#Japan #Tokyo #Free School #Shinjuku Araise #Open Up Group

Collaborating with Shinjuku Araise: Empowering Children in Need

In a significant move to support children who struggle with traditional schooling, the Open Up Group has officially partnered with Shinjuku Araise, a free school located in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo. Led by CEO Jo Nishida, the initiative aims to offer a secure and nurturing environment for children who require diverse ways of learning.

The Current Situation of School Refusal in Japan

Recent statistics reported by Japan's Ministry of Education reveal alarming numbers: approximately 346,000 elementary and middle school students, plus over 410,000 high school students, are currently unable to attend school, marking the highest figures to date. This accounts for about 3.7% of all students in Japan, highlighting a pressing social issue that requires attention. Yet, governmental support for these children remains insufficient. As a result, the activities of free schools, which prioritize children's autonomy and comfort, often go unrecognized and undervalued.

What Shinjuku Araise Offers

Shinjuku Araise stands out as a week-long open facility dedicated to elementary, middle, and high school students who struggle with school attendance. The focus here is not on enforcing studies or pushing for school reintegration; instead, students can engage in various daily activities—such as gaming, cooking, sports, and artistic pursuits—to discover their interests and build cooperative skills with peers. The partnership with Shinjuku Araise aligns with Open Up Group's purpose of unleashing individual potential and supports the philosophy of nurturing a child's innate desire to learn.

Funding Allocation and Initiatives

The financial support from Open Up Group will be directed towards events that encourage self-directed learning, such as music festivals, sports activities, and cooking courses, all determined by the children themselves. This will expand the range of activities available for students, facilitating individual growth and development in a supportive atmosphere.

Moreover, to ensure smooth participation from volunteer staff, including university students who resonate with Araise's mission, funds will also cover travel expenses, enhancing the collaborative environment needed for the various initiatives at the school.

A Message from Shinjuku Araise

According to the representative director, Kei Ishigaki, “Our free school is primarily about creating a safe haven for children. Everything—from a child’s pace of coming in, their choice of belongings, and participation in programs—remains flexible. This atmosphere fosters a sense of security, which is essential for enabling children struggling with school to regain their energy and shine. Having Open Up Group understand and support our beliefs deeply encourages us in our mission. We will make every effort to use this sponsorship to nurture the desires of the children and expand our activities even further.”

The Role of Open Up Group in Society

Open Up Group recognizes its responsibility to promote diversity in society through education and human resource development. This sponsorship marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to foster secure environments for children while enhancing information dissemination in the community. The overarching goal is to advocate for an infrastructure that nurtures every individual's potential, creating a society where every child can flourish.

About Shinjuku Araise

Located a mere five-minute walk from Ichigaya Station in Tokyo, Shinjuku Araise is one of the few free schools in the city operating five days a week. There are no compulsory schedules or program enrollments; students’ autonomy is prioritized. Currently, 28 students aged between 10 and 20 are enrolled, engaging in a mix of digital and analog activities, including social meetups through gaming and illustration. The school also offers various programs such as cooking classes, futsal, music performances, and seasonal camps, all designed to promote community expansion and help cultivate self-esteem among students.

For more information, visit: Shinjuku Araise