Rugby School Japan

Education Team 21 May 2024

Located just 40 minutes from central Tokyo, Rugby School Japan (RSJ) is more than a new educational institution; it is an authentic British Boarding School and centre of excellence uniting 450 years of tradition at Rugby School UK with the rich heritage of Japan. Established in September 2023 in Kashiwanoha, a designated education, innovation and entrepreneurial hub, RSJ is the second international school opened by the esteemed Rugby School group.

RSJ caters to students aged 11-18 and offers both day and boarding options. This school is committed to providing a robust British curriculum that prepares students for IGCSEs and A levels, while also nurturing the whole person—a principle encapsulated in their ethos, “The Whole Person, The Whole Point.”

A Foundation of Academic Excellence

Under the leadership of Tony Darby, the founding principal who spent 14 years at Rugby School in the UK, RSJ aims to uphold a tradition of academic rigour and holistic education. Darby’s extensive experience as a housemaster and head of economics ensures that RSJ students receive an education rooted in excellence. This commitment is reflected in the school’s selective admissions process, designed to foster an environment where academic ambition is not just encouraged but expected.

Tony Darby, Principal

RSJ’s academic framework follows the British curriculum, with students being instructed in English. This standard necessitates a high level of proficiency in the language, allowing pupils from a variety of countries and backgrounds to seamlessly integrate into the learning environment. The school’s faculty, predominantly from the UK, brings a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that the education delivered is both challenging and enriching. Additionally, the presence of native language speakers in Japanese and French underscores the school’s commitment to linguistic diversity and cultural inclusivity.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and a Dynamic Campus

Situated on a sprawling 10-acre campus, RSJ boasts facilities that rival those of any leading educational institution in Tokyo. Proximity to the University of Chiba and the University of Tokyo’s Kashiwanoha campus enhances the academic ambiance, fostering a rich environment for intellectual and cultural exchange. The campus itself is fully equipped with WiFi and ICT networks, and features specialised facilities including 12 bespoke science laboratories, a comprehensive music faculty, a dance studio, a black box theatre, a library and health centre.

Sports and physical well-being are also a priority at RSJ, with amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, an air-conditioned sports hall, outdoor tennis courts, and rugby pitches. The innovation centre and debating chamber further support a robust co-curricular programme, encouraging students to explore and develop a diverse range of interests and skills.

Boarding: A Home Away from Home

A significant aspect of RSJ’s offering is its boarding programme, which provides a secure and nurturing environment for students. Currently, two boarding houses—School House and Rupert Brooke House—are operational, with two additional Houses (Tudor and Sheriff) opening in September 2024 and a further two in September 2025. Nearly 55% of the student body resides on campus, benefiting from the expertise and care of experienced house masters, house mistresses, and deputies.

Boarding at RSJ is designed to foster a strong sense of community and belonging. The boarding staff work closely with families to create a supportive environment that extends beyond the school grounds, ensuring that students feel at home and well cared for. The school’s commitment to student welfare is evident in its comprehensive pastoral care programme, which includes dedicated facilities and bilingual nursing staff available on campus.

Holistic Development Through Co-Curricular Activities

The RSJ experience extends far beyond the classroom. With over 55 co-curricular activities on offer, students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop new skills. The activities range from sports and arts to intellectual pursuits such as the Model United Nations club, debating, and chess. This extensive programme is integral to the school’s philosophy of educating the whole person, promoting personal growth, character, leadership, and a sense of responsibility.

RSJ leverages its location within Kashiwanoha’s innovation hub to build strong relationships with local entrepreneurs and universities. This not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares students for future opportunities in a globalised world. The school’s commitment to fostering globally minded citizens is reflected in the Rugby Learner Profile, which encourages students to be enquiring, communicative, collaborative, and resilient.

A Commitment to Excellence and Accreditation

Accreditation and recognition by reputable organisations are crucial indicators of a school’s quality. The school is accredited by the Cambridge, AQA, AQA Oxford and Pearson Edexcel Examination Boards. Membership in the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) and the Australian Boarding Schools’ Association (ABSA) further underscores the school’s dedication to maintaining high standards of education and pastoral care.

Strategic Location and Accessibility

RSJ’s location in Kashiwanoha is not only strategic but also ideal for fostering a vibrant educational community. The campus is easily accessible from central Tokyo and both Narita and Haneda International airports, making it convenient for both local and international families. This accessibility ensures that the school is a viable option for parents seeking a high-quality British education in Japan.

Conclusion

Choosing the right school for a child is a momentous decision, one that encompasses academic aspirations, personal growth, and well-being. Rugby School Japan, with its blend of British educational tradition and the innovative spirit of Japan, offers an unparalleled environment for students to thrive. As Tony Darby, the founding principal, aptly puts it, RSJ is a place where “The Whole Person, The Whole Point” ethos comes to life, providing an education that prepares students not just for exams, but for life. Parents seeking a school that balances academic excellence with comprehensive pastoral care and a robust co-curricular programme would do well to consider Rugby School Japan—a beacon of British education in the heart of Japan.