the appropriate class. Families will receive information about uniforms and other materials, which can be purchased at the school if desired. A smooth transition plan is provided to help new students settle in.

Waitlist

The school does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system. Admissions are offered on a rolling basis, space permitting. If a grade is temporarily full, spaces may open later depending on availability, but there is no published waitlist policy or capacity for a formal waitlist pool on Ascot's pages.

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St. Michael's International School

Instructs in English

Ages 3 - 11 years

Fees ¥1,454,500 - 1,628,400

Type Co-educational

St. Michael’s International School in Kobe was established on 10 March 1946 and serves children aged 3–11. It is located on the edge of Kitano, close to Sannomiya, in an area described as family-friendly and multicultural. In Early Years, SMIS draws on the British EYFS alongside the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC). In Primary, it uses the National Curriculum for England and Wales for English and Mathematics and embeds learning through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). The school describes itself as the first in Japan accredited with the IPC and the only fully accredited British international school in Kansai offering specialist Early Years and Primary education. Students can join after-school clubs that run 5–8 weeks each term, and Year 5–6 have residential experiences planned at a YMCA facility.

Location

St. Michael's International School is located at 3 Chome-17-2 Nakayamatedori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0004, Japan. It sits on the edge of the Kitano residential area in central Kobe, described as a safe, family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to Sannomiya and Osaka. The surrounding area is multicultural, with places of worship and a range of shops and services within walking distance.

Stages

The school offers Early Years (Ages 3-5) and Primary, covering nursery and Year 1 through Year 6. The Early Years provision serves ages 3-5, and Primary covers the core year groups up to Year 6 (approximately age 11).

Type

St. Michael's is a British international school operating on a co-educational, day-only model in the Anglican tradition. It is described as co-educational and Day, and its Anglican character is noted in official descriptions.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Preliminary data indicate around 19 nationalities are represented, with Japanese being the most common at about 50%, followed by dual nationals (around 21%), and other groups such as Indian and Chinese (around 18%) and rest of world (around 11%). Approximately 76% of students are local, with about 26% international students.

Additional learning support

The school runs a Learning Enrichment Service (LES) implemented since 2010, using a three-wave model to monitor and support students' abilities. English Language Learners (ELL) provision is available as part of the enrichment framework.

Country affiliation

The school identifies as a British international school, affiliated with the United Kingdom.

Religious affiliation

Anglican tradition.

School day structure

The school day runs from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the office and school communications reflecting these hours. Lunch is offered on-site in three sittings; students may bring lunch or go home for lunch.

Bus service

The school provides a bus service. Sign-up is first-come, first-served, with priority given to students who use the bus daily; there is no bus service for after-school activities. Bus safety rules include seat belts, orderly boarding and exiting, and staff monitoring. For those using public transport, discounted passes and timetable assistance are available.

Application & Registration Fees

- Application Fee: non-refundable. Typical published amounts range between ¥40,000 and ¥50,000 depending on the published schedule.
- Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): published amounts vary by entry point; examples shown in public fee schedules include Nursery-level and Reception/above categories (example published values: Nursery ¥100,000; Reception & above approx. ¥290,000–¥300,000). The registration fee must be paid within three weeks of an official acceptance offer.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and instalment details)

- The school operates a three-term academic year but invoices tuition in two instalments (payment due in July and January). Therefore a stated annual tuition is typically billed in two equal instalments (July and January). A penalty applies for late payment (see Billing schedule and payment terms).

- Representative annual tuition figures (examples published for the most recent full fee schedule made publicly available):
- Age 3 (Kindergarten 1): Annual tuition component shown as ¥1,304,500 (first-year total is higher because of one-time application/registration/technology fees). Total annual costs (excluding first-year one-time payments) published for ages/grades: ¥1,454,500 for ages 3–4; ¥1,628,400 for ages 5–10 (Grade 1–5). These figures represent the school's published annual-fee structure used in the fee schedule made public by the school and third‑party school-fee aggregators. For budgeting, the annual tuition component is billed in two instalments (July and January).

