|
This document is a general guide in answer to questions that are commonly asked about working for Shane English School Japan (SESJ) and will be updated should any of the situations below change.
Please contact your recruiter if there are any points you are unclear of. Teachers should refer to the information material and orientation pack (available after interview) and Work Regulations and Directives (provided with employment offer) for more detailed answers to these questions.
Some of the answers contain detailed information that may be useful at various stages of the recruitment procedure, but may be too detailed if you are at the early stages of the application.
Spending (at least) one year in a faraway and foreign country is a big commitment and it is best to clear up any doubts or areas that you are unsure of before signing your Letter of Understanding and departing for Japan.
|
A. Applications
1. When should I apply?
3-5 months before departure. This is mainly due to the visa process, which takes 2-3 months, depending on time of year. If you include the interview stage, applying for references and the time taken for teachers to collate visa documents, then 3-5 months is the average time taken for the entire recruitment process.
2. I am due to take a CELTA/TESOL course. Should I apply afterwards?
Because of the length of the visa process, it is better to apply before you take the course to allow you to depart as soon as possible after completing the course. All offers will be conditional on passing the course.
3. When do you recruit teachers?
We recruit all year round, with teachers arriving in Tokyo at the end of most months. Some periods are busier than others, such as January, March and June.
4. Who do you employ?
Any native English speakers, regardless of nationality can apply for employment with SESJ. Teachers must have a full university degree. The minimum requirement for obtaining a Visa from the Immigration Authorities is the equivalent of a 3-year BA/BSc University degree. Unfortunately an HND does not fit the requirements of the Immigration Authorities. Teachers should have a recognized TEFL qualification or equivalent (for example RSA/Cambridge CELTA or Trinity TESOL). Teachers with a PGCE are also welcome to apply, provided that they complete the one-week Foundation English Language Teaching (FELT) course, which is provided by Saxoncourt Teacher Training at a cost of £225. There are a limited number of places available for applicants without such qualifications, and they will need to complete the one week FELT course. However, we do recommend that they study for a recognized 4-week TEFL course to better prepare them for teaching in Japan and to improve future career prospects.
5. I am waiting to graduate. What shall I do?
You will need your original degree certificate to apply for a visa. Some universities will provide these as early as July, whereas students of other universities (especially ex-polytechnics) may need to wait until the autumn or winter. Teachers could expect to go to Japan about 2-3 months after receiving their university degree. It is worth enquiring directly to your university registrar about this. It is important to bear this in mind when applying to avoid sending in your application too early. The best time to apply is about 2 months before expected graduation, allowing for a 4-week TEFL course should you be taking one.
6. Can we apply as a couple?
Yes. If you are both suitable teachers, SESJ will do everything that we can to provide you with a couple's apartment and ensure that you are working in the same district.
7. Can I apply for a senior position such as Senior Teacher or ADOS?
Senior Teacher positions are only open to teachers who have worked for SESJ for at least a year, as the positions require a detailed inside knowledge of how individual branch schools operate. Teachers with more than 3 years' experience, including Younger Learners, previous supervisory experience and preferably with a DELTA or MA TEFL are welcome to apply for an ADOS position. New managers always enter at the ADOS, rather than DOS level, as the set-up in Japan is different from other EFL institutions in places such as Europe. Teachers without Younger Learners experience are unlikely to be considered for senior positions at first, but are welcome to apply in Japan once they have gained sufficient experience and expertise in this area.
8. Can I apply by sending a CV? Yes you can, but you will also be required to register you application on our website where you can upload your CV and other requested documnets.
9. Do I need to attend an interview?
All teachers will need to attend an interview. We prefer our applicants to attend in person but telephone interviews can be conducted if they live overseas, or have some difficulty making it into London. Interviews in the UK are held at Saxoncourt offices in London during office hours Monday-Friday. Travel costs to interviews will not be reimbursed.
