Hi Everyone! I hope it’s alright to ask in regards my situation to what I could possibly expect in the event of moving to Japan to teach. I have taught art and ESL while living in Thailand for 5 years, am currently getting my US license, and have been at an international school full time in the EAL dept. for a few years. I have always considered teaching in Japan at some point, along with my partner and pet cat. I just wanted to kindly inquire about others experiences who may be in similar situations, if you’d recommend such a move (eventually returning to the US or Thailand), or, from those who have lived in both places, if they enjoyed both. I have read about this for a long time, have visited Japan, known friends who lived there long term, and, like any place, have heard different perspectives. I appreciate the time and patience to respond to this open ended question, it’s always interesting to read this forum and learn more. Thanks! 😊
6 comments
There are two basic types of “teaching” in Japan. Most ESL/EFL “teaching” doesn’t require any qualifications because they are not teaching jobs, they are tutoring at best or entertainer in most cases.
The absolute minimum requirements for a career oriented teaching position where you are an actual teacher are a master’s degree, a teaching license *in your home nation* and at least three years of solo teaching where you are in complete control of every aspect of the course. (eikaiwa and EFL experience don’t count, you need to be a real teacher)
I think it depends on your end goals. It’s not really clear what you are asking about. Could you come to Japan? Sure, having your license would help your prospects.
Some of my friends are longtime teachers in accredited international schools. All of them arrived with state licenses and some years of experience teaching in their home countries.
Have you been teaching unlicensed? It doesn’t sound like a legitimate international school. You’re about to go legit with a license. Good on you.
You’d have to see if your credential and experience count when applying to specific international schools in Japan.
Keep in mind that in Japan, a lot of schools have “international” in their names. You’ll see everything from private schools on the Japanese national curriculum to unaccredited businesses claiming the title.
Soooo what’s your question?
American who has taught in Thailand and has a Thai girlfriend (plus cat?) Question… ‘would those who have done this recommend it?’
Honestly I wouldn’t really recommend a 3rd country. I know Japan pays more than Thailand but the cost of living is also higher. For now I’d stick to the places you know… particularly if you’re moving animals around and stuff (which you may or may not be able to do).
Just my two cents, but if you’re a serious educator and consider teaching your career, but don’t have an MA or license, you’re not going to have a good time in Japan.
As others have said, the only context where teaching EFL/ESL seriously is in internationals schools, and of course, some universities and high schools have good English programs.
ALT/eikaiwa jobs are for people who just want to get a job, any job, just to be in Japan. If you take teaching at all seriously, trying to work one of those jobs would be frustrating, to say the least.
I mean, look at the post where someone’s manager told them they have to use the game I Spy to teach thick/thin, *and only those words* or the post where the person had to teach a class with babies and adults at the same time. Eikaiwa is largely just for entertainment.
Sent you a PM