●London Schools Guide · Japanese Families · 2026
London Schools for Japanese Families
Relocating to London from Japan? This guide covers the Japanese School of London, complementary Japanese education, and how to choose the right British school for your family.
Key Questions for Japanese Parents
Is there a Japanese school in London?
The Japanese School of London (JSL) in Acton provides full Japanese national curriculum education for temporary residents. It serves primarily families on short-term assignments who intend to return to Japan.
What about Japanese language support in British schools?
Most British state schools do not offer Japanese language support. The Japanese community in London has a network of Saturday schools (hoshuko) that provide Japanese language and curriculum instruction alongside mainstream British schooling.
Which British schools are popular with Japanese families?
Japanese families tend to favour schools in west and south-west London — particularly in Acton, Chiswick, Wimbledon and Richmond, where the Japanese community is concentrated. Many Outstanding-rated state schools in Ealing, Hounslow and Richmond have experience with Japanese pupils.
Japanese-linked Schools in London
Japanese School of London
Ealing · Full Japanese curriculum for temporary residents
About state schools
Japanese children typically adapt well to British state schools, particularly if they have some English before arrival. Richmond upon Thames, Ealing, and Hounslow have strong state schools and significant Japanese-heritage communities.
How the London School System Works
→State schools are free
All state schools in England are free to attend for children legally resident in the UK. This includes primary (ages 4–11) and secondary (ages 11–18) schools.
→Ofsted is the inspection body
Ofsted inspects state schools and rates them Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, or Inadequate. Most London state schools are Good or Outstanding. Use ofsted.london to search any school by rating or borough.
→Admissions are through the local council
Apply for a school place through your local council's website. Primary places must be applied for by 15 January for September entry. Secondary places by 31 October. You can list up to six schools in preference order.
→Year groups run September to July
The UK school year runs from September to July. Children are placed in year groups by their date of birth. Year 1 is for children who turn 5 or 6 during the academic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Japanese child attend a London state school?
Yes. Children legally resident in the UK are entitled to a free state school place regardless of nationality. Your local council will allocate a place based on available spaces and your home address.
What is the best area of London for Japanese families?
West and south-west London — particularly Acton, Chiswick, Wimbledon, and the Richmond/Twickenham area — have the largest Japanese communities. These areas also have strong state and independent school options.
Search London schools by Ofsted rating →
Use ofsted.london to search all 3,195 London state schools by Ofsted rating, borough, phase and KS2 results. Free, no login required.