The basic outline of the school year will be the same throughout Japan, although details will vary from school to school and region to region. When an activity refers to a particular year group, every student in that year is usually involved. Activities usually involve the whole student body.
ceremonies to mark the start of the academic year (around 5 April)
outing (sometimes 1-2 day residential) for new intake (sometimes also with other year groups to help students get to know each other)
home visits. Form teachers are required to visit the homes of each of the students in their class.
level assessment tests for 3rd grade (junior & senior high) students, to help decide which school / university they should apply for. These are held periodically through the year.
Golden week holiday (a number of days off between 29 April - 5 May)
May
mid-term tests
school trip. Usually 3 - 4 days, for 6th grade elementary, 3rd grade junior high and 2nd grade senior high students. Timing varies eg some senior high schools have ski trips in winter instead.
If you have questions about setting up a school link, please contact Katherine Donaghy. We also welcome your comments or suggestions concerning these guidelines,
so please email us with them.
