Job Discussion Forums

[Brooks]

well, I am in my sixth year in Japan at a private secondary school without a license and so far, no problems.
If I stay where I am, I could see it being an issue in the future, like in 3 years.
I heard that the Tokyo education department wanted to know why I didn`t have a license
Frankly it depends on where you work.

I think if you teach part-time, having a license doesn`t matter.

[Glenski]

Brooks,
My part-time co-workers don't have a license, either. So, I think you are right in that respect. I take it you are part-time?

[Brooks]

nope, full-time.
However, I found that I had to play office politics a bit, but basically work hard and do what I am asked.
And sometimes that means doing 110%, or going out drinking at enkais.
Get along with people who make the decisions, that is key.
In the end, we have to get along with people, especially the sempai.

I think I have to do things other teachers can`t or aren`t willing to do.
But that means that people rely on me, which means, yes, I get the extra work, but...

But there is more:

connections - got a MA in TESOL from　a Vermont college, and students from my school go there.

Sometimes the goalposts are moved.
I have been lucky. Twice in the last few years, a couple people who could have made things tough changed their jobs (one retired).

I think in the end, getting tenure comes down to money. The older you are, the more the school has to pay. And also, salary goes up the longer you stay, so of course, schools want to save money.