JAPAN’S EDUCATION SYSTEM

Like most aspects of the Japanese establishment, the educational system underwent vast changes after the Second World War. Reports from the United States Education Mission to Japan became the blueprint for educational reform and were carried out by the Education Reform Council. The goal of the new system was "the development of people in mind and body, who are filled with an independent spirit, respect for the value of individuals, and love truth and justice".

The system calls for a structure of six years of elementary school (shou gako), three years of middle school (chu gako), and three years of high school (koko). Colleges offer four to six year programs depending on the field of study. There are also five-year Technical Colleges that students enter upon completion of middle school.

Kindergartens and pre-schools, while not mandantory, are almost universally attended from the age of two until first grade. Education is compulsory through middle school. While high school is not required, most students do attend these days. Religious education is not included in the public school curriculum.

Usually, students wear street clothes in elementary school. Middle school and high school students wear a uniform for classes as well as the typical athletic uniform.

There are a number of specialty schools including technical schools, private schools, missionary schools and schools for the handicapped.

Traditionally it is the mother's place to plan a child's path through the education system and ensure they are prepared for college entrance examinations. Children of all ages make use of private tutors when their parents believe they will help their children.

It is not uncommon for a student's day to last until 8 or 9 PM on a regular basis. Schools is in session Monday through Friday and on the first, third (and fifth) Saturdays of the month. Middle school and high school students often go to school on Sundays and holidays if their after-school activity requires it.