Shibu Shibu Results Best Ever

Wow! We can't say enough how proud we are of all of you. 12 KA students managed to pass Shibu Shibu, and one of our very own was chosen as the 'special' student. This level of success is unprecedented for KA, and perhaps for any school in the kikokushijo community. We are in awe of the great work you've all done. 

Congratulations! 

Congratulations Shibu Maku Students!

We were absolutely thrilled with the great results from the Shibu Maku exams. Sixteen of our students managed to pass one of the two most difficult English tests in Japan. All of us at KA are extremely proud.

This is turning into the one of the best'juken' seasons ever. Our students are all stepping up and doing their best.

Keio, Shibu Shibu, and Gakugeidai students, we know that you're getting tired but you only have a few days left to go. Hang in there, and look forward to our bowling party in February!

The Eiken and the KAAT Test , Sunday Intensive Course

Although many of this year's 'juken' students are taking an entrance exam on the same day that the Eiken is going to be held, other juken students should seriously consider taking the Eiken this time around or at the latest in June. The first year of junior high school is busier than many of you might expect, and it will be difficult to find the time to study English as intensively as you have during this exam season. This might be your best chance...at least for a year or two. 

5th graders, I strongly encourage you to take the Eiken this January, even if you feel you aren't quite ready. Practice makes perfect, and for some students, the first attempt at any given level ends up being a practice run. Take the test, if you don't pass, find out what you need help with, and pass it next June. Studying for the Eiken can also help you with the KAAT test, our own placement test for students taking junior high school entrance exams. You'll be taking that soon so you'll want to be ready.

J1 students, glad to hear that many of you are finally going to take the Eiken. I realize that you were exhausted from last year's juken season, but I think we all agree it's time to get serious about English again. Eiken 1st grade for starters, then the PSAT. 

Giggles came to the Sunday intensive course, but she managed to keep the giggling under control. Thank you. 

Hard Work and Giggles

Last night seven or eight students stayed after nine working tirelessly on their essays and interview skills. I have to say I was very impressed with the progress the students have made, although there is still a way to go. 

As we were working hard in the science room, we couldn't help but be distracted by a strange yet familar sound:  Chi and Ay giggling uncontrollably in the room next door. Wonder what that was about. It's incredible how much giggling can come out from such a small space. If we could somehow harness the energy from their giggles, we could power up the whole school without the use of electricity. 

Mmm. 

One more note, a number of exams are coming up this weekend. Examinees, please be sure to get some rest over the next two days. Don't forget to take a few slow breaths whenever you begin to feel overwhelmed. Good luck. Our thoughts are with you! 

Senzoku Students: We're Very Proud

Great work! This year is turning out to be one of the most competitive ever, yet 20 of our students managed to pass Senzoku, who only accepted 36 this year for the A exam. That is simply amazing. We are all so proud of you.

For many of you, there is still more to come. Hang in there! It will all be over in just a few short weeks!

Well Done!

Kogyokushya is a very difficult to school to get into. I'm very proud of all you boys for your hard work! 

Congratulations!

Congratulations!

Congratulations to all of the students who passed Shirayuri Gakuen and Sei Gakuen. You've worked hard and you deserve your success!

Congratulations! Sei Gakuin!

Congratulations to all of our students who passed Sei Gakuin! I'm very proud of you!

Don't forget to relax...and laugh a little.

With all of the big exams coming up, it's important for 'juken' students to remember to find a few moments here and there to relieve some stress. Take a short walk, read a funny story, do some push-ups, or just close your eyes and take a few slow breaths. 

Obviously, you have to keep up the good work, but don't forget to take care of yourself. If you need a good laugh to help you relax, just think about the blue and pink slippers all the teachers in Jiyugaoka have been wearing. You could also think about Thomas's morning hair or Josh's receding hair line (which you all seem to like to bring up so often).

Also remember that we are all very proud of you. Whatever the results of your exams, you have earned the admiration and respect of everyone here at KA. You've worked hard, you're doing your best, so don't be hard on yourself. 

See you tonight. Good luck!

 

Pun of the week:  I used to like Kabuki theatre, but now I like noh drama. 

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! I hope all of your new year's wishes come true.