Complete Guide to The British School in Tokyo (BST)

The British School in Tokyo (BST) is one of the most prestigious international schools in Japan, offering a British-based curriculum to students from more than 60 nationalities. Founded in 1989, BST has grown into a well-established institution with two campuses in central Tokyo, providing education for students aged 3 to 18. Families seeking an international school in Japan often consider BST for its academic excellence, strong community spirit, and global opportunities. This guide explores everything you need to know about The British School in Tokyo, from its curriculum and facilities to admissions and student life.

Overview of The British School in Tokyo

BST was established to provide a British-style education to expatriate and internationally minded families living in Japan. Over the years, it has expanded its reach and influence, offering a holistic educational experience that combines academic rigor with extracurricular opportunities.

• Founded: 1989

• Campuses: Shibuya (Primary) and Showa Women’s University Campus (Secondary), plus the new state-of-the-art Azabudai Hills campus for Primary & Secondary (opened in 2023).

• Ages Served: 3–18 years old

• Student Population: Around 1,100 students

• Nationalities: Over 60

The school emphasizes not only academic achievement but also creativity, leadership, and global citizenship.

Curriculum at BST

The British School in Tokyo follows the English National Curriculum, adapted to an international setting. Students progress through structured key stages, ensuring continuity and a strong academic foundation.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

For ages 3–5, the Early Years program focuses on play-based learning. Children develop skills in communication, language, literacy, numeracy, and social interaction in a nurturing environment.

Primary School

The Primary curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, along with History, Geography, Art, Music, ICT, and Physical Education. Emphasis is placed on inquiry-based learning, creativity, and building independent thinking.

Secondary School

In Secondary, students follow Key Stage 3, 4, and 5:

• Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9): A broad curriculum covering English, Mathematics, Science, Languages, Humanities, Arts, and Technology.

• Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11): Students prepare for the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations.

• Key Stage 5 (Sixth Form, Years 12–13): BST offers the A-Level program, a globally recognized qualification that prepares students for university.

Academic Standards

BST consistently achieves strong academic results, with many students gaining entry to top universities in the UK, US, Japan, and other countries worldwide.

Language and Multicultural Environment

While English is the primary language of instruction, BST offers additional language options, including Japanese, French, and Spanish. Students are encouraged to embrace both local culture and international diversity. The school’s community represents a wide mix of backgrounds, giving children a multicultural learning environment that prepares them for global citizenship.

Facilities

BST is known for its modern, high-quality facilities designed to support academics, sports, and the arts.

• Azabudai Hills Campus (opened 2023): A cutting-edge campus in central Tokyo with eco-friendly architecture, science labs, design & technology workshops, and creative arts studios.

• Sports Facilities: Includes gymnasiums, outdoor pitches, and access to Showa Women’s University’s extensive facilities.

• Performing Arts: Music rooms, drama studios, and a theatre space for school productions.

• Libraries and ICT Labs: Designed to support research, innovation, and digital literacy.

The new campus development has significantly expanded the school’s ability to provide a world-class education in Tokyo.

Extracurricular Activities

BST places strong emphasis on holistic education, offering a wide variety of clubs and activities beyond the classroom.

• Sports: Football, rugby, basketball, swimming, athletics, and more.

• Performing Arts: Drama productions, orchestra, choir, and dance groups.

• Academic Clubs: Debate, Model United Nations (MUN), coding, robotics, and science clubs.

• Community Service: Volunteering and charity initiatives, fostering social responsibility.

Participation in extracurriculars is highly encouraged, and students often represent the school in competitions both locally and internationally.

School Life and Community

The British School in Tokyo values community and inclusivity. Events such as international festivals, sports days, and cultural celebrations bring families together. The school also maintains strong ties with the local Japanese community, creating a balance between global education and cultural immersion.

Parents are actively involved through the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), which organizes social gatherings, fundraisers, and networking opportunities. For expatriate families, this community aspect is often a vital support system when relocating to Tokyo.

Admissions Process

Admission to BST is competitive, reflecting its popularity among international families in Tokyo. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Application Form: Submission of student records, references, and personal information.

2. Assessment: Depending on the year group, students may take entrance tests in English and Mathematics. Younger children are assessed through play-based observation.

3. Interview: For older students, interviews may be conducted to assess academic readiness and motivation.

4. Offer of Place: Admission is confirmed once an offer is accepted and fees are paid.

Entry Requirements

• Students must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English to access the curriculum (except in Early Years, where this is more flexible).

• Limited places are available, and waiting lists may apply for popular year groups.

Tuition Fees and Costs

As a private international school in Tokyo, BST charges tuition fees that reflect its premium education.

