Global Major Cities Guide

General information about the school year, curriculum, and expectations within the Japanese education system.

Sections

1. Structure of the Education System in Sendai

The education system in Sendai follows the national Japanese education structure, which is divided into the following stages:

Preschool (Yochien or Hoikuen): Ages 3–5
- Yochien (Kindergarten) focuses on early childhood education.
- Hoikuen (Daycare) caters to working parents and provides both care and education.
Elementary School (Shogakko): Ages 6–12
- Compulsory and free for public schools (except for meals and materials).
Junior High School (Chugakko): Ages 12–15
- Compulsory and free for public schools (except for meals and materials).
High School (Koko): Ages 15–18
- Not compulsory but widely attended. Public high schools are affordable, while private high schools are more expensive.
Higher Education:
- Universities, colleges, and vocational schools are available for students who complete high school. Sendai is home to prestigious institutions like Tohoku University, one of Japan’s top universities.
Special Education:
- Schools for children with disabilities are integrated into the system.

2. Types of Schools in Sendai

Sendai offers a variety of schooling options to cater to both local and international families:

A. Public Schools

Overview:
- Public schools in Sendai are government-funded and follow the national curriculum.
- Elementary and junior high schools are free, but parents pay for school lunches, uniforms, and supplies.
- Public high schools charge tuition, but fees are relatively low.
Language:
- Instruction is in Japanese, which can be challenging for non-Japanese-speaking children. However, some schools offer support for foreign students, such as Japanese language classes or cultural adaptation programs.
Examples:
- Sendai City Elementary and Junior High Schools (various locations across the city).

B. Private Schools

Overview:
- Private schools in Sendai offer more diverse curricula, smaller class sizes, and additional extracurricular activities.
- Tuition fees are significantly higher than public schools.
Language:
- Most private schools teach in Japanese, but some may offer bilingual programs.
Examples:
- Tohoku Gakuin Junior and Senior High School (a well-known private school in Sendai).

C. International Schools

Overview:
- International schools cater to expatriate families and offer curricula in English or other foreign languages.
- These schools are ideal for children who do not speak Japanese or plan to continue their education abroad.
Examples:
1. Sendai International School (SIS):
  - Offers an English-based curriculum.
  - Focuses on global education and cultural diversity.
2. Tohoku International School (TIS):
  - Offers an American-style curriculum.
  - Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Costs:
- International schools are the most expensive option, with tuition fees ranging from ¥1,000,000 to ¥2,500,000 per year, depending on the grade level.

3. Costs of Education

Public Schools:
- Elementary and Junior High: Free tuition, but parents pay for:
  - School lunches: ¥4,000–¥5,000 per month.
  - Uniforms and supplies: ¥30,000–¥50,000 annually.
- High School: Tuition is around ¥120,000–¥150,000 per year, but subsidies are available for low-income families.
Private Schools:
- Tuition: ¥500,000–¥1,000,000 per year.
- Additional costs for uniforms, extracurricular activities, and materials.
International Schools:
- Tuition: ¥1,000,000–¥2,500,000 per year.
- Enrollment fees and other costs may apply.

4. Enrollment Procedures

The enrollment process varies depending on the type of school:

A. Public Schools

Eligibility:
- Children aged 6–15 are eligible for compulsory education.
- Foreign residents can enroll their children in public schools.
Steps:
- Register your child at the local ward office (Kuyakusho) after moving to Sendai.
- Submit the following documents:
  - Residence card (Zairyu Card) of the parent and child.
  - Proof of address (Juminhyo).
  - Child’s birth certificate (translated into Japanese if necessary).
- The ward office will assign your child to a local school based on your address.
Language Support:
- Some public schools offer Japanese language support for foreign students.

B. Private Schools

Eligibility:
- Open to all students, but entrance exams are often required.
Steps:
- Contact the school directly for application forms and procedures.
- Submit required documents (similar to public schools).
- Prepare for entrance exams and interviews.

C. International Schools

Eligibility:
- Open to expatriate and Japanese families.
Steps:
- Contact the school for application forms and deadlines.
- Submit documents such as:
  - Passport copies.
  - Residence card.
  - Previous school records (translated into English or Japanese).
- Pay the application and enrollment fees.
- Some schools may require an interview or placement test.

5. Language Considerations

Public and Private Schools:
- Instruction is in Japanese, so children who do not speak Japanese may face challenges.
- Some schools provide Japanese language support or assign language teachers to help foreign students adapt.
International Schools:
- Instruction is in English or other foreign languages, making them ideal for non-Japanese-speaking families.
Language Learning for Parents:
- Parents may also consider enrolling in Japanese language classes offered by local community centers or organizations in Sendai.

6. Cultural Aspects of Education in Sendai

Discipline and Respect:
- Japanese schools emphasize discipline, respect for teachers, and group harmony.
Uniforms:
- Most schools require uniforms, which symbolize equality and discipline.
Extracurricular Activities:
- Clubs and sports are an integral part of school life, fostering teamwork and social skills.
Parental Involvement:
- Parents are expected to participate in school events, PTA meetings, and community activities.
Focus on Academics:
- Education in Japan is rigorous, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and entrance exams for high school and university.

7. Additional Resources for Foreign Families

Sendai City International Center:
- Provides information and support for foreign residents, including education-related guidance.
- Website: https://int.sentia-sendai.jp/
Japanese Language Classes:
- Offered by local community centers and volunteer groups to help children and parents adapt to life in Sendai.
Cultural Exchange Programs:
- Many schools and organizations in Sendai host cultural exchange events to help foreign families integrate into the community.

Conclusion

The education system in Sendai offers a range of options to suit different needs, from public schools with Japanese instruction to international schools with global curricula. While public schools are affordable and accessible, international schools provide a more familiar environment for expatriate families. Understanding the enrollment procedures, costs, and cultural aspects will help you make an informed decision and ensure a smooth transition for your child.