Job Discussion Forums

[Veek]

Hi. I would like to hear from people who are working in Japan or Hong Kong, or have done both. I have been teaching in Hong Kong for the last 8 years, and having started in a small private primary school, I have transferred to DSS schools and now am working on the NET scheme. I have 3 years of primary and 5 years of secondary experience.

I have a BA in Business and have completed my PGDE in English Language Education. I'm Eurasian, though I tend to look more Asian than Caucasian.

I would like to ask if you think it's worth trying my luck in Japan? Lately I'm becoming quite bored with life in HK and my wife doesn't like it too much either. However, would I be looking at the minimum pay in Japan or be able to do better? Please let me know what you think.

Thanks a lot.

[Glenski]

Doesn't matter how you look usually.

Does a PGDE mean a teaching license? If so, look for international school jobs if you have 2 years of experience using it.

Otherwise, I think you'll find that most employers don't really care about experience outside Japan. Some do. You're going to start on the bottom rung.

[Veek]

Dear Glenski,

Thanks for your reply. Your reply saying 'doesn't usually matter how you look' was appreciated ... since it seems like there are a few Asian employers who prefer the 'right' look .. just like here in Hong Kong.

I forgot to mention that I actually hold a Swiss passport, but I was educated in an International School following the British curriculum, so my education was in English. Moreover, I went to the UK for my University education. Would this be a major problem?

The PGDE is like a PGCE, but it was issued by the University of Hong Kong, so I doubt it travels well.

Anyway, I'm still mulling over whether to move on from Hong Kong. But thanks for your reply anyway.

Regards,
Vico.

[BBQchips]

if you went to an international school and uni in the uk then it seems your education won:t be a problem. someone else can correct me if i'm wrong about this but I believe they require 12 years of schooling being conducted in english. you qualify as far as that

[Glenski]