Project Based Learning in Action
HAKUSAN - Bunkyo
Elementary School -
Preschool -
SENDAGI - Bunkyo
Preschool -
"A child’s spontaneity and wonder are things to treasure for as long as they last; for the greatest minds, they last a lifetime."
HAKUSAN - Bunkyo
Elementary School -
Preschool -
SENDAGI - Bunkyo
Preschool -
A warm and hearty welcome to you from all of us in the MEES community!
As a firm believer that there is no single educational approach that works for all children, it has been my life’s ambition to create a school which truly puts the child at the center. Children are instinctual learners who, with no external interference, become independent thinkers. Thus, when included in the design of their own learning, what is learned becomes meaningful and enhances their enthusiasm and enjoyment. We aim to nurture their passion for learning in a dynamic and fluid environment and to guide them in their ownership of it.
Today’s world presents ever-changing challenges and, at the same time, ever-increasing opportunities. Having researched the world’s most innovative approaches to educational techniques and having applied aspects of a variety of well-respected and proven educational systems for learning, MEES offers a unique educational platform. MEES fosters students’ growth through authentic experiences and projects that grow agency, self-advocacy and a love of learning while allowing us all to constantly improve, change and grow alongside our students.
We are looking forward to welcoming your child and your family to the MEES community.
Euft van den Berg
Head of School / founder of MEES
At MEES International School, we place each child at the center of their educational journey, empowering them to take ownership of their learning. When children engage in self-chosen activities, their enthusiasm leads to deeper and more meaningful learning experiences.
Our approach emphasizes independence, creativity, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and confidence-building. By fostering a joyful and supportive environment, we inspire a lifelong love for learning and prepare children to embrace challenges with curiosity and resilience.
We prioritize social development through encouraging peer interactions that respect individual differences rather than promoting competition. This helps build early confidence, enabling children to excel in their strengths while developing in areas that challenge them.
We believe school should be a place of enjoyment, free from the pressure to perform or fear of failure. Confidence and resilience in navigating challenges are far more valuable than test scores.
At MEES, we see young learners as explorers. Knowledge acquisition is most effective when driven by curiosity and interest, allowing children to grow and thrive in a nurturing environment.
To support holistic development, we offer programs that connect children with nature, fostering creativity, physical health, resilience, and environmental awareness. Additionally, our curriculum integrates digital literacy, equipping students with the skills to use technology safely and responsibly while developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
At MEES, our mission is to prepare children for the future by equipping them with the skills, confidence, and adaptability needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Regular one day trips for MEES morning/full day students aged 4 years old and up.
Our curriculum is designed to give children the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in a technology-driven world. We provide students with hands-on experience using technology and teach them how to use it safely and responsibly. Our students learn programming, coding, and digital design, which helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. We believe that an education that includes a strong foundation in technology is essential for success in today's world.
MEES incorporates the principles of outdoor education through regular sessions in natural environments. These experiences encourage unstructured play, build physical fitness, and promote social skills. By nurturing resilience and growing a deep connection with nature, we instill in students a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and an appreciation for the natural world.
Our mixed-age cohorts provide unique opportunities for mentorship and peer connection, with older students guiding younger ones and fostering confidence and resilience. Consistent attendance strengthens these relationships, as each student's presence contributes to a supportive, collaborative group dynamic. Students learn respect, empathy, and teamwork through these daily interactions, growing into responsible, compassionate community members. This structure builds resilience and encourages students to appreciate their learning environment's diverse perspectives.
English is the primary language of instruction at MEES, equipping students with the skills to succeed in a worldwide context. We value and respect home languages, recognizing that multilingualism enhances learning and develops thinking skills. MEES creates an environment where students collaborate in English while also appreciating their native languages, which enriches our diverse community
At MEES, we respect each student's individuality and work closely with families to support their unique learning styles within our educational framework. Our project-based learning (PBL) model relies on active engagement and teamwork, encouraging students to contribute proactively in our mixed-age cohorts. Regular attendance is essential, as consistent participation allows students to experience the collaborative learning and growth opportunities PBL offers fully. We invite families to consider how MEES's approach aligns with their child's needs to ensure a strong, supportive fit that fosters development and success.
