Kyoto International School

Kyoto International School emphasizes holistic development within the IB framework, nurturing students cognitively, physically, emotionally, and socially. The school's mission and vision describe fostering a supportive, internationally minded community that develops compassionate global citizens. The Student Life section highlights a strong emphasis on student well-being and a safe, supportive environment designed to guide students through challenges. A dedicated wellbeing support team exists to ensure every student's needs are met. Social-emotional development is reinforced through the House system and a broad range of co-curricular activities that promote belonging, teamwork, and healthy choices.

KIS describes its safeguarding-oriented approach to supporting at-risk students, including those with health issues, social or academic difficulties. The KIS Child Safeguarding Policy and Handbook sets reporting procedures for suspected abuse and states that any employee who suspects abuse must report, with self-reporting for students. Staff, faculty, and administrators are required to report safeguarding concerns, and reports are handled with confidentiality and prompt action. The policy describes a Child Safeguarding Committee and an action plan to coordinate safeguarding across the school. It also indicates safeguarding education is part of the educational programs, including an Online Safety Guideline. The policy notes that safeguarding standards align with international conventions and central rights of the child. The school does not publicly disclose information regarding any specialist SEN provision or in-house SEN program.

The school publicly discloses a strategic partnership with New Horizons Education to support English language development. New Horizons provides English language development opportunities and supports a tri-lingual learning environment for students in Japan. The partnership includes governance and international partnership activities as part of the collaboration. Public information does not detail a stand-alone in-house EAL program or EAL staffing at KIS. The collaboration highlights English language development as a component of KIS's international education approach.

Mental wellbeing is a core element of Kyoto International School's approach to student welfare within the IB framework. The Student Life section signals a strong emphasis on student well-being and a safe, supportive environment. A dedicated wellbeing support team exists to address student needs. Safeguarding policies provide education and resources to protect mental health and respond to concerns, including a designated counselor and reporting processes. Counseling or pastoral support is part of safeguarding, with procedures for notifying appropriate staff and addressing concerns.

The KIS Child Safeguarding Policy and Handbook has been adopted and approved by the Executive Board and Board of Trustees. Safeguarding is embedded in school life and aims to prevent abuse, protect health and development, and ensure safe environments. All staff and regular visitors are mandated to report safeguarding concerns, and staff must report to the counselor within 48 hours for immediate response; all reports are confidential. There is a dedicated Child Safeguarding Committee and an Action Plan to coordinate safeguarding across the school. An Online Safety Guideline is part of the safeguarding framework, and safeguarding education is integrated into wellbeing and advisory programs.