EN – Harrow Appi

Let the new academic year begin!

Posted on August 28, 2025August 28, 2025 by Gloria

Welcome and welcome back to Harrow Appi!

The start of a new academic year is always a special moment at Harrow Appi – and this year has been no exception.

Over the past few days, we have had the joy of welcoming our new Harrovians as they settled into their Houses, unpacked, and begun to make Harrow Appi their home from home. Already, new friendships are forming, and the first steps of their journey – both in the classroom and beyond – are underway.

At the same time, our returning Harrovians have reunited with friends after months apart. The campus has been filled with laughter, energy, and the unmistakable spirit of community as they shared stories from the summer and embraced the year ahead together.

It has been a wonderful beginning to the year, and we are delighted to see both new and returning Harrovians embracing House life, ready to grow, connect, and thrive this academic year!

Welcome to the new Beaks!

Posted on August 28, 2025August 28, 2025 by Gloria

One more day until the new academic year begins, and we are delighted to welcome our new Beaks (teachers) to Harrow Appi. As our student community continues to grow, so too does our team of dedicated educators—ready to guide, inspire, and nurture our pupils.

Harrow Appi is proud to have a faculty of over 160 staff from around the world, including the USA, UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Vietnam, Azerbaijan, Poland, Ireland, Spain, China, the Philippines, Japan, South Africa, France, Russia, The Netherlands, Sweden, Greece, and Thailand. Our international team brings a wealth of experience and cultural perspectives, giving students the unique opportunity to learn from people from across the globe. This diversity enriches their time at our mountain campus, helping them grow academically, socially, and personally.

Over the past week, our newest colleagues have been settling into their homes and discovering what makes life in the mountains of Japan so special. They have explored the spectacular Fudo Falls, enjoyed a welcome BBQ, and familiarised themselves with both our campus and the scenic walking trails of Appi-Kogen. They are now connecting with their fellow Beaks, getting to know their departments, and preparing to embark on the year ahead.

Welcome to the Harrow Appi family—we are delighted to have you!

Harrow Appi Students visit the UK

Posted on August 18, 2025August 18, 2025 by Gloria

This summer, a group of Harrow Appi students joined the ISCA (Independent Schools Cultural Alliance) Summer Programme – three unforgettable weeks exploring the cultural, academic, and historic highlights of the UK.

From walking the grounds of Oxford and touring the Houses of Parliament, to rowing through Canterbury and standing at the foot of Stonehenge, our students immersed themselves in learning beyond the classroom.

They toured Windsor Castle, saw the Crown Jewels, explored Roman Baths, performed Shakespearean scenes, visited universities, and formed friendships with students from 12 schools across five countries.

Most importantly, they came back with a deeper understanding of British culture and a renewed sense of confidence and independence.

Mountain Day (山の日) at Harrow Appi

Posted on August 13, 2025August 18, 2025 by Gloria

In Japan, the 11 August is celebrated for Mountain Day (山の日), a national holiday that is dedicated to the spiritual and cultural importance of its mountainous landscapes.

At Harrow International School Appi Japan, we are fortunate to be located among two iconic peaks: Mount Iwate and Mount Maemori. These natural landmarks shape our students’ experiences throughout the year.

In Golden Season, students take on the challenge of hiking Mount Iwate – an opportunity for personal growth, reflection, and connection with nature. During White Season, they develop new skills and confidence on Mount Maemori as part of our ski and snowboard programme.

These experiences reflect our commitment to holistic education and to honouring the traditions of our host country. As a British international school in Japan, we believe that outdoor learning and a connection to nature is essential in preparing students to lead with character, courage and curiosity.

Wherever you are today, we hope you find time to pause, reflect, and connect with the natural world – and to appreciate the steady presence of the mountains around you.

Harrow Appi Japan Opens 7th Boarding House in 2025-26

Posted on August 13, 2025August 13, 2025 by Gloria

With continued growth in enrolment, Harrow Appi is proud to announce the opening of Hearn House – our seventh full-boarding House, making us the first AISL Harrow School to reach this milestone.

Named after Lafcadio Hearn, the writer and educator whose work fostered deep cultural understanding between Japan and the West, The name was chosen by our pupils, to commemorate our belief that student voice should help shape the legacy of our school.

Hearn House will be led by Luke Moon, a seasoned boarding leader with extensive experience in pastoral care at leading schools in both the UK and internationally. His previous roles include Head of Boarding at Bryanston Prep and Assistant Head of Boys’ Boarding at Repton School Dubai. With additional experience in safeguarding, PSHE, and a range of academic subjects, Mr Moon brings a well-rounded, student-focused approach to residential education.

We look forward to welcoming the founding members of Hearn House next year – and to the friendships, leadership, and traditions that will grow within its walls.

Want to learn more about boarding at Harrow Appi Japan? Download our 2025 Guide to Full-Boarding today and learn why we are the boarding school of choice in Asia.

