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Clarence International School
Clarence International School
Frequently Asked Questions
We have selected some frequently asked questions and answered them below. This list will be updated from time to time, but please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any specific questions not answered below.
How is art consistent with ‘traditional’ education in literacy, numeracy and science?
We believe that art complements, and enhances the learning of literacy, numeracy and science. Art is central to an exploration of the wider world, and as such shouldn’t be separated off as an adjunct, only to be enjoyed as a leisure activity.
Through learning art, children are also taught fundamental life, and academic skills. For example, through dance we teach skills such as travelling, space, relationships, interactions and dynamics. In drama, they learn about body language, props, cultures and language. In visual arts they discover shading, textures, shapes and perspective. And via music and poetry they learn styles, tempos, rhythm, rhyme and metaphor. Every activity has a clear learning outcome in mind, so whilst the children may feel they are merely playing, singing and dancing, they are actually absorbing linguistic and numeracy skills.
At what age do children start learning to read?
Reading skills are introduced to children in Little Star class, at the age of around 2 years when children show signs of readiness. Stories are an integral part of our daily routine for all ages and instill a love of the written word. Children are surrounded by books, and by words; children will see the language they are learning form part of the fabric of the rooms as their environment grows alongside them. In Blue Sky class children begin our formal phonics programme; we follow the Read Write Inc phonics programme which has proven to be very successful with our students making exceptional progress in reading and writing.
Do you offer an extended school day for working parents?
Our after-hours Nursery will be open every day for students of all ages from 2:45 PM until 6:00PM: there will be activities such as songs, story-time, and arts and crafts or our students can use the space to relax or finish homework. At the start of the day the standard arrival time is from 8:45 – 9:00am however busy parents can also drop off their children early, from 8:15am, for a small additional fee.
My child is 18 months, can they join?
Yes, younger children are welcome at Clarence International, and will join the 2 – 3 years Little Star class. To reflect the additional needs of this age group, the fees will be charged at an increase of 10% until the child’s second birthday.
I don’t live within walking distance, is there a bus?
Yes! We have our very own Clarence School bus which drives a route through the neighbouring areas of Tokyo. It also takes our pupils on various excursions throughout the course of the year. The bus route is continually updated to provide the best coverage for our families; please enquire for a breakdown of our current route.
Do you spend time outside?
Yes, we have several parks and playgrounds in close proximity to the school. Our classes enjoy break times and sport lessons there in good weather and use the green areas for outdoor learning activities.
What nationalities attend the school?
Currently we have families from Brazil, Australia, America, Korea, China, Japan, Germany, UK and France. We are a school that values all nationalities and encourages children to develop a deep appreciation for different backgrounds and become world citizens.