#Japan #English Learning #Shinagawa #Little #Gakken Link

Revamping Little: A New Era in English Learning

Gakken Link, a subsidiary of Gakken Holdings Corporation based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, is excited to announce a complete rebranding of its children’s English learning program, Little. Starting in April 2026, Little will launch a fresh curriculum designed to adapt to the rapidly changing needs of today’s society, especially in the AI era. This rebranding includes a new logo design and a focus on fostering essential communication skills through English.

What is Little?

Little is much more than a place for learning English. It serves as a gateway to developing the ability to think, communicate, and pave the way for the future through English. The program emphasizes not just teaching, but also helping students engage and grow progressively from enjoyment to understanding and practical application. Little is designed to cultivate a love for the English language, allowing students to discover it in a natural and engaging environment.

Reasons Behind the Rebranding

Over the years, Little has offered a curriculum tailored for children aged 0 to 12, focusing on the core skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. However, with the evolution of technology and the widespread use of translation tools, the purpose of learning English has shifted. It is no longer just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about creating and expressing oneself through the language.

The rebranding aims to shift Little from being merely a place of instruction to a nurturing environment that empowers children to think independently, express their ideas, and forge their own paths into the future through English.

Three Pillars of the New Little

1. Fun First! – The journey begins with nurturing a love for English. Little creates an environment where children can explore the language naturally while maintaining their innate thinking abilities developed through play and communication.
2. Incremental Learning – The curriculum is carefully designed to progress from enjoyment to structural understanding, followed by practical application. This step-by-step approach accumulates small successes that build confidence and autonomy in using English.
3. Future-Ready Skills – Passing tests and exams is merely a stepping stone. In an age of advancing AI, the emphasis will be on the skills necessary to convey one’s thoughts and learn collaboratively with others.

New Courses Tailored for Diversity

In response to evolving family values and societal changes, Little has redefined its course offerings:

• - English Conversation Course (0 to Elementary School): This course prioritizes experiences that foster a love for English through playful and gesture-based instruction.
• - Grammar Enhancement Course (Grade 1 to Junior High): Students will progress from a vague understanding to a state of mastery based on solid reasoning, preparing them for qualifications and English studies in high school.
• - Global Thinking Course (Preschool to Elementary School): Featuring a dual instructor system with both Japanese and foreign teachers, this high-level course focuses on developing the capacity to generate value through English, preparing students for private and overseas schooling.

About Gakken Link

Gakken Link aims to connect children to a better future through quality educational content and reliable resources. Established in October 2024, it is dedicated to supporting the next generation of children in adapting to significant societal shifts—such as declining birth rates, nuclear family structures, and digital advancements—by providing innovative educational services tailored to contemporary needs.

About Gakken Holdings

Founded in 1946, Gakken Holdings Corporation operates in the education and healthcare sectors. Its educational initiatives include learning centers and publishing educational materials, while its healthcare initiatives encompass various child-rearing support services. Active in over 150 countries, Gakken aims to pursue limitless potential for individuals of all ages, enhancing curiosity and supporting challenges for everyone. They aim for a revenue target of ¥199.1 billion by September 2025, providing a robust foundation for future growth.

As Little embarks on this exciting journey of transformation, it stands poised to redefine how children learn and engage with the English language, ensuring that they develop not just linguistic skills, but the confidence and creativity necessary to thrive in a global society.