Job Discussion Forums

blue_mojo · Joined: 13 Mar 2010 Posts: 2 Location: USA

Hello:

I am new to eslcafe. I have spent 3 days now, reading various posts. Hopefully, I will Not repeat any previous threads.

I have read about job offers / contracts that last 1-3 years. But I would like to know: How common is it to work in Japan beyond 2 or 3 years for a certain school? Do most foreign teachers have to go from school to school after 1-3 years?

I ask because I am aware now from various posts about the age discrimination situation in Japan.

Does it get harder and harder to get that Next Contract? Or do Japanese schools cut you some slack, once you have "REAL experience" in Japan?

I welcome feedback from ANY age group - but would like to hear especially from 35+ like me.

Thank you in advance. Very Happy

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

1. At 35 you should not be concerned about age discrimination.

2. Contracts are for 1 year at a time, although they are often described as longer that usually means you can be renewed that long.

3. If you start out in eikaiwa, you might not want to stay longer than 1-3 years at one company anyway. Eikaiwa is not really a career, but more of a stepping stone.

blue_mojo · Joined: 13 Mar 2010 Posts: 2 Location: USA

Thanks, Glenski for your response and taking the time to read my post! Laughing

I was Not aware that most people move on from eikaiwa jobs, and use them just as a starting point.

flyer · Joined: 16 May 2003 Posts: 539 Location: Sapporo Japan

its often very much case by case (its very hard to be general)

as I have been in my position for over 5 years (over 40)

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