Job Discussion Forums

aso43 · Joined: 12 Sep 2003 Posts: 9 Location: Toronto, Canada

Hi everyone! I've been checking out this forum quite a bit, and like many others have benefited greatly from this wealth of information. This is my first post, due mostly to a search that was unable to answer my question. Now whether or not this is due to my lack of searching abilities or the lack of relevant information on this forum, I don't know! So forgive me if this is a redundant question. Here it is: does anyone know anything of the Bernard English School located in the Ibaraki Prefecture? I suppose I am wondering about the working conditions, the hours, the classes, the material, etc... I am thinking of applying, but would enjoy hearing the advice/comments of more experienced individuals first!

Thanks,

aso43

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

I don't know the school, but if you were interested in the job, apply. If they offer you the job, there are some things you should ask or know before you accept. First, ask to talk to a teacher currently working there. Second, go over the contract very carefully. If there is anything in it that makes you wonder, than ask us here. We can tell you if it's normal or not. Ask them about teacher development, work hours, student's ages, your teaching schedule, holidays, medical, apartment (sharing?, furnished?), any deductions (rent, medical), travel to the school from home. Their answers will speak volumes about what kind of school they are.
Hope this helps

JimDunlop2 · Joined: 31 Jan 2003 Posts: 2286 Location: Japan

Gordon's right. Apply first, sweat the details later. From my experience applying for jobs, I've found that it's a complete crapshoot. Jobs which you figure you're best suited for don't even call you back for an interview, while others that you think are never going to happen give you an offer.

Gordon had some solid advice; the only thing I would add, is that sometimes it's impossible to know how you will like the job until you actually start (even if you've done your research)... But that's just part of the fun of working in Japan... Smile

Good luck.

JD

aso43 · Joined: 12 Sep 2003 Posts: 9 Location: Toronto, Canada

Thank you both for the advice. And you're both correct, I suppose I just wanted the reassurance that this isn't the worst school in Japan to work for. I'm also planning on applying to one or two of the big 4, but I was hoping to cut my losses and apply to some smaller schools. I guess these schools must receive thousands of applications, but if someone has to get the job why not me? I'll send my stuff in, and if I hear back then I'll let you know. Cross your fingers for me, and thanks again!

aso43

sutekigaijin · Joined: 19 Jul 2003 Posts: 24

We need Glenski on this post because he knows best. He is the smartest, most knowledgable S.O.B. on this forum. Where are you Mr. Glenski>?

johnslat

Dear sutekigaijin,
I don't know why you seem to have such a dislike of Glenski, but in my opinion you're making a fool of yourself with these posts. That's your right, of course - and it helps to be anonymous. But if your feelings about him are so strong, why not have the courage to PM him, rather than displaying your silliness on the forums?
Regards,
John