![White text reading "This is a test" is displayed on a teal background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1780998671/nagoya/v1uwxbgponkcqi0o087j/testimage2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1780998671/nagoya/v1uwxbgponkcqi0o087j/testimage2.jpg","width":304}])
![Two people in yellow inflatable kayaks paddle on a calm river with lush green mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1787967367/nagoya/xxsp7ozwiqtzxysjeplw/secondaryretreats.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1787967367/nagoya/xxsp7ozwiqtzxysjeplw/secondaryretreats.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1787967367/nagoya/xxsp7ozwiqtzxysjeplw/secondaryretreats.jpg","width":520}])
![Two young girls with backpacks ascend stairs in the foreground, while a blurred street scene with cars and buildings forms the background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1787884224/nagoya/l9v60mu5ac402stryl7u/start.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1787884224/nagoya/l9v60mu5ac402stryl7u/start.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1787884224/nagoya/l9v60mu5ac402stryl7u/start.jpg","width":520}])
![A teal brochure with the title "The Science of Learning in Action at NIS" is angled to reveal two young girls in the foreground working on a project.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1787888966/nagoya/davflycvjfvwyrf4daqb/standards2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1787888966/nagoya/davflycvjfvwyrf4daqb/standards2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1787888966/nagoya/davflycvjfvwyrf4daqb/standards2.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1787888966/nagoya/davflycvjfvwyrf4daqb/standards2.jpg","width":932}])
top15.jpg
Learning in High School
Grades 9-12
Where Strong Foundations Become Future Successes
The High School program at NIS is designed to prepare students for success in university, career, and life.
During these important years, students are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, solve complex problems, and take increasing ownership of their learning. Through rigorous academics, meaningful relationships, and opportunities beyond the classroom, they develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
At NIS, learning extends beyond the acquisition of knowledge. Students learn how to evaluate information, consider multiple perspectives, conduct independent research, and apply their understanding in meaningful ways. Alongside academic growth, they are encouraged to pursue their interests through athletics, the arts, leadership, service, and co-curricular activities that help shape them as individuals.
By graduation, students leave NIS with a strong academic foundation, a clear sense of purpose, and the ability to navigate whatever path comes next.
Preparing Students for What Comes Next
Discover how our teachers combine academic challenge, meaningful relationships, and expert guidance to help students thrive beyond graduation.
Welcome from our Secondary School Principal
How does NIS prepare students for the future?
Hear from Secondary School Principal Lisa Nnadozie as she shares how our dedicated educators challenge and support students to become confident learners, compassionate leaders, and individuals ready to make a meaningful impact.
Discover how an inclusive community, personalized pathways, and a focus on purpose help every student find the right path toward future success.
Our High School Curriculum
High school at NIS is intentionally designed as a four-year journey that balances academic challenge, personal growth, and preparation for life after graduation.
Grades 9–10: Building Foundations
In Grades 9 and 10, students complete the final years of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). During this phase, they build strong foundations across a broad range of subjects while developing the skills needed for future success. Students learn to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and take increasing responsibility for their learning.
This foundation helps students discover their strengths and interests while preparing them for Grades 11 and 12.
Grades 11–12: Pursuing a Pathway
In the final two years of high school, students choose the graduation pathway that best aligns with their strengths, goals, and future plans. All three pathways result in a globally recognized high school diploma.
Whether pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, the NIS High School Diploma, or the Global Competencies Pathway, students continue to be challenged, supported, and prepared for success beyond NIS.
Divider Logo
Three Graduation Pathways. Endless Possibilities.
Every student is unique, and there is no single path to success. In Grades 11 and 12, students choose the graduation pathway that best aligns with their strengths, interests, learning needs, and future goals. While each pathway offers a different experience, all lead to an NIS High School Diploma and are designed to prepare students for meaningful post-secondary opportunities and life beyond.
IB Diploma Programme
The IBDP is a challenging and internationally recognized academic program. Through rigorous coursework, independent research, and experiential learning, students develop critical thinking, communication, and self-management skills that prepare them for success.
Credit-Based
The Credit-Based Pathway provides students with a structured program of study. Through a combination of academic coursework and rigorous pathway requirements, students develop the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed for future study and life beyond school.
Global Competencies
The Global Competencies Pathway prepares students to thrive in an interconnected and rapidly changing world. Through interdisciplinary learning, real-world experiences, and the development of transferable skills, students build the adaptability, collaboration, and global awareness.
Supported at Every Stage
Students achieve their best when they are both challenged and supported.
At NIS, a team of teachers, counselors, learning support specialists, college counselors, and school leaders work together to ensure every student receives the guidance they need throughout their high school journey. Small class sizes allow teachers to know students well, monitor progress closely, and provide personalized support when needed.
Beginning in Grade 9, students work with counselors and advisors to explore future goals, develop academic plans, and make informed decisions about course selection and post-secondary pathways. Along the way, students are encouraged to advocate for themselves, build resilience, and develop the skills needed to thrive independently.
Whether students require additional academic support, language support, social-emotional guidance, or university planning, they are surrounded by adults who are committed to helping them succeed.
Explore College Guidance
Students work closely with our College and Career Counseling team to explore future pathways, identify best-fit universities, and navigate the application process with confidence. Beginning in Grade 9, personalized guidance helps students make informed decisions about course selection, graduation pathways, and life after NIS.
Learn About Well-being
High school can be both exciting and challenging, which is why student well-being remains a priority throughout Grades 9–12. Through counseling, pastoral care, trusted relationships, and a strong sense of community, students are supported socially, emotionally, and academically as they grow into confident young adults.
Divider Logo
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Arts, Athletics, Co-Curricular Activities, and Extended Learning Trips
Some of the most memorable and meaningful learning experiences happen outside a traditional classroom.
At NIS, students are encouraged to extend their learning through co-curricular activities, athletics, leadership opportunities, service initiatives, and extended learning experiences that help them connect their learning to the world around them. These experiences allow students to pursue their interests, develop new skills, build relationships, and discover strengths that may not always emerge through academic study alone.
C0-Curricular Activities
Dolphin
Athletics
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Divider Logo
Preparing Students for the Future
Success after graduation looks different for every student.
Some students pursue highly selective universities around the world. Others choose specialized programs, universities in Japan, gap years, career-focused opportunities, or pathways that align with their unique strengths and aspirations. Our goal is not to guide students toward a single destination, but to help each student find the path that is right for them.
Through academic preparation, personalized guidance, and meaningful experiences, students graduate ready to contribute, adapt, and succeed in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
They leave NIS not only prepared for university, but prepared for life.
Discover the Premier International School in Nagoya
WE INVITE YOU TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP
