Summerhill International School

Founded in 1962, the school views early childhood as the foundation for lifelong learning, focusing on nurturing curious, confident, and compassionate inquirers. It combines the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework with inspirations from Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches. The philosophy centers on play-based learning, student agency, and the belief that children are capable communicators who construct meaning through social and cultural interactions.

The school offers a structured programme divided by age: Sun Classes (K1–K2) for ages 15 months to 3 years, Moon Classes (K3–K4) for ages 3 to 5, and the Star Class (K5) for ages 5 to 6. The curriculum for children aged 3 and up is the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), while the youngest learners follow a play-based approach. Instruction is primarily in English, with mandatory weekly Japanese enrichment classes provided for all students.

The school emphasizes the development of the whole child—intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically—by tailoring the curriculum to individual needs. Teachers act as co-learners and reflective practitioners, using pedagogical documentation to track progress and inform future learning steps. Parents are considered essential partners, with communication facilitated through the online platform Toddle.

Summerhill International School welcomes children of all nationalities whose families are committed to an English-language international curriculum. The school maintains an inclusive admissions policy but reserves the right to deny entry if it cannot meet a child's specific learning or behavioral needs. Applicants must meet age requirements by August 31st, and the school offers a need-based "No Child is Left Behind in Tokyo" scholarship program for eligible non-Japanese families.

The school operates on a standard academic year, with a 2026-2027 calendar available for download. The core school day runs Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Extended care is available daily until 6:00 PM, and after-school programs are offered Monday through Thursday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Located in Moto-Azabu, Tokyo, the campus features classrooms designed as flexible, inquiry-based learning environments. The facility includes a sun-drenched library, a third-floor gymnasium for physical education, and outdoor play areas. The school also provides a bus service with various routes across Tokyo and offers a lunch service through a local caterer.

The school provides an after-school program featuring activities such as art, music, language, physical movement, and seasonal projects. Enrichment classes are integrated into the weekly schedule, including Japanese language and culture, physical education led by a professional ballerina, and weekly library sessions. Additionally, the school hosts events such as art auctions and spring fairs to engage the community.