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It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to our Elementary School community, where academic excellence, strong character, and a deep sense of belonging are at the heart of all we do. At SJA Jeju, we are committed to preparing students for the world they will one day lead. Our thoughtfully-designed programs emphasize high academic standards, innovative thinking, and global citizenship.

From the earliest years, students build a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy through structured, research-based instruction. These early academic years are critical, and our experienced educators ensure that every child receives the challenge and guidance they need to grow as confident, capable learners. Rich classroom environments, explicit teaching, and individualized support help students develop the language, literacy, and thinking skills that will serve them throughout their academic careers. 

In Grades 1 through 5, we continue to build on these foundations through a rigorous, inquiry-based learning model that challenges students to think deeply, solve problems, and apply knowledge in meaningful ways. Our curriculum is carefully aligned to international standards and benchmarks, ensuring that students are consistently working toward clearly defined academic goals. With high expectations and strong support systems in place, every child is empowered to reach their full potential.

As an English-only school, English is not only the language of instruction but also the language of daily interaction, inclusion, and community. All students are positively encouraged and supported to speak as much English as possible throughout the day. This immersive environment helps students develop fluency, confidence, and a strong academic vocabulary. Our robust English acquisition program and dedicated EAL teachers ensure that non-native speakers are fully supported in accessing the curriculum, participating in classroom discussions, and thriving in an English-speaking environment.

We also take great pride in the strength and professionalism of our teaching team. Our educators bring extensive international experience, a deep commitment to student learning, and a passion for excellence in all they do. They work closely with students and families to ensure progress, engagement, and a strong sense of community throughout the year.

Our school also places a strong emphasis on character education. Through our core values—caring, collaboration, confidence, risk-taking, grit, and reflection—we help students grow into kind, principled, and respectful individuals. We set clear expectations for behavior and personal responsibility, helping students build healthy routines and develop a strong sense of self-management.

Communication between home and school is an essential part of our partnership. We believe that parents and families are our most important allies in a child’s education. Through regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and strong relationships, we ensure that families feel informed, involved, and supported throughout the year.

At SJA Jeju, students grow into confident, capable global citizens: fluent in English, academically prepared, and equipped with the character and skills to thrive in a complex world. Our school is more than a place of learning—it is a community built on trust, shared values, and high expectations.

Thank you for being part of this vibrant and supportive learning community. We look forward to a year of meaningful growth and continued success for every student.

Sincerely,

David Griffith

Elementary School Principal

Instagram: @dgriffithedu