In Japan, the role of schools is very broad. Schools are expected to be responsible for what their students do not only during school hours but also after school, on weekends and during school holidays.
Even if they have turned 18, high school students are not treated as independent adults in Japanese society, and there are more restrictions than in many Western countries. Many high schools have strict rules to protect their students from dangerous situations and delinquency.
Examples of common school rules
No smoking, No drinking, No jewelry, No make-up, No mobile phones, No body piercing, No tattoos, No part-time jobs without school approval, etc.
If a student is involved in any kind of crime or serious incident, the police contact not only the student’s family but also the student’s school. The school principal will then be obliged to apologize publicly for the student’s actions.
In Japan, high school education is not compulsory, and so if a student breaks the school rules, they may be suspended for a time or permanently expelled.
You may find that some students smoke in the toilets or on the roof at school. Don’t follow this bad example, which is against the law. As an exchange student, everyone knows you, and breaking the rules will be noticed. As they accept and support you for free, host schools expect AFS students to have a positive impact and do not tolerate misbehavior.
Avoid students who are unpredictable or violent. If you feel threatened or bullied or uncomfortable in any way, go to your homeroom teacher or school advisor. Bullying can take the form of verbal harassment, silent treatment, hiding things, online slander, etc.
It is not advisable to take valuables to school (jewelry, electronics, credit cards, etc). Bring only the amount of money you will need for the day.
In small cities and towns riding a bicycle is a common way for students to get around, but there are many accidents. A helmet is required by law. When you ride a bicycle, we strongly advise you to follow the warnings in “How to ride a bicycle the right way", in the Reference, to prevent accidents. You can be injured, injure others, damage your own or others’ property and also be arrested for reckless behavior.
Except in extremely rare cases, Japanese high schools do not permit students to drive motorcycles or cars to school. Do not accept rides from non-adult friends in motor vehicles at any time. In urban areas, there are rental base stations for electric kickboards, which are easily available, but it is dangerous and there are many accidents. Please don’t use them during your AFS program.