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Yokohama Christian School

Japan, Tokyo

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· Reviewed by · B2C Marketing Manager

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees ¥2,007,000 - 2,126,000
Ages 2 - 11 years
Pupil numbers 40
Type Co-educational
Opened 2002
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Taught languages Japanese, Latin
Typical class size 8
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Early Years, Primary School
Introduction

Yokohama Christian School (YCS), founded in 2002, is located in Yokohama’s historic Bluff (Yamate-cho) area and serves children from Preschool through Grade 5. The elementary program uses an American Classical Christian curriculum, including resources such as Shurley English, Saxon Math and Bible materials. The school notes that social studies draws on students’ backgrounds and the school’s Japan location. YCS also offers an enrichment program across ages that includes art, music, PE, Latin, library, technology and worship, with Japanese listed as part of enrichment in the admissions FAQ. For after-school options, the school lists clubs such as Children’s Choir, Book Club, Homework Club, Multimedia Club and Running Club. The school also describes an After School Care program with extended options.

66-2 Yamatecho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0862, Japan

The Essentials

Yokohama Christian School has 40 pupils, typical class sizes of 8, instruction in English.

Location
Yokohama Christian School is located at 66-2 Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0862, Japan. It is in the Bluff district of Yokohama, near landmarks such as the Foreigner's Cemetery, Bluff Clinic, Ferris Girls' School, and St. Maur International School. The area is accessible by nearby subway and JR lines, including Motomachi-Chukagai Station and Ishikawa-cho Station.

Stages
Preschool (age 2–4) and Elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 5). The Elementary division is split into Lower Elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 2) and Upper Elementary (Grade 3–5).

Type
The school is a non-profit, co-educational preschool and elementary school. It is non-denominational and church-sponsored, offering Christian and classical education.

Pupil Nationality Mix
The student body includes international, bicultural, and local students. The school does not publish nationality percentages and does not require a specific nationality; applications are open to all faiths.

Additional learning support
YCS provides Learning Support, including Regular Learning Support on a case-by-case basis. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available from this school year, with a focus on language arts as the foundation for other subjects. The school works with families and support staff to provide appropriate academic and behavioral support.

Country affiliation
No formal country affiliation; the school operates in Yokohama, Japan.

Religious affiliation
Christian affiliation; non-denominational and church-sponsored.

School day structure
A Before School Care option runs from 7:55 a.m. to 8:25 a.m. The After School Care program ends at 3:30 p.m., with Extended After School Care available to 5:00 p.m. Regular school hours are supported by these care options.

Bus service
There is no school bus service offered at this time; families use public transport. The school notes that many families live near Yamate-cho and Honmoku and rely on public transportation.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniforms are required. Preschool uniforms consist of a green t‑shirt with the YCS logo and hoodies for colder months; dark colored bottoms are encouraged but not mandatory. Elementary students wear a Kelly-green polo with navy bottoms (slacks or skirts); girls wearing skirts or skorts must wear knee socks in navy or white.

Food Options
Yes. Students aged 3 and above can order a bento from Cezars Kitchen, the meal service used by Saint Maur International School. This provides a lunch option for YCS students.

Governance and Ownership
The school is governed by a School Board in conjunction with the school leadership. It is affiliated with international Christian school networks, including the Japan Evangelical Missionary Association, Christian Academy in Japan, and the Association of Christian Schools International, and holds Star Program accreditation.
Fees

Annual tuition at Yokohama Christian School ranges from JPY 2,007,000 to JPY 2,126,000 for 2026/27.

Admission process fees

- Application fee: JPY 30,000 payable at the time of application.
- Entrance fee: JPY 300,000 payable when invoiced.

Annual fees (non-tuition)

- Registration fee: JPY 42,000 (non-refundable).
- Annual development fee: JPY 250,000 payable when invoiced.

Tuition fees (annual and per-term by year group)

- Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 5)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,802,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 901,000.

- Sprouts (3–4 year olds), Full Day (08:30–15:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,715,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 857,500.

- Sprouts (3–4 year olds), Regular (08:30–14:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,630,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 815,000.

- Seeds (2 year olds), Full Day (08:30–14:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,834,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 917,000.

- Seeds (2 year olds), Regular (08:30–12:30)
- Annual tuition: JPY 1,630,000.
- Per term (two-term billing): JPY 815,000.