Speech Day at Harrow Appi

Posted on August 13, 2025August 13, 2025 by Gloria

Another academic year at Harrow Appi Japan comes to a close, and with it marks Speech Day.

Speech Day is a longstanding Harrow tradition, an annual event that celebrates the achievements of Harrovians throughout the academic year. It is a traditional ceremony, marked with speeches from our inaugural Head Students, Head Master as well as the prestigious Dux Awards winners. Parents and students get to listen to a series of beautiful pieces performed by our incredibly talented musicians, as we look back at the year and forward to the next one.

Well done to all students, parents and Beaks on another wonderful year at Harrow Appi, we cannot wait to see you next year!

To watch the full video of Speech Day, click here.

Green Long Ducker 2025

Posted on June 16, 2025June 16, 2025 by Gloria

On Friday 13th June 2025, the Harrow Appi community came together for one of the most joyful and inspiring events of the year—the Green Long Ducker. Building on the rich tradition of the Long Ducker charity run from Harrow on the Hill in London, our students, staff, and families embraced the spirit of challenge and charity right here on our doorstep, with a day-long celebration centred on Mt. Maemori.

The day began with a burst of energy as students from Prep, Senior, and Sixth Form took to the mountain trails in a charity race like no other. Prep students tackled a demanding 3.5km route up to Red House and back, climbing 250 metres in elevation, while our Senior and Sixth Form students raced all the way to the summit, a 5km course with 500 metres of vertical climb. Each student’s effort contributed to a spirited Student House Competition, with points awarded based on race finish positions—showcasing determination, teamwork, and House pride in equal measure.

In true Harrovian fashion, the race was more than just a physical challenge; it was an opportunity to give back. This year, the Green Long Ducker proudly supported Mirai no Mori, a remarkable Japanese charity that provides life-changing outdoor experiences for abused, neglected, and orphaned youth. Every stride our students took helped raise funds to support the growth and resilience of young people across Japan.

The celebration didn’t stop at the finish line. The afternoon transformed the school into a vibrant summer fête, complete with games, food stalls, and a warm buzz of community spirit. As evening fell, the festivities moved indoors for a student-led musical performance followed by a disco—rounding off a day that was not only memorable, but meaningful.

The Green Long Ducker was also a House fundraising competition for parents, who generously sponsored their children’s efforts and added another layer of friendly rivalry to the day. Thank you to all families who donated and supported this cause; your generosity will help Mirai no Mori continue to inspire and empower.

From mountain trails to music, from charity to camaraderie, the Green Long Ducker was a testament to everything we value at Harrow Appi. We are incredibly proud of our students for their resilience and heart—and already looking forward to next year’s ascent.

Student Life at Harrow Appi: Learning to Live Independently

Posted on June 13, 2025June 13, 2025 by Gloria

What is it really like to live and learn at a full-boarding international school in the mountains of Japan?

Remove (Year 10) Harrow Appi Student Ikuko shares her journey — from taking the leap to leave a traditional school in Tokyo where she was born, to discovering independence, nature, and a surprising love for Mapo tofu!

Can you tell us a bit about your background before joining Harrow Appi?

I used to attend a private school in Tokyo — the kind where you stay all the way from primary through high school. It was quite traditional, and while I had some international after-school classes, I’d never been in a full English-speaking environment before.

Around my second year of junior high, I started to feel that the school wasn’t really the right fit for me anymore. That’s when my mum found Harrow Appi in a magazine. I researched it myself and got more and more interested. In the end, I decided to take the entrance exam — and now, I’m really glad I did.

What was it like to move from day school to full boarding?
At first, it was a little nerve-wracking. Boarding sounded exciting but also unfamiliar. The idea of living away from home was a big change. I did feel a bit homesick in the first couple of weeks — I think everyone does — but the support from friends and teachers helped me settle in pretty quickly.

Now, I actually think boarding is one of the best parts of Harrow Appi. Living with friends 24 hours a day is a lot more fun than I expected. It’s like having a second family.

What does a typical day at Harrow Appi look like for you?
After lessons, we go into Super-Curriculum and Co-Curricular Activities — or CCA. Then there’s Prep time for homework. Between evening roll call and lights out, there’s a free hour where we can do what we like.

I usually head to the Performing Arts Centre — I take piano and singing lessons, and I love that we have access to music rooms, the dance studio, the gym… everything’s just there when you want it.

Harrow Appi puts a strong emphasis on nature. How has that shaped your experience?
It’s definitely been a big part of life here. Right after I joined, we went on Short Expedition — a one-night camping trip with our house. I didn’t know anyone yet, and I was shy, but I made my first friends on that trip. It rained, so we camped indoors instead of outside, but we still did BBQs and fun activities. It taught me that being flexible is part of being in nature.

