EN – Harrow Appi

What happens at Parent Week at Harrow Appi Japan?

Posted on February 3, 2026February 4, 2026 by Gloria

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?

Posted on February 3, 2026February 3, 2026 by Gloria

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!

Internationally acclaimed Steinway artist visits Harrow Appi Japan

Posted on February 3, 2026February 3, 2026 by Gloria

We were deeply honoured to welcome Warren Lee to Harrow Appi Japan.

As Principal Music Director of the AISL Harrow Group and an internationally acclaimed Steinway Artist, Warren Lee spent time working closely with our students, providing a piano masterclass, performing for the entire school during assembly, and meeting with many of our talented young musicians. These moments offered students a rare and inspiring insight into musical excellence at the highest level.

Having made his televised debut with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra at the age of six, Warren’s career has since taken him across five continents, from Carnegie Hall in New York to leading concert halls around the world. His visit was an exceptional opportunity for our students to learn directly from a musician of such distinction.

Experiences like this are incredibly rare, and we are truly grateful to have welcomed Warren Lee to our campus. His generosity, artistry, and passion for music left a lasting impression on our community.

Weekends in White Season: Snowshoe Expedition

Posted on January 22, 2026January 22, 2026 by Gloria

Weekends during White Season at Harrow Appi Japan offer students the opportunity to explore the mountain environment in new and meaningful ways. This weekend, students took part in an optional expedition that saw them venture beyond the ski runs to experience a day of snowshoeing.

Moving through the winter landscape at a slower pace allowed students to connect with their surroundings, appreciate the natural beauty of Appi, and challenge themselves in a different way. Snowshoeing encourages resilience, balance, and teamwork, while offering space for reflection and quiet confidence-building away from the classroom.

Experiences like this are an integral part of life during White Season. Our optional weekend expeditions provide students with the freedom to try something new, deepen their relationship with the outdoors, and develop independence—making the most of an environment that allows learning to extend far beyond the school day.

Harrow Appi Japan Student Wins Iwate Manga Art Competition

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Gloria

We are delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Tsumugi (Year 10), who has been awarded First Place Overall in the Iwate Prefecture Manga Art Competition.

The competition was introduced to students through our annual Manga Workshop in September, led by professional manga artist Yuushi You. The workshop provides students with the opportunity to explore manga as a serious art form, developing both technical skills and creative storytelling under expert guidance.

Tsumugi received the Grand Prize in the 1–4 panel comic category (Under 15). Her work was selected from a total of 194 entries, including 78 submissions within her category, representing participants from across Japan and 12 countries worldwide. Her entry stood out for its creativity, originality, and artistic quality.

This achievement is a wonderful reflection of the creativity, ambition, and dedication of our students, as well as the breadth of opportunities available to them at Harrow Appi Japan. We are incredibly proud of Tsumugi and look forward to seeing her continued growth as an artist.

Congratulations, Tsumugi, on this remarkable accomplishment.

Night Skiing

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Gloria

We began the first week of term with an optional night skiing expedition for our more experienced skiers and snowboarders—an exciting opportunity that set the tone for an active and engaging term ahead.

Designed to complement our core Alpine Academy programme, experiences such as night skiing allow students to further develop their technical skills while progressing at their own pace. Skiing after dark presents a different set of conditions, encouraging students to adapt, build confidence, and challenge themselves in a new environment. For many, this was a rare and memorable opportunity to experience the mountain in a completely different way.

One of the distinctive advantages of life at Harrow Appi Japan is our unique location. Living just five minutes from the slopes enables students to access experiences that would be unimaginable in a more traditional school setting. These opportunities not only enhance physical skill and resilience but also foster independence, responsibility, and a sense of adventure.

At Harrow Appi, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our mountain environment allows students to engage with the outdoors in meaningful ways, enriching their school life and supporting their holistic development through experiences that are both challenging and rewarding.

Local Schools Visit Harrow appi Japan

Posted on December 11, 2025December 11, 2025 by Gloria

Over 400 students and teachers from the local schools joined us for an exclusive showing of our student production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. It was a pleasure to welcome both familiar and new faces into our Speech Room as they gathered to enjoy the performance our students had worked so hard to perfect.

We were equally proud to see our Communication Committee collaborating with the Beaks to support and coordinate the smooth running of the event. Their professionalism, teamwork, and leadership contributed significantly to creating a memorable experience for our guests.

A huge congratulations to our students for their outstanding work, and sincere thanks to everyone who came to watch and support the show.

The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe Drama Performance

Posted on December 11, 2025December 11, 2025 by Gloria

Our students delivered a phenomenal performance of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, the beloved 1950s classic by British author C. S. Lewis. From the powerful singing and expressive acting to the lighting, sound, and backstage management handled entirely by our students, the production was a testament to their talent, discipline, and creativity.

The evening was made even more special by the many parents who travelled to campus as part of Parent Week — our dedicated programme that invites families to experience life at Harrow Appi Japan. Their enthusiasm and support added to the warmth and excitement of the night, creating a performance to remember.

A huge well done to all students involved.

Akkado Caving Adventure

Posted on December 11, 2025December 11, 2025 by Gloria

On Sunday, a group of our adventurous students set off early to explore Akkado Cave, the longest limestone cavern in Japan, located in Iwaizumi, Iwate Prefecture.

After a two-hour journey, they ventured into deeper sections of the cave not normally open to the public. Crawling through narrow passages, navigating uneven terrain, and challenging themselves both physically and mentally, they returned tired, muddy, and incredibly proud of their achievements.

A true taste of adventure and resilience — just one example of the unforgettable experiences our students enjoy at Harrow Appi Japan!

Yuki-Ita Snowboard Project

Posted on December 11, 2025December 11, 2025 by Gloria

At the end of every term, our students take part in one of Harrow Appi Japan’s most unique traditions — creating their own yuki-ita snowboards.

Led by professors from Aomori University, this annual workshop introduces students to the craftsmanship behind yuki-ita, a Japanese invention and early form of snow surfing that predates modern snowboards. Students learn how to shape, carve, and finish their boards by hand, gaining insight into local winter culture while building practical skills in design and creativity.

A memorable blend of culture, craft, and adventure — and a highlight our students look forward to every winter.