Job Discussion Forums

[Jalapeter]

Hi all,

I'm looking for a bit of advice on coming over to Japan to teach English.

I have applied for a few eikaiwas and have done well in the interview process. However, none of them can tell me where I'll be placed. While I can totally understand their point of view (i.e. they can only hire teachers where there are openings) I am coming over to Japan to be in Tokyo or Chiba. Why? I'll be upfront, cards on the table - my girlfriend lives there. I want to go out there for a year or so before we come back to the UK.

I realise that this restricts me rather a lot, though I have found the following options:

- GABA - they are specifically asking for teachers in Tokyo
- Working Holiday Visa - I could get this and then apply in person when I'm in Tokyo. I am not sure if this is extendable, though?

I was wondering if anyone had any other ideas?

Thanks
Pete

[Glenski]

Unless you are Australian, the working holiday visa is good only for a total of 12 months. Aussies get an extra 6.

If you come on a WHV, you don't have to worry about finding a sponsor or about finding only FT work. Consider those things.

As for placement, be up front and hope for the best. Nobody can tell you your chances.

As for GABA, you can do far, far better.

[benshi]

Your only option is probably going to be the WHV, unless you get really lucky. GABA does not usually sponsor work visas for brand new teachers, although if you stick around with them for awhile and they think you are doing a good job they will sponsor a renewal in some cases.

WHV is good for 6 months, and renewable once. That's it.

There are quite a few jobs in Tokyo, but also quite a lot of competition. (as in, literally, 100 applicants or so for every vacancy.) At the eikaiwa in Chiba where I work, we began soliciting applications in January for 2 positions or so opening up this summer and we already have well over 100 applicants. Unless there is something special about your resume that you haven't yet mentioned, you have as much (or as little) chance as anyone else.

My advice is take whatever you can find wherever you can find it, to get a visa and your foot in the door. Once you are here you can start networking and interviewing in person for a job closer to the location you want. Having a visa and being in country will make you a bit more attractive to potential employers.

[Jalapeter]

Thanks for the replies!

As for the WHV, it does state it is for a year, as opposed to six months. I had just heard talk that it was extendable... not that it matters too much, I suppose - a year is certainly better than nothing. As you say, I could come over and grab whatever I can find.

As for GABA, yes.. I have heard some horror stories... but to be honest, I've heard horror stories about ALL of these schools! I also like the idea of teaching one-to-one and being able to sort out my own schedule (even if it does mean working peak times.)

But we'll see. I really appreciate your advice