In the Green Season, I joined the Sports Academy for golf — my family loves it — but watching my friends mountain biking made me want to try that next. And then there’s the White Season — skiing and snowboarding whenever you want. You can ski twice a week and even on weekends. You get better so quickly without even realising. I’m already counting down to next season.

How have you grown since joining Harrow Appi?
A lot. My old school was more about tradition and doing things a certain way, but here, tradition and innovation go together. People really encourage you to try new things. I’ve had so many new experiences I wouldn’t have had anywhere else.

My classmates are also really inspiring — they all have different talents, and that pushes me to explore new interests too.

And maybe most importantly, I’ve learned to be more independent. Living away from my parents has made me appreciate them more, and I’ve started doing things for myself that I used to take for granted. I’m really thankful I got to learn that early in life.

Interested in learning more about how the full-boarding experience at Harrow Appi? Download our 2025 guide now!

A Parent’s Perspective of Harrow Appi

Posted on June 6, 2025June 6, 2025 by Gloria

An interview with Ms Nishio, parent of a Harrow Appi student

When Ms Nishio began exploring international education options for her child, she wasn’t just looking for academic excellence — she wanted an environment where her son could grow in confidence, independence, and character. Now, three years into their Harrow Appi journey, she reflects on the experience so far, the challenges of letting go, and the transformation she has seen in her son.

Why did your family choose Harrow Appi?

At the time we were considering schools, Harrow Appi was actually the only international full-boarding school in Japan, which made it stand out immediately. But beyond that, I was drawn to the setting. The idea of a school surrounded by mountains and forests really appealed to me. I thought it would be a healthy, peaceful place for a child to grow and focus.

I was also impressed by the school’s approach to digital wellbeing. Even before enrolling, I appreciated that there were clear expectations around screen time, especially in the evenings. Once we joined, I was relieved to see that those boundaries were taken seriously — it gave me confidence in the school’s pastoral care.

What mattered most, though, was the opportunity for my son to become more independent. I’ve always been a very involved parent — maybe too involved at times. Boarding school gave me the structure to step back a little and trust the process. I also thought that some space between us might help when the teenage years inevitably became more challenging. And actually, that turned out to be true. He’s now more mature, calmer — and if I’m honest, I’m the one who’s still learning to let go!

"Harrow Appi is a very special place. It nurtures the potential in each child and gives them the confidence to open up their own future."

Ms Nishio

Harrow Appi Parent

Why did full-boarding feel right for your family?

Full-boarding provided the environment my son needed to develop his independence. It wasn’t just about academics — it was about learning to live alongside others, make decisions, manage his time, and build relationships. And all of that happened with the support of teachers, house staff, and a close-knit community around him.

I knew that if he stayed at home, I would be too quick to jump in and solve things for him. Boarding gave her the space to learn those things for herself — at her own pace.

What advice would you give to other families considering Harrow Appi?

If you’re a parent who likes to stay closely involved, I completely understand how difficult it can be to let go. But what I’ve learned is that by holding on too tightly, we may actually limit our children’s growth. At Harrow Appi, children are seen for who they are. It’s not just about their grades — the school helps students rediscover strengths and interests that might not be recognised in Japanese schools.

My son has rediscovered qualities I hadn’t seen in a long time — abilities that didn’t show in his previous school. Every time he comes home, I notice something new: more maturity, more confidence, more self-awareness.

Letting go is never easy, especially when your child is no longer a small child but not yet an adult. I was very anxious at first. But now, looking back, I can say it’s been a joy to watch both of my children grow step by step into who they are becoming.

Interested in learning more about how the full-boarding experience at Harrow Appi? Download our 2025 guide now!

Lower Prep Explore the Best of Iwate Prefecture

Posted on June 2, 2025June 2, 2025 by Gloria

At Harrow Appi, our Year Group Trips are a highlight of the final term—residential adventures that give each year group the chance to explore new parts of Japan, deepen peer connections, and put their growing independence and maturity to the test.

This year, our Lower Prep students ventured into the heart of Iwate for a memorable week of learning, discovery and adventure beyond the classroom. Their journey took them from the peaceful grounds of Moutsu Temple to the exhilarating white-water rapids of Hanamaki, blending cultural immersion with outdoor challenge in true Harrow spirit.

The trip began with a quiet moment of reflection at Moutsu Temple, where students engaged with Japan’s spiritual heritage and appreciated the beauty of its traditions. From there, they laced up their hiking boots for a rewarding trek up Orizumedake, and tackled bouldering walls that tested their agility and perseverance.

Students trekked Orizumedake, bouldered with determination, and explored local industries at Banzai Factory and Saito Seika. Along the dramatic Goishi Coast, they hiked to Hiroto Bay, taking in some of the region’s most spectacular scenery.

Each experience brought fresh opportunities to grow in confidence, curiosity and independence—hallmarks of a Harrow education. The 2025 Year Group Trip was not only a chance to see more of Japan but a celebration of everything our students are becoming.