In recent years, the number of international schools in Japan has surged, driven by government policies and a growing demand for global education. However, many Japanese parents face significant challenges due to language barriers, hindering their ability to support their children effectively. Recognizing this gap, Fuyuka Tsuruda, managing director of Freed Co., launched Outbox English Academy, offering bespoke services tailored to assist these families. The academy provides English tutoring for students, communication support for parents, and English lessons for adults, ensuring comprehensive assistance that goes beyond traditional tutoring. This innovative approach aims to help Japanese families thrive in the international school environment.

Navigating Language Barriers: Tailored Services for Parents

The increasing presence of international schools in Japan has left many Japanese parents feeling isolated due to their limited English proficiency. Unable to engage fully with their children's education, they often struggle with homework assistance and parent-teacher interactions. To address these issues, Fuyuka Tsuruda introduced Outbox English Academy, which offers personalized support services designed specifically for Japanese parents. The academy handles various English-related needs, from translating school communications to drafting responses, ensuring parents can participate actively in their children's academic journey.

Outbox English Academy’s concierge-style service caters to the unique challenges faced by Japanese parents. When a parent receives an email from the school about an upcoming event or academic concern, the team at Outbox immediately translates and explains the content, drafts an appropriate response, and clarifies any required actions. This comprehensive support extends to homework assistance as well. If a student is struggling with coursework, the team communicates directly with teachers to identify and address the root of the problem. This level of involvement is unmatched by traditional tutoring services, providing a holistic solution that empowers parents to be more engaged in their children's education.

Expanding Opportunities: Supporting Families in the Growing International School Sector

The rise of international schools in Japan reflects a broader shift in educational preferences, fueled by government initiatives to attract skilled foreign workers and a desire among Japanese parents for a globalized education. As of January 2025, there were approximately 110 international schools across Japan, a significant increase from just 38 in 2000. Prestigious British institutions like Harrow International School Appi have established campuses, further diversifying the educational landscape. While concerns exist regarding unregistered schools and legal compliance, the trend shows no signs of slowing down, especially with new semiconductor projects promising to bring more international schools to regional areas.

Fuyuka Tsuruda envisions expanding her services to meet the growing demand for family-oriented language support. Initially targeting Japanese families struggling with English communication, Outbox English Academy plans to extend its reach to include students from abroad. Tsuruda’s research revealed that parents benefit significantly from such services, easing the burden of navigating international school environments. With financial support from grandparents and a declining birthrate allowing for greater investment in individual children, more middle-class families are now able to afford these expensive yet increasingly democratized institutions. Looking ahead, Tsuruda aims to broaden her team to include Chinese speakers and establish a nonprofit organization to provide English education support to underprivileged families. Her ultimate goal is to create more opportunities for children to have positive early experiences with English, regardless of their background.