- Instalment example: where the annual tuition is ¥1,304,500, the standard billing schedule (two instalments) results in two equal payments of approximately ¥652,250 due in July and January. The school's billing practice is to invoice tuition in two instalments rather than on a per-term (three-term) basis.

One‑time and recurring additional fees

- Technology Fee: one-time and non-refundable; applies to all students enrolling in Year One and to new students enrolling in Years Two to Six. Example published amounts in public fee schedules: ¥50,000 (one-time).
- Maintenance Fee: annual and non‑refundable; example published amount ¥150,000. This is charged in full for all students (returning and new) regardless of date of entry and is not pro‑rated. Payment is due in July or at time of enrolment.
- Insurance Fee: annual, paid per child; covers supervised school activities and travel to/from school. The insurance benefit schedule is published by the school (examples of benefit amounts are included in the school policy). Example published premium amounts (in public fee summaries) include figures such as approximately ¥6,400 per child in some published summaries. The insurance premium is not refundable.
- PTA Fee: annual, paid per family; non‑refundable. Example published PTA contribution amounts appear in public fee summaries (e.g., around ¥5,000).
- Library bag and school cap: invoiced with school fees. Replacement costs example: library bag ¥1,800; school cap ¥2,000.
- Uniforms: school and PE uniform are mandatory and are additional to tuition. School lunch, school bus, after‑school activity fees and optional photograph purchases are charged separately.

First-year total (example composition)

- For first‑year budgeting many published schedules separate one‑time items (application, registration, technology) from recurring annual items (tuition, maintenance, insurance, PTA). Example composition published in public fee summaries for first year (illustrative): Application Fee ¥40,000; Registration Fee ¥290,000; Technology Fee ¥50,000; Maintenance Fee ¥150,000; Tuition Fee ¥1,304,500 — producing a first‑year total (illustrative) of ¥1,834,500 for a Kindergarten1 entry. Annual totals for continuing years are lower because one‑time fees are not repeated. Use the annual tuition figures above to compute continuing‑year totals and instalments.

Boarding fees

- St. Michael's operates as a day school (no boarding provision). Boarding fees are not applicable.

Billing schedule, payment terms and penalties

- Tuition billing: invoiced in two instalments; due in July and January. For students entering mid‑year, tuition is charged from the month of entry; other fees must be paid in full at the time they are due. The school operates a three‑term year (August–December; January–March; April–June) for attendance and withdrawal calculations.
- Late payment penalties and consequences: a penalty of ¥30,000 is applied for payments received 15 days after the due date. Students whose tuition is outstanding 60 days after the due date may be suspended; the school may withhold reports, transcripts or transfer certificates while balances remain unpaid. If a student is suspended for non‑payment, reinstatement may require an additional ¥50,000 plus full remaining year's fees payable in advance.
- Withdrawal terms and refunds: a minimum of two months' written notice of withdrawal must be given to the Head of School. Children who leave before the end of the school year will be charged up to the end of the term in which they withdraw. Fees held beyond the final account point are returned within 30 days of leaving. A late withdrawal fee of ¥30,000 applies to families who, after making the July payment, withdraw before the start of the new academic year. Maintenance, insurance, PTA and technology fees are explicitly non‑refundable and are not pro‑rated. In the event of an unexpected school closure where learning continues remotely, full tuition is maintained and no refund is provided.

Other costs to budget for

- Uniforms (school and PE) — mandatory and additional to tuition.
- Optional services: school lunch; school bus; after‑school activities (charged per term); optional photograph purchases.
- Small school accessories invoiced with fees: library bag and school cap (replacement costs listed above).

Fee payment methods and bank details

- Published payment method: bank transfer. Separate bank account details are provided for transfers from within Japan and for overseas transfers (MUFG Bank with SWIFT: BOTKJPJT and the school's account number). Any bank charges are the payer's responsibility. The school's published policy lists bank transfer as the required payment route. No general public statement of standard credit‑card payment acceptance for annual tuition is published in the school's payment policy; banking transfer is the established published method.

