Poetry at Heart Competition

Led by our English Department and involving the entire school, students recently participated in the Poetry by Heart competition. Students were asked to select a poem of their choice and commit it to memory, performing it within their English lessons. From there, finalists were chosen to recite in the Black Box Theatre before a panel of judges.

Students were assessed not simply on accuracy, but on their ability to truly inhabit the poem – to communicate meaning, emotion and intention, and to move their audience through confident, heartfelt delivery.

Congratulations to every student who took part, and a special well done to our finalists and winners. An inspiring reminder of the power of words when they are spoken from the heart.

To learn more about what the students get up to at Harrow Appi Japan, download our prospectus here!

Harrow Appi Japan Students receives award for John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize

Huge congratulations to Leo C (Year 12) on receiving a Very High Commendation in Economics for the prestigious John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize – placing him in the top 2% of candidates worldwide.

The John Locke Institute Essay Prize is one of the most competitive academic essay competitions globally, attracting thousands of submissions each year from students across leading schools worldwide. Essays are judged by senior academics and scholars from the University of Oxford and other renowned institutions, with entrants assessed on the originality of argument, depth of analysis, clarity of reasoning, and intellectual rigour.

To be recognised at this level in Economics is an exceptional accomplishment and a testament to Leo’s analytical ability, independent thinking, and academic ambition. We are immensely proud to see our students competing – and excelling – on the global stage. Well done Leo!

World Book Week at Harrow Appi Japan

Happy World Book Day! This week, our Harrow hats told stories.

Students were asked to dress up their hat to tell their story. Items, symbols, colours, favourite characters, well-loved books, hobbies, ambitions, even the wonderfully random objects that make each child unique.

Wednesday’s Assembly looked a little different as a result. The sea of decorated hats transformed the room into a celebration of imagination, personality and storytelling. It was fantastic to see so many pupils embrace the challenge with such creativity and confidence.

At Harrow International School Appi Japan, reading is never just about words on a page. It is about curiosity, self-expression and the courage to share who you are with the world. A wonderful reminder that every story matters – especially your own.

To learn more about life at Harrow Appi Japan, please feel free to download our prospectus here.

House Stomp and Shout 2026

Did someone say House Stomp and Shout? 🎤

One of the most anticipated House events of the year, House Stomp and Shout saw students spend weeks rehearsing their dance routines and vocal performances, ready to take to the stage and compete for House glory. The energy in the room was electric as each House brought creativity, confidence and serious competitive spirit to the spotlight.

With our esteemed judges watching closely and the holidays just around the corner, you would never have guessed anyone was slowing down. Another unforgettable evening that captures the spirit, talent and camaraderie at the heart of life at Harrow Appi Japan. Well done Elizabeth House for winning Stomp and Lyons House for winning the Shout!

Early University Offers for Harrow Appi Japan’s First Sixth Form Cohort

Harrow International School Appi Japan is proud to announce the early university offers received by our first Sixth Form cohort— a threshold moment for their future adult lives as it is for Harrow Appi.

Although this is still an early stage in the university admissions cycle, our graduating class have already secured more than 70 early offers from leading institutions across the UK, US, Japan, Canada, Hong Kong and Australia. This includes 38 offers from Russell Group or other Top Ten ranked universities in the UK. This is an exceptional achievement and a testament to the dedication of our students.

These offers reflect not only academic excellence, but also the ambition, character and global outlook that define a Harrow Appi education. Students join us at Appi from all over the world, and we are now discovering that they will move on from us to further study all around the world as well.

Importantly, these represent just the first wave of offers, with further decisions — and undoubtedly more exciting news — still to come. We look forward to celebrating the continued success of our pioneering Year 13 students in the months ahead.

House Igloo Building Competition 2026

The much loved House Igloo Building Competition returned this term — and this year, the igloos were bigger, bolder and more imaginative than ever!

Our highly skilled (and highly competitive) students transformed blocks of snow into architectural masterpieces. There were multi-room designs, beautifully decorated interiors, a private cinema room, and even an igloo complete with its own slide!

After three full days of planning and construction, a group of adventurous students took the challenge one step further by choosing to stay overnight inside their creations — enduring temperatures of -12°C. 🥶

Congratulations to all Houses for their outstanding effort, collaboration and ingenuity and a huge thank you to the professors at Aomori University for helping the students with their builds. Be sure to watch the video to see these incredible snow structures come to life!

Ski Race Trip to Tayama Ski Resort

A great day on the slopes at Tayama Ski Resort in Hachimantai!

Our recent ski race trip challenged students to test their technique in a new environment, building confidence and resilience beyond familiar terrain.

By visiting a variety of local ski resorts throughout the season, students are encouraged to adapt, explore, and enjoy the excitement of skiing somewhere new – all while developing their skills and love for the sport.

Hearn House Formal Dinner

Hearn House recently hosted its very first formal dinner since opening in August 2025 — a special milestone for the House. With a Casino theme, students dressed in their finest attire and enjoyed an evening of games and shared celebration in a refined setting.

Beyond the occasion itself, it was wonderful to see the strong bonds already formed between Housemates. In just one term, students and the House team have created an impressive sense of fellowship and community, reflecting the spirit that sits at the heart of life at Harrow Appi Japan.

What happens at Parent Week at Harrow Appi Japan?

As a 100% full-boarding school, families often ask how they can stay closely connected to their child’s life at Harrow Appi Japan. During term time, this comes through regular tutor communication, a whole-school monthly newsletter, and weekly updates from our boarding houses.

At the end of term, Parent Week brings this connection to life. Parents are invited to ski and snowshoeing sessions, watch performances such as the school musical, and spend time with our academic and pastoral leaders in a relaxed, informal setting — experiencing first-hand what makes Harrow Appi a school less ordinary.

What does leadership look like at Harrow Appi Japan?

As part of the final stage of our Head Student selection process, six shortlisted students took part in a collaborative challenge designed to test communication, empathy, and teamwork. Split into two teams, they were tasked with baking cookies — with a twist: one student could not see, one could not hear, and one could not use their hands.

Observed by our Senior Leadership Team and current Head Students, the challenge required clear communication, adaptability, and mutual trust at every step. While the task was light-hearted and fun, it offered a powerful insight into how these students support one another, problem-solve under pressure, and lead with compassion.

A fitting reflection of the kind of leadership we value at Harrow Appi Japan — well done and good luck to all students who participated!