Our Blog

Single-Sex vs. Co-Educational Education

Education is one of the cornerstones of society, and how it is structured can significantly impact the development of young minds. Among the various ways in which educational institutions are organised, the debate between single-sex (gender-segregated) and co-educational (mixed-gender) schools has been a persistent and well-contested topic. Both systems have distinct advantages and disadvantages, and each caters to different educational philosophies, cultural expectations, and individual needs. Understanding the benefits and… Read More »Single-Sex vs. Co-Educational Education

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing in the School Years

Supporting emotional wellbeing in the school years is crucial for overall development and success. Emotional wellbeing refers to how a person feels, thinks, and behaves, and it plays a significant role in their ability to learn, form relationships, and manage challenges. Parents, caregivers, and educators, all have a role to play in creating an environment that supports children’s emotional health. By recognising the importance of emotional wellbeing and taking proactive… Read More »Supporting Emotional Wellbeing in the School Years

Supporting Your Child’s Learning at Home

Supporting your child’s learning at home is a vital aspect of their educational development. Whilst schools play an essential role in providing formal instruction, parents and caregivers are also critical partners in fostering a positive and supportive learning environment outside of the classroom. With the right tools, strategies, and mindset, parents can significantly enhance their child’s ability to learn, think critically, and develop a love of learning that extends beyond… Read More »Supporting Your Child’s Learning at Home

Six Things to Consider if You Are Thinking of Studying Abroad

Thinking of studying at a college or university abroad? Read on to discover some pointers for making the process as smooth as possible.

Getting the Most out of a School Open Day

School open days are a great way to get a sense of a school: its philosophy, its culture and its diversity. It’s an opportunity to discover whether the school is a good fit for your child and whether your child is a good fit for the school. If you are thinking of applying to a particular school, try and sign up for an in-person open day, especially one that takes… Read More »Getting the Most out of a School Open Day

Choosing the Right School for Your Child

Navigating the school scene and finding the ‘right’ school for your child can be an anxious and challenging time. There are many factors to consider and questions to ask. Read on for some key pointers that might aid your decision making. Over the years, educational advantages have been identified for both; however, it is also important to think about your child’s personality. Does your child tend to make friends of… Read More »Choosing the Right School for Your Child

Language Learning in International Schools

A survey earlier this year carried out by the British Council of 2,083 pupils completing their first year of secondary school in the UK found that nearly 90% felt that languages would not be necessary for a career post school whilst some also thought that it was not beneficial to learn a language at all. Although only a snapshot of what is happening in the UK in regard to language… Read More »Language Learning in International Schools

Is Cultural Diversity Important in International Schools?

One of the criteria families may consider when choosing an international school is that of diversity, both of the student body and of the school educational community. From our visits to the schools in the Tokyo area, we have seen that although staff may be quite diverse, in some schools, student diversity is less so. However, is that important, or are the benefits of cultural diversity overstated? Culture is a… Read More »Is Cultural Diversity Important in International Schools?

Does curriculum matter when choosing an international school?

One of the things that you might consider as a family when choosing an international school or preschool, will be the type of curriculum on offer. From our visits to the schools in the greater Tokyo area, we have seen some excellent teaching and learning taking place through a variety of curriculum frameworks, but is the curriculum used important both in developing international mindedness and in regard to individual student… Read More »Does curriculum matter when choosing an international school?

Why is International School so Popular with Japanese Families?

The popularity of international schools in Japan is increasing year by year, and with it, the recognition of international schools. Although there are various hurdles to entering an international school, the number of families attending is increasing. As we have been visiting preschools and international schools, we have been surprised to see so many Japanese children enrolled, especially in preschool. So, why are international schools so popular with Japanese families… Read More »Why is International School so Popular with Japanese Families?

How do we know what we know?

At International School Advisory, Tokyo (ISA-Tokyo), we pride ourselves on the fact that not only do we have a wealth of knowledge about international education, we know a great deal about the international education scene here in Tokyo. We do not rely solely on what we see on websites and what we’ve heard. Instead we get out and about to local international preschools and schools so that we get a… Read More »How do we know what we know?

Top tips for getting the most out of the online tutoring experience

Parent demand for online tutoring has been gradually increasing. It is a flexible way to help support your child on their educational journey, whether it be through helping them fill the gaps in their learning or by giving them the extra challenge that they need to reach their full potential. If you are considering acquiring the services of a tutor and want to get the most out of the experience,… Read More »Top tips for getting the most out of the online tutoring experience

The upfront costs of Tokyo international schools

Attending any international or independent school can be an expensive business. Not only do you have the fees to pay for, but also an expensive uniform, extra-curricular clubs and lessons, lunches, and buses. The list goes on…Here in Tokyo, there is also the hefty non-refundable upfront costs which are required before your child even steps over the school building threshold. For me, as a parent coming from the UK to… Read More »The upfront costs of Tokyo international schools