Q:

Because my children can't speak Japanese, I'm thinking of having them learn Japanese before enrolling them in elementary school and junior high school. Where can I find a Japanese language school?

A:

There are no Japanese language schools specifically for foreign children of elementary or junior high school age. For this reason, it would be best to enroll your children in elementary school or junior high school, where they can learn Japanese while they study at school. Children who have already turned 15 cannot be admitted to junior high school in some cases, so it is important to enroll children of ages subject to compulsory education in school as early as possible after coming to Japan. As for Japanese language acquisition, the kind of support that is accessible will vary depending on the school, so please consult the school where your children will be enrolled. Also, depending on the area, there may be Japanese language classes offered after school or on Saturdays or Sundays. Attending these kinds of classes actively is important for acquiring Japanese language skills. The Nagoya International Center Information Counter can provide information on places to learn Japanese, so please feel free to contact us.

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Q:

My child is 15 years old. Can my child be admitted to junior high school?

A:

Under Japan's education system, to qualify for admission to the third year of junior high school (chūgakko / 中学校), a child must be turning 15 years old during that school year. A child who is now 15 years old, and will be 16 at the time of graduation in March, is overage and cannot be admitted to junior high school unconditionally. When carrying out your resident registration at your ward or municipal office, please tell staff that you would like your child to attend junior high school, and after being directed to the junior high school in your school district (gakku / 学区), consult school staff. Whether or not your child can be admitted is ultimately the decision of the junior high school principal.