10. What is the interview format?
All interviews are 1-to-1, with one recruitment consultant rather than a panel. Teachers interviewed in London will have the opportunity to view textbooks and photographs of students, lessons and accommodation. The actual interview will look at the teacher's background, experience, reasons for wanting to teach in Japan, knowledge of Japanese students and teaching ideas. Practical teaching-based questions will include elements from the Pre-Interview Task that the teacher will have submitted with the Application Form. The key parts of the job - such as lesson types, salary, travel schedules and accommodation - will be looked at, and it's important that the teacher asks any questions at this stage. The interview will take about 75 minutes. Teachers should come dressed as they would for work in Japan and bring original TEFL certificates.
11. When will I know if I have been successful?
Job offers cannot be made until at least 2 academic or professional references are received. Therefore the teacher should know 2weeks after the interview; this may be delayed if references have not been obtained.
12. When do I have to commit myself to accepting a job offer?
After the interview, teachers will be given all the necessary documentation and information to be able to make a balanced judgement about the job. Teachers should contact the recruiter if there is anything they are unclear of. If a job offer is made, the teacher will be given 10-14 days to accept and return the required visa documents. This is a commitment to employment, and if there are any uncertainties it is vital that the applicant contact the recruiter. It may be possible to defer the offer for a limited amount of time to allow more thinking time. Pulling out at a later date will be extremely problematic and will cause inconvenience to other teachers, and the Japanese visa authorities. Therefore it is better to express any doubts before accepting an employment offer.
B. Visas
1. How do I obtain a visa?
SESJ will sponsor your working visa and help you through the application process. However, it remains the responsibility of the teacher to submit the correct documents on time. Failure to do so could result in delays or cancelling of the visa and employment offer. Teachers will need to submit passport photos, a signed Japanese Job Description and Letter of Understanding, photocopies of passport and details of previous visits to Japan and your original degree certificate. These papers are then sent to SESJ who will collate them and submit them to the Immigration Office in Tokyo. After some time, Immigration will issue a Certificate of Eligibility (C of E), which is then sent to the recruitment office. The teacher will need to collect this and take it to the Japanese embassy with the passport and wait about a week for this to be returned. This is a long process, and it is important that the teacher is contactable in case any problems arise. There is no guarantee as to how long the process will take.
2. Why do I need to send my original degree certificate?
This is a requirement of the Japanese Immigration Authorities and SESJ do not have any jurisdiction over this decision.
3. I want to go travelling prior to my departure. Is this possible?
Yes, but but new employees need to ensure they are able to visit a Japanese Embassy in the country of their travels to apply for their visa, and are then able to return to the Embassy about a week later to collect it. This procedure usually takes place about two to three weeks before the teacher is due to arrive in Japan. Teachers must be contactable while they are away as recruiters often need to contact teachers about visa or work-related issues, and if teachers are uncontactable, there could be a delay in issuing a visa, or a teacher may be unaware of an important change in policy.
4. What standard of passport photos should I submit?
Photos must be of a high standard (Japanese requirements are stricter than in the UK) with good quality paper and image. Submitting below-standard photos will delay your visa application and you will have to resubmit your photo, which may lead to the delayed issue of your visa and postpone your departure date. We advise going to a passport photo studio or 'Studio Polaroid'. Please call your recruiter if you are unsure about this. Many of the modern 'posable' digital photo booths produce poor quality photographs that may be rejected by Japanese Immigration.
5. When do I get my Certificate of Eligibility (C of E)?
You will be issued with a C of E about three weeks before your departure, although this will depend on the date they were submitted and Japanese Immigration.
6. Can you guarantee my departure date?
When you submit your visa application and documents, we will be able to inform you of the most likely departure dates. However, we cannot confirm the exact departure date until about 7 weeks prior to departure when it becomes clearer as to how many vacancies there will be. Visa hold-ups could also possibly delay departure.
7. I submitted my documents several months in advance of my departure - will I receive my C of E much earlier than my departure date?
Because the C of E is only valid for a certain amount of time, the school may need to hold on to your documents for a while before submitting them to avoid your C of E expiring before your departure date. Therefore the C of E will not arrive much earlier.
8. Other people in my group have received their C of Es but not me - is there a problem?
No. Predicting exactly when a C of E will be issued by Japanese Immigration is difficult and even visa applications made at the same time will vary in the time taken to process before a C of E is issued. Those that are issued are collected and sent in small batches on a regular basis from our visa coordinator in Japan to our recruitment offices. If there is any chance of your C of E being delayed, the SESJ visa department will notify us immediately. Unfortunately we cannot contact Japanese immigration directly concerning individual cases and you will need to remain patient during this stage of the procedure.
