Job Discussion Forums

kristof · Joined: 30 Sep 2004 Posts: 1 Location: Deyang, China

Hi there,

it`s probably not an original question but I`ll ask it anyway: are there any teaching jobs for non native speakers in Japan, given the fact that all the websites of the big recruiting agencies mention `native speakers` as a requirement. I reckon smaller companies and schools have the same attitude.

I`m a Belgian ESL teacher (31), with a master`s degree (political science) and CELTA-certificate, I`ve been teaching in Laos and China (currently) so far. What are my chances in Japan? And what should be my strategy when applying for teaching jobs there?

Regards,

Kristof

Dr.J · Joined: 09 May 2003 Posts: 304 Location: usually Japan

Maybe I can get this in before the negative brigade open fire...

A lot of people will tell you that you can't get a job because Japanese people are prejudiced in favour of native speakers (no matter how low their qualifications/moral standards). This is about 99% true.

But it's not 100% true. The lady who teaches the primary school down the road from me is from the Philippines. Sure her English isn't the queen's standard, but then neither is the thick scottish accent of the guy up the road.

I'd say, emphasise your qualifications and experience (which are more than most new teachers here), and try to get a one-to-one spoken interview to show that you have the actual skills. Maybe your best bet would be to go to Japan to check it out first and build up contacts.