International School of Nagano

ISN implements the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The Diploma Programme is conducted in English, French, or Spanish. The IB framework emphasizes inquiry-based learning, encouraging exploration, experimentation, and discovery, with learning centered on themes across subjects. The learning roadmap highlights deep, outside-the-classroom learning through activities such as new field journals, musicals, interviews, presentations, and exhibitions, supported by experiments, inquiry, and reflection.

ISN provides arts and performance opportunities as part of its experiential learning. Musicals, original theatre productions, and dance performances are integrated into student life, with showcases such as music concerts and a dedicated performance day. Alumni highlight ongoing involvement in music clubs and English-language performance opportunities, including delivering presentations. The deep-learning framework also includes new field journals, interviews, and exhibitions alongside artistic work.

ISN offers cultural and language experiences including the Sydney Study Tour and the Study Abroad Experience in Nagano. The Sydney Study Tour is featured on the seasonal programs and is highlighted in alumni reflections, with international study experiences described in the Learning Roadmap. A Biosphere Reserve program at Nakano Elementary School provides UNESCO Eco Park environmental learning in collaboration with the local environment.

Spring activities include farm visits, science museum visits, and zoo visits. Summer includes a Summer School, city hall visits, and river activities, along with a children's music event. Autumn features Sports Day, overnight learning (5th year), and a school trip (6th year) plus museum visits and parent lunches, while winter includes music performances and the school's graduation activities. These outings and performances provide varied social and hobby-based experiences throughout the year.

ISN collaborates with the local community to extend learning beyond textbooks and classrooms. Nakano Elementary School runs a Biosphere Reserve program for environmental learning in partnership with the Shiga Kogen UNESCO Eco Park. Alumni also describe community-oriented experiences such as rice planting and harvesting, including efforts that send harvested rice to children in need.

The Career-related Programme (CP) focuses on skills useful for lifelong career development and related vocational training for ages 16–19. Alumni illustrate leadership and professional development through English-language presentations, club participation, and sports teams, which support communication, teamwork, and project leadership. Experiences highlighted by alumni include public-speaking, competitive events, and continued engagement in clubs after ISN.

Autumn includes Sports Day, while winter activities feature music concerts and graduation events, contributing to school-life balance. Seasonal programs also promote wellbeing through field trips, museum visits, and outdoor learning activities that connect students with nature and community. The school places emphasis on a stress-free, enjoyable learning environment supported by activities such as overnight learning and family-inclusive events.