

Joy to the World American International School
Secular, Founded 1999
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Languages
Joy to the World American International School is a premier, comprehensive international institution in Bunkyo, Tokyo, offering a 100% English-language education for children from 18 months to 11 years old. It provides a unique and dynamic learning experience through preschool, kindergarten, and after-school elementary programs.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
Joy to the World is committed to nurturing children, celebrating their individuality, and encouraging their strengths. The school emphasizes a supportive and welcoming environment where children feel safe, valued, and confident. It operates on the values of providing education, safety, and opportunities for all children.
Programmes
The school offers a curriculum based on the American model, with all instruction conducted 100% in English. Programmes include Mommy & Me (newborn to 23 months), Joy Tots & Pre-Kinder (1–2 years), Kindergarten (3–6 years), and Afterschool Elementary (7–11 years). The curriculum incorporates subjects such as art, music, science, cultural study, and technology to stimulate imagination and exploration.
Outcomes
Graduates of the kindergarten program frequently transition to top Japanese elementary schools as well as international elementary schools in Japan and abroad. The school aims to provide students with the tools, knowledge, and English fluency necessary for success in a rapidly changing world. Many students continue their education through the school's after-school programs while attending local elementary schools.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains small class sizes to provide a warm, nurturing environment with individualized attention for every student. Teachers are dedicated to supporting children with kindness and helping them reach their full potential. For students requiring focused support or specific academic goals, the school recommends external partners for personalized lessons.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Joy to the World American International School offer?
- Joy to the World American International School offers National Curriculum (England).
- Is Joy to the World American International School a day or boarding school?
- Joy to the World American International School is a day school.
- Is Joy to the World American International School co-educational?
- Joy to the World American International School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Joy to the World American International School located?
- Joy to the World American International School is an international school in Tokyo, Japan.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Prospective families are invited to visit the school for a private tour or a joint session. The application process involves submitting a completed application, a potential student assessment, and payment of initial fees. The school requests that parents attend the interview without their children to ensure an effective process.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term system: 1st Term (September–December), 2nd Term (January–March), and 3rd Term (April–July), with additional seasonal programs offered during breaks. The calendar includes parent orientation, seasonal events such as Halloween and Mother’s/Father’s Visit Days, and scheduled school closures for holidays like Golden Week. Earthquake and fire drills are conducted regularly throughout the year.
About the campus
Located in the heart of Bunkyo ward near Myogadani Station, the school occupies a reinforced concrete building. The facilities include dedicated childcare spaces on the 4th floor, totaling approximately 100–105 square meters. The school also utilizes local resources, such as the Daiichi Junior High School gymnasium, for emergency evacuation drills.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including dance classes, cooking sessions, and specialized clubs. These programs are designed to allow students to explore new interests and socialize outside of the traditional school day. Seasonal programs, such as Winter, Spring, and Summer sessions, provide additional opportunities for engaging, theme-based learning.






Jerry HanusSchool Founder & OwnerJerry Hanus is the founder and owner of Joy to the World American International School, which he established in 1999. He designed the school to provide students with the tools and knowledge necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.
HamidHead of School & TeacherHamid serves as the Head of School and a teacher at Joy to the World. He also leads the partner organization Kikokushijo Japan, which helps students transition back to the Japanese school system.
- MariePre-K Head Teacher
Marie joined the team as the Pre-K Head Teacher starting in the 3rd Term of 2025. She brings a long and varied teaching background to the school.
AnaTeacher
EvelynTeacher
LeaTeacher
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