Sibling discount

- A 15% sibling discount on tuition applies to younger siblings when two or more children from the same parents attend simultaneously. The discount applies to tuition only; other fees (application, registration, maintenance, insurance, PTA, technology) must be paid in full. The oldest child pays full tuition; the discount applies in order of enrollment.

Summary of non‑refundable items and key penalties

- Non‑refundable: Application Fee; Registration Fee; Maintenance Fee; Insurance Fee; Technology Fee; PTA Fee.
- Penalties: ¥30,000 late‑payment fee after 15 days; suspension and possible withholding of documentation for accounts outstanding 60 days; ¥50,000 reinstatement condition where suspension occurred for non‑payment; ¥30,000 late withdrawal fee in specified circumstances.

Note: the school publishes a narrative "Fees for 2025–2026" and a detailed Payment Policy that sets billing terms, penalties, non‑refundable items and bank transfer instructions; publicly available fee schedules and school‑fee aggregators publish specific annual tuition and one‑time fee figures (examples summarized above) that are used for family budgeting.

Uniform Requirement

The uniform is worn daily by all students. There are winter and summer uniforms to suit the Japanese climate.

Food Options

Lunch can be brought from home (bento) or students may go home for lunch. Students who go home for lunch must be collected by a parent or authorized adult.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a Board of Trustees and a Council; all trustees and council members serve as volunteers and receive no compensation. The Anglican Diocese of Kobe loaned the land on which the school sits.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

St. Michael's International School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a structured student leadership framework and a values-based culture. The Student Leadership Council (SLC) comprises Year Four to Year Six pupils who are elected to represent peers, provide a forum for student voice, communicate student opinion to the school administration, and help develop the school's partnerships with other schools and UNICEF-inspired rights assemblies. SLC activities include advocating for rights in assemblies and fundraising, and modeling school values such as Respect, Compassion, Integrity, Tolerance, Honesty, Endeavour, and Responsibility. The school teaches these values to the whole community via Religious Education and assemblies to foster a cooperative, multicultural environment. Wellness and service initiatives, including Wellness Week and Compassion in Action, reinforce SEL by promoting movement, mindfulness, kindness, and empathy in daily life and school routines.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

St. Michael's uses a Learning Enrichment Service (LES) since 2010 to monitor and track the abilities of all students and to provide three Waves of support. The LES is described as a school-wide framework for identifying needs and delivering extended or targeted assistance, though the site does not enumerate specific Special Educational Needs categories. The LES is presented as part of Learning Enrichment within a mainstream setting, not as a separate specialist SEN institution. The three waves provide graduated support, with universal strategies and targeted interventions as appropriate. The site does not publicly list the exact SEN types the school can address.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

St. Michael's welcomes students who use languages other than English, and English is the medium of instruction. The English Language Learners (ELL) programme aims to develop students' Knowledge, Skills and Understanding of English and is integrated into the mainstream curriculum as far as possible. ELL support is a whole-school responsibility, with strategies to meet individual language needs developed across staff and the learning environment. The ELL programme is provided without charging a fee.

Mental Wellbeing

Wellbeing is embedded in school life, with Wellness Week dedicated to promoting physical, mental, and emotional health through movement, mindfulness, hydration, rest, and acts of kindness. The initiative is linked to Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, and includes a Step Up Challenge to raise mental health awareness and funds for TELL Japan. Wellbeing is described as woven into daily routines, curriculum, and relationships year-round, not confined to a single event. This approach supports calmer classrooms, confident learners, and compassionate global citizens.

