Job Discussion Forums

[carmenz]

I agree that you should find a more stable and probably lucrative job at an international school. BUT the good news is that you're qualified to teach in one, so why not apply?? Do a search for international schools in Japan and start applying or there is search-associates or ISS who you can also apply through.

So I think the point here is that you should do the best you can to be as stable as you can once you come to Japan. A lot of these private English schools have crazy hours. Even the larger schools start you late and end late. When are you going to get to see your family? They don't pay lots of money either, but I am sure you could get by. Do you have savings?

But you know, I would just go for teaching at an international school. You'll be home by 5 every night and you're probably less likely to get frustrated with the job.

But by all means, find a way to go to Japan. Don't be discouraged!!

[johanne]

Just a note about international schools - it's a bit late to start applying now for ISS or Search Associates as most of their job fairs are over or are happening right now. You need about a month to get all your documentation and references in order with them to even be able to attend the job fairs. I was hired by an international school in Yokohama 2 weeks ago after I set up some interviews and went to Japan on my own in the middle of January. Other schools I contacted were also in the midst of their hiring. This is not to discourage you as some schools keep looking well into March and April, depending on their staffing needs, but just to give you general information about international school hiring. Most interview in January and February and have most of their hiring done by the beginning of March. Usually the positions available from April are less attractive. However, as has been mentionned before, it would be very convenient to work there as a single mom. I've worked at ESL schools in Japan and the hours are not very condusive to parenting. I have a 3 year old daughter and am very happy that I will be home at around 5 or 6 everyday and be more or less in line with her schedule once she starts school. Again, good luck.