Sixth Form Japan Day 2026 – Study Japan: Language, Culture & Opportunities
The Japan Society’s Sixth Form event is back this November with a focus on Japanese and Japan-related studies at university.
The programme aims to provide students with insights into Japanese and Japan-related studies, as well as subsequent career opportunities. It features:
- Taster lectures and langauge workshops
- Hands-on cultural actvities
- Speeches from students, alumni, and professionals
- A university exhibition where students can speak to representatives from different universities about their course offerings
It is an excellent opportunity for students interested in Japan who wish to explore Japanese studies—either as a single honors degree or alongside other subjects. Those who are already taking Japanese as well as those who are complete beginners are both welcome.
Students can attend the event on their own or with teachers but permission from school and parents or guardian is required to attend. Travel bursaries are available - see FAQs for more information.
>>Booking Information<<
Date
Tuesday 10 November 2026
Time*
10.30am to 4.30pm
*Exact times may be subject to slight changes on the day.
Venue
Birkbeck, University of London
Torrington Square
Bloomsbury
London WC1E 7JL (Google map)
Nearest underground stations: Russell Square, Euston Square, Tottenham Court Road, Euston and Kings Cross/St. Pancras
For directions to the venue click here
Programme*
10.10 - 10.30 |
Arrival and registration |
| 10.30 - 10.40 | Welcome and Opening |
| 10.40 - 11.05 |
Keynote Speech |
| 11.15 - 11.55 |
Taster Language Workshop |
| 12.00 - 12.35 |
Taster Lectures |
| 12.40 - 14.10 |
Lunch Break with Drop-in Cultural Activities and Workshops |
| 14.10 - 14.20 | Musical Performance |
| 14.20 - 14.40 |
Careers Talk |
| 14.45 - 16.05 |
University Student Panel & University Fair |
| 16.10 - 16.25 |
Closing |
*Please note the above is an example and may be subject to slight changes prior to the day.
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Important notes:
- To confirm your booking, you must read and accept our terms and conditions. Please check the box on the booking form to acknowledge you have read and accept these.
- Places will be issued on a first-come-first served basis. Students may attend on their own or be accompanied by a teacher or member of staff.
- Please note that to keep the event open to all, booking is initially limited to 18 places per school. Please inform the Education Team if you wish to bring more students.
- Free bookings for this event are subject to completion of the full day programme.
Failure to attend without cancelling by end of day 2 November 2026 will result in a fee of £5 per student, which will be invoiced to the registered school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have prior knowledge of studying Japanese? No. This event is open to all students who have an interest in or want to find out more about Japanese or Japan-related studies at universities in the UK. Whether you are a beginner or completing a qualification in Japanese, everyone is welcome.
Is there any financial support to attend? We have introduced a travel bursary to make the event as accesible as possible. Students must apply through their school and will be refunded their travel costs (up to a maximum of £60) after attending. Bursaries are limited and intended only for those who wouldn't be able to attend the event otherwise. Please email education@japansociety.org.uk for more information and to apply.
Where can we eat and drink on campus? We advise teachers and students to bring or buy their own lunch in advance as food will not be provided at the event.The area around the university will be busy during lunch, so we do not recommend eating at a restaurant nearby - especially if you want to try some of the lunch time activities. There are a few chain options near Russell Square Station (5-minute walk) to buy lunch such as Pret A Manger, Tesco, Waitrose, Wasabi, and Itsu. A space will be open for students to use during lunch.
How do I know which lecture or workshop I will be attending on the day? The information will be provided to you at registration. Cultural activities takes place during lunch and operates on a drop-in basis, no sign-up is required.
How do I get there? The entrance to the Main Building is on Torrington Square. The nearest underground stations are: Russell Square (Piccadilly), Euston Square (Hammersmith & Circle), Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth and Central). For directions to the venue, please click here. If you are lost, look for the building with the library!
Is there visitor Parking? Birkbeck, University of London has no parking spaces available and alternatives will need to be found. The nearest drop by area will be Torrington Square and Malet Street.
Do I need to bring anything on the day? You should bring a pen or pencil and something to take notes on. You should also bring a bottle of water or a water bottle (there are water fountains on the campus). The Japan Society will provide all other equipment and materials for the activities on the day.
Who do I call if I need to get in touch on the day? Should you need to contact us on the day, please call us at 020 3075 1995.
Feedback from past Sixth Form Japan Day
- “Nice to know what Japanese can do for your career and to find out the different ways we can engage with Japan outside of Japanese studies ” Student, Torquay Boys Grammar School
- “I got to know about what to expect in Japan and what to do there.” Student, William Morris Sixth Form College
- “Very eye-opening and taught us how important it is to make our own decisions.” Student, Ashbourne Independent College
- “I enjoyed it very much and it has increased my interest in the Japanese culture.“ Student, ACS International School Cobham