9. When will I get my degree certificate back?
You should be able to pick up your degree certificate when you get your C of E. If your university degree in oversized (larger than A4) you will need to pick it up from the school in Japan so as to avoid any damage in the post.
C. Flights
1. Who arranges the flight? Can I arrange my own?
New teachers are required to arrange their flights to Japan.
2. Who pays for the flight?
Teachers will pay for the flight but receive a contract completion bonus 65,000 yen.
3. How much luggage can I take?
Under the current contract with the company airline, the current allowance is 20kg. Hand Luggage allowance is 6kg. Excess baggage is charged at £30 / kg.
4. What happens when I arrive? Will I be met at the airport?
All teachers will be welcomed in the arrival hall at Narita Airport, Japan. Teachers who have requested to stay in Shane accommodation will be accompanied to their new accommodation or hotel if their apartment is not ready. If you have arranged your own accommodation, it will be your responsibility to make travel arrangements.
5. Should I take out Insurance?
Assuming that you join the Company Health Scheme, you will be covered for all health insurance claims (excluding pre-existing conditions) from the moment that you touch down in Japan. Travel insurance for the duration of the journey to Japan should be included in the cost of your flight. With regards to household insurance, this is quite unusual in Japan and as a result is also quite expensive. If you have expensive items with you, it may be possible to insure these as an extension to your UK household insurance. Please contact your personal insurance broker if you require further information.
6. What's the best/cheapest way of sending extra items to Japan?
The cheapest way is to divide your stuff into smaller parcels and send via the 'small packets and printed papers' rate with Royal Mail. Surface Mail, which takes up to 8 weeks will cost £8.20 for a 2kg parcel; the same parcel will cost £20.21 by airmail (as of Jan 2003). Royal Mail does not seem to deal with Sea Mail. It may be worth checking other couriers such as DHL, FedEx, etc - although their prices are likely to be higher. Sending extra luggage on your airline is to be avoided, as it involves a couple of trips to Narita Airport on another day (when you are supposed to be training), negotiating forklift trucks in a hangar and requires an excellent knowledge of Japanese language red tape. We have been asked by teachers who tried this to warn others not to do so!
D. Apartments and Locations
1. How do I find an apartment? Who pays?
SESJ organises single apartments for all teachers that request this when applying, so there is no need to worry about this before departing for Japan. The teacher pays the rent, which is deducted at source from the teacher's salary. The maximum rent is capped at 78,000 yen per month for a single apartment. Teachers are under no obligation to accept company provided accommodation and may arrange their own if preferred.
However, teachers wishing to live in private accommodation should consult their recruiter to ensure that the accommodation is within reasonable travelling distance of our schools. SESJ is unable to provide any assistance to teachers wishing to find their own accommodation and contract commencement dates may be delayed until a vacancy in the area of the accommodation arises.
2. Can I get help with start-up costs?
SESJ provides an interest free loan to all new teachers. This loan pays for the company accommodation charges from the day that the teacher arrives until the second salary payment. It also covers health insurance, which starts on the day the teacher arrives in Japan and new bedding (futon, mattress, pillow, duvet, sheets and blanket) which is the teacher's property.
This loan is designed to help teachers settle into their new country without the need for financial hardship in the first few months. The loan is repayable from the teacher's first four full salaries in equal payments. This loan is optional and teachers are under no obligation to accept it. However, experience shows that nearly all of our teachers, who accept company accommodation, prefer to opt for this financial assistance.
The loan amounts to approximately 130,000 - 140,000 yen. Teachers who take the loan will need to bear in mind that their salaries will be significantly lower for the first 4 months whilst they are paying off the loan.
3. Why is the apartment more expensive than the market rate?
SESJ adds a small surcharge to the rent for apartments that does bring the rent slightly higher than the market rate. The reason for this is that SESJ does not charge its tenants for key money (a non-returnable gift to the landlord usually in the region of two months rent) nor deposits. In addition to this all SESJ apartments are basically furnished with a washing machine, fridge, toaster oven, cooking utensils and other essential items.
