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The story of SMIS-English is rooted in the rich heritage of St. Michael’s International School. Our journey began in 1946, when Bishop Michael Hinsuke Yashiro and Miss Leonora Edith Lea envisioned bringing high-quality English education to the wider Kobe community. Their passion, determination, and pioneering spirit sparked a movement that opened the doors of English learning to students of all ages.
From those early days, SMIS-English has continued to grow into a trusted centre for language education in Kobe. Over the decades, thousands of children and adults have learned, laughed, and achieved with us, guided by dedicated educators committed to excellence. What began as a simple vision has flourished into a vibrant community where English language, global awareness, and personal growth come together.
Today, SMIS-English proudly carries this legacy forward. In the heart of Kobe, we provide engaging, high-quality programmes that inspire confidence and connect learners to the world. Our history shapes who we are, and our passion for education shapes the future of every student who walks through our doors.
At SMIS-English in Kobe, we believe language learning should feel inspiring, supportive, and full of possibility. Our school offers a complete English-learning journey for families who want the best of both worlds: the stability of the Japanese education system and the global opportunities that strong English skills provide.
Email: saturdayschool@smis-mail.org
Telephone: (078)221-8028
Choosing the right English school shapes future opportunities. At SMIS-English, we offer more than lessons. We provide clear pathways, international standards, and a supportive community built on nearly 80 years of English education excellence in Kobe.
SMIS-English delivers the academic standards, immersive environment, and teaching quality typically found in international schools. This means students do not just study English, they use it with purpose. Families gain access to world-class English education while keeping their educational options open.
SMIS-English offers a flexible English pathway that grows with your family. Our Mummy & Baby Programme introduces young children to English through play, songs, and interaction, opening the door to either international education or Japanese schooling with strong English support.
As children grow, families can choose international school education or continue in the Japanese system with our After School Kids and Saturday School programmes. These programmes provide international school level English while supporting steady progress through clear, attainable EIKEN goals, helping students build confidence and measurable achievement.
Learning continues beyond childhood. Our Adult English Programme supports university students, parents from English oriented families who want to better support their children’s education, and adults seeking to improve their English skills. With three hours of intensive classes, three times a week, learners gain fluency, confidence, and practical communication skills that make an immediate impact.
Our professionally developed curriculum combines Oxford’s trusted textbooks with hands-on learning and EIKEN-aligned progression. Literacy sits at the heart of every programme, helping students build strong reading, writing, speaking, and thinking skills that translate into real-world success.
Students learn in real school classrooms and benefit from access to St. Michael’s International School’s extensive English library and technology-supported learning tools. This immersive setting encourages collaboration, curiosity, and confident English use beyond the textbook.
All SMIS-English classes are taught by experienced native English-speaking teachers. Our educators know how to support, challenge, and inspire learners at every level. This ensures steady progress, clear communication, and a positive learning experience.
Small class sizes allow teachers to give individual attention and create frequent speaking opportunities. Students feel supported, gain confidence faster, and develop the courage to express themselves naturally in English.
SMIS-English is more than a school. It is a welcoming community where students, parents, and teachers build lasting relationships. Many families stay with us for years, growing together through every stage of learning.
With nearly 80 years of English education in Kobe, SMIS-English is a trusted name for quality and care. As we approach our 80th anniversary in 2026, we continue to honour our heritage while preparing learners of all ages for the future.