Additional recurring or optional fees

- Deferred payment (10-payment plan) fee: JPY 20,000 (non-refundable). Payments on this plan run from May through March with an exemption in October.
- Learning support fee (if required): JPY 40,000 per semester.
- EAL (English as an Additional Language) support fee (if required): JPY 140,000 per semester.
- After School Club Activity (1st–5th graders): Annual club registration and maintenance fee JPY 25,000.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Standard tuition billing: Full tuition is payable in two terms; payments are due May 30 and November 30.
- Deferred 10-payment plan option is available as described above (additional non-refundable fee applies).
- All fees are stated as non-refundable. A withdrawal form is required 30 days prior to leaving. Changes of days during a term are not permitted. Late payments incur a fee equal to 10% of the total outstanding invoice.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable; the school operates as a preschool and elementary day school and does not list boarding options or boarding fees.

Other costs (uniform, materials, etc.)

- No separate uniform fee is listed in the published fee schedule. Other incidental or program-specific costs are not itemized in the headline fee summary; learning support, EAL support, and after-school club fees are listed above.

Refund information and related business policy

- All fees are non-refundable. A completed withdrawal form is required 30 days prior to leaving. No changes of days during the term are permitted. Late-payment penalty: 10% of outstanding invoice.

Fee payment options and instructions

- Bank transfer / direct deposit in JPY to Bank of Yokohama, Motomachi Branch. Account (ordinary): 311-1518402. Account name: Yokohama Union Church Yokohama Christian School. SWIFT code: HAMAJPJT. Payer must cover bank transfer fees. Use the student's name as the payment reference.
- PayPal: payments accepted via finance.school@yokohamaunionchurch.org (send as a gift and note the child's name; any extra charges deducted to the school will be charged to the parents on the next invoice).
- Japan Post (JP Post) transfer option is provided; account name and number are supplied in the fee instructions.

Tuition assistance

- Limited tuition assistance is available; contact the school office for details.
Academics

Yokohama Christian School teaches American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum for students aged 2 to 11.

Curriculum
Yokohama Christian School serves preschool (ages 2–4) and elementary (Kindergarten to 5th grade) students with a classical Christian education. Preschool uses the Weekday Early Education (WEE Learn) curriculum developed by the CDEA in Jacksonville, Florida, while the Elementary division uses American Classical Christian materials. The program emphasizes a classical, integrated approach to language arts, reasoning, and biblical worldview, with materials approved by the Association of Christian Schools International. Enrichment within the school day includes music, physical education, library, Japanese, and art, with computer classes for grades 2–5. Learning support includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) and behavioral/developmental/learning-differences support, and entry requirements note that elementary students should be within one year of grade-level English, while preschool has no language prerequisite.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Yokohama Christian School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through an inclusive, Christ-centered learning environment where each student is viewed as a child of God with unique capabilities. The school states it aims to be an inclusive environment and works as a team with parents to ensure students' needs are met, creating a warm, nurturing community of learners. Formal learning support is provided in two areas: behavioral/developmental/learning differences and English language, coordinated by a Learning Support team. The staff includes a School Chaplain who provides pastoral support for students, and a School Nurse who contributes to students' well-being. There is no explicit, named SEL program described on the site.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Yokohama Christian School provides two categories of formal learning support: 1) behavioral, developmental, and learning differences; 2) English language support (EAL). Admissions require parents to provide transparent information about the child's schooling history and diagnosis history to shape an accurate picture of needs. The school emphasizes an inclusive environment and teamwork with parents to meet students' needs. It is not described as a specialist SEN institution, with learning support delivered as part of the regular program rather than a separate SEN-only facility. A Learning Support staff member is listed, and EAL support includes one-on-one and group lessons as well as other forms of support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is identified at admission or through fall/spring assessments. Some students require support across reading, writing, speaking, and listening, while others may need specific support in one area to succeed at YCS. Students are able to have one-on-one lessons, group lessons, and other support as needed through this program. EAL is part of YCS's Learning Support framework, with ongoing efforts to improve how support is delivered to meet students where they are on their academic journey.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through pastoral care staffed by a School Chaplain, indicating availability of spiritual and emotional support for students. The school describes a nurturing community framed by Christian education. The site does not describe a separate, named mental health program, counseling service, or mental health curriculum. The presence of the School Nurse further complements overall student wellbeing.

Safeguarding
Safeguarding-related information is addressed through health and safety measures. The Health page states that the health of each student is of utmost importance and outlines policies concerning illnesses and absences, with a Classroom Policy handbook available in each classroom and the school office. The school conducts monthly emergency drills, rotating between fire and earthquake drills, and maintains evacuation procedures for emergencies. The School Nurse and School Chaplain on staff contribute to student safety and welfare.
Parent Experience

History
In 2002 the Preschool Committee began developing a preschool outreach for Yokohama Union Church and the local community, with early classes held at the 'Pink House' next to the church. In 2003 the program expanded to five mornings a week and moved into the new church building on the site. Enrollment grew, and in 2005 a second classroom opened, with by 2009 enrollment expanding to serve children from age two through six and including afternoon English language learning. In 2013 the school began using a Classical Christian Curriculum and added a multiage elementary class, and in 2014 the school name was changed to Yokohama Christian School to reflect the broadened program. STAR groundwork for accreditation started in 2015–2016, Alisha Yamamori was hired as Head in 2020 (the third head in YCS history), the first Elementary Commencement occurred in 2021, and the school celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023.

