Learning Beyond the Classroom: A Japanese Family’s Experience at an International School in Singapore

For Marie Shirasaka, coming from Japan and choosing the right international school in Singapore was about more than academics. She wanted a school where her children could thrive intellectually, feel supported emotionally, and continue developing a strong connection to their language and culture.

Two years on, her family’s journey at XCL World Academy (XWA) has been nothing short of transformative.

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A Welcoming International School for Japanese Families

Relocating from Japan, the Shirasaka family was in search for an international school for Japanese families that balanced global education with cultural understanding. From their very first campus tour, Marie felt reassured.

“The staff were so warm and caring, and I could immediately see that this was a community that would help my children reach their full potential,” she shares.

That welcoming atmosphere, combined with XWA’s focus on experiential and hands-on learning, made the decision clear.

Today, Marin Shirasaka (Grade 8) and Ryu Shirasaka (Grade 3) are flourishing in an environment where learning extends far beyond textbooks.

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Learning That Goes Beyond the Classroom

At XCL World Academy, experiential education is part of everyday learning. Specialist classes expose students to disciplines such as design and technology, science experiments, and creative problem-solving, areas that build confidence, collaboration, and curiosity.

For Marin and Ryu, these lessons have been especially impactful, encouraging them to think independently while working closely with peers from diverse backgrounds.

Beyond academics, cultural events play a major role in school life. Celebrations such as Language Week and Onigiri Action bring together students, parents, and teachers to share food, traditions, and stories from around the world.

“Language Week almost feels like a school festival for adults too,” Marie says, highlighting the strong sense of community that resonates with many Japanese families at the school.

Experiential Learning Beyond Singapore

Experiential education at XWA also extends beyond campus through programmes like Week Without Walls. These immersive learning experiences allow students to step into new environments, building independence, empathy, and resilience.

During Year 7, Marin travelled to Bali, where she explored local culture, formed new friendships, and gained life experiences that simply cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting.

Strong Support, Including Japanese Language Classes

One of the key reasons XWA stands out as an international school for Japanese families is its strong support system. Marie speaks highly of dedicated teachers who create safe, nurturing spaces for students to grow, both, academically and emotionally.

She also values the presence of Japanese liaison teachers, who support both students and parents in navigating school life in a multicultural environment. Combined with Japanese language classes, this ensures continuity in language development while students fully engage in an international curriculum.

Preparing Students for a Global Future

Marie has seen remarkable growth in both her children. Marin has become more confident and expressive, while Ryu has developed resilience and adaptability when facing new challenges. The school’s emphasis on effort, curiosity, and personal growth has instilled a future-ready mindset from an early age.

At XCL World Academy, academic excellence goes hand in hand with character development, empowering students to explore, experiment, and learn together in a truly global setting.

Experience XWA

If you’re a family looking for an international school in Singapore that goes beyond academics, one that values hands-on learning, community, and Japanese language support, XCL World Academy is the right fit for your child. We invite you to visit our campus and book a personalised tour today.

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