Japan Will Test Flexible Class Time System at 300 Schools

On the 19th, a special subcommittee of the Central Council for Education approved a draft summary of issues for the next curriculum guidelines. A central feature of the proposal is the introduction of a “Flexible Class Time System,” which would give schools freedom in how they allocate compulsory education hours.The pilot program is planned to be implemented in a maximum of around five schools per prefecture and designated city. Currently, a similar system has been introduced in around 50 schools as an exception. 

Under the plan, schools could increase or decrease class hours and use the time more freely—for example, to strengthen core subjects, introduce new courses, or provide more inquiry-based learning opportunities. The goal is to "create room for teachers' work and children's learning, and to contribute to the improvement of the quality of education." While similar systems already exist, such as the "Special Education School System" (which allows for the creation of new subjects) and the "Special Class Time School System" (which allows for a reduction of standard class hours for each subject, up to a 10% limit, while maintaining the overall total), there are restrictions on their usage, and they require a great deal of time and effort for application. By contrast, the new framework is designed to be a standing option available to all schools without the need for national approval.

At the high school level, discussions are also under way to make the credit system more flexible. Possible changes include subdividing annual credits to allow semester-based certification and permitting students who have already mastered a required subject to opt out or transfer credits to other courses.

For private schools, the reform could mark a major shift. Until now, many have built their reputation by adding extra hours to the standard curriculum—offering “standard hours + α” in areas such as college prep, English, ICT, and research-based learning. The new approach will emphasize curriculum design ability—how well schools tailor programs to their educational goals and student needs—rather than the sheer number of class hours offered.

Overall, the proposed reform signals a move toward a student-centered, flexible model of education, prioritizing the effectiveness and quality of learning over simply expanding classroom time.