OWIS Tsukuba Campus Building

From Play to Inquiry.
Expanding one grade per year until Grade 12, from 2026 onwards.

IB PYP Candidate School in Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki. From curiosity-driven play in Early Childhood (ages 3–5) to inquiry-based learning in Primary School (ages 5–11), expanding one grade per year until Grade 12, from 2026 onwards.

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IB Candidate
IB PYP Candidate School
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24
24 Years
24 Years of Educational Excellence
650+
Awards
Over 650 Awards for Educational Excellence

OWIS Tsukuba is an international school in Tsukuba and an IB PYP Candidate School pursuing International Baccalaureate authorisation. In Early Childhood (ages 3–5), children build a foundation of curiosity and social skills through role play, hands-on experiences, and play-based inquiry. In Primary School (ages 5–11), the IB PYP Units of Inquiry develop critical thinking, communication, and a love of learning across disciplines. With class sizes of 18 students or fewer and step-by-step English language support, children new to English can start with confidence. As part of the Global Schools Group (GSG) network spanning diverse nationalities worldwide, OWIS Tsukuba offers currently EC to Grade 6, expanding one grade per year until Grade 12, from 2026 onwards.

OWIS Education Benefits

Personalised Learning

Personalised &
Student-Centred Learning

At OWIS Tsukuba international school, inquiry-based project work allows students to focus on their strengths, pursue their passions, and direct their own educational journey.

Also, our optimal class sizes of 18 or less ensure every student receives the individual attention they need to achieve their full potential.

Multicultural Environment

Multicultural &
Inclusive Environment

Step into an immersive international environment where multiculturalism is celebrated, providing a truly global perspective for your child's education.

Our culture of kindness, inclusivity, and community as well as our comprehensive student support services, help everyone at OWIS Tsukuba feel a sense of belonging and school identity.

Certified Teachers

Certified &
Experienced Teachers

All our faculty are certified with teaching qualifications of a bachelor's or higher, are experienced in delivering education, and have been trained in the inquiry-based teaching methodology.

OWIS teachers are trained to assist students progress academically, as well as develop socially, emotionally, and personally.

Early Childhood ProgrammeAges 3–5

Discover the joy of learning through play and inquiry

IB PYP Early Years

Nurturing Curiosity in a Warm, Safe Environment

The OWIS Early Childhood programme is an IB PYP Early Years-based education programme for children aged 3 to 5. It consists of two classes: EC2 (ages 3–4) and EC1 (ages 4–5).

Through role play, hands-on experiences, and play-based inquiry learning, we spark children's natural curiosity and develop their ability to learn independently. The social, emotional, and confidence-building skills gained during early childhood form the foundation for future academic success.

Early Childhood at OWIS

EC Programme Highlights

Inquiry-Based Curriculum

IB PYP Early Years curriculum through role play, hands-on experiences, and play-based learning that nurtures every child's "why?"

English Immersion

8 hours of English immersion daily. Develop natural English skills during the most critical period of language development

Safe & Nurturing Environment

Qualified teachers providing pastoral care and emotional support in a safe, nurturing learning environment

Government Subsidy Eligible

Eligible for the Japanese government's free early childhood education subsidy — up to ¥37,000 per month

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Primary School ProgrammeAges 5–11

Develop inquiry skills and the power of critical thinking

IB Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Learn to Question, Think, and Take Ownership

The OWIS Primary School (Kindergarten to Grade 5) offers an IB PYP inquiry-based curriculum. Through a student-centred approach, children pursue their passions and interests while taking ownership of their learning.

Through Units of Inquiry, children learn to ask questions, seek answers, and develop the skills to solve real-world problems. In addition to core subjects (mathematics, science, language), students engage in Design, Innovation, and Technology (DIT) and STEM education, developing critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.

Primary School at OWIS

6 Skills Developed Through Inquiry-Based Learning

Collaboration

Teamwork & Leadership

Develop teamwork and leadership skills through group projects and collaborative learning

Communication

Expression & Presentation

Build confidence through presentations, group work, and public speaking opportunities

Empowerment

Student Agency

Develop responsibility and self-direction through independent research on topics of personal interest

Learning Through Enquiry

Inquiry & Problem-Solving

Transform curiosity into real-world problem-solving through question-driven learning

Compassion

Empathy & Service

Foster a culture of kindness and social responsibility through community service projects

Multicultural Mindset

Global Perspective

Celebrate all cultures and foster a sense of belonging with multicultural understanding

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A Message from the Principal

Chris Larter - Founding Head of School, OWIS Tsukuba

Welcome to One World International School, Tsukuba! As the Founding Head of School, it is my great pleasure to introduce our new educational community. We are committed to providing inquiry-based K-12 education where every child is known, valued, and appreciated.

