Elementary

Programme Features

At EtonHouse Japan, our Elementary curriculum provides a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding while nurturing curious, capable and confident learners. We combine clear learning objectives with a concept-based and inquiry-driven approach that encourages students to make connections, think deeply and apply their learning to the world around them.

The EtonHouse Scope and Sequence sets out the learning objectives and progression of knowledge and understanding across the Elementary years. Teachers use these objectives to inform their planning, ensuring that learning builds progressively while responding to the interests, questions and needs of each group of learners.

The curriculum is organised around transdisciplinary units of inquiry integrating the learning areas of:

• Language (English)
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies
• The Arts
• Physical, Social and Personal Education

While each area has its own learning objectives, students are encouraged to see the connections between different areas of learning. Concepts and big ideas provide opportunities to bring learning together, helping students understand not only what they are learning, but also why it matters and how it connects to their lives and the wider world.

Our Approach to Learning

Our curriculum is concept-based and inquiry-driven. Students are encouraged to ask questions, investigate ideas, consider different perspectives, make connections and develop their own understanding.

Learning may begin with a question, a provocation, an observation or something that captures students’ curiosity. Students explore ideas through discussion, research, experimentation, problem-solving, collaboration, making and reflection. Teachers guide and extend this learning, helping students develop deeper conceptual understanding and apply what they know in new contexts.

Our Reggio-inspired approach and Pedagogy of Nature further shape the way learning takes place. Relationships, the environment, materials, nature and the local community become important resources for thinking, investigating and making meaning.

Developing the Learner

Alongside developing knowledge, understanding and conceptual thinking, we intentionally nurture the dispositions that shape how students engage with learning. These include curiosity, persistence, confidence, responsibility, creativity and collaboration, supporting students to become increasingly reflective, independent and self-directed learners.
We also develop the skills needed to navigate an unknown future, including critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, adaptability and digital literacy. These capabilities help students respond thoughtfully to change, work with others and apply their learning in new and unfamiliar situations.

We want our students to become lifelong learners who remain curious, open to new ideas and confident in their ability to learn and grow. We nurture students who are respectful and caring towards others, their communities and the environments in which they live, and who understand that their actions can make a positive difference.

Our aim is to develop knowledgeable, curious and compassionate learners who are confident to think, question, create, care and contribute to their communities and the wider world.

Specialist Teachers

Our Elementary students learn with a range of specialist teachers and practitioners, who bring expertise and passion to the learning experience.

Specialist teachers work with students in sports and outdoor pursuits, music and Japanese language and culture. Through these experiences, students develop new skills, deepen their understanding and explore different ways of expressing themselves and engaging with the world.

Working alongside classroom teachers, our specialists contribute to a rich and connected learning experience. Their expertise provides students with opportunities to develop confidence, discover new interests and passions, and experience learning through different perspectives and disciplines.

• Small class sizes with rich student-teacher interactions:  Student will be a part of a close-knit community where every teacher knows every student. Our boutique environment will give students dedicated and individualised support.

• A wide, borderless, community classroom: Learning is a process that involves the entire community. In order for students to become contributing citizens to society, and to enrich student’s learning experience, we as teachers need to build a sense of community inside and outside our school building. Our neighbourhood’s rich educational resources such as museums, art galleries and beautiful parks make the whole of Tokyo our extended classroom.
• Aquatic Program: Nearby pool facilities will be utilised for our comprehensive aquatic program. We believe learning to swim promotes self confidence, builds trust in others, contributes to academic achievement, benefits society and saves lives.

• Nature Pedagogy & Karuizawa Program: Our unique outdoor education programme in Karuizawa, where we undertake camping trips, river trekking and forest explorations enhances the learning at EtonHouse Karuizawa. Students will be closely connected with nature in a school that is committed to utilising the learning possibilities offered by the natural world.

Year Level Placement

Cut-off Date: 1st April

Students are placed in grade levels according to their age as of 1st April prior to entering the school year.

School Leadership

Welcome to EtonHouse International School Tokyo Roppongi. Our dedicated team is committed to cultivating a safe, inquiry-driven, and empowering environment where young learners are inspired to become lifelong learners and confident global citizens.

Eric Notch

Principal & Head of Karuizawa Campus
EtonHouse International School Karuizawa

Eric brings over 25 years of experience in education in both the United States and Japan. Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of roles, including principal of an international elementary and kindergarten school in Japan, STEM coordinator and teacher at the elementary level, and a high school mathematics teacher. He is a passionate, student-centered educator who embraces an inquiry-based approach to learning, drawing inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy and the belief that every student is a capable, curious learner. As a leader, he values collaboration and open communication, and is committed to building strong partnerships between school and families. He is approachable and deeply committed to nurturing each student’s potential. He is excited to work alongside students, staff, and families to cultivate an engaging learning environment where curiosity and lifelong learning can flourish.

Admissions & Application Process