EN – Harrow Appi

Manga Workshop for Iwate Manga Competition

Posted on September 4, 2025September 5, 2025 by Gloria

This week, our Harrovians took part in a unique manga workshop led by local artist Yuushioyou, held as part of the 15th Iwate Manga Award Contest.

Students of all ages were introduced to the fundamentals of manga, one of Japan’s most celebrated art forms, while drawing inspiration from Iwate – the prefecture we are proud to call home. Each student created a short manga piece reflecting the traditions, landscapes, and spirit of the region.

Harrow Appi works closely with the local community, drawing on the support of the region to provide our students with valuable cultural experiences and opportunities to learn from local expertise.

Commencement Assembly

Posted on September 2, 2025September 2, 2025 by Gloria

The new academic year at Harrow Appi began with our Commencement Assembly — a tradition unique to our school, inspired by the Japanese 始業式 (shigyō-shiki). In schools across Japan, 始業式 marks the official start of term, bringing the whole community together to set the tone for the year ahead.

In this spirit, our entire Harrow Appi community – students, teachers, and the parents of our newest Harrovians -gathered to reflect on the opportunities of the year to come.

The assembly included a shamisen performance, a three-stringed instrument with a history spanning over 400 years. Often associated with kabuki theatre and folk traditions, its soulful sound continues to embody the richness of Japanese cultural heritage.

We were also treated to a min’yō performance, traditional Japanese folk singing that expresses the rhythms of daily life and the deep connection between people and nature. With its roots in rural communities, min’yō carries with it centuries of history, passed down through generations as a way of preserving memory and culture.

Together, these performances highlighted the cultural richness of Japan, reminding us of the traditions that surround us here in the mountains of Appi and the value of carrying culture forward while creating new memories as a school.

We also celebrated the achievements of our students, honouring their dedication and success. It was a fitting way to open the new academic year – grounded in culture, community, and the spirit of Harrow.

Discover more about how we blend both British and Japanese tradition on our campus by downloading our prospectus today!

IGCSE Results 2025

Posted on September 1, 2025September 1, 2025 by Gloria

Harrow International School Appi is delighted to share the excellent IGCSE results of our second-ever examination cohort.

For the second consecutive year, 96% of our pupils achieved a top grade, a testament to the consistently high standards set by our Harrovians.

When compared with England-wide results – where 23% of grades achieved A–A/9–7* – the scale of our pupils’ success is striking. These results underscore the strength of our academic programme, the expertise of our Beaks, and above all, the commitment and ambition of our pupils.

We extend our warmest congratulations to our Harrovians on their remarkable accomplishments, and to the Beaks whose tireless dedication, guidance, and belief in their pupils have made such achievements possible.

Discover more about the academic excellence that Harrow Appi Japan stands by downloading our prospectus here.

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.