Kirari Job School: Bridging Support for Students with Disabilities

On January 5, 2026, a new initiative, the Kirari Job School in Totsuka, Yokohama, will officially open doors, backed by Kurazemi Co., Ltd., a company renowned for its education and welfare services throughout Japan. This school aims to provide specialized post-school learning and job preparation services to high school students aged 15 to 18 with disabilities.

As of 2023, there are over 20,000 such after-school facilities across the country, indicating a significant expansion in support services. However, the demand for specialized support aimed at high school students has also surged, reflecting a wider societal need for resources tailored to this age group. Moreover, existing services have predominantly focused on younger students, resulting in a notable gap in support for high school aged individuals.

A critical issue frequently encountered by youth with disabilities is the abrupt shift in services at the age of 18, a phenomenon often referred to as the “18-year-old wall.” This usually leads to mismatched transitions from educational to adult services, especially for those who remain undecided about their future paths. The Kirari Job School seeks to address this divide, offering consistent and seamless support that guides students into employment or further education, ultimately reducing long-term unemployment.

At the Kirari Job School, the program is designed to fill the gaps in existing support frameworks for high school students. It builds upon the foundation of services previously established for younger children while targeting the unique needs of adolescents as they prepare for the workforce. Students will benefit from exposure to the required skills and the confidence to navigate their professional futures effectively.

The school aims not only to prepare students for work but also to ensure that graduates transition smoothly into adult-focused services such as the Yuraka College and Access Job, thereby fostering an ongoing support system throughout their lives.

Unique Features of Kirari Job School

1. Specialized Employment Preparation Program
Unlike typical after-school care programs, Kirari Job School employs the expertise and practical curriculum developed through the Access Job service. This adapted program focuses on skill-building in areas relevant to modern workplaces. Students will engage in activities that help them understand workplace dynamics, learn professional etiquette, undergo computer training, and participate in interactive communication workshops. Individual support from professional employment trainers will be a cornerstone of this program, catering to each student's unique journey.

2. Comprehensive Support for Undecided Youth
In collaboration with correspondence high schools, Kirari Job School actively supports students who are unsure about their future paths. By integrating educational assistance and dedicated career counselling, the school aims to pave the way for both those pursuing further education and employment. This structured support allows for extensive guidance tailored to the needs of undecided students.

3. Opportunities for Real-World Experience
Through partnerships with businesses, Kirari Job School provides students with opportunities to attend company presentations and workplace tours. This interaction is invaluable for students as it enhances their understanding of different career paths and aids in building their networks prior to graduation. Furthermore, post-placement support ensures students' successful adaptation to their work environments within the first six months.

Facility and Services Overview

Located on the second floor of the Daiho Second Building in Totsuka, Kirari Job School can accommodate up to ten students per session. The location is easily accessible within a ten-minute walk from Totsuka Station, ensuring convenience for students and their families. The facility has been explicitly approved by Yokohama City for operation and intends to service eligible high school age students, maximizing the impact of educational and employment services in this critical transitional phase.

Message from the School Director

Tomohiro Nagayama, Deputy Director of Kurazemi's Welfare Services, emphasizes the organization's commitment to supporting children and adolescents facing life challenges. He states, “Our mission is to accompany each child closely, giving them the tools needed to prepare for employment and future success. Our experience in developmental support and employment transition allows us to offer meaningful guidance that helps them thrive within their communities.”

In conclusion, the Kirari Job School embodies a significant step toward ensuring holistic support for high school students with disabilities, effectively bridging the critical gap in services as they prepare to enter the workforce. As it opens its doors, the school stands poised to become a lifeline for countless youth navigating this pivotal phase in their lives.