Learning

Nishimachi learners are empowered to know, care and take action, to bring value to others and make a positive impact in their world. As part of a community of learners, students are guided to take personal ownership of their learning, to make meaningful connections with others, to pursue challenges and persevere, to act ethically and respectfully, and to use multiple processes to think, innovate and reflect. Working with a dedicated faculty and staff, students benefit from an inquiry-based learning that is personalized and community oriented. The language of instruction is English. Additionally all students study Japanese daily.

At Nishimachi, our approach to learning and teaching is guided by 3 Pillars of Learning:

The academic environment at Nishimachi is both rigorous and nurturing, promoting independence, resourcefulness, tolerance, and respect for self and others. We care about the overall well-being of each student, and strive to create an environment in which students can foster strong relationships with one another and with their teachers. As students learn how to be part of a group, and develop interpersonal skills in the context of the classroom, they also learn about themselves as learners. Students leave Nishimachi prepared to continue their education at first-class learning institutions around the world. 

“Understanding by Design” forms the curricular framework at Nishimachi. This concept of curriculum development, assessment, and instruction is designed to foster deep understanding through stimulating, engaging and active learning experiences. At Nishimachi, the goal of learning is for students to apply their skills, knowledge and understandings in real-world contexts. Students are at the center of the learning process at all grade levels, and they are aided by a supportive and nurturing faculty and a range of technology tools that are used in meaningful contexts to enhance learning.

Nishimachi Learner Expectations

A Nishimachi education is about much more than academic programs or subject offerings. What makes Nishimachi special is community and our culture of respect, understanding of diversity, focus on active learning, trust, and communication, and strong commitment to language learning, in both English and Japanese. All members of the Nishimachi community, including students, teachers, support staff, parents and the larger community, are part of the continuous process of growth and learning. We are all learners; we all realize the value of the following expectations for learners:

We make connections:  We cultivate meaningful connections between people, cultures and ideas.

We take ownership:  We take initiative, we explore our own questions and accept responsibility for our actions.

We pursue challenges:  We take risks and persevere.

We act ethically: We respect differences, are empathetic and work to find solutions on a global and local level.

We are creative: We use multiple processes to think, innovate and reflect.

Curriculum Standards

Nishimachi’s curriculum is structured to ensure that students receive a rigorous standards-based education, relevant to their context and to their experiences in a global community. Standards for each curriculum area can be accessed by clicking on the links below.