Kyoto International School

International Education in Kyoto

Kyoto is a world famous cultural center, as well as a major center of education. As such, it attracts people from all over the world, many with children who require an education in English. Since 1957, Kyoto International School (KIS) has catered to such children’s needs, both introducing Kyoto to our students and introducing the world to Kyoto. We are delighted to be located in the heart of historic Nishijin, the centre of Kyoto’s textile industry. KIS usually has at least 10-12 nationalities represented in its student body. This makes us a beacon for internationalism in Kyoto.

Organization

KIS is a private IB World School, with legal recognition by local and national governments. The school achieved such status (gakkou houjin ) in March, 2007. KIS is governed by the Executive Board and the Board of Trustees, and managed by the Head of School. Within the KIS community everyone is valued and encouraged to participate, thus fostering an open and collaborative environment. As a result, faculty, staff and parents often volunteer their time and effort, to a considerable degree.

Development

Since 1997 we have occupied the building of the former Juraku Elementary School in Nishijin. This has given us the opportunity to forge links with the local community as well as to offer ourselves as an international resource. The Board is exploring ways to strengthen these links and to respond more effectively to the changing international needs of Kyoto. KIS continues to build relationships and partnerships with local and national governments, as well as business and academic sectors, to promote ongoing development and secure the school’s long-term future.
Recently, KIS has taken on a number of challenges in its move towards securing our own facility, improving resources and further strengthening our educational program. Acquiring legal status, IB PYP authorization, and establishing the KIS-Aomori Campus has allowed KIS to gain the organizational strength to put us in a better position for further development.
KIS has been serving Kyoto’s international community for more than half a century. At a time when new models of internationalism, educational change and economic recovery are being sought, KIS can be a unique resource for Kyoto. We look forward to strengthening our partnership with the great city of Kyoto and the world, to bring new benefits for all.

From the Executive Board