Study Materials
MATERIALS
Learning is supported by a systematised series of textbooks supervised by the Association — compiled not only for use during the programme, but as lifelong reference materials students will return to throughout their careers.
OUR APPROACH
Our Approach to Study Materials
Our Approach to Materials
Our textbooks are not designed for the classroom alone. Rich in real-world examples directly applicable to professional practice, they are compiled as lifelong resources that graduates will continue to consult long after completing their studies. Drawing on the accumulated expertise of the Association, they systematise the essence of the butler profession as a body of knowledge — the kind of materials only Japan's sole dedicated butler training institution could produce.
In class, students are directed to relevant sections for pre-reading, with face-to-face time devoted to practical work and questions — a flipped-learning approach. The materials are also designed with working graduates in mind, with comprehensive indices and glossaries to support easy reference in practice. We are currently considering making digital versions (PDF) available.
Pre-Reading Emphasis
Students read the relevant textbook sections in advance, freeing face-to-face time for practical work and questions in a flipped-learning model.
Comprehensive Index & Glossary
Designed for quick reference in the workplace after graduation — with detailed indices and glossaries throughout.
Digital Edition (PDF)
We are currently considering a digital edition. Details will be announced once confirmed.
TEXTBOOKS
Textbook Lineup
Textbook Lineup
All 15 specialist textbooks supervised by the Association (5 volumes each across the foundational E series, applied A series, and advanced M series) — covering everything from butler history and household management through international protocol to VVIP service.
E Series — Foundational Textbooks (All Courses, 5 Volumes)
Provided across all coursesIntroduction to Butlering: History, Culture & Professional Ethics
Introduction to Butlering: History, Culture & Professional Ethics
An introductory volume tracing butler culture from its British origins to the present day, covering professional ethics and the butler's mindset. Used across all courses as the core foundational text.
Housekeeping Theory & Practice
Housekeeping Theory & Practice
Covers cleaning, laundry, and garment management alongside the foundational theory of household administration — a systematic guide to housekeeping practice.
Fundamentals of Service & the Spirit of Hospitality
Fundamentals of Service & the Spirit of Hospitality
A practical text centred on table manners, guest reception, and the spirit of hospitality, building the fundamental bearing of professional service.
Communication & Business Etiquette
Communication & Business Etiquette
Covers formal language and telephone etiquette through business correspondence — the full range of interpersonal skills and manners expected of a butler.
The English Gentleman's Refinement
The English Gentleman's Refinement
Explores the refinement, grooming, and conversational grace rooted in English gentleman's culture — a study in dignified bearing.
A Series — Applied Textbooks (Advanced & Master, 5 Volumes)
Advanced also includes the 5 E-series volumes (10 volumes total)Household Administration & Financial Management
Household Administration & Financial Management
From household budgeting to negotiating with outside contractors — the practical financial and administrative skills of running a private household.
Business Support & Secretarial Duties
Business Support & Secretarial Duties
Systematises the secretarial work that supports an employer's business — scheduling, correspondence, and visitor coordination.
Dining Service & Table Manners
Dining Service & Table Manners
A practical guide to formal dinner service sequencing, wine and tea service, and table coordination.
Event Planning & Spatial Design
Event Planning & Spatial Design
An applied text covering the planning and running of parties and receptions, spatial design, floral arrangement, and lighting.
Lifestyle Management & Special Support
Lifestyle Management & Special Support
Covers the day-to-day management of an employer's lifestyle and the special support techniques tailored to individual needs.
M Series — Advanced Textbooks (Master Only, 5 Volumes)
Master provides the complete set of all 15 volumesInternational Protocol & Cross-Cultural Understanding
International Protocol & Cross-Cultural Understanding
Compiles diplomatic protocol, cultural sensitivities, and international etiquette from around the world for those working on a global stage.
Social Skills & Escort Technique
Social Skills & Escort Technique
Develops the advanced social skills expected of a senior butler — deportment in social settings, escort technique, and conversation.
Travel Support & Transportation Management
Travel Support & Transportation Management
Covers itinerary arrangement and vehicle and transport management — the practical travel support that keeps an employer moving smoothly.
Crisis Management & Incident Response
Crisis Management & Incident Response
Builds the capacity to respond to medical emergencies, natural disasters, and security incidents that may arise in a private household.
VVIP Service & Management
VVIP Service & Management
The capstone volume, mastering service design for the most demanding clientele and staff management at the highest level of the profession.
* Cover designs shown are for illustration purposes and may differ from the actual publications.
BY COURSE
Textbooks by Course
Textbooks by Course
The number of textbooks used varies by course. All material costs are included in the course tuition — there is no additional charge.
| Course | Volumes | Textbooks Used | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Essential Essential | 5 volumes | E1–E5 | Foundational knowledge distilled across 5 E-series volumes | Details |
Advanced Advanced | 10 volumes | E1–E5, A1–A5 | Adds 5 practice-focused A-series volumes to build specialist expertise | Details |
Master Master | All 15 volumes | E1–E5, A1–A5, M1–M5 | The complete 15-volume set covers the highest level of knowledge | Details |
Essential
Essential
Advanced
Advanced
Master
Master
* All material costs are included in the course tuition. There is no additional charge.
UPDATES
Textbook Updates & Revisions
Updates & Revisions
The association-supervised textbooks are reviewed periodically to incorporate the latest knowledge and real-world examples. We are committed to always delivering the best possible learning, responsive to changes in society and the evolving landscape of professional service. Details of revisions and their timing will be announced on our News page as they are confirmed.
Details of revisions and their timing will be announced on our News pageas they are confirmed.
A student referring to a textbook during a practical session
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Based on what you have read about our study materials, take a look at the skills you will acquire and the full range of courses available. Start with a free brochure request.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
There are 15 specialist textbooks supervised by the Association. The Essential course uses the 5 E-series volumes, the Advanced course uses 10 volumes (E + A series), and the Master course uses all 15.
All study material costs are included in the course tuition. There is no additional charge.
Yes. As the content is directly applicable to professional practice, graduates are welcome to continue using the textbooks as reference materials after completing their studies.
For further enquiries, please use ourcontact form.
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