Safeguarding

The school maintains a Child Protection & Safeguarding policy based on the International Task Force on Child Protection (ITFCP) and the Japan Council for International Schools (JCIS). The policy identifies four abuse types—Physical, Emotional, Sexual, and Neglect—and requires staff to report incidences or suspicions to the Designated Safety Officer Lead (DSOL) or Head within 24 hours. A designated Child Protection Team coordinates safeguarding, with possible involvement of an external multidisciplinary team when necessary, and staff follow a professional code of conduct with annual safeguarding training. Safer recruitment practices include references, identity verification, qualification checks, and police background checks. The policy is distributed to parents annually and reviewed yearly.

Admissions

St. Michael's International School is located in Kobe, Japan, and is a British international school teaching in English (with a structured British-style curriculum delivered by native English-speaking teachers). The school publishes a clear set of fees and payment policies and notes that fees may be revised by the school. The site also indicates annual tuition/fee-related information is structured around a not-for-profit model with a range of charges beyond tuition (see details below). Fees are stated in Japanese yen and the school can be contacted for current amounts and invoicing. The school's admissions process is described separately for families residing in Japan and for families residing overseas, with a single admissions contact point and a multi-step submission/assessment pathway. The admissions page confirms that the academic year runs from August to June and operates three terms, with a focus on international-mindedness and a British-style curriculum. The page also notes that the school accepts online applications and provides details for online information sessions and tours.

Fees (summary of fees as published):
- Tuition: Tuition Fees are paid per student and are charged in two installments each year, in July and January. If a child joins mid-year (e.g., January or April), tuition is charged from the month of entry; other fees remain payable in full. A 15% sibling discount on tuition is offered to families with multiple children. The exact tuition amount is not shown on the page, and current figures are provided on invoice from the admissions office.
- Maintenance Fee: Paid annually for all students, non-refundable, not pro-rated, and due in August.
- Insurance: Annual per-child insurance covering death, hospitalization, and outpatient costs; non-refundable.
- PTA Fee: Annual per-family fee, non-refundable.
- Technology Fee: One-time fee for Year One and new students in Years Two to Six; non-refundable.
- English Language Support (Immersion English Programme): Available for Year 5 & 6 students joining from overseas with limited English; details and fees are provided on inquiry.
- Other costs and optional items: Library bag and school cap are charged with other school fees; after-school activities are optional; school lunch, bus, and in-house photos are optional. Replacement bags and caps carry extra costs.
- Payment terms and penalties: A late payment penalty of ¥30,000 applies if payments are received 15 days after the due date; accounts unpaid after 60 days may be suspended; reinstatement requires an extra payment of ¥50,000 plus full remaining year's fees. The annual tuition/fee policy also states all fees must be paid in full and that late withdrawal and non-payment can affect enrollment/records.
- Where fees are paid from Japan or overseas: Bank transfer details are provided for both domestic and overseas payments, and the school notes that the payer is responsible for any bank charges.

Admissions Process (Step-by-step, two pathways):
A) For families residing in Japan
1. Step 1 – Online application and fee payment: Submit the online application form and upload required documents (child photo, birth ID, and school reports if applicable). The Application Fee must be paid at the time of application by bank transfer; the application is non-refundable and is not reviewed until the school confirms receipt. The school asks for disclosure of any learning, medical, or behavioral issues at this time and to email related documents if applicable.
2. Step 2 – Confidential Recommendation from current school: The school will contact the child's current/previous school to obtain a Confidential Recommendation Form and conduct a background check. When all documents are received and the report is satisfactory, you will be invited to the next stage; places are subject to availability. If places are unavailable, your family will be placed in a waiting pool and informed of this status.
3. Step 3 – Interview and assessment: You and your child are invited to visit for an interview and initial assessment; a trial day may be arranged to clarify suitability. Additional testing/interview with a Learning Enrichment Programme Coordinator may be scheduled if required.
4. Step 4 – Notification and securing a place: Expect a decision within about two weeks via the email address provided in the application. If accepted, you will receive an Acceptance of Place Form and a school-fees invoice; to secure the place, you must submit the form and pay the fee invoice as specified. If oversubscribed, you may be placed in the waiting pool, and you will be contacted when a space opens.