4. Will I be living in the same block as other teachers? Will I share my apartment?
SESJ does its best to ensure that teachers always have other teachers living within the same vicinity. All Shane apartments are private and teachers are usually placed within a 5-minute walk or so of another colleague. Occasionally teachers will be placed in the same block, but this cannot be guaranteed.
5. Can I choose where I live?
SESJ always strives to take new teachers requests into consideration when deciding on district allocations. Unfortunately, due to operational requirements it is not possible to guarantee these requests, but please feel free to discuss the options with your recruiter. You will usually know whether we can grant particular requests about ten days prior to your departure, but please make requests at the time of your interview. Any requests should be made IN WRITING to the recruiter, either on the Application Form, or at a later stage by letter or e-mail. Please state clearly the reason for this request [eg partner/friend living nearby, don't want to live in the centre, etc] no later then TWO MONTHS prior to departure.
7. If I don't like my apartment, can I ask for another one? Are they safe?
SESJ ensures that all company apartments are of an equivalent quality and suitable standard. Once you have been assigned to an apartment it is not normally possible to request to move, unless there are any extenuating circumstances. SESJ has a policy of not placing female teachers in ground floor apartments.
8. Can I move out of my company apartment?
If you choose to live in SESJ accommodation you are free to move into private accommodation at any time, provided that you give the company two full calendar months' written notice of your intention to move out. However, once you have been assigned to a district you will be required to continue in the same schedule and SESJ will not pay for any excess travel costs if you should move to a location outside the district.
9. Can I share with a friend?
It is always possible to accommodate married couples working for SESJ in a couple's apartments and on occasion, depending upon the availability of apartments, two friends may also share. However, apartments in Japan are much smaller than in the UK and this should be kept in mind when making this decision. Due to higher rents teachers working Tokyo City may be required to live in shared accommodation. Teachers who prefer not to do this should indicate so on their application form, though this may affect their chances of working in that district. Couples cannot live in a "single's" apartment due to tenancy agreements.
10. Are there any jobs outside Tokyo?
As well as the 200 or so schools in the Kanto Region, SESJ also has a small number of schools in Nagoya, Shikoku and Kyushu. These 'Outside Region' positions are usually reserved for more experienced teachers who are in their second, or subsequent, year of employment.
E. Contracts
1. How long is the contract?
The contract is for one year. SESJ will not employ anyone for less than one year.
2. What happens if I leave before the end of the contract? What are the penalties?
SESJ is very serious about the minimum contract period of one year and candidates who foresee not being able to make this commitment should not consider applying to SESJ. Leaving before the end of the first year would be considered as a breach of contract and would incur penalties as laid out in the contract of employment. However, SESJ realises that as ex-patriots, circumstances occasionally arise which may require you to return to your home country. Assuming that the necessary documentary evidence is provided, SESJ will take a more compassionate view of such cases. The most important factor is to keep us, as your employer, fully aware of any personal circumstances that may affect your work. Remember that we are here to help.
3. Can I renew my contract?
At the end of the contract assuming that both parties are in agreement and that the employee's performance has been satisfactory throughout the whole duration of the previous contract then the contract will be renewed. Teachers will of course receive performance reviews during the course of their contract.
4. If I renew do I have to stay the whole year?
No. Once the first year contract has been completed, teachers may terminate the contract provided that they give 2 full calendar month's notice of their intention to leave. i.e. if a teacher wishes to leave at the end of March, then the resignation must be made by the last working day of January. However, if a teacher is promoted to the position of Senior Teacher, or requests to be transferred to a different district or to an Outside Region school, then he/she must complete a full year in this role, irrespective of how long he has been with the company.
5. What's the difference between ex-gratia bonuses & overtime?
Overtime may be either teaching or non-teaching overtime and is paid with the salary for the given month. Teaching overtime is paid where the number of contact teaching hours on any given day exceeds six. Non-teaching overtime is paid where the time from the shift start time to the end of the shift, on any given day exceeds 9 hours. Ex-gratia bonuses however are paid quarterly where the total number of hours taught in a given the quarter exceeds 275.