• Early Years & Primary: Approximately ¥2,000,000–¥2,500,000 per year

• Secondary (IGCSE/A-Levels): Approximately ¥2,500,000–¥3,000,000 per year

• Additional Costs: Application fees, building development fees, uniform, meals, and extracurricular activities.

Financial aid is limited, though some scholarships may be available for exceptional students.

Why Choose The British School in Tokyo?

Families often select BST for its combination of British academic standards and international diversity. Some of the main advantages include:

• Strong Academic Reputation: Consistent record of students entering world-class universities.

• Global Outlook: Multinational student body and international focus.

• Modern Facilities: Enhanced by the 2023 Azabudai Hills campus.

• Holistic Education: Wide extracurricular opportunities for sports, arts, and leadership.

• Community Spirit: Strong parent-school partnerships and inclusive atmosphere.

For expatriates looking for continuity with British or international schooling, BST provides a seamless educational pathway.

Alumni and Future Pathways

BST graduates go on to leading universities worldwide, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Tokyo, Stanford, Harvard, and more. The strong A-Level program equips students with critical thinking and subject expertise, while the international environment prepares them for diverse careers in business, science, arts, and global leadership.

Conclusion

The British School in Tokyo stands as one of the premier international schools in Japan, combining British academic excellence with a truly global perspective. With world-class facilities, a rigorous curriculum, and a vibrant multicultural community, BST is an excellent choice for families seeking a comprehensive and internationally recognized education in Tokyo.

Whether you are an expatriate relocating to Japan or a local family desiring a global learning experience for your child, BST provides the environment, resources, and opportunities to nurture future-ready students.

FAQs

What is The British School in Tokyo (BST)?

The British School in Tokyo (BST) is a co-educational international school offering a British-style education for students aged 3–18. It follows the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels, while adapting learning to an international and multicultural context in Tokyo. Families choose BST for its academic track record, strong pastoral care, and wide co-curricular program in arts, sports, and service.

Which curriculum does BST follow?

BST follows the English National Curriculum from Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through Key Stages 1–3, IGCSEs in Key Stage 4, and A-Levels in Sixth Form (Key Stage 5). The curriculum emphasizes subject mastery, critical thinking, independent study skills, and progression toward university-ready qualifications recognized worldwide.

What ages and year groups are offered?

BST serves children from age 3 (Nursery) up to age 18 (Year 13). The phases are EYFS (Nursery–Reception), Primary (Years 1–6), Secondary Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), IGCSE Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11), and A-Level Key Stage 5 (Years 12–13).

How does BST support students who are new to the British system?

BST regularly onboards students transferring from diverse curricula. Diagnostic assessments help place students appropriately, and subject teachers differentiate instruction. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available where needed, particularly in Primary and lower Secondary, while targeted study skills and mentoring help older students acclimate to examination requirements.

What are the typical class sizes?

Class sizes are designed to balance collaboration with individual attention. While numbers vary by year group and subject, parents can generally expect small to medium-sized classes that allow teachers to monitor progress closely, give timely feedback, and tailor learning tasks to student needs.

What languages are offered besides English?

English is the medium of instruction. Students typically study Japanese (with pathways for both beginner and advanced learners) and may have access to other modern languages such as French or Spanish depending on year group and option blocks. Language offerings are reviewed periodically to reflect student demand and staffing.

How strong are BST’s academic outcomes?

BST has a reputation for strong results at IGCSE and A-Level, with many graduates progressing to selective universities in the UK, US, Japan, and beyond. Sixth Form students receive extensive guidance on subject choices, admissions tests, personal statements or essays, and interview preparation to maximize post-secondary options.

What is the approach to learning and assessment?

In younger years, learning emphasizes inquiry, phonics, numeracy fluency, and foundational science through hands-on experiences. As students progress, the focus shifts toward analytical writing, experimental design, problem solving, and independent research. Assessment blends formative feedback (e.g., quizzes, drafts, teacher conferencing) with summative checkpoints (projects, exams, practicals) aligned to IGCSE/A-Level standards.

What co-curricular activities are available?

BST offers a comprehensive co-curricular program spanning team sports (football, rugby, basketball, swimming, athletics), individual pursuits, music ensembles and choirs, drama and theatre productions, debate and MUN, coding and robotics, design and technology clubs, service learning, and leadership opportunities. Activities run before and after school and often culminate in performances, competitions, or community events.

What facilities can students access?

Facilities include modern classrooms, science laboratories, design and technology workshops, libraries, performance and rehearsal spaces, and indoor and outdoor sports areas. Newer campus spaces prioritize flexible learning, maker-oriented environments, strong ICT infrastructure, and safe, sustainable design, enabling cross-curricular projects and contemporary pedagogy.

How does student wellbeing and safeguarding work at BST?

