#Japan #Kawasaki #Future Creation #Principal Certification #Childcare Specialists

Celebrating the Successful Candidates of the First Principal Certification Specialists

In an exciting announcement, the Future Creation Collaborative Association has declared the successful candidates for the inaugural Principal Certification Specialist (known as encho SP). This esteemed qualification is awarded to those who have passed the Principal Certification (Childcare Facility Management Level 1) and are registered as childcare management specialists. It represents a significant achievement in the management of educational environments where children thrive.

Overview of the Principal Certification Specialist

The primary goal of this specialist certification is not limited to knowledge acquisition. It emphasizes the cultivation of skills necessary for real-world application, including:

• - Structural Understanding of Field Challenges: Examining issues in early childhood education with a critical lens.
• - Cross-sectional Judgment Across Organizations: Evaluating human resources, management, and labor issues comprehensively.
• - Collaborative Problem-Solving: Engaging in dialogue to derive answers collectively.

By requiring advanced management capabilities, this certification prepares individuals for more complex roles in childcare management.

Examination Results

• - Participants in training for exam preparation: 14 people
• - Candidates who took the exam: 12 people
• - Successful candidates: 12 people

The remarkable outcome of all candidates passing the exam highlights the efficacy of the preparation training program, indicating that the training process significantly reinforces participants' competencies.

Meet the Successful Candidates

The successful candidates represent various regions and institutions across Japan:

• - Kiyomi Kawai, NPO Kodomo Hattatsu Jissen Kyogikai, Tokyo
• - Tomomi Hiyama, Shonandai Yotsuba Nursery, Kanagawa
• - Yuya Okawara, Friend Kids Land, Saitama
• - Mitsuru Onishi, K's Garden Kamagaya, Chiba
• - Shuhei Kubota, Kaeru no Mori Kindergarten, Tokyo
• - Ryo Koizumi, Furuuru Nursery, Chiba
• - Misaki Ishizawa, Tanaka Nursery, Tokyo
• - Fumiyo Murata, Mitsubachi Nursery, Kanagawa
• - Ryota Mori, Matsudo Minami Nursery, Chiba
• - Kenji Tsurumaki, Asobinomori Sumiyoshi Nursery, Niigata
• - Miku Kitagawa, Nobikko Nursery, Tokyo
• - T.Y., Kujira Kodomoen, Shiga

Test Overview (Preparation Training + Examination)

A key component of the Principal Certification Specialist is the mandatory online six-session preparatory training. Each session includes:

• - A pre-assignment to stimulate participant engagement.
• - Instructor feedback on submitted assignments.
• - Group discussions based on these assignments.
• - Peer evaluations to encourage collaborative learning.

This format fosters a dynamic learning environment where knowledge is not just acquired but actively engaged through thinking, articulating, sharing, and assessing collaboratively.

Examination Components

The certification evaluation consists of:

• - Written Exam (70 points)
• - Essay (30 points)
• - Oral Examination (Interview)
• - Peer Evaluation (after each preparation training)

Candidates are scored based on a total of 100 points, combining results from written exams, interviews, and peer evaluations, comprehensively assessing knowledge, critical thinking, explanatory abilities, and decision-making skills.

Looking Ahead

The association emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive community where principals and managers do not feel isolated. The Principal Certification and its associated qualifications serve not just as final goals but as launching pads for continuous improvement in childcare settings.

Ongoing efforts will focus on enhancing the quality of early childhood education through robust organizational practices and management training. The commitment to nurturing talents in this field promises a brighter future for Japan’s childcare landscape.

Launching the Principal Certification Pretest

To commemorate the successful certification, an online pretest for the Principal Certification (Childcare Facility Management Level 1) has been launched. You can access it via this URL: Pretest Link. By filling out the form, participants can view correct answers and explanations.

Upcoming Certification Exams

• - Third Principal Certification Level 1 Exam: January 18, 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00. Now accepting applications.
• - Fourth Principal Certification Level 1 Exam: June 14, 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00. Applications are open.

Exam Fee: ¥10,000 (excluding tax) / Additional ¥10,000 (excluding tax) required for the purchase of exam materials.

Preparation Course Fee: ¥60,000 (excluding tax) includes e-learning (16 hours) and a two-hour final preparation session. Special benefits include free exam fees and materials.

Testimonials from Certificated Candidates

Shuhei Kubota, Principal at Kaeru no Mori Kindergarten, shares his experience stating, “The training transformed my anxiety about management into action. Sharing experiences with peers has enhanced my practical capabilities.”

Misaki Ishizawa, Principal at Tanaka Nursery, adds, “The SP program facilitated profound discussions, enriching my understanding and enhancing implementation strategies within our childcare environment.”

In conclusion, the association is dedicated to making the childcare industry a sector that everyone aspires to join, creating a radiant future through collaboration and innovation.