Community
The school functions within the Yokohama Union Church community and serves international, multicultural, and Japanese families seeking a Christian, classical education for preschool through Grade 5. The school emphasizes parental involvement and partnership with families in its educational approach. It hosts a calendar of community events such as the Fall Family Festival, Christmas Program, Community Service, Year End Show, and field trips that bring families together. After-school clubs offer additional opportunities for family and community engagement, including Children's Choir Club, Book Club, Homework Club, Multimedia Club, and Running Club. The school maintains ongoing family communication through newsletters and parent forms as part of its engagement with the School community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
A formal Parent Teacher Association page or structure is not published on Yokohama Christian School's site. Parent involvement is organized through events and program support rather than a standalone PTA. Families participate as volunteers for events such as the Fall Family Festival, Christmas Program, Community Service, Year End Show, and field trips. Parents also contribute by supporting after-school clubs, including Children's Choir Club, Book Club, Homework Club, Multimedia Club, and Running Club, with logistics and supervision coordinated by the school staff. Communications with families are facilitated through newsletters and a Parent Forms portal to coordinate volunteering, health information, and other logistics. Volunteer opportunities can also be pursued via Yokohama Union Church channels, which list roles such as ushers and street outreach for broader church-family service. The school's affiliations with ACSI, CAJ, JEMA, and TAIP position it within a broader international Christian education community that families engage with through the school program.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Yokohama Christian School is located at 66-2 Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama. The campus features a library with a 4,000+ English-book collection and weekly checkout for students. An enrichment program offers Music, Art, Japanese, Physical Education, and Computer classes to extend learning beyond core subjects. After-school care provides supervision and outdoor play when weather permits, with additional before-school options. Nutritious lunches are arranged via external providers, with hot lunches available from Cezar's Kitchen at St. Maur International School.

Academic Facilities
Library services are a central academic facility, with the library housing 4,000+ English books and weekly borrowing for students. Computer class teaches typing, editing, presentation, and digital literacy to prepare students for the 21st century. Japanese language classes introduce students to local language and culture through interactive activities. Physical education focuses on fitness and personal development as part of the enrichment program. Music and Art are included in enrichment activities to foster creativity across grade levels.

Extra Curricular Facilities
YCS offers after-school clubs for both academic and sports. The lineup includes Children's Choir Club (Mondays 3:10–3:50, Grades 1+), Book Club (Tuesdays 3:10–3:50, Grades 1+), Homework Club (Wednesdays 3:10–3:50, Grades 1+), Multimedia Club (Thursdays 3:10–3:50, Grades 1+), and Running Club (Fridays 3:10–3:50, Grades 1+). The full club program is announced at the start of each academic year. Twice a year the school hosts a Christmas Program and an End-of-Year Show to showcase student talents.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Yokohama Christian School offers a day-long Enrichment Program for Seeds through Grade 5 that engages students in activities beyond core academics. The program includes Art, Music, Library time, Japanese, Latin, Computer, and Physical Education, all integrated into the school day. These activities support language development, literacy, digital literacy, creativity, and physical fitness as part of a holistic education. Twice a year, the Christmas Program and End-of-Year Show showcase student talents.

Arts & Creative
Arts and creative activities are integrated through the Enrichment Program and in after-school clubs. Art is taught by a trained staff artist, offering diverse modes of expression. Music education is provided from preschool through elementary, using Music and the Brain curricula and the God Made Music program. After-school clubs such as Children's Choir Club and Multimedia Club provide performance and design opportunities, and the school marks creativity with the Christmas Program and End-of-Year Show.

Cultural & Language
Japanese language classes expose students to the local language and culture through interactive activities such as songs, books, and games. Latin is offered as part of the enrichment program, introducing classical language and supporting English vocabulary development. These language offerings aim to build cultural awareness and communication skills beyond the classroom.

Social & Hobbies
After-school clubs provide social and recreational opportunities. The 2025-2026 program includes Children's Choir Club (Mondays 3:10–3:50), Book Club (Tuesdays 3:10–3:50), Homework Club (Wednesdays 3:10–3:50), Multimedia Club (Thursdays 3:10–3:50), and Running Club (Fridays 3:10–3:50) for Grades 1+. These clubs support reading, creativity, design, and physical activity.

