After school at a facility in Itabashi, children engage in various activities at their own pace. Some quietly enjoy reading their favorite books in a reading corner, while others focus on their homework in a study area. During programming sessions, these future creators work intently on coding. At a local children’s cafeteria regularly run by local residents, adults and children share meals and conversations in a lively atmosphere.
To create such an environment, Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI will open in April 2025. This space is designed to be “a place of belonging” outside of school and home, where children can explore their potential through creative ideas, new challenges, and interaction with local communities and businesses.
Providing Diverse
Learning Experiences to
Spark Children’s Curiosity
The name Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI incorporates two meanings: “Senkyaku Banrai” (welcoming many visitors) and “Bank of Life” (life-enriching experiences). Moreover, by adding the “Atelier” where things are born and created, the facility aims to create a space where children, businesses, and the local community can come together for new interactions and creative collaborations. Ryoko Okaya from SMBC Group’s Sustainability Development Dept. explains, “Under the welcoming message of ‘Everyone is welcome,’ we want to provide a space where children can discover their own potential through unique experiences.”
The facility was established to address the issue of experience inequality faced by children in Japan. As part of its medium-term management plan launched in May 2023, SMBC Group has focused on addressing one of the key social challenges: eliminating poverty and inequality. Last year, efforts were concentrated on reducing educational disparities, and this year, the focus has expanded to eliminate experience inequality.
In Japan, there are children who lack adequate opportunities for enriching experiences due to various circumstances. These experiences, often referred to as fostering “non-cognitive skills,” are essential for leading fulfilling lives. By nurturing curiosity, motivation, and self-esteem, children can work toward achieving their dreams, pursuing education, and building meaningful careers. Providing diverse experiences is crucial to support these developments.
“Experiences are vital for shaping children’s futures. It is important to ensure that children have access to these opportunities close to their community if they wish,”
says Okaya.
At Banrai, a variety of programs are offered to nurture children’s curiosity and independence through the process of choosing and deciding for themselves. For example, the hall on the first floor hosts classical music concerts,movie shows, and programs by companies. On the second floor, the kitchen facilities are utilized for activities such as noodle-making workshops and vegetable classes organized by companies, barista training for coffee, and chocolate-making sessions run by NPOs. Additionally, the space will host local children’s cafeterias. These programs will provide diverse learning opportunities and hands-on experiences.
The facility will house a collection of approximately 4,000 books, categorized into themed sections designed to spark curiosity, such as “About Yourself,” “The Future,” and “Learning and Mastering.” There will also be a relaxing manga corner under the theme “Unwind.” Moreover, the facility plans to integrate its workshops with the library. For example, during a food-related workshop, books on food will be featured in a special display, encouraging children to deepen their understanding and explore topics from multiple perspectives through reading after their hands-on experience.
Building a System Where
the Community Supports
Children’s Growth
As a “place of belonging” outside of school and home, Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI places great importance on creating a safe and comfortable space where children can spend time freely. Okaya explains, “It’s important to have a place where children can visit without any specific purpose and just relax. Whether they choose to do nothing, read a book, or work on their homework, it’s entirely up to them. The facility also serves as a space for relaxation.”
These words reflect the strong desire for Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI to become a sanctuary for children, deeply rooted in the community, and cherished for years to come.
Banrai aims to create a positive impact not only for children but for the entire community. The children’s cafeteria provides a space where local residents can participate, fostering new connections with children. In addition, employees from companies volunteer at the facility, strengthening ties with the community and a sense of unity with society.
“We believe that by increasing opportunities for children to learn and experience, and by building a system where businesses, NPOs, and the local community work together to support children’s growth, we can bring positive change to society as a whole,”
explains Okaya, highlighting the significance of the facility.
Looking ahead, Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI plans to further expand the diversity of its programs, aiming to balance learning and hands-on experiences. The facility also intends to evaluate and measure the positive impacts (social impact) on society and children who use the programs, analyzing these outcomes to inform future program design. Furthermore, by sharing the evaluation results with partner companies, local governments, and other stakeholders, it will encourage broader understanding of its initiatives’ value and foster further collaboration and support.
“We hope that the Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI project will serve as a model, inspiring similar initiatives in other regions and companies. We aim to extend such efforts, encouraging society to consider creating spaces where children can feel they belong,”
says Okaya, sharing the project’s vision.
Atelier Banrai-ITABASHI was born from the desire to provide every child with experiences and spaces where they can discover their potential. It aspires to become a central hub where many children gather, supported by various stakeholders, and contribute to revitalizing the community.