6. Can I take holidays when I want?
The annual holidays for SESJ are generous, but teachers are not usually granted additional personal days of leave in their first year of employment, unless there are extenuating circumstances. In second and subsequent years teachers may take additional unpaid leave in agreement with their line manager and depending upon operational requirements.
7. Do I get sick pay?
Not directly. Sick pay is related to the quarterly ex-gratia bonus. For each day of work that an employee misses, a proportional deduction will be made from their monthly salary. However, the target hours for the quarterly bonus will be reduced for 5 hours for each day missed. E.g. if a teacher misses one day of work in a given quarter the target hours will be reduced from 275 to 270. Assuming that teachers have a healthy average schedule and are working the required number of hours then the employee will not lose out by more than 1500 yen per day.
8. Can I transfer to other Shane schools in Asia?
After the satisfactory completion of at least your first year contract, you will have the opportunity to apply for positions with Shane English School, Taiwan and China. Internal transfers are high on our agenda and we aim to provide a solid structure for teacher development, teaching opportunities and internal promotions, both within Shane English Schools and Saxoncourt affiliated companies around the globe, to all of our employees. Academic line managers will discuss these opportunities with you at your appraisal meetings.
9. Can I choose my district if I renew?
Once a teacher has been assigned to a district, it is expected that they will remain there and in the same schedule for at least a year. On completion of the contract a vast majority of renewing teachers select to stay in their original district. However, on occasion, for personal reasons or just for a change of scene, teachers request to relocate to a new district. SESJ is happy to assist teachers with this provided that the employee can sign a new one-year minimum period contract.
F. Money
1. Can I save a lot? How much?
This is a particularly difficult question to answer as people's lifestyles and thus expenditures vary dramatically, as do their financial commitments back home. However, we believe that a 1st year teacher with a careful and non-extravagant lifestyle and who were seriously intent on saving would be able to save about 3,000 GBP per annum. Please note that this is an estimate and will depend on exchange rates and the teacher's lifestyle!
2. How much bonus will I make?
The quarterly ex-gratia bonus varies from teacher to teacher, depending upon the individual schedule. However, the current average ex-gratia bonus is about 20,000 yen and can be much higher or lower. Many teachers do not earn a regular bonus.
3. How do costs compare to the UK? Isn't Japan really expensive?
The days in which Japan was a very expensive place to live have now gone and prices are continuing to fall to a level which is similar to that of the UK. This depends however on the commodity and accommodation tends to be particularly expensive when compared to European countries [although reasonable when compared to London]. Imported goods are still slightly expensive but by shopping around you will soon discover where to find the best value. Shopping in the same places as the locals will help to keep your expenditure down. The company refunds transport costs from your home station to the schools and tax and insurance will amount to about 8% of income; these factors significantly lower the cost of living when comparing to the UK.
4. Do I need to set up a bank account in Japan? How do I do this?
Yes. You will need to set up a bank account once all of your registration processes have been completed. This is fairly straightforward and the company will provide you with all of the necessary documentation and assistance that you require. Your salary will be paid into your account by direct debit. You will not be able to have money paid into your UK account.
5. How can I send money home?
This can be done in a variety of ways and most teachers either use the post office or Lloyds bank. At the post office you can arrange for money to be sent in the form of a Giro Cheque to a designated person in the UK. Alternatively, Lloyds bank offer a 'Fly your money home' service that allows you to make bank transfers from your local ATMs here in Japan to an account overseas.
6. Can I pay off my student loans?
Most employees are able to pay their monthly instalments for student loans off whilst working for us. For those who do not have sufficient earnings to be required to make repayments the school will provide the necessary letters confirming salaries to help in the deferment of the loans.
7. Can I use my visa/cirrus card in ATMs?
Using international credit cards in Japan is becoming increasingly easy and it is possible to buy items using foreign credit cards in most major stores. Obtaining money from ATMs can be a little more difficult and you should ask your particular bank for advice on this before leaving the UK [Japanese ATMs have a different card system to most other countries]. In central Tokyo using credit cards in ATMs is easier than in the provinces, but cash advances can be made from some banks, over the counter, if the ATMs cannot be used. Branches of City Bank in central Tokyo have international-standard ATMs that accept Visa and Cirrus. In recent years the Post Office has been providing an increasing service for cash withdrawals from ATMs at major branches. Debit cards such as Switch and Solo are not accepted.
