- CEFR-Aligned English Pathway
Every child can thrive in English. We make sure of it.
A structured, CEFR-aligned English support pathway for GIIS Tokyo’s International Curriculum students — built so language is never the barrier between your child and the classroom.
Admissions open for Academic Year 2026–27
- CEFR-Aligned English Pathway
Every child can thrive in English. We make sure of it.
A structured, CEFR-aligned English support pathway for GIIS Tokyo’s International Curriculum students — built so language is never the barrier between your child and the classroom.
Admissions open for Academic Year 2026–27
Why ELPP
Language shouldn't decide how far your child can go.
Moving curricula, countries, or simply starting school in a new language is a big step for any child — and an even bigger one for a parent watching from the sidelines. The English Language Proficiency Programme (ELPP) at GIIS Tokyo exists so that gap closes quickly, visibly, and with a plan you can follow.
ELPP is currently offered exclusively to students on GIIS Tokyo’s International Curriculum — IB PYP, Cambridge Lower Secondary (CLSP) and IGCSE. Rather than one generic class, it’s four connected programmes that meet your child exactly where they are, moving them step by step toward full participation in mainstream lessons.
Inside an AEPP Class
Our Four ELPP Programmes
One goal, four ways to get there.
KG & IB PYP (Grades 1–5) · Online
After-School English Support
Strengthens foundational English through engaging, interactive activities outside classroom hours.
How a child is referred
- Recommended by the class teacher based on language proficiency and classroom performance.
- Recommended by the Admissions Team based on admission assessment results.
- May be requested directly by parents.
- Mandatory for students identified as requiring additional language support.
What to expect
Delivered online outside school hours, this programme builds reading, writing, speaking and listening skills through structured, interactive activities designed to make consistent practice enjoyable rather than a chore.
IB PYP (Grades 2–5) · In-Class
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Targeted in-class language support to reinforce English skills and support mainstream learning.
How it works
EAL support is delivered during the school day, alongside mainstream lessons, so students reinforce vocabulary and language structures in the context of what they’re already learning.
Recommended pairing
Students enrolled in EAL are recommended to also attend the After-School English Support Programme, giving them reinforcement both in and outside the classroom.
IB PYP & CLSP (Grades 4–8)
Academic English Preparatory Programme (AEPP)
An intensive academic-English track for students with low or no English proficiency, under the Differential Learning Policy.
Eligibility & focus
Mandatory for students scoring 0–30% in the English admission assessment (CEFR A1–A2). English is the core subject, with Mathematics and Science taught as supporting subjects to reinforce academic vocabulary.
Eligibility
Very limited or no English proficiency; parents confirm understanding of the progression pathway.
Assessment
Formative assessments, classroom observation, teacher evaluation, language checks.
Progression
Reviewed each September & March — may move to Intermediate or directly into regular classes with ESL.
Duration & graduation
Minimum attendance is a non-negotiable six months from an April joining date. Graduation depends on a promotion test (e.g. Cambridge Young Learners), in-class formative and summative assessments, and teacher recommendation.
Eligibility
Demonstrated foundational English proficiency, typically progressing on from Beginner.
Assessment
Formative assessments, classroom observation, teacher evaluation, language checks.
Progression
Reviewed each September & March for transition into the regular academic programme.
CLSP & IGCSE (Grades 6–12)
English as a Second Language (ESL) — Cambridge
Builds the academic English required for success in an English-medium classroom on the International Curriculum.
Who it’s for
- Recommended for students scoring approximately 40–60% in the English admission assessment.
- Students progressing on from AEPP may be placed in ESL based on assessment outcomes.
In the classroom
ESL students receive level-appropriate worksheets and targeted language support, with activities that gradually increase in difficulty as proficiency builds, alongside the standard CLSP / IGCSE curriculum.
Download the ELPP Brochure
Get the full programme structure, eligibility criteria and assessment calendar in one PDF you can share at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ELPP at GIIS Tokyo?
The ELPP is a structured, CEFR-aligned English language support programme for GIIS Tokyo’s International Curriculum students, building fluency, confidence and academic communication skills.
Who is the AEPP designed for?
The Academic English Preparatory Programme is for students on the IB PYP and Cambridge Lower Secondary (CLSP) curricula. It is mandatory for students scoring 0–30% (CEFR A1–A2) in the English admission assessment.
How long does a student stay in AEPP?
Students joining in April must remain in the programme for a minimum, non-negotiable period of six months before being considered for progression at the September or March Summative Evaluations.
How is it decided whether a student needs ESL support?
Need for ESL support is determined through the student’s admission assessment. During the school year, students may also be recommended for ESL based on classroom assessments and academic progress.
Parent Testimonials
Want to know more about ELPP?
Share a few details and our admissions team will walk you through placement, assessment and the right pathway for your child.
- Clarity on CEFR placement & eligibility
- A walkthrough of the right ELPP pathway for your child
- Get answers to all your questions
