Historic First: Launching Gordonstoun Japan and "Transformative Leadership Summer Programme"

OCC — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0900

OSAKA, Japan, Apr. 27, 2026 /Kyodo JBN/ --
OCC Educational Corporation Limited
Gordonstoun Japan, in partnership with OCC Educational Corporation Limited based in Osaka, Japan, announced on April 27 the Impact Challenge Summer 2026, marking the establishment of Gordonstoun's first international boarding campus.

Special website: https://www.gordonstoun.jp/en/program/

Image: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M109071/202604207731/_prw_PI1fl_mg0nW980.png

Famous for educating generations of the British Royal Family -- including HM King Charles III and the late HRH Prince Philip -- Gordonstoun is bringing its world-leading philosophy abroad. While the permanent boarding campus in Wakayama is scheduled to open in summer 2027, the school will first debut an immersive summer programme focused on real-world leadership.

A New Chapter in Global Education
Founded in 1934, Gordonstoun is set to apply its signature motto, "Plus est en vous" ("There is more in you"), in an international setting. The "Impact Challenge Summer Programme" moves beyond traditional classroom learning, requiring students to engage with humanitarian and environmental challenges to develop resilience and a sense of service.

Programme Highlights
Title: Impact Challenge Summer 2026
Dates: 2-7 August 2026 and 15-20 August 2026 (2 sessions: 5 nights and 6 days)
Location: Wakayama, Japan
Eligibility: Students aged 10-14

Core Tracks:
-Global Challenge Engagement: Developing strategies for sustainable economic resilience for Himalayan communities.
-Environmental Action: Addressing marine plastic issues around Tomogashima Island.
-Field Implementation: A selected group will travel to Nepal to observe implementation.

Designed by international humanitarian Linda Cruse, whose leadership has influenced global education and corporate engagement through her Race4Good (R), this programme reflects her belief in individual-led change. As the new Director of Co-Curricular at Gordonstoun Japan, Linda brings this concept to life this summer in Wakayama.

Message from Natasha Dangerfield, Founding Principal
"As Gordonstoun takes this historic step beyond the UK, we are committed to redefining the purpose of education. This programme is designed to cultivate responsibility and global awareness, bringing the spirit of our Scottish heritage to the unique landscape of Wakayama."

About Gordonstoun
Gordonstoun is renowned for combining academic rigour with outdoor education and service. The Impact Challenge by Gordonstoun Japan represents the first international expansion of this world-renowned model.

Gordonstoun Japan official website: https://www.gordonstoun.jp/en/index.html

About OCC
OCC Educational Corporation Limited is a distinguished institution based in Osaka, boasting a legacy of 120 years of academic excellence.

Gordonstoun, Alma Mater of HM King Charles, Appoints Founding Principal for Japan Campus

OCC — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0900

OSAKA, JAPAN – In a strategic partnership with OCC Educational Corporation Limited, Gordonstoun Japan is proud to announce the appointment of Natasha Dangerfield—British educational leader and England Lacrosse President—as its Founding Principal. This announcement marks a significant milestone as the school prepares to open its doors in Wakayama in September 2027.

A Leader Who Lives the Ethos

Natasha Dangerfield is a distinguished British educator with over 20 years of senior leadership experience in prestigious independent boarding schools. Her appointment is uniquely significant: Natasha does not just understand the Gordonstoun philosophy; she has lived it.
Early in her career, Natasha held pivotal roles at the original Gordonstoun School in Scotland, serving as both a Housemistress and Director of Pastoral Care. This direct experience ensures that the founding principles of Gordonstoun—character through challenge, responsibility, and service—will be woven into the very fabric of the Japan campus from day one.

Proven Excellence in School Leadership

Most recently, Natasha served for 13 years as the Headmistress of Westonbirt School (UK). Under her visionary leadership, the school saw significant educational development, the successful transition to co-education, and the strengthening of a world-class pastoral care system. Her tenure was defined by a commitment to holistic student wellbeing and strategic institutional growth.

Her leadership pillars include:

- Character Education: Fostering resilience through real-world challenges.
- Pastoral Excellence: Prioritizing student mental health and emotional growth.
- Experiential Learning: Utilizing the "classroom under the stars" to build life skills.
- Purpose-Driven Community: Cultivating a values-led environment where students thrive.

Authenticity, Not Interpretation

"This appointment ensures that Gordonstoun Japan is not merely an interpretation of a British brand, but a true continuation of its founding legacy," said Masakuni Negishi, Chairman of the Board, Gordonstoun Japan. "Natasha embodies the Gordonstoun spirit. She is a leader who understands that education is about unlocking the potential within every child."

A Message from the Founding Principal

"It is a profound honor to be appointed as the Founding Principal of Gordonstoun Japan," said Natasha Dangerfield. "Gordonstoun is a place where young people, and staff, discover their 'plus est en vous' (there is more in you); the valued motto held carefully in the tradition of the school. I am thrilled to bring this transformative educational model to Japan and to build a community where students are prepared not just for university, but for life."

About Gordonstoun School

Founded in Scotland in 1934, Gordonstoun is one of the world’s most prestigious independent schools. Following the motto "Plus est en vous" (There is more in you), the school is a global pioneer in "Character Education," built on pillars of academics, outdoor adventure, and service.
Gordonstoun is the alma mater of HM King Charles III and the late HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. HM King Charles III currently serves as the Patron of the Gordonstoun Association. The school's innovative educational model served as the foundation for "Round Square," a global network of international schools. The 2027 opening of the Japan campus marks the first time this storied educational philosophy will be accessible directly in Asia.

法人別リリース

Historic First: Launching Gordonstoun Japan and "Transformative Leadership Summer Programme"

Gordonstoun, Alma Mater of HM King Charles, Appoints Founding Principal for Japan Campus