Yuko Muir

Yuko Muir founded Yoyogi International School in 1999 and has spent the past 27 years leading the school and working in the field of international education.

What began as an early childhood program has since expanded to include primary and secondary education. Under her leadership, the school has achieved authorization as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) school and accreditation by the Council of International Schools (CIS), reflecting its commitment to internationally recognized educational standards. The school is currently expanding into upper secondary education.

Through decades of working with students, families, and educators from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, Muir developed an interest in understanding education within the broader contexts of human psychology, culture, and society. She pursued graduate studies in psychology, with a focus that included applied behavior analysis, before continuing her academic work in International Psychology and earning a Ph.D. in the field.

In this column, Muir draws on her 27 years of experience in international education and her perspective as an international psychologist to examine a broad range of issues in education, including the Japanese education system, international education, and international schools. Her writing explores the contexts and challenges surrounding these issues, as well as the evolving role and future direction of education.

Professional Background

• Founder of Yoyogi International School, established in 1999
• 27 years of experience in international school leadership and international education
• Representative Director & CEO, Yoyogi International School, Inc.

Educational Background

• Ph.D. in International Psychology | The Chicago School, USA
• M.A. in Psychology | The Chicago School, USA
• B.A. in Japanese Literature | Ferris University, Japan