Japan places great importance on consistency and academic performance throughout its school system. While nearly all students attend school, many feel limited by a curriculum that focuses heavily on exams, especially in English education. About 52.4% of third-year junior high school students have achieved Eiken Grade 3 level or higher, and around 51.6% of third-year high school students have met or exceeded Grade Pre-2 in English proficiency¹. However, there is growing concern that while students tend to do well in reading and grammar, their skills in conversational English, speaking, and writing are less developed². This is partly because classroom time for practicing these communication skills is still limited.
In many Japanese schools, students cannot take gap years or extended breaks. For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who wish to serve missions, this situation creates challenges. At the partner school in the Kanto Region, students have access to an alternate education structure that allows them to choose mission service without fully stepping out of school. They need more opportunities for authentic English practice, including speaking and writing, within safe and supportive settings, to build confidence. Stronger connections with peers and mentors who understand their aspirations are also vital, especially where students pursue paths diverging from the traditional education track³.
This summer, HXP Builders are partnering with a school to support its existing English program, providing extra assistance where students need more practice in speaking and writing. Builders will engage students through interactive activities, conversation practice, and mentoring, helping them become more comfortable using English beyond exams. In addition, Builders will foster cultural, peer, and spiritual connections that affirm students who might want to serve missions, assuring them of support both inside and outside school. These experiences can reduce the pressure students feel in choosing between service and schooling, empowering them to pursue both with confidence.
Sources
¹ The Japan Times
² EF Education First
³ Kyodo News