Extracurricular activities provide every student a chance to learn and discover new things which could possibly stay with them for life long. These activities can be categorised as hobbies or interests in which they can continue to excel even after school. It is very essential that students are exposed to extracurricular activities during their school life as it gives them a break from academics and also an opportunity to grow as an individual.
Japan is the third largest economy in the world, achieving the majority of growth in the 20th century. It is also regarded highly when it comes to education due to the presence of prestigious institutions and fierce competition among the students to excel. Tokyo is ranked first as the safest city to live in. There is an abundance of cultural diversity in Tokyo.In Japanese culture, students are encouraged to make use of their after school hours by upskilling themselves through various extracurricular activities.
There are many reputable international schools in Tokyo offering quality education and a wide variety of extracurricular activities. These activities start from pre primary and go on up till high school. Many schools believe that activities like these contribute to the holistic development of students.
Student Clubs
Student clubs are one of the prominent characteristics of the Japanese Education system where students voluntarily gather after school or on holidays to perform activities together. Every school has various clubs for students to be a part of. These clubs are very helpful in promoting collaboration and individual growth among students.These clubs are often divided into two categories, sports clubs and culture clubs.
Types of Extracurricular activities
Every international school in Tokyo offers different types of extracurricular activities out of which some of the common ones are
- Pianica/music lessons
Students start taking piano or music lessons when they are as young as 3 years old. It is also one of the most common extracurricular activities being taught in Japan. - Judo/Karate
Judo or karate are taught from primary sections in Japanese schools. Students are taught the importance of discipline and self defense through this activity.Honorary belts are also awarded to students in schools as well. - Calligraphy lessons
Japanese calligraphy is very famous and holds a very important place in Japanese culture. Many international schools provide calligraphy classes to students in order to make them familiar with Japanese culture. - Volleyball
Volleyball is a part of the sports club category, it is a great way for students to engage in physical activity and learn the art of healthy competition in school by dividing the students in equal teams. - Math Club
There are also clubs for students who want to improve their knowledge of core subjects. These clubs also have regular evaluations and provide many opportunities to students to prove themselves through various competitions, both at the school and national level.
Many international schools in Tokyo also appoint teachers and experts specifically for after school extracurricular activities involving the core subjects, these teachers have a different approach of teaching which makes the learning more fun and enjoyable for students. - Dance classes
Many schools teach students various dance forms, like traditional japanese dances and hip hop. Students are also encouraged to take part in competitions and festivals to build their confidence and showcase their talents in front of the world.
Cram School
There is also a concept of cram schools where many students go after school for supplemental lessons in various subjects. The number of students enrolling in these schools is rising day by day leading to it being a thriving industry. These schools offer lessons in both academic and nonacademic subjects.
Conclusion
Extracurricular activities ensure individual growth in every student, it is very essential for every school to have a well balanced curriculum. The lack of a balanced curriculum can result in extra academic pressure on students which can hinder their pace of learning. These activities also help students to become critical thinkers and creative individuals.
International schools in Tokyo also host regular competitions and festivals to give students an opportunity to build their self confidence and also show their talents to the world, in some instances these competitions also provide networking opportunities with outside experts and can benefit students’ careers as well.
