Academic Excellence

At Nishimachi School, the academic programme is designed to provide a rigorous, well-rounded education grounded in global best practice while remaining deeply connected to the local Japanese context. In the early years, multilingual classroom assistants work alongside teachers in every kindergarten class, supporting language development and ensuring a smooth, confident transition into formal schooling. This additional support continues through Grades 1 and 2 with grade-level team assistants, allowing young learners to feel secure, supported, and ready to engage academically. The curriculum draws from internationally respected frameworks, including the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Common Core, and AERO (American Education Reaches Out) standards. Core subjects—English, mathematics, science, and social studies—are enriched by a broad specialist programme that includes daily Japanese, music, physical education, art, drama, exploratory learning, community service, and outdoor education. A defining feature of Nishimachi’s programme is its strong emphasis on Japanese language and culture, supported by small class sizes that allow for personalised instruction, particularly in language and social studies. Student progress is carefully monitored using internationally benchmarked assessments. From Grades 2 to 9, students sit MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) tests in mathematics, reading, and language usage twice yearly, providing adaptive insights into individual growth. In addition, students in Grades 3 to 9 participate in the ISA Writing Assessments, evaluating narrative, reflective, expository, and argumentative writing skills against global standards. These external assessments are used alongside teacher-led evaluations to provide meaningful feedback to students and families, ensuring a clear understanding of progress and next steps. Through project-based learning, strong academic foundations, and global perspectives, Nishimachi equips students to thrive as confident learners in an international community.