Job Discussion Forums

[Sez]

Hi there,

Looking at all the negative stuff about the 'big 4 schools' is very disheartening to say the least!
Would you say that these are the only schools in Japan that take people on with no/little experience?

I am planning to go to Japan in September. I have a degree in English Lang & Lit and a TEFL Certificate. I have no experience in teaching EFL though.

Would my only route be the big schools or would any other schools (perhaps more dedicated to teaching/not intent on ripping teachers off) take me on?

I really wondered if there would be any other schools worth applying to other than the big 4.

Thanks!

[PAULH]

Sez, there are plenty of schools you can apply to if you are already in the country, the big 4 are the largest but they are the only ones who recruit their own teachers overseas.

You will need to have a university degree to qualify for a work visa and at least US$3000-4000 for the first month until you get paid. Glenski has a breakdown of costs you will need to cover if you want them.

for a list of jobs where residency in Japan is generally required or desirable go to

http://www.ohayosensei.com
http://www.jobsinjapan.com
http://www.eltnews.com

Timing of your arrival is important too as many places slow down during the summer or are not hiring at certain times of the year so its best to find out when the best time to arrive is.

[Glenski]

I agree with Paul. Being in Japan affords you much greater opportunity to look around, provided that you have the finances to do so.

One more place to look online for work is www.gaijinpot.com. In fact, that site allows you to sign up for a free email response to jobs as they come in. You set the parameters.

Of course, The Japan Times is another source for job ads. Monday edition is where to look (up here in Sapporo, sadly, it has ads on Tuesday instead). TJT also has some ads online, but they are far from what you can find in the paper version.