Pastoral care is central to school life. Each student is known by name through tutor systems, heads of year, and counselors who track wellbeing and academic progress. The school implements robust safeguarding policies, staff training, and age-appropriate digital citizenship education. Wellbeing programs promote healthy study habits, resilience, respectful relationships, and balance between academics and extracurriculars.

Is there support for English as an Additional Language (EAL) or learning differences?

Yes. EAL provision helps develop academic English in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The Student Support or Learning Support team may offer accommodations or individualized plans for students with specific learning differences, based on documentation and assessment. Collaboration among teachers, parents, and specialists ensures that support is integrated into daily learning.

How competitive is admission and what is the process?

Demand can be high in certain year groups, so early applications are advised. The process typically includes an online application with reports, references, and proof of identity; age-appropriate assessments (e.g., English and Mathematics for older students); and an interview or classroom observation. Offers depend on academic readiness, space availability, and the capacity to support the applicant’s needs. Waiting lists may operate for oversubscribed years.

What level of English proficiency is required?

Requirements vary by age. In Early Years and lower Primary, beginners may be admitted with EAL support. In upper Primary and Secondary, students need sufficient English to access the mainstream curriculum, especially for IGCSE and A-Level pathways. Placement assessments help determine suitability and any support needed.

How should families choose IGCSE subjects and A-Level combinations?

Students choose IGCSE options in Year 9 based on interests, strengths, and future goals, keeping a balanced suite of subjects. For A-Levels, students typically select three (sometimes four) subjects that align with university aspirations (e.g., STEM, humanities, arts, or mixed). The school provides detailed guidance on prerequisite subjects for competitive courses (e.g., Mathematics and Physics for Engineering) and on balancing workload with extracurricular commitments.

What is the school calendar and daily schedule like?

The academic year usually runs from late summer or early autumn through late spring or early summer, divided into three terms with holiday breaks. The daily timetable features core lessons, option blocks, tutor time, and scheduled co-curricular slots. Primary students have structured literacy and numeracy blocks; Secondary timetables rotate across subject periods. Exact dates and timings are released annually and may vary year to year.

How do fees and additional costs work?

Annual tuition differs by year group and is billed according to the school’s published fee schedule. Additional costs may include application and enrollment fees, capital or development contributions, uniforms, transport, meals, examination fees, trips, and activities. Because fees can change, families should consult the latest official schedule and budget for discretionary extras like instrumental lessons or specialized trips.

Does BST offer financial assistance or scholarships?

Availability is limited and may be offered at the school’s discretion to students who demonstrate exceptional potential or particular need. Families should inquire directly about current schemes, eligibility criteria, application timelines, and documentation requirements, as these can change over time.

How are parents involved in school life?

BST encourages parent partnership through regular communication, learning conferences, workshops, and an active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) that organizes community-building events. Parents often volunteer for cultural celebrations, careers talks, reading programs, and field trip support, fostering a welcoming and globally minded community.

What university and career guidance is available?

From the middle years onward, students receive structured guidance on subject choices, goal setting, and portfolio building. In Sixth Form, university counselors support applications to the UK (UCAS), US, Japan, and other destinations. Guidance can include admissions testing, reference writing, personal statements or essays, interview preparation, financial planning, and scholarship research.

How does BST prepare students for global citizenship?

Through a multicultural student body, language learning, cross-curricular projects, service initiatives, environmental stewardship, and international competitions, students develop cultural literacy and ethical awareness. Leadership roles in houses, councils, and clubs build confidence, teamwork, and advocacy skills relevant to global contexts.

What technology and digital learning tools are used?

BST integrates technology to enhance learning: devices for age-appropriate research and creation, secure learning platforms for resources and feedback, and software for data analysis, music production, coding, or design. Digital wellbeing is emphasized, with clear expectations for responsible use and lessons on online safety, privacy, and media literacy.

Are school lunches, transport, and uniforms provided?

Uniforms are typically required and purchased from approved suppliers. The school may offer cafeteria or meal services, with options for allergies and dietary needs subject to advance notice. Transport arrangements vary: some families use public transit, carpools, or school bus options where available. Details are provided in admissions or parent handbooks each year.

How can families visit or learn more before applying?

Prospective families can attend open days, virtual webinars, or book tours (subject to availability). The admissions team can advise on timing, documentation, and assessments. Reviewing curriculum guides, recent exam results, co-curricular listings, and university destinations helps families assess fit early and plan a smooth transition to BST.

What makes BST distinct among Tokyo international schools?

BST blends the rigor and clarity of the British system with the creativity and breadth of international education. Hallmarks include sustained academic outcomes at IGCSE and A-Level, strong pastoral care, high-quality facilities, and a co-curricular culture that nurtures talents in arts, sport, leadership, and service—preparing students to thrive at selective universities and in a rapidly changing world.

Tokyo International School Guide