Chris Larter

Founding Head of School, OWIS Tsukuba

OWIS Japan Parent Testimonials

"I really like the teachers here, they are always smiling and are really kind, and it's great to see that they hold a lot of our family's values. My kids also seem to really enjoy their teacher's mentorship style. My children have started the PYP curriculum and are learning lots of things that I wish I had learned as a kid. My child loves the gardening classes, the school pet and anything to do with nature. We love to see that the education is very tangible and hands-on."

Jeremy Carlson

Jeremy Carlson

Parent of Students in Early Childhood and Primary School

"OWIS's legacy and big brand presence were a focal point for us. Our son has really enjoyed the strong exposure to science, and today, I saw his presentation on economics. He knows so much more about economics than even I do, and he is just 10 years old!"

Rahul Kaushik

Rahul Kaushik

Parent of Students in Early Childhood and Primary School

"Interaction and communication have improved and are developing day by day. She loves the activities done in school."

Mohanraj Dhanapathi

Mohanraj Dhanapathi

Parent of a Primary School Student

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about OWIS Tsukuba programmes and admissions.

About Our Programmes

What is the IB PYP?

The IB PYP (International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme) is an internationally recognised educational programme for children ages 3 to 12. Rather than rote memorisation, it emphasises inquiry-based learning — encouraging children to ask "Why?" and "How?" and to take ownership of their education. The programme is highly regarded by educational institutions worldwide.

What is the difference between Early Childhood and Primary School?

Early Childhood (ages 3–5) focuses on play and inquiry-based learning to nurture curiosity. Primary School (ages 5–11) offers the full IB PYP curriculum with deeper, transdisciplinary learning themes. Both are based on the IB PYP framework, allowing seamless progression from one stage to the next.

Are government subsidies available?

Yes, OWIS Tsukuba is recognised as an eligible school for national and local government subsidies, helping to reduce the financial burden on families. Please contact our admissions counsellors for detailed information about tuition fees and available subsidies.

What does the after-school care programme include?

Please contact our admissions counsellor for details about the after-school care programme.

About OWIS Tsukuba

Is there a required English level for admission?

There is no specific English proficiency requirement for admission. An English assessment will be conducted upon entry, and based on your child's level, they will be placed in an appropriate class. English support classes (AEP) are also provided as needed, so students who are new to English can join with confidence.

Is there support for students who are not confident in English?

Yes. We offer a comprehensive support system tailored to each student's level. This includes English support classes, after-school intensive English clubs, and multiple support programmes. Classes are kept small (up to 18 students), allowing teachers to provide individualised attention and support.

What commuting options are available?

We offer a variety of commuting options, including a dedicated school bus service, private car drop-off (on-campus parking available), train (Numata Station on the Tsukuba Express, approximately 15 minutes on foot), and municipal bus. School bus routes cover key areas within Tsukuba Science City and surrounding neighbourhoods. Please contact admissions for the latest route information.

Is mid-year enrolment possible?

Yes, mid-year enrolment is possible. OWIS operates a rolling admissions system, allowing students to enrol at any time during the academic year. While August (new academic year), December (Term 2), and April (Term 3) are recommended entry points, we provide support to ensure a smooth transition regardless of when students join.

Can students transfer smoothly from Japanese schools?

Absolutely. Our experienced admissions counsellors provide careful guidance and support throughout the transfer process to ensure a smooth transition.
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Join us for an Open Campus
Fridays

There will be no registration fee for the Academic Year 2026-27 at OWIS Tsukuba.
Contact us to set up an appointment, either on-site or via video call.

Register for Open Campus

Access to OWIS Tsukuba

OWIS Tsukuba Map

OWIS Location in Tsukuba

Access Information

Enquire About the Open Campus Using the Form Below

We'll recommend the best programme based on your child's age and your family's needs. Our admissions counsellors are available in both English and Japanese.

Thank You!

Our admissions counsellor will be in touch within 2 business days.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Open Campus!

Your information will only be used to provide admissions-related guidance.

TSUKUBA CAMPUS

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Admissions: (+81)80 7637 6878 (10:00–18:00)

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1400 Kunimatsu, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 300-4354, Japan

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School Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Office Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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School Bus: Routes available within Tsukuba Science City and surrounding areas. Contact admissions for details.

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