At NLCS Kobe, we offer a rich, diverse and academically ambitious inquiry-based curriculum. As a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), we are committed to providing a holistic education that challenges every child to develop new skills, deepen their understanding and grow in confidence.
Learning takes place in English, enabling students to develop strong language proficiency and communicate confidently in an international environment.
From core subjects such as English, Japanese, Mathematics and Science to creative and expressive disciplines including Art, Music and Drama, pupils experience a wide range of meaningful learning opportunities that inspire curiosity and academic excellence.
Our teachers nurture curiosity by encouraging students to ask thoughtful questions, think independently and engage in purposeful inquiry. Learning is driven by exploration, reflection and a genuine desire to understand the world.
We recognise that every student develops at their own pace. Within a supportive and nurturing environment, each student is encouraged to flourish as an individual while striving to achieve their personal best.
Alongside academic achievement, we place great importance on developing resilience, empathy, creativity and the qualities of responsible global citizenship. Our pastoral approach ensures that students are supported both academically and personally throughout their learning journey.
Alongside our internationally focused English-language curriculum, students follow a structured Japanese programme taught by qualified native Japanese teachers. The programme develops literacy, communication skills and a deep understanding of Japanese language and culture.
Japanese Language and Literature is taught across all year groups, enabling students to build strong cultural foundations while developing confidence and fluency in Japanese within a global context.
To learn more, please visit our dedicated Japanese Curriculum page.
Our academically rigorous, modern and inspiring international curriculum, combined with a warm and nurturing environment, provides students with a strong foundation for future success while supporting their social and emotional development. From an early age, children at NLCS Kobe develop the confidence, independence and curiosity to inquire, think deeply and take ownership of their learning.
Our co-curricular programme offers a wide range of opportunities designed to inspire creativity, develop leadership and support every student’s personal growth. Junior School students are encouraged to discover new interests, develop existing talents and build the confidence and skills that will prepare them for Senior School and beyond.
Students can choose from a diverse range of activities including debate, chess, sports, music and many others, ensuring that every child can find something that excites and challenges them. Whether representing a sports team, learning a musical instrument, taking part in a drama production or exploring the creative arts, students are encouraged to pursue their passions while discovering new ones.
Through clubs, performances and special events, students learn to collaborate effectively, communicate confidently and develop leadership skills within a supportive and inclusive community.
Our extra-curricular programme also strengthens students’ connections with the wider community. Through service opportunities and cultural experiences, they develop an understanding of responsible global citizenship and learn the importance of making a positive contribution to the world around them.