B) For families residing overseas
1. Step 1 – Online application and overseas documentation: Complete the online application and upload required documents (child photo, birth ID, school reports). The Application Fee must be paid at application time by bank transfer; overseas transfer fees may apply (about ¥4,000). The school asks for open disclosure of learning/medical/behavioral issues and to email any relevant documents.
2. Step 2 – Confidential Recommendation from current school: The school will contact the child's previous/current school for a Confidential Recommendation Form and a background check. If reports are satisfactory and spaces are available, you will be invited to the next step; if not, you'll be placed in the Waiting Pool and informed of the status.
3. Step 3 – Overseas provisional acceptance: The school issues an Overseas Provisional Acceptance, plus an invoice for the Registration Fee and an Acceptance of Provisional Place Form. To secure a place, you must complete the form and pay the Registration Fee prior to the interview and assessment; the Registration Fee is normally non-refundable. If the year group is oversubscribed, applicants will be placed in the waiting pool.
4. Step 4 – Assessment & interview in Kobe: The interview and assessment occur on arrival in Kobe to formalise acceptance. You may join the class on an agreed date with the Head of School; you'll be invoiced for all outstanding school fees after a successful assessment. If the child is not accepted, the Registration Fee is refunded; however, if information was knowingly withheld at Step 1, the refund may not take place.

Waitlist/Pool (oversubscription and placement):
- The school uses a waiting pool when a year group is oversubscribed. Placement in the pool occurs after the interview/assessment process if there are no available places at that time. The pool's capacity to admit wait-pooled students varies from year to year, and families will be contacted when openings occur. This wait pool mechanism is described in both the in-Japan and overseas application procedures.

Scholarships and financial assistance overview:
- The published live site does not list a formal scholarship program with eligibility criteria or application steps beyond the standard tuition and fee structure. The school does publish a 15% tuition sibling discount, which applies to tuition fees (not to all other fees). For families seeking financial assistance beyond the sibling discount, inquiries are usually directed to the Admissions Office for guidance on potential options or humanitarian/Donor-funded funds, as referenced in related school materials (not published as a standard, clearly defined scholarship program on the live site). The presence of a scholarship-focused fund or donor-supported scholarship program is mentioned in development and alumni materials outside the live admissions pages, but it is not published as a formal, on-page scholarship offering with clear criteria on the live site. Families seeking financial aid should contact the Admissions Office to discuss current options and eligibility.

Scholarships

The live site does not publish a formal scholarship program with explicit criteria or application steps. A 15% tuition discount is available for siblings. References to a Miss Lea Scholarship Fund or donor-supported scholarships appear in development or alumni materials outside the live admissions pages, but there is no published, page-level detail on a current scholarship program with criteria on the live site. For families seeking financial assistance beyond the sibling discount, contact Admissions for guidance on current options.

Waitlist

Yes. The school uses a wait pool for oversubscribed year groups. Wait-pooled applicants are admitted only as spaces become available, and capacity to admit wait-pooled students varies from year to year. This wait-pool process is noted in both the in-country and overseas admissions procedures. If you are placed in the wait pool, you will be informed when an opening becomes available.

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Deutsche Schule Kobe International

Instructs in English, German

Ages 1 - 18 years

Fees ¥1,609,000 - 1,876,950

Type Co-educational

Deutsche Schule Kobe International is a school on Rokko Island serving ages 1 to 18. The school teaches in English, German and Japanese, with a German curriculum aligned to the Thüringer Lehrplan for German speakers and Japanese mother tongue programme for families. In the Early Years and Primary, students follow the IB Primary Years Programme while mathematics and language are taught through the Cambridge Primary Programme. From 2026/27, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary Cambridge courses lead to the IGCSE, taught in English alongside German and Japanese language study. In 2030/31 the Diploma Programme will be offered; English remains the language of instruction, German is studied as a higher-level foreign language and Japanese may be available at native speaker level. The campus is eco-friendly and on Rokko Island. Facilities include swimming for pupils, specialist music and art, and a range of after-school clubs, coding, robotics and 3D modelling through STEM activities.

