Global Major Cities Guide

Resources and programs to help immigrants and visitors learn Japanese and improve communication skills.

Sections

1. Overview of Language Support in Sendai’s Education System

Sendai has made significant efforts to accommodate non-Japanese-speaking (NJS) residents, including children and families, in its education system. The city recognizes the importance of language support for integrating into schools and the broader community. Services are available for both children attending public schools and adults seeking to improve their Japanese skills to support their children’s education.

2. Language Support Programs for Students

A. Japanese Language Classes for NJS Students

Who is it for? Non-Japanese-speaking children enrolled in public elementary and junior high schools in Sendai.
What is offered?
- Japanese language instruction tailored to the student’s proficiency level.
- Support in understanding school subjects (math, science, etc.) in Japanese.
- Cultural orientation to help students adapt to Japanese school life.
Where is it provided?
- Many public schools in Sendai have dedicated language support teachers or coordinators.
- If a school does not have sufficient resources, students may be referred to specialized programs or external support centers.
Cost: Free for students enrolled in public schools.
How to register:
- When enrolling your child in a public school, inform the school staff that your child requires Japanese language support.
- The school will assess the child’s language proficiency and arrange appropriate support.

B. Sendai Multicultural Center (仙台多文化共生センター)

Services:
- Japanese language classes for children and parents.
- Consultation services for educational concerns.
- Cultural orientation workshops for families.
Location: The center is located in central Sendai and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Cost: Most services are free or offered at a nominal fee.
How to register:
- Visit the center in person or contact them via phone or email.
- Staff members speak multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, to assist with registration.

C. Special Language Support Classes (特別支援教室)

What is it? Some schools in Sendai offer special pull-out classes where NJS students receive intensive Japanese language instruction for part of the school day.
How to access:
- Discuss your child’s needs with the school principal or homeroom teacher.
- The school will coordinate with the Sendai Board of Education to arrange support.

3. Language Support for Parents

A. Japanese Language Classes for Adults

Community Centers: Many local community centers (公民館, kominkan) in Sendai offer Japanese language classes for parents. These classes are often taught by volunteers and focus on practical Japanese for daily life and supporting children’s education.
Sendai International Center:
- Offers Japanese language courses for beginners to advanced learners.
- Provides specific classes for parents to help them communicate with teachers and understand school documents.
Cost:
- Community center classes: Free or very low cost (around ¥500–¥1,000 per session).
- Sendai International Center classes: Fees vary but are generally affordable (around ¥5,000–¥10,000 per term).
How to register:
- Contact the community center or the Sendai International Center directly.
- Registration periods vary, but many classes accept rolling enrollment.

B. Interpretation and Translation Services

School Support:
- Schools in Sendai can arrange interpreters for parent-teacher meetings, entrance procedures, and other important events.
- Translation of school documents (e.g., newsletters, report cards) is often available in major languages like English, Chinese, and Korean.
Sendai Multicultural Center:
- Offers interpretation and translation services for educational matters.
- Parents can request assistance for communicating with schools or understanding Japanese educational policies.
Cost: Free for most school-related matters.

4. Registration Procedures for Schools

A. Enrolling in Public Schools

Visit the Sendai City Hall or Ward Office:
- Bring your residence card (zairyu card), proof of address, and your child’s passport.
- Inform the staff that your child is a non-Japanese speaker and may need language support.
School Assignment:
- The ward office will assign your child to a local public school based on your address.
- The school will contact you to arrange an orientation and discuss language support needs.
Language Assessment:
- The school may conduct a brief assessment of your child’s Japanese proficiency to determine the level of support required.

B. Enrolling in Private or International Schools

International Schools:
- Sendai Ikuei Gakuen offers international programs with English-based instruction.
- These schools may not provide Japanese language support, so additional private tutoring may be necessary.
Private Japanese Schools:
- Private schools may have their own language support programs, but these vary widely. Contact the school directly for details.
Cost:
- Private and international schools charge tuition, which can range from ¥500,000 to ¥2,000,000 per year.

5. Cultural Considerations

A. Understanding Japanese School Culture

Parent Involvement:
- Japanese schools expect active participation from parents in events like sports days, cultural festivals, and PTA meetings.
- Language support is often available, but learning basic Japanese phrases can help parents integrate more easily.
School Rules:
- Japanese schools have strict rules regarding uniforms, hairstyles, and behavior. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these rules to help your child adapt.

B. Respect for Teachers and Staff

Teachers in Japan are highly respected, and communication with them is often formal. Using polite language and showing gratitude for their efforts is appreciated.

C. Community Integration:

Encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities, as these are a key part of Japanese school life and help with language acquisition and making friends.

6. Additional Resources

Sendai City Official Website:
- Provides information on education and language support in multiple languages.
- Sendai City Multilingual Portal
Sendai International Relations Association (SIRA):
- Offers resources and support for foreign residents, including education-related consultations.
- Website: SIRA
Tohoku University International Support Office:
- Provides support for international families, including information on local schools and language programs.

7. Tips for Success

Start early: Begin researching and registering for language support programs as soon as possible after arriving in Sendai.
Build a network: Connect with other international families through community centers or online groups for advice and support.
Be patient: Language acquisition takes time, but Sendai’s supportive environment will help both parents and children adapt successfully.

By utilizing these resources and services, families in Sendai can navigate the education system with confidence and ensure a smooth transition for their children.