Job Discussion Forums

sadcliffefall · Joined: 02 Nov 2005 Posts: 14

Hello to everyone and a big "thank you" and "I really appreciate it" in advance to anyone who can help me with what I know is a fairly vague and general query.....

Is it possible to get short-term positons in EFL/ESL teaching in Japan? I am hoping to do 'stints' around the world for a year and was wondering if it is worthwhile researching ways of teaching in Japan for three months.

I have taught in Korea for almost two years and am happy to give advice, information to anyone wanting to try teaching there, in Seoul or Incheon in particular.

Thanks again

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Although I'm sure someone here will say I'm wrong and find an exception, by and large there is only one place that offers such short contracts -- Westgate Corporation. They also offer full work visa sponsorship. You cannot get consecutive contracts with them, however, so once your 3 months are up, you have to find a new employer. I realize that this is not your goal, but I just thought I'd mention it.

The biggest note to take home is this... you are not likely to break even on setup costs by working here only 3 months. Financially, it's just not worth it.

pnksweater · Joined: 24 Mar 2005 Posts: 173 Location: Tokyo, Japan

Glenski makes a good point.

While it is very rare to find an empoyer who will hire you on less than a year's contract in Japan, it is also very unprofitable to move here for a short period of time. The exspenses that go into moving coupled with the frequent one to two month laps in pay that's common here just makes it a dumb decision. You won't even brake even.

However, if money isn't your goal may I reccomend you check out WOOF Japan. WOOF is usually all about volunteering labour at organic farms, the Japan WOOF hosts frequently run small rural conversation schools. You trade classroom hours for room and board plus a little cash on the side. Membership is a few thousand yen a year. It sounds more like your gig.

madeira · Joined: 13 Jun 2004 Posts: 182 Location: Oppama

If you can get a working holiday visa, there are a few places.

Can you?

sadcliffefall · Joined: 02 Nov 2005 Posts: 14

Thanks to Glenski et al...for your helpful advice/information. I think I'll just check it out this time for a couple of weeks and return later in the year. I really appreciate the tips. Cheers!!!

guest of Japan · Joined: 28 Feb 2003 Posts: 1601 Location: Japan

Glensli you can get consecutive contracts with Westgate, but you must wait until the next school term, which means about two months of no work.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Guest,
I realize that, but to me, 3 months of work, then 2 months of no work is not truly consecutive. What happens to housing in the meantime? Do you have to get your own housing, which means a ton of money in key money?