The school, located on Rokko Island, Japan, is among several new international schools setting up shop in the country, which has become a popular market for overseas branches since China has tightened up regulation of its education system.

Other schools to open include Harrow Appi, Rugby School and Malvern College.

The North London Collegiate School International Kobe is set to open in August 2025, offering “world-class education” for students from grades 1-8, according to their LinkedIn announcement.

The school will open in partnership with Hakko Car Group, a family-owned company specialising in premium vehicles, lifestyle, and insurance products.

With over 170-years of history in the education space – its UK school being one of the oldest girls’ schools in the UK – NLCS has overseas branches in South Korea, the UAE and Singapore.

We believe that a happy student is a successful student

Gwen Byrom, NLCS International

The new school will recruit “some of the best teachers for around the world” for the new location, a statement on its website said.

“We believe that a happy student is a successful student,” says Gwen Byrom, Director of Education Strategy at NLCS International. “Our approach ensures that every child receives the individualised care and support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”