Fukuoka International School

Fukuoka International School places student wellbeing at the center of its approach. An extensive Wellbeing Team supports every student to feel welcome, safe, valued and encouraged. A full-time on-site counselor provides confidential emotional and social support during school hours, with students able to book via an online form or visit the counseling office. The Advisory program provides regular lessons designed to develop self-empowerment, social adaptability, and responsible decision-making. The Wellbeing Program integrates social and emotional support, language support, learning support, and on-site health services to address student needs. The school aims to create safe, caring spaces, respect cultural differences, and collaborate with families to help each child reach their potential.

FIS provides Learning Support and Language Support as part of its Wellbeing Services. A low student-to-teacher ratio and dedicated professionals support students who may need adaptation of learning to develop or extend understanding. The school uses a mix of in-class, small group, and individual instruction for students who require extra support. Admission is inclusive; the school does not have a pass/fail admissions test and will admit students where resources and space allow, with additional admissions information requested if a learning difference could affect success. The program emphasizes collaboration with teachers and families to identify the right strategy to ensure accessibility for all learners.

All students are language learners and all teachers are language teachers, with language development viewed as central to learning and identity. Elementary Language Support includes small group English Language Development instruction, co-taught homeroom support, and one-to-one assistance where needed. Additional after-school English language classes are available through the educational partner, FICS. Secondary Language Support features pull-out ELD for groups and individuals, plus in-class push-in support within the MYP & DP units, with dedicated ELD classes for grades 6–12. Continued language support is monitored through the WIDA framework, assessed twice a year, and students receive ongoing support based on progress.

Mental wellbeing is supported through the Wellbeing Program and an extensive Wellbeing Team that maintains a safe, welcoming environment. A full-time on-site counselor provides accessible emotional and social support during school hours, with confidential services available to students. The Advisory program delivers regular lessons aimed at fostering self-empowerment, social adaptability, and responsible decision-making. Wellbeing services span Social & Emotional Support, Language Support, Learning Support, and the Health Office, ensuring holistic care for the student body. The overarching goal is to create safe learning spaces, respect cultural differences, and collaborate with families to nurture each student's growth.

FIS endorses the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and treats safeguarding as a core responsibility across the school. Safeguarding aims include establishing a secure environment where students can talk openly, ensuring adults are available to listen, and providing annual training for all staff and community members. The school maintains clear procedures for identifying and reporting suspected abuse and an agreed Child Protection process and plan. Policies and documents include the FIS Disclosure Policy, Our Safeguarding Team, Codes of Conduct, Recruitment Policy, and Confidential Reporting Policy, with ongoing communication to parents. Safeguarding is integrated as a whole-school responsibility, involving staff, students, parents and the wider community.