Academic

Prep School

Years 7 - 8 | Ages 11 - 13 | Full-Boarding in Japan

At Harrow International School Appi Japan, our Prep School provides an outstanding British preparatory school education in Japan for students aged 11 – 13 years old (Years 7 and 8). As a full-boarding school, we nurture independence, curiosity, and resilience, preparing students for success in our Senior School and beyond. 

For students aged 13 – 15 (Years 9 to 11), please visit our Senior School page.

For students aged 16 – 18 (Years 12 – 13), please visit our Sixth Form page. 

A British Prep School Education in Japan

The Prep School curriculum follows the British education system, designed to build strong academic foundations and a lifelong love of learning. Students benefit from small class sizes, specialist teachers, and a carefully structured programme that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence—preparing them for success in the Senior School and beyond.

Subjects and Curriculum

At Harrow Appi Japan, Prep School is made up of two year groups: Lower Prep (Year 7), and Upper Prep (Year 9). In Lower and Upper Prep, the students study the following core subjects:

  • English Language and Literature
  • Languages: either Japanese or Mandarin
  • Mathematics
  • Science


Alongside these, they explore a broad curriculum that includes

  • Art, Design & Technology, Computer Science, Dance, Drama, Geography, History and Music
  • Physical Education (P.E) and Outdoor Pursuits
  • Personal, Social, Health Education (P.S.H.E)


This balance ensures students receive both academic depth and creative breadth, building a strong foundation to go on to study IGCSE (Senior School) and A-Level (Sixth Form).

Boarding Life for Prep Students

As a full-boarding British school in Japan, students live and learn in a safe, supportive community. Boarding develops independence, teamwork, and lifelong friendships. Each Prep student is cared for in one of our 7 boarding houses, with staff ensuring their academic, emotional, and social wellbeing. 

To learn more about our full-boarding offering and what it looks like for your child, download our boarding booklet here. 

Admissions Process

Our Admissions Team would be delighted to guide you through the next steps. Many families reach out to learn more about boarding life, academic pathways, or the transition to a full-boarding school for young children. We welcome your questions and look forward to introducing you to Harrow Appi Japan. To contact admissions, please click here.