Hi all,
In the future I would like to teach in Japan for a few years. I have done a bit of research about the requirements for working in international schools in japan.
– Qualification – Registered as a teacher in Australia with B. of Science & M. of Education.
– Experience – Currently in my 1st year of teaching and am planning to explore this option after my 3rd year of teaching. I am currently teaching senior chem, physics and math.
A few questions;
1. I heard STEM teachers are in demand in Japan. Is this true?
2. I have heard that international schools are competitive, given my teaching field in STEM would I be competitive?
3. Any advice of things I could do in the next 3 years to improve my chances?
3 comments
Hi fellow Aussie! 🙂
1. STEM teachers are in demand basically anywhere, but coupled with the intense competition for accredited International schools in Japan in general (everyone wants to go to Japan), it probably evens out.
2. Yes, they’re pretty competitive, however you can also get very lucky with timing, subjects, etc. You would be ‘competitive’ from a STEM standpoint, however keep in mind your competition may include people more familiar with the specific curriculum being taught/offered at that school than you are (assuming you’re teaching local Aus / state curriculum)
3. Research the specific schools that you plan to apply to. Find out information like their usual hiring season, specific qualifications/experience each school requires, try and pad up your resume to reflect those needs.
All the best!
STEM is always needed in Japan. Just to say something different than the other poster (who’s information is really great)
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Look at private schools that teach IB. You could also get some IB certificates before you head over here as well. Many really good schools here are IB schools. Some will pay for your certifications but some will not and expect you to be trained already.
International school positions can be competitive for sure. Someone already mentioned private schools that have IB programs, you should also keep an eye out for private schools that have English immersion programs too. They’re becoming gradually more common.