Press Release : YBS Middle School Opening in September 2025!

In September 2025, YBS will open its middle school division — YBS Middle School — taking our world-class bilingual education to the next level!! We are pleased to share this exciting news based on our official press release.

29th, August, 2025

PressRlease

LaLaLand Education Co., Ltd.

LaLaLand Education Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture / CEO: Fumi Inoue) will open YBS Middle School in September 2025 in Yokosuka. Taking advantage of the city’s unique setting with a U.S. Navy base, the school offers bilingual education in Japanese and English. Through hands-on experiences such as field trips and cultural immersion, YBS aims to cultivate students who can thrive globally, beyond the confines of the classroom.

■Background & Purpose

As of the end of 2024, the number of foreign residents in Japan reached a record high of approximately 3.77 million (*1). According to the Ministry of Education, over 129,000 foreign students are enrolled in public schools, with about 70,000 identified as needing Japanese language support (*2)—a twofold increase in the past decade.

However, many schools face a shortage of Japanese language instructors, making it difficult for children to overcome language barriers. This can hinder their academic advancement, career opportunities, and social integration.

YBS has spent the past 12 years working closely with American families in the multicultural city of Yokosuka. Drawing on this experience, YBS has created an educational environment grounded in multilingualism, inquiry-based learning, and real-world experiences, offering pioneering opportunities for children with international roots to build their future.

(*1) Immigration Services Agency of Japan

(*2) Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)

■ Key Features of the Program

Explore the World! Asian Diversity Awaits YBS Learners

Yokosuka, Japan – At YBS, we are committed to empowering students to become global leaders with a unique blend of international knowledge and Japanese cultural understanding. From Yokosuka to the world, we offer an educational experience that prepares students to excel in a globally interconnected world. In an ever-evolving global landscape, the demand for bilingual individuals who can thrive in diverse environments is higher than ever. YBS equips learners with not only a strong foundation in English and Japanese but also the skills and perspectives necessary to lead in both Western and Asian contexts. We are proud to go beyond traditional paths to Western education, focusing on nurturing individuals who will excel within the rich diversity of Asia and beyond. Our mission is to develop global citizens capable of bridging cultures, driving innovation, and contributing to a multicultural world.

Go Global with YBS – Prepare for the Future of Education.

Expanding Real-World Learning

YBS values hands-on learning through Japanese cultural events, community engagement, and social fieldwork, providing students with experiences that go beyond textbooks.

The program is designed to help students from diverse backgrounds discover their interests and strengths while honoring tradition and nurturing a global mindset.

Academic Global Level  

YBS adopts the internationally recognized Cambridge curriculum, supporting students up to A-Level qualifications. This rigorous academic framework not only ensures a high standard of education but also equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in any path they choose, anywhere in the world.

Portfolio-Based, Middle-to-High School Learning Path

Through an integrated middle-to-high school journey, students build personalized portfolios and explore a variety of future paths, including:

-Entry to Japanese high schools and universities

-Admission to overseas universities

-Vocational and technical training programs

Flexible Learning Options

YBS offers flexible participation styles to accommodate the needs of returnee families, newly relocated residents, and short-term stays for international students, as well as those from around the world who wish to experience Japanese schools.

-Attend a few days per week

-Join short-term trial programs

-Study in both English and Japanese

-Take part in field trips and cultural events

■ Contact / School Tour

YBS Middle School will open in September 2025 – School tours are planned for the second half of 2025. We will notify you once the schedule and availability are confirmed.

If you are interested in joining a school tour or arranging an individual consultation, please fill out the form below.This tour is intended for prospective parents. Media inquiries for same-day coverage are also welcome.

Tour Pre-Registration Form:https://ybschool.info/contact/

■ Yokosuka Bilingual School（YBS）

YBS’s mission is “Diversity FOR EARTH – Creating a warm place where diversity is embraced to make the Earth a better place.” Based in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, YBS aims to create an environment where both foreign residents in Japan and local Japanese residents in Yokosuka can learn and grow together through school operations and community engagement. Our core business is the operation of Yokosuka Bilingual School, which includes YBS Elementary (elementary school), YBS Pre School (Yokosuka International Preschool), YBS After School (after-school program), and YBS English Class, providing diverse learning opportunities for children in the community.