Japan’s education system places high value on consistency and academic performance. While nearly all students attend school, many feel limited by a curriculum that focuses heavily on high-stakes entrance exams. Recent government surveys from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) show that 50.0% of third-year junior high school students and 50.6% of third-year high school students have reached benchmark English proficiency levels¹. However, traditional classroom time for practicing conversational English, speaking, and writing is still limited². As a result, students often want more opportunities to build confidence using English in natural, everyday conversations.
In many Japanese high schools, standard schedules allow very little flexibility for gap years or taking time off. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who want to serve full-time missions, this can create tough decisions. At our partner school in the Kanto Region, students have access to an alternate learning track that supports them if they choose to step away for a mission without falling completely behind in school³. To thrive, these students need safe, supportive settings where they can practice speaking and writing English and build connections with peers and mentors who understand and support their personal and spiritual goals.
This summer, HXP Builders are partnering with a school in the Kanto Region 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 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) – English Education Implementation Status Survey
² EF Education First – EF English Proficiency Index
³ Kyodo News & Partner School Guidelines – Reports on Alternative Academic Tracks in Japan