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IISO officially joined the Japanese Red Cross Youth this year, giving our students new opportunities for leadership, service, and global citizenship. In February, our G10 representatives joined national meetings, exchange presentations, and teamwork activities that strengthened their confidence and communication skills. This partnership supports IISO’s holistic education.

At IISO, student wellness is a core part of our holistic education. Through annual vision, internal medicine, dental checkups, and regular body measurements, we work closely with families to support healthy growth. Our expanding health services—including new hearing screenings—ensure every child learns in a safe, caring environment.

This article explores how students’ brains develop from ages 6 to 18, and how understanding these stages helps us design compassionate, effective learning. By connecting neuroscience with classroom practice, we can better support our learners’ thinking, emotions, and growth—especially during the challenging early adolescent years.

Vygotsky’s social learning theory highlights how children grow through guided interaction, language, and cultural context. Islamic educational heritage reflects similar principles, where learning begins with support and develops into independent mastery. By combining Vygotsky’s ideas with Islamic values, educators and parents can guide children toward ethical, critical, and responsible learning—especially in today’s digital world.

During the blessed month of Rajab, our Preschool Weekend Club explored the inspiring story of Isra’ and Mi‘raj through joyful storytelling and hands‑on activities. Children learned about the Prophet’s ﷺ night journey, the ascent to the heavens, and the gift of salah. Through creative crafts and engaging lessons, they connected with Islamic history in a fun, meaningful, and memorable way.

IISO high school students visited the Catalysis for Energy Conversion Lab at the University of Tokyo, where they explored cutting‑edge research in renewable energy and hydrogen production. Through an interactive session with expert researchers and a tour of advanced equipment such as electrolyzers and glove boxes, students connected STEM learning with real‑world innovation and gained inspiration for future studies in science and sustainability.

Cooperation vs. Competition: What Builds Better Learners? At IISO, we believe cooperation—not rivalry—is the foundation of strong education. Islamic values and global research agree: teamwork builds deeper learning, stronger character, and healthier minds. Top systems like Finland and Japan avoid peer competition and focus on collaboration. Let’s raise confident learners who grow by helping—not outshining—each other.

IISO hosted a transformative HEART Model workshop led by Dr. Wadood Hassan, exploring Prophetic Tarbiyah, mindfulness, and building an Allah centered school culture inspired by Surah Luqman.

IISO High School opened its first Grade 10 cohort in April 2025, marking a new stage in our mission to provide a future‑ready, values‑driven education. With two diploma pathways, a strong STEM focus, advanced bilingual development, and personalized university preparation, our high school offers an enriching environment where students grow academically, spiritually, and socially.

At IISO, Exam Week is not about pressure — it’s about growth. Our gentle, Cambridge‑aligned approach helps students confirm their understanding, build self‑study habits, and celebrate their hard work in a joyful end‑of‑term gathering that reduces stress and nurtures confidence.

Introduction At the International Islamia School Otsuka (IISO) , we believe that connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds is a powerful way for children to grow. On Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 , our Grade 2 students participated in a special intercultural exchange program  at Apple Ikegami Preschool in Tokyo . The event created a lively space for sharing nasheeds, games, and meals — all designed to nurture friendship, cultural awareness, and Islamic values of respect

The 4th Workshop at Toyo University brought together leading international Islamic schools to share evidence-based strategies for university admissions and English immersion education in Japan. Organized by IISO, the event highlighted practical pathways into Japanese and global universities and showcased IISO High School’s new 2025 dual-pathway system—offering both a U.S. High School Diploma and a Japanese High School Diploma to expand students’ academic opportunities worldwi

IISO Parenting workshop aims to strengthen our families and empower parents to raise children who are confident, compassionate and future leaders.

Education in Japan is constantly evolving to meet the needs of students and society. Recent changes in curriculum, technology integration, and school activities reflect a dynamic approach to learning. This article explores the latest trends and updates from schools across Japan, providing practical insights and examples for educators, parents, and stakeholders. Innovations in Curriculum and Teaching Methods in Japan School Updates Japanese schools are embracing innovative tea

IISO hosted a national leadership workshop led by Dr. Habib Qaderi, gathering educators from six Islamic schools across Japan. Organized by the Union of Islamic Schools in Japan, the event focused on visionary leadership rooted in prophetic values.

# Leading with Shura: Islamic Foundations for Effective Team Dynamics at IISO Hosted by IISO | Organized by the Union of Islamic Schools in Japan Group Photo for all Participants On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the International Islamia School Otsuka (IISO) —a pioneering Islamic school in Tokyo —had the honour of hosting a national leadership workshop titled “Leading with Shura: Islamic Foundations for Effective Team Dynamics.” This impactful event was organized by the Union of

At IISO, our mission is not only to educate minds but to nurture hearts. In alignment with our Islamic values and commitment to holistic development, we regularly invite scholars to engage with our students, staff, and families—offering spiritual guidance, wisdom, and inspiration rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah. This September, we were honoured to host Shaikh Mohammad Al Naqvi for a multi-day visit that touched every corner of our school community—from Kindergarten to High S

IISO and Keigoku High students shared culture, food, and sports in a warm exchange—building friendship and bridges with Japanese society.

IISO students explored Ashikaga in a 3-day trip of science, faith, and friendship soccer, flower gardens, university labs, and shared prayer

IISO high school students participated in the RICOCHARE 2025 workshop hosted by Ansys Japan, exploring careers in science and engineering. They enjoyed hands-on simulations in mechanics, electronics, fluids, and optics—including a VR demo—while engaging in discussions with Ansys engineers. This inspiring experience gave our students a glimpse into future opportunities in technology and innovation.