Community & Service
YCS highlights community involvement through volunteer activity documented in school communications. Staff and students have participated in charitable events such as charity marathons in Tokyo, reflecting a commitment to service and outreach.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Physical Education is offered twice weekly, focusing on motor skills, teamwork, and healthy living. The Running Club provides additional opportunities for physical activity and personal growth. Seasonal events such as the Christmas Program and End-of-Year Show celebrate student wellbeing, confidence, and achievement.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the primary language of instruction, with explicit English-language programs and support available. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is offered for students who need help with reading, writing, speaking, and listening, including one-on-one and small-group lessons. The school provides an Afternoon English Course with an English Beginner track (4–6 years old, Mon/Thu) and a Language Arts track for older students (6+), aimed at maintaining and strengthening speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English. Japanese language instruction is provided as part of the Enrichment Program to expose students to the local language and culture; the enrichment classes also include English-language resources such as a large English-language library.

Immersion Programs
No formal language immersion programs are described on Yokohama Christian School pages. Japanese language instruction is offered as part of the Enrichment Program to expose students to the local language and culture. The Afternoon English Course is conducted in English; the classroom is English-only, with Japanese-speaking staff available for emergencies. These arrangements indicate language learning occurs through English instruction and targeted Japanese exposure rather than full-language immersion across the curriculum.
Reputation

Accreditations
Accreditations and affiliations Yokohama Christian School publicly lists: - Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI): YCS is a member school and uses ACSI-approved materials in its teaching. This places the school within a global Christian-school network and aligns it with Christian education standards. ACSI is also the body that runs the STAR program, a pre-accreditation path toward formal accreditation. The school notes it is pursuing ACSI accreditation and, in parallel, aims to pursue WASC accreditation in the near future. - STAR Program (Steps Toward Achieving Recognition): The STAR program is an ACSI pre-accreditation development designed to help schools establish policies and administrative structures needed for formal accreditation. Yokohama Christian School has completed steps of this program since 2015, with ongoing work toward full accreditation. - Tokyo Association of International Preschools (TAIP): YCS is a TAIP member, indicating involvement with the network of international preschools in the Tokyo area. - Japan Evangelical Missionary Association (JEMA): YCS is an endorsed ministry of JEMA, reflecting alignment with Japan's evangelical mission community. - Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ): YCS is an affiliate school of CAJ, linking it with other Christian international schools in Japan. - CAJ affiliation and the listed accreditations appear together on the school's “Accreditations & Affiliations” section, confirming these connections.
Admissions

Admissions
Step 1 — Visit: School tours are available by appointment. During the visit, the School Head will discuss your family's educational goals and how Yokohama Christian School can support them. You will be given an admissions pack with information about programs, policies, and next steps. To arrange a tour, contact the school office or submit the inquiry form.

Step 2 — Application: Submit the application and application fee, and provide the required documents: proof of age (birth certificate or passport information page), teacher recommendations or reports from previous schooling, Health History (completed by a parent/guardian), and a Medical Certificate for School Entrance (ages 5 and up). Note that the yearly amounts for different grades are payable in two terms, and you should confirm that all documents have been received before the application is considered. Your application will not be considered until all documents are received.

Step 3 — Interview & Observation: A parent and child interview is conducted to discuss your situation and future school plans. Children aged 4 years and older are evaluated on English listening and speaking abilities, while elementary-aged children are assessed in language arts and mathematics in addition to English listening and speaking. This step helps determine placement and readiness for the program.

Step 4 — Review, Decision & Enrollment: After the interview and once all required documents are received, the school reviews the application and makes a admission decision. If admitted, you will receive enrollment instructions and be invoiced according to the Fees & Tuition schedule; payments are due in two terms (May and November 30th). The fee structure includes an Application Fee, Entrance Fee, Registration Fee, Annual Development Fee, and grade-appropriate Tuition, with additional Learning Support, EAL Support, and After School Club fees as applicable. All fees are non-refundable, and late payments incur a 10% charge on the outstanding balance. If you plan to withdraw, a withdrawal form is due 30 days prior to leaving.

Scholarships
Scholarships: Limited tuition assistance is available for eligible families. Details and eligibility are determined by the school office; families are advised to contact the office for information on what aid may be available and how to apply.

Waitlist
Waitlist/Pool: For the main Yokohama Christian School admissions, a formal waitlist policy is not published on the general admissions materials. The Afternoon Class page states that admission is based on availability of space and indicates that you will be informed if there is a wait list when determining your start date. This suggests that waitlists, if any, are specific to certain programs and not described as a universal policy for the entire school.
School Events
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