Location

Rokko Island 3-2-8 Koyochonaka, Higashinada-ku, Kobe City, Japan

Stages

Playgroup 1–2 years; Early Years 2–5 years; Primary Years 5–12 years; Secondary 12–18 years

Type

International school; IB World School with multilingual instruction in English, German and Japanese; Cambridge International Programmes for Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary starting 2026/27; German Thüringer Curriculum for German-native students.

Additional learning support

Small class sizes and personalized support, with optional one‑to‑one or small‑group support.

Country affiliation

Germany

School day structure

Playgroup runs Thursday mornings (1–2 years). Early Years and Primary Years run Monday–Friday, 8:30–15:30. A typical Primary day includes a 7:50 arrival, classes from 8:35, and activities up to 5:00 pm (late room, optional).

Application and registration fees
- Application fee: JPY 50,000.
- Registration (enrolment) fee: JPY 290,000.

Annual tuition (by programme / year group)
- Play Group (Five Tickets): JPY 7,500.
- Pre‑Kindergarten: JPY 1,563,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 781,500 per semester (if split in two) or JPY 390,750 per quarter (if split in four).
- Early Years: JPY 1,563,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 781,500 per semester or JPY 390,750 per quarter.
- Pre‑School: JPY 1,696,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 848,000 per semester or JPY 424,000 per quarter.
- Primary School (Grades 1–6): JPY 1,696,000 per academic year. Equivalent instalments: JPY 848,000 per semester or JPY 424,000 per quarter.

Annual mandatory / recurring fees and compulsory extras
- Technology fee: JPY 35,000 per year.
- Building and development fee: JPY 150,000 per year.
- Insurance: JPY 21,000 per year.
- Membership fee for School Association: JPY 15,000 per year.
- Course materials (Pre‑School – Grade 6): JPY 10,000 per year.
- PTA fee: JPY 4,000 per year.
- Yearbook fee: JPY 4,500 per year (where charged).

Optional / occasional extras
- Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 2 school trips: JPY 5,000 (per trip / annual item as listed).
- Grades 3–6 annual school trip / camp: JPY 80,000 (annual).
- School bus service (if booked): JPY 221,000 per year.
- Note: several items above are indicated as subject to 10% consumption tax; tax will be applied where specified.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- The school issues tuition invoices on an annual basis but offers different payment schedules: a single annual payment is preferred; families may also elect to be billed in two instalments or quarterly (pro‑rata billing is used for students enrolling part‑way through the year). Instalment equivalents shown above are calculated from the annual tuition and reflect those common billing splits.
- Students who register during the school year are charged tuition pro‑rated according to the quarter in which they enter. Existing enrolment contracts are automatically extended unless written resignation is received with the required notice (contractual notice provisions apply). In exceptional cases (for example, a family's sudden relocation for work) the school considers withdrawals outside the normal regulations upon documented request. Tuition adjustments on withdrawal are handled on a quarterly basis under the school's refund/withdrawal rules.

Refunds and withdrawal
- Registration, application, building & development, insurance, technology and membership fees are charged for all students on entry and are not refundable in most cases. Children who register but do not attend, or who leave within a defined payment period, are generally not entitled to a refund of those upfront fees. Tuition refunds for mid‑year withdrawal are handled pro‑rata on a quarterly basis; specific notice and documentation requirements apply for withdrawal and for exceptional waivers.

Boarding (residential) fees
- No boarding or residential programme fees are listed for Deutsche Schule Kobe International. The school operates as a day school for the early years and primary programmes and is expanding provision into secondary in the 2026–27 timeframe; no boarding charges are published for current programmes.

Other costs commonly incurred by families
- Transport to/from school where not using the school bus (local public transport costs) and any emergency medical or specialist activity charges are additional and billed separately where applicable. Uniforms are not listed in the public fee items above; families should budget separately for any personal supplies, optional after‑school clubs, lunches, and incidental school costs.

