A Message from the Head of School
Dear Families, Students, and Members of the School Community,
It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I address you as we begin a new school year at the French International School Kyoto.
The start of a new school year is always a special moment: a time to enjoy seeing one another again, to welcome new faces, to return to learning and, for some, to embark on a new chapter. I would especially like to extend a warm welcome to our new students and their families. We are delighted to have you join our community, and I sincerely hope that everyone will quickly find their place at LFIK, feel supported, and create many wonderful memories here.
Our school draws its strength from its unique identity, its international outlook, and the diversity of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences that make up our community. Beyond academic learning and achievement, LFIK is guided by values that unite us: respect, kindness, high standards, openness to others, curiosity, and a love of learning.
These values lie at the heart of our educational mission. They guide us in supporting each student’s personal development, building their confidence, and helping them gradually become independent, responsible, and open-minded citizens of the world.
In the exceptional environment of Kyoto and Japan, our school community has a unique opportunity to bring cultures, languages, and different perspectives together. This openness is an invaluable asset for our students and plays an essential role in their education and development.
I hope that this new school year will be filled with success, discovery, projects, and new encounters for everyone. It will also provide us with the opportunity to continue working together to make LFIK a school where everyone — students, families, and staff — can find their place and contribute to the strength and vitality of our community.
I look forward to welcoming you on Tuesday, September 1, for the start of the new school year:
- 8:20 a.m. for preschool and primary school students;
- 2:00 p.m. for middle and high school students.
On this occasion, Ms MERIGAUD from the French Embassy in Tokyo will also be present at LFIK from 8:00 a.m. She will be available to assist families with matters relating to French school scholarships (bourses scolaires) and registration in the Register of French Citizens Living Abroad (Registre des Français établis hors de France).
Families wishing to apply for registration in the Register are encouraged, whenever possible, to bring the following documents:
- a French passport or French national identity card;
- proof of residence: residence card, Japanese driving licence, My Number Card, or a utility bill or other bill in your name issued within the last six months;
- family record book (livret de famille) and identity documents for the children;
- if possible, an ID photograph of each family member to be registered.
I wish you all an excellent start to the school year and a wonderful 2026-2027 academic year.
Welcome to LFIK, and best wishes to everyone for a wonderful new school year!
Mathieu LENA
Head of School
