2026Enrollment
Info Session!
Learning Begins with
Your Smile
HEI SCHOOLS
NAGOYA SAKAE
HEI Schools Nagoya Sakae
International Preschool
2026Enrollment
Info Session!
Learning Begins with
Your Smile
HEI Schools is an international preschool that incorporates Finnish early childhood and primary education models. Established in 2016 by the University of Helsinki, a leading authority in education, together with education and design experts. Our child-centered “play-based learning” approach in an authentic English learning environment is loved by many and is now implemented in over 50 countries worldwide.
Apply for April 2026
Info Session
Attending an info session is required for enrollment We will explain what makes us different from other preschools, HEI Schools’ unique curriculum, school overview, and the enrollment process.
THE HEI MODEL
HEI Schools’ educational program, THE HEI MODEL, was developed by co-founder the University of Helsinki and Professor Lasse Lipponen, Ph.D., a specialist in early childhood education. Finland’s world-class education system has proven successful in numerous projects and is globally recognized. This program is continuously updated based on the latest research and reflected in teacher training and curriculum improvements.
＊The University of Helsinki is Finland’s oldest university and ranked among the world’s top universities. Its Faculty of Educational Sciences is one of Finland’s finest and highly acclaimed worldwide.
CURRICULUM
At HEI Schools, we value children’s innate desire to “know” and “try.”Through daily play and activities, we nurture their ability to observe, think, and understand the world. Language and numeracy skills develop naturally through enjoyable activities like story time, pretend shopping, and rhythm play. Through science and environmental education, we deepen connections with nature and foster important questions like “Why?” and “How come?” HEI learning is a“journey of exploration” that extends beyond the classroom. Using all five senses and their hearts, children discover the world.
At HEI Schools, we value nurturing children’s ability to understand and embrace the diversity of society and the world around them. They learn that people have different cultures and backgrounds, and developan attitude of mutual respect.Through connections with the local community and experiences with cooperation, rules, and manners, children gradually grasp “what it means to live as a member of society” in their own way. Through these accumulated experiences, children grow into “people who value their own feelings while showing compassion for others.”
At HEI Schools, we value children’s ability to express thoughts in diverse ways. Through music, art, crafts, dance, and language, we nurture creativity and self-confidence. Experiences with diverse cultures and arts naturally develop cultural understanding and sensitivity. Through colors, sounds, and movements, children discover the joy of self-expression.
At HEI Schools, we value nurturing children’s ability to “care for their own body and mind.” They naturally learn about exercise, nutrition, rest, self-care, and compassion for others through daily school life. We carefully support children in developing basic life skills at their own pace—washing hands, changing clothes, and tidying up. Through active play, yoga, and outdoor activities, we guide them to experience the joy of movement and mental balance. This “learning through daily life” forms the foundation for all other learning areas and leads to essential abilities like self-management, independence, and cooperation.
Reservation
Required
Reservation
Required
Reservation
Required
Apply for April 2026
Info Session
*Attending an info session is required for enrollment We will explain what makes us different from other preschools, HEI Schools’ unique curriculum, school overview, and the enrollment process.
SCHOOL INFORMATION
THE AGE WE ACCEPT CHILDREN FROM
WHAT WE PROVIDE
Open and functional classrooms inspired by traditional Nordic design.
Meals are prepared in our on-site kitchen using menus
designed by nutritionists with consideration for allergies and health.
