Schule, a preschool and nursery school in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, incorporates the educational philosophy of German descent, and its educational policy is to "foster an international outlook through living in a multilingual environment. With approximately 80 children, the school provides bilingual education in Japanese and German, and is popular with families from international marriages and returnee families.
Characteristics of Educational Content
Creating a bilingual environment: Teachers are both native Japanese speakers and native German speakers, creating an environment in which both languages are used naturally in everything from daily conversation to classroom instruction. For example, the children unconsciously absorb the language by using both "Ohayo" and "Guten Morgen" for morning greetings and alternately using "Bitte den Ball, please" and "Bitte den Ball" during playtime. In the library, we have many picture books in Japanese and German, and we also introduce how to read in both languages during storytelling time.
Implementation of German-style educational philosophy: Emphasizes "learning through play" and focuses on activities freely chosen by the children (playing with architectural blocks, playing with square-colored costumes, playing music, etc.). In particular, play with "architectural blocks" is actively incorporated to foster spatial comprehension and logical thinking skills. In addition, "daily round table discussions" are held to provide opportunities for the preschool children to freely express their opinions, thereby enhancing their ability to express themselves and their independence.
Opportunities for international exchange: Twice a year, an "International Festival" is held to introduce the cultures of different countries with the participation of parents and community members. Through events such as a German Christmas market-style event and a Japanese New Year's food tasting, we deepen multicultural understanding. In addition, a "letter exchange" is held with a German preschool, providing an opportunity to feel international connections by drawing pictures and sending them.
Characteristics of life education: Based on the principle of "Doing one's own thing," we encourage the children to develop the habit of changing their own clothes and cleaning up after meals. Meals are served with a good balance of traditional German food (potato salad and bread) and Japanese food to cultivate a diversity of tastes. We also help them understand the importance of food by regularly preparing dishes using vegetables grown in the "vegetable garden" in the school yard.