Osaka YMCA International School

Our Story

Since 1882, Osaka YMCA has been a trailblazer in internationalization and education. Its first English language schools and university preparatory courses became a model for an entire industry of after school education in Japan. Today, the Osaka YMCA Educational Foundation is a leader in helping to transform public school education to be on par with the best international, private school education--once again promoting greater levels of access and internationalization.

At Osaka YMCA International School (OYIS), a private primary and middle school, we employ highly qualified, committed and dynamic staff who continue to trailblaze by imagining new educational programs that bring us closer to humanity's shared goal of a world of purpose and compassion.

Eighty percent (80%) of our students come from Asian countries, and 20% come from non-Asian countries. Approximately 35% of our student population consists of Japanese nationals. English is the main language of instruction and inclusion. There is international diversity in every classroom. From 2020, we will implement a pathway to high school graduation, creating an International Baccalaureate continuum from preschool to grade twelve.

Through the activities of our international schools, we strive to create bright and loving communities that cooperate, foster hope and live peacefully within society. We desire that all people will discover meaning and purpose in life and enjoy activities and continued learning. While cooperating with families and communities, our goal is to aid in the development of children, who are our future. We aim to raise children who understand the preciousness of life, and we will work to help people live harmoniously with nature and one another. We will educate people to work together to find fair and peaceful solutions to environmental, human rights and poverty issues--people who understand the value of assisting others in times of need.