Japanese education system
The education system in Japan is called the “6-3-3-4” system.
Elementary school is for 6 years, junior high school is for 3 years, high school is for 3 years, and university is for 4 years, so it is called “6-3-3-4.”
Elementary and junior high school are “compulsory education.”
After graduating from high school, some students choose to go to junior colleges or vocational schools.
Academic year
Japanese academic year starts in April and ends in March of the following year.
Elementary, junior high, and high school usually have three “terms” in a year.
A term is a period in which classes are held.
There are long breaks between the three terms.
A lot of homework may be assigned during the long summer vacation.
Some schools have only two terms in a year.
School events
Elementary, junior high, and high schools conduct various events.
In elementary and junior high schools, guardians (those who are raising children such as fathers, mothers, etc.,) can participate in some of these events.
- Entrance/Graduation Ceremonies: Entrance ceremonies are held in April and graduation ceremonies are held in March.
- First day assembly: At the beginning of the term.
- End of term assembly/End of year assembly: At the end of the term.
- Excursions/Field Trips: Go on hikes outside of the school, visit factories, etc.
- Mobile classroom/school trip: Go on a trip with the whole class.
- Class Observation/Open Class: Parents come to the school and observe the class.
- Sports Day/Athletic Festival: A festival where everyone participates in exercise and sports.