Regular attendance at MEES is vital for students to benefit from our project-based learning (PBL) approach. Consistent participation enables students to dive deeply into hands-on projects and collaborative experiences that build essential academic and social skills. Through steady involvement, students receive valuable feedback and support from peers and teachers, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. This continuity enriches their learning journey and maximizes their growth within our community.
At MEES International School, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child. Guided by the Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS) standards and our core beliefs, we provide a nurturing environment where children thrive through independence, creativity, and confidence.
By fostering curiosity and a love of learning in a safe and supportive setting, we help students embrace challenges and grow. Recognizing each child's uniqueness, we emphasize respect for differences and celebrate achievements to build confidence and personal growth.
MEES International School ensures a secure, respectful, and empowering environment for all students through these principles.
-Safeguarding Practices
To uphold child safeguarding, all staff adhere to a strict code of conduct that prioritizes safety and well-being. Our recruitment practices ensure that all personnel are dedicated to child protection and that clear reporting protocols are in place to address concerns promptly and effectively.
-Community Education
We emphasize the importance of community education in fostering a culture of safety. Regular training equips staff to recognize and respond to risks while students are taught personal safety and responsible digital behaviour. Families also understand and support the school's safeguarding practices through regular collaboration in our school coffee mornings and info sessions.
At MEES International School, our students are guided by the following learning targets:
-Critical and Creative Thinking: We encourage independent analysis and innovative problem-solving by actively exploring real-world challenges.
-Integrity and Resilience: We instill honesty and responsibility in all actions, while fostering the ability to adapt confidently to changing circumstances.
-Communication, Collaboration, and Confidence: We develop effective interpersonal skills and self-assurance, enabling students to contribute positively to society.
Euft, a Dutch educator, artist, and the founder of MEES, has a unique vision for the school. His childhood experiences in a Montessori school in the Netherlands inspired him to create a school that provides opportunities for students to acquire more in-depth knowledge through actively exploring real-world challenges. Euft's life ambition has been to create a school that genuinely puts the child at the center. He has established a school that fosters students' growth through authentic experiences and projects that grow agency, self-advocacy and a love of learning while allowing us all to improve, change and grow alongside our students constantly.
Brian is a professional teacher from San Diego, California, specializing in mathematics education and project-based learning. He graduated from High Tech High, an innovative school that brought project-based learning to the forefront of the education landscape in California. Brian advises MEES on our project-based learning curriculum, teacher training, and mathematics education.
Richard is a U.K. chartered psychologist based in Tokyo. His roots are in progressive education and educational psychology. He is an experienced international school counsellor and teacher who runs North Tokyo Counselling, an English-speaking counselling practice in Tokyo. Richard provides guidance to MEES concerning school-wide well-being and child-centred education.
https://www.ntokyocounseling.com
Kaz is a Japanese education advisor with experience working with international schools, universities, and education corporations in Japan. With a background in banking, finance, and higher education management, he has sat on boards of directors for schools and universities in Tokyo and an education institution in Boston. Kaz will help guide MEES in good school governance, Japanese government regulations, and school promotion.
Mia is a dedicated science teacher and advocate for science education. She has experience as a science teacher, language support coordinator and vice-principal at international schools in Japan. Mia guides MEES on science education, English language learner inclusion, and professional development for teachers.
Kent is the principal of MEES Elementary School and currently serves as the chair of the MEES Board of Advisors. He has a background in education leadership, international school accreditation, and strategic planning. In addition to his responsibilities at MEES, Kent provides consulting services for universities in Japan and Hong Kong. He has previously worked as a teacher and principal at international schools in Japan.
ACCJ The Journal - Japan Today
Education
Unlock - Nikkei Asia