Fee payment options
- The school issues invoices to enrolled families; specific accepted payment methods (for example, international bank transfer/wire, domestic bank transfer, credit card or other online payment services) are managed through the school's finance office and by invoice processes. Families should expect to receive an invoice and payment instructions from the school's admissions/accounts team when a place is offered. (Payment method availability may vary by payer location and by the invoicing arrangement chosen.)

Curriculum

DSKI is an IB World School offering a curriculum that blends IB with Cambridge programmes. In the Early Years and Primary Years, students follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) with the Cambridge Primary Programme for mathematics and language. English is the main language of instruction, and all students learn German and Japanese, with Kokugo for native Japanese speakers and Japanese as a Foreign Language. From 2026/27, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary Cambridge International Programmes lead to the IGCSE, taught in English with German and Japanese language study. In 2030/31, the Diploma Programme (IB DP) will be offered; English remains the language of instruction, German is taught as a higher-level foreign language, and Japanese may be offered at native speaker level; the IB Diploma Programme is recognised for university admissions, and Deutsches Sprachdiplom II supports German university pathways.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes and personalized support are provided to help each child thrive.

Higher Education Progression

The Diploma Programme (IB DP) will be offered from 2030/31 and the IB is recognised in most countries as a basis for university applications. The Deutsches Sprachdiplom II is available to support German university pathways, and the school plans to introduce Cambridge IGCSE programmes for broader higher education options.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Social-emotional learning is embedded across the school. In Early Years, play-based learning supports social-emotional growth, language development, and problem-solving skills. Playgroup activities develop social skills and confidence in English. The IB Primary Years Programme includes Personal, Social & Emotional Education as part of its Units of Inquiry.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Small class sizes and optional one-on-one or small-group support provide personalized learning. Saturday School offers inclusive learning opportunities for SEN students. Move to Learn is an inclusive program that welcomes children with special needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Three languages are used at DSKI: English, German and Japanese. In Primary Years, English, German and Japanese are used in the programme. In Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary, the language of instruction is English, and German and Japanese are learned as languages. All students learn German and Japanese either at native speaker level or as a foreign language.

Mental Wellbeing

Move to Learn is an inclusive program designed to promote physical and mental development. Early Years learning supports emotional growth, social skills, and language confidence. The environment nurtures the academic, emotional, social, physical and creative growth of children.

Admissions

1. The inquiry introduces your interest and allows the school to share guidance on the admissions process. An initial inquiry helps staff understand your needs and plan a suitable visit. This first step starts the enrollment process.

2. Tell us about yourself: Submit the Pre-Admission Questionnaire to the school office. The form helps gather basic information ahead of your visit so staff can prepare a focused discussion about your child's needs and development. It marks the formal move toward the application process.

3. Visit us: For Families in Japan, a guided school tour is available by appointment; for FamiliesOutside Japan, the school can arrange a video or phone meeting. Tours provide a real sense of the school community and programs.

4. Submit an Application Form: After the initial visit or call, provide a completed Application Form and the three most recent report cards from your current school or kindergarten; translations are required if the reports are not in English, German, French, or Japanese; if recent report cards are not available, submit Confidential School Report Form (Primary School) or Recommendation Form (Early Years).

5. Attend a Trial Day: Entrance exams are not required. The school aims to meet each student, observe language skills and readiness, and confirm fit. For Families in Japan, children aged 2–5 join a trial from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and children aged 6 and above from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM; after the trial, a follow-up interview is arranged or the school contacts you with the result. For Families Outside Japan, admissions decisions may be based on report cards and confidential references.

6. Accept an Offer & Complete Registration: Accept the offer and complete registration; vaccination records (if not submitted at a trial) and a copy of the student's passport (photo page) should be provided. Download and complete the Registration Form, Declaration Form, Emergency contact / Pick up, Student Information Form, Student Health Form, and Physical Examination Form, then email or send them back to the school.

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