At NILS, there are morning and afternoon classes, and in both, the students on duty clean up after the lessons. This cleaning practice is deeply rooted in Japanese educational culture and continues as an important habit from elementary school through to vocational schools, and even into the workplace.
Cleaning in schools and workplaces is more than just a task; it holds significant educational value.The areas to be cleaned include classrooms and shared spaces such as hallways, staircases, entrances, lobbies, and restrooms, which are rotated on a monthly basis. Some may wonder why students are required to clean, but this practice holds meaning beyond mere labor.
In Japan, cleaning is seen as a crucial part of instilling fundamental life habits and a sense of social responsibility in students.Cleaning serves three important educational purposes for students:
- Building a foundation for a disciplined life
By cleaning daily, students learn to be punctual and establish a regular rhythm in their lives. This disciplined lifestyle positively influences their studies and daily routines, laying the groundwork for enhanced self-management skills in the future.
- Cleaning up after oneself
Cleaning up after oneself in public spaces fosters a sense of responsibility and consideration for others. This practice helps students develop social awareness, cooperation, and empathy—essential qualities for becoming responsible members of society.
- Developing the habit of taking good care of things.
Through daily cleaning, it becomes a habit to care for and cherish even old items. This practice naturally fosters an attitude of not wasting things and cultivates an awareness of striving for a sustainable society. The effort and thoughtfulness to use things for a long time are important values that contribute to environmental conservation in the future.
In Japanese education, cleaning is not merely a chore but an essential practice for teaching students the skills and values needed in society. NILS also upholds this tradition, supporting students in becoming independent and responsible members of society, capable of making sound decisions after graduation. The lessons learned through daily cleaning will have lasting significance throughout their lives.
