- The British School in Tokyo (BST) celebrates the grand opening of its new Primary School campus at Azabudai Hills.
- Princess Akiko of Mikasa graced the inauguration ceremony, British Ambassador Julia Longbottom, and over 300 distinguished guests.
- The new campus, designed by renowned architect Thomas Heatherwick, features state-of-the-art facilities and a nature-integrated learning environment.
In a significant milestone for international education in Japan, the British School in Tokyo (BST) has proudly unveiled its new Primary School campus at Azabudai Hills. This landmark event, held on November 4, 2023, marked a new chapter in the school’s storied history, cementing its place as a beacon of world-class education in Tokyo.
A Grand Opening Celebration
The opening ceremony of the BST’s Azabudai Hills campus was a momentous occasion attended by royalty and dignitaries. Among the esteemed guests were Princess Akiko of Mikasa and British Ambassador to Japan Julia Longbottom. They joined a gathering of over 300 members from Tokyo’s international community, partner schools, local area representatives, and school associates, all united in celebrating this new beginning.
A Tribute to Tradition and Modernity
The new campus, masterfully designed by the globally acclaimed British architect Thomas Heatherwick, is a marvel of modern educational architecture. Spanning seven floors with a rooftop garden, the campus covers an area of 15,000 square meters. Its elegant brick exterior pays homage to the historical Japanese Postal Group Iikura Building that once stood at the site. The entrance lobby is adorned with bricks styled after the Victorian era, blending historical elegance with contemporary design.
The campus is not just an educational facility but a celebration of nature within the city. It boasts outdoor terraces that serve as extended learning and recreational areas, seamlessly integrating greenery and natural elements into the fabric of the school.
Innovative Learning Spaces
Reflecting BST’s forward-thinking educational approach, each floor of the campus contains ‘Learning Plazas’ – shared spaces that embody the school’s philosophy of innovative, flexible, and stimulating learning environments. These plazas are designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and a sense of community among students.
Facilities at the campus include an indoor pool, two libraries, an art studio, a digital technology studio for STEM education, a gymnasium, and two playgrounds. These amenities underscore BST’s commitment to providing a balanced and comprehensive curriculum.
A Rich Legacy in International Education
The British School in Tokyo, established in 1989 as part of the Shibuya Educational Academy, has grown significantly over the past 34 years. BST now stands as one of the premier international schools in Japan, offering an enriched British National Curriculum to a diverse student body. With students hailing from over 60 nationalities, aged between 3 and 18 years, BST has established itself as a hub of multicultural education in the heart of Tokyo.
Educational Excellence and Global Perspective
BST’s mission is focused on nurturing each student’s potential while fostering a sense of curiosity and ambition. The school prides itself on its core values, which include striving for personal excellence, demonstrating integrity, and embracing diversity. These principles guide the BST community in fostering global-mindedness and respect for cultural differences among its students.
A Campus that Reflects BST’s Vision
The Azabudai Hills campus is more than just a physical space; it embodies BST’s vision for education. Designed to inspire and facilitate learning, the campus provides an environment where each student can confidently engage with the world and prepare for successful futures. The headmaster, Paul Tough, emphasized that the new campus solidifies BST’s position as a leading British international school in Asia, offering unparalleled learning opportunities and cutting-edge facilities.
A Hub for Innovative Learning
The campus’s innovative design and facilities symbolize BST’s commitment to a broad and balanced curriculum. The emphasis on STEM education, arts, physical development, and digital technology ensures that BST students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern world. The integration of natural elements and flexible learning spaces aligns with the school’s philosophy of nurturing well-rounded individuals.
Looking to the Future
As BST embarks on this new chapter, the Azabudai Hills campus stands as a testament to the school’s dedication to excellence in international education. With its state-of-the-art facilities and a nurturing environment, BST is poised to continue shaping future global citizens and leaders.
Exploring More Educational Options in Tokyo
BST’s new campus is a noteworthy addition to the city’s vibrant international school community for families and expatriates considering various educational opportunities in Tokyo. To explore a wider range of options, we invite you to read our comprehensive guide: The Best International Schools in Tokyo, According to Expats. This article provides valuable insights and information on some of the top international schools in Tokyo, helping you make an informed decision for your child’s education.
Conclusion
The opening of the British School in Tokyo’s new campus at Azabudai Hills marks a significant milestone in the landscape of international education in Japan. Combining a rich heritage with a forward-looking approach, BST is set to continue its tradition of providing exceptional educational experiences, now from an even more inspiring location in the heart of Tokyo.
