Holistic Learning
The British School in Tokyo meets the needs of today’s global community.
For more than 36 years, The British School in Tokyo (BST) has welcomed families from around the world, providing an inclusive and holistic education grounded in the values of excellence, integrity, and lifelong learning.
In 2025, BST was named to the Spear’s Index Top 100 Private Schools in the World list—recognition of its continued commitment to educational excellence. Today, as the school grows and innovates, it remains dedicated to nurturing each student’s unique potential, from their earliest years through to senior school.
A Welcoming Start
At BST, learning begins early, and joyfully. Children can join from age three, entering a warm, nurturing Early Years environment designed to support curiosity, creativity, and social-emotional development. These foundational years build the confidence, independence, and love of learning that carry students forward.
Central to Early Years is BST’s commitment to “learning through play.” Play is not simply recreational; it forms the basis of meaningful learning for young children. Through purposeful, child-led exploration, students develop communication, problem-solving, cooperation, and early literacy and numeracy skills in natural and engaging ways. With thoughtfully designed learning spaces and experienced educators, children explore, discover, and develop a joyful curiosity that stays with them as they progress through their lives.
A Truly Holistic Education
From Early Years through Senior School, BST offers a holistic education that balances academic achievement with character development, creativity, and well-being. A broad and balanced curriculum allows students to discover their talents through sports, music, performing arts, visual arts, outdoor education, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
A defining feature of a BST education is the extensive program of residential trips across Japan, offered from Year 1 to Year 13. These experiences provide outdoor exploration, cultural immersion, and service learning. Whether skiing in the mountains, hiking in national parks, camping with classmates, visiting museums, or taking part in team-building challenges, students broaden their horizons and experience Japan’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage. These trips encourage independence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the world.
A Personalized Pathway
To meet the needs of today’s global community, BST now offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) as its core senior school pathway, alongside BTEC qualifications, while ASDAN is available across all year groups. These options ensure that each student can pursue a route aligned with their strengths, ambitions, and learning preferences.
The IBDP reflects BST’s commitment to delivering a future-focused, globally relevant education. With strong foundations in research, critical thinking, global perspectives, and
community engagement, the IBDP prepares students for entry into leading universities and equips them with the skills and mindset needed to contribute meaningfully beyond school.
Embedded in the Community
With BST’s Primary School campus is just two minutes from Tokyo American Club, families value the convenience of having two major community hubs located side by side, helping newcomers settle quickly and strengthening day-to-day connections. The sense of international community is further enhanced by BST’s active and welcoming parent-teacher association, which organizes a rich calendar of events throughout the year, from the vibrant Spring Fair to charity initiatives, book sales, parent gatherings, and student celebrations. These occasions bring families together, fostering friendships and creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels part of something special.
Learn more and begin enrollment: bst.ac.jp/admissions • admissions@bst.ac.jp
