05.12.24
Claire Robinson, Headteacher of Holme Grange School has recently returned from a Leadership Delegation to Japan, where her school has established a Sister School Partnership with Tsuda Gakuen High School.
The week-long delegation included visits to a wide range of schools to observe different teaching practices and exchange pedagogies with peers overseas. The main aim of the visit was to meet with colleagues and conduct risk assessments to prepare the foundations for a student trip to Japan in 2025.
Reflecting on the visit, Claire said: “Our visit to Japan has been a resounding success, offering an incredible opportunity to explore four very different schools and engage with inspiring colleagues. The contrasts were fascinating—some private schools have up to 40 pupils per class, yet the students work diligently and with impressive focus. In three of the schools, independent learning was a key feature, while the fourth showcased pioneering collaborative teaching methods more akin to those in the UK. The art work we observed was outstanding, and we are excited to bring back ideas for our art teachers, with plans for a collaborative art project between our school and Tsuda Gakuen.
The schools were immaculate, with pupils wearing slippers indoors and, in one case, removing them entirely in classrooms. In a state school, pupils served each other lunch, eating together in their classrooms without choices and sharing lunch duties on a rota. This reinforced a strong sense of responsibility and community. Pupils stayed in their ‘home rooms,’ with teachers moving to them, except for specialist subjects such as art, science, and sport.
A highlight was Tsuda Gakuen’s kindergarten, where 3- and 4-year-olds amazed us by playing as a class orchestra and demonstrating responsibility from an early age. They wore different coloured hats based on age and were paired with younger buddies during outdoor activities. The hospitality throughout our visit has been exceptional, and despite not speaking Japanese, I was surprised by how much meaningful ‘conversation’ was possible. A standout moment was dining in a traditional Japanese restaurant, where the food, company, and engaging discussions—ranging from education to beekeeping—made for an unforgettable experience.”
