Reflections on My Experience at Japanese High Schools

I had an unforgettable and unique experience attending high schools in Japan, which was quite different from what I was used to. My journey began with a public school for about a month and a half, followed by a private high school where I spent the rest of my time abroad.

Diversity in Japanese High School Systems

Japan's educational system is characterized by a variety of school types, including both public and private schools. Public schools are funded by the government and are open to all students, while private schools often offer additional resources and have higher standards for admission. In my case, the difference between the two systems was stark and significantly impacted my experience.

Public High School Experience

In 2010-2011, I attended a public high school in Hiroshima. The school provided me with a second-hand uniform and textbooks for free, and I was given the flexibility to choose my subjects based on my level and interest. This approach offered a more personalized learning experience, but it had its downsides as well. For instance, at the level of beginner Japanese-speaking, I found math particularly challenging and dropped the subject along with Earth Science. However, I was unable to drop Physical Education (PE), which I struggled with.

The school day was structured with self-study periods, where I would study in a separate room. It was an opportunity for independent study during breaks. Although I tried a few Japanese exams, my proficiency was still limited, and I often found it difficult to remember the large amount of new vocabulary I encountered daily. The school's assembly on the first day was particularly memorable, where I had to deliver a speech in front of the entire school. After the assembly, it was common for the girls to come up to me to touch my hair and say hello, which was an interesting cultural experience.

My homeroom teacher was an English teacher, which made me the only native English speaker in my class. The classes were often very boring, but I did a lot of Japanese language study in my free time, which significantly improved my skills. The English club was a mandatory part of the school culture, but I joined it because it was something I was expected to do, as it seemed the club culture in New Zealand differed from where I was studying.

Transition to a Private High School

After the initial public high school experience, I enrolled in a private high school. Private high schools in Japan are known for their competitive entrance exams, which are crucial for getting into the best schools. Even if a student does not get into a top private high school, they can still attend public schools, but with fewer resources and fewer opportunities.

In my private school, I observed that the students were extremely competitive and very hard-working, with strong moral values. This contrast with my public school experiences was stark and fascinating, providing me with a well-rounded understanding of the Japanese educational system.

Activities and Experiences Outside of School

The most interesting parts of my time in Japan were the after-school activities and experiences outside of school. I joined various school trips, including a visit to the aquarium, sports day, the school culture festival, and a trip to Tokyo. These experiences were definitely highlights of my year and provided a more memorable experience than the regular classroom activities.

Despite the differences in both public and private schools, my time in Japan ultimately provided an enriching cultural experience. The combination of academic challenges and cultural immersion helped me better understand and appreciate the nuances of the Japanese educational system and the broader cultural context.

Current Profession and Insights

My experience as a student in Japanese high schools has been invaluable in my current role as a teacher. Being familiar with the unique challenges and cultural aspects of Japanese education has helped me connect with my students on a more meaningful level. It has also allowed me to better understand their behavior and academic performance, making it easier to provide support and guidance.

Reflecting on my time in Japan, I am grateful for the friendships I made and the memories I created. These experiences have not only enriched my personal life but also my professional one, providing a unique lens through which to view education and cultural differences.

Keywords: Japanese high school experience, public school vs private school, Japanese education system