Job Discussion Forums

LateSky · Joined: 25 Nov 2009 Posts: 3

Hello,

I am a 50-year old white, native English-speaking male, residing in North America. I have an advanced degree in science (M.S., non-engineering) and over twenty years working as a professional (non-managerial) in government and the corporate sector, including work involving adult technical education.

I am considering a new career in ESL and based on my research and personal interests, feel that Japan or South Korea would be the best place to start. I plan to obtain my ESL teaching certificate from an accredited school (such as TEFL International) in Japan (or South Korea) in March before the school-year hiring frenzy (or so I've read).

I know that the JET program in Japan looks to hire persons under 40 years old, but was wondering if my age (50) would be an impediment to acquiring an ESL job in other sectors such as the big-chain eikaiwa schools or as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher).

Any information on age as a limiting factor, or not, in obtaining ESL jobs in Japan, or South Korea, would be most appreciated.

Thanks.

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

You're pretty much in the same position I was a dozen years ago. Times in Japan have changed somewhat.

Yes, JET's principle it to hire under 40s. You can always try, though. The process is long.

As for your age, it won't be a huge factor for the other jobs, but you must realize how flooded the market is right now. Tons of applicants for some jobs -- by more experienced types and by those who are already in Japan.

Some ALT jobs are already being advertised for April next year. Few eikaiwas hire from abroad, and you have to go by their schedules.

Mr. Kalgukshi · Posted: Sun Nov 29, 2009 12:11 am Post subject:

Questions regarding living & teaching in Korea should be posted on the Korean Job Discussion Forums. Separate registration is required.

LateSky · Joined: 25 Nov 2009 Posts: 3

Glenski,

Thank you for the information.

Do you feel that the ESL job market in Japan is so over-saturated that it would be too difficult for newly-certified ESL teachers to find a position there?

Do you have any suggestions on where a better place in SE Asia might be to start an ESL career - China, S. Korea or Vietnam maybe?

Thanks.

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

"Too difficult"? No.
Difficult? Yes, but don't let that deter you. Learn what the market is like, and prepare for it.

GambateBingBangBOOM · Joined: 04 Nov 2003 Posts: 2021 Location: Japan

For some employers, age isn't really an issue (there is an assumption that you'll be leaving in a few years anyway) but for others there's an 'unofficial cut-off age' for foreign workers.

It depends on the employer.

LateSky · Joined: 25 Nov 2009 Posts: 3

Thanks Glenski,

In answer to your comment regarding length of term, I recon that I would prepare for the long-term (1 yr) but secretly favor short-term employment as a way to "sample" the field before making an otherwise major commitment, if you get my meaning.

My thought has been to acquire my in-house (ie, not online) TEFL certification in the country where I want most to teach. Would you agree or do you think there are any advantages to obtaining TEFL certification outside of Japan then looking for ESL work inside?

Also, while I have your attention, do you have any personal recommendations or warnings regarding TEFL certification schools in Japan? For example, I have been looking at TEFL International, Tokyo, as a potential candidate for TEFL training.

Thanks.

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