Marist Brothers International School

"Marist Brothers International School is a private international school located in Kobe, Japan, offering a fully articulated International Baccalaureate education from early childhood through to pre-university level."

Rooted in the educational tradition of the Marist Brothers, a Catholic religious congregation with a long history of founding schools around the world, the school brings a values-driven philosophy to international education — one that emphasizes the development of the whole child alongside rigorous academic preparation. The school offers all three core IB programmes in sequence: the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme. This continuum means that families who enroll their children early can follow a single, coherent educational philosophy through every stage of schooling, from the inquiry-based learning of the primary years to the demanding, university-preparatory curriculum of the IB Diploma. The IB framework is well regarded by universities worldwide, making it a particularly practical choice for families who anticipate further international moves or who are planning for higher education across borders. Instruction is delivered in English, which makes Marist Brothers International School an accessible option for the many expatriate and internationally mobile families who settle in the Kobe and broader Kansai region. Kobe itself has a distinguished history as one of Japan's most internationally oriented cities, having served as a major port and hub for foreign residents for well over a century. That cosmopolitan character is very much present in the city today, and a school like Marist fits naturally into Kobe's tradition of welcoming international communities. Although the school was established in 2017, making it a relatively young institution, it draws on the deep educational heritage of the Marist Brothers, whose mission has historically centered on accessible, compassionate, and student-centered learning. Families considering the school can expect that Marist values — care for each individual student, a supportive community atmosphere, and an emphasis on integrity and service — inform the culture of the school alongside its academic programming. For relocating professionals and expatriate families evaluating options in the Kobe area, Marist Brothers International School represents one of the few institutions in the region offering a complete IB continuum in an English-language environment. The combination of an internationally recognized curriculum, a community grounded in clear values, and a location in one of Japan's most livable and internationally connected cities makes it a compelling option worth exploring. Families are encouraged to visit the school's website and reach out directly to learn more about admissions, campus facilities, and the day-to-day life of the school community.