Former Kita-Karuizawa Elementary School Reopens as 'Global Education Special Zone'! LCA Kitakaruizawa Forest International Holds Opening and Entrance Ceremony
LCA Kitakaruizawa Forest International opens on the former site of Kita-Karuizawa Elementary School. It offers immersion education under the 'Global Education Special Zone' initiative.
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"LCA Kitakaruizawa Forest International" (Location: Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture), a new school established by leveraging the expertise of "LCA International School," which boasts one of the leading English education track records in Japan, will hold its commemorative opening ceremony and first entrance ceremony on Saturday, April 11th.
This school was established as an Educational Curriculum Special School, utilizing the former Kita-Karuizawa Elementary School building, which had been closed, after Naganohara Town obtained approval as a "Global Education Special Zone." (The school is equipped with both an elementary school and a preschool.)
■ Main Features and Educational Content
1. "Immersion Education" - Learning and Thinking in English
As an Educational Curriculum Special School, many subjects such as math, science, and art will be taught in English by foreign homeroom teachers. The environment is designed not just to "learn" English, but to use English as a "tool."
2. Three Distinctive New Subjects
Unique subjects will be established to foster the skills needed to thrive in the future, unbound by traditional frameworks.
English Subject: Cultivating practical communication skills.
Hometown Subject: Learning about the charms of Naganohara Town and the local area, and communicating its value to the world in English.
Way of Life Subject: Enhancing self-esteem and fostering the ability to identify and solve problems independently.
3. "Three Teachers for 15 Children" - Intensive Instruction in Extremely Small Classes
With only 15 children per grade, three teachers (including foreign and Japanese staff) are assigned. This extremely small-group education aims to nurture each child's individuality and maximize their potential.
FAQ
What is "LCA Kitakaruizawa Forest International"?
LCA Kitakaruizawa Forest International is a new school established on the former site of Kita-Karuizawa Elementary School in Naganohara Town, Gunma Prefecture. It operates as an "Educational Curriculum Special School" under the "Global Education Special Zone" initiative, offering immersion education.
What is "Immersion Education"?
Immersion education at this school means that many subjects, such as math, science, and art, are taught in English by foreign homeroom teachers. The goal is for students to learn to use English as a tool for learning and thinking, rather than just studying it as a subject.
What are the unique new subjects offered?
The school offers three distinctive new subjects: English (focusing on practical communication), Hometown Subject (learning about the local area and promoting it globally in English), and Way of Life Subject (enhancing self-esteem and problem-solving skills).
What is the teacher-to-student ratio?
The school practices "extremely small-group education" with a ratio of three teachers for every 15 students per grade. This allows for intensive, individualized instruction.
What is a "Global Education Special Zone"?
A "Global Education Special Zone" is a designation granted by the government to local authorities to promote innovative educational initiatives. In this case, it allowed Naganohara Town to establish LCA Kitakaruizawa Forest International and implement its unique curriculum.