8. How much money should I bring? How should I bring it?
We advise all new employees that you should bring at least £1000 to see you through your first 5 or 6 weeks until your first salary. This can be brought in travellers cheques, cash (Japanese Yen). Bringing Japanese Yen travellers cheques saves you paying commission twice.
G. Insurance, Tax, Pensions
1.Will I have to pay UK income tax on my earnings in Japan when I return? What about NI contributions?
Teachers are advised to contact the Inland Revenue for the latest tax and NI information. If you are out of the country for 12 months consecutively, you will normally be classified as 'non-resident and non-domicile' and therefore not liable to UK income tax, although you will have to be careful with remittances, which technically should be liable to UK income tax. You can inform the Inland Revenue either at the time of departure or on return from Japan of your situation. Information is available from the Inland Revenue at www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/cnr/ but they will only assess your situation on a case-by-case situation. You can continue to pay minimum NI contributions if you wish, and this can be done directly with the Inland Revenue. However, unless you ask to do this, your NI contributions will cease as soon as you stop employment in the UK.
2. Can I join a pension scheme?
After completing 9 months of their first contract teachers become eligible to join the school's contributory pension scheme. The school will match teachers monthly contributions up to £150 per month i.e. £300 in total. Teachers will be informed of this by their DoS in Japan.
3. What does the company insurance cover? Do I have to take it?
Please refer to the separate insurance policy for details of coverage. No employee is obliged to join the private health insurance scheme and may opt to take out their own policy. However, each employee must be able to prove to the company that they have adequate alternative coverage, and this should be done several weeks prior to departure. Unless the school is informed otherwise, teachers will be placed on the company insurance scheme so that they are covered as soon as they land in Japan.
4. Does it cover repatriation? Dentists?
Yes. If you are taken seriously ill and need to return to your home country for medical treatment, or a close family member in your home country suddenly and unexpectedly suffers from a life-threatening illness or passes away, then the health insurance will cover some of your repatriation costs. Emergency dental costs are covered but you are advised to have a thorough dental check-up prior to departing for Japan.
5. What happens if I have an accident? Do I pay medical bills upfront?
Any life threatening condition will be treated immediately without the need to prove insurance coverage. If however the condition is not life threatening you may need to contact the Health Insurance Company before medical procedures can commence. For small costs it is normal for you to be required to pay up front. However, if the costs are substantial then it is possible to negotiate direct payment to the hospital from the Health Insurers. Please remember to keep your insurance card on you at all times and contact them as soon as possible to start a claim. In the cases where you are required to pay up front, the full cost will be refunded to you a few days after you submit the necessary paperwork and receipts.
6. Can I visit an English Speaking Doctor? How do I find a doctor?
SESJ welfare staff will be able to provide a list of English speaking doctors in your locality.
7. Will I be able to obtain my regular medication? Will this be covered by the company insurance?
Pre-existing conditions are not covered by the company insurance scheme, and it is vital that you record such information on the Application Form so the recruiter can advise you on this. If you need any special medicine, try to bring as much as you can. It is probably available here but might be difficult to get hold of, and anyway basic medicines are much cheaper in the UK. If you have a prescribed medicine make sure your doctor spells out exactly what it is (in very clear handwriting). This would help the Japanese doctor recognise it.
8. Does it cover possessions?
The insurance cover deducted from your monthly salary is only for health purposes and does not cover possessions or liability cover. However with regards to household contents insurance, this is paid as part of your monthly rent if you are in Shane accommodation. The total paid is roughly 1,000yen per month and is valid subject to a police report after a break in. Those teachers who decide not to live in Shane accommodation should make their own arrangements for home insurance.
H. Training
1. How much training will I get?
CELTA-qualified teachers - 7 days in Japan (5 initial, 2 follow-up) FELT teachers - 5 in the UK, 10 days in Japan (5 initial, 5 follow-up)
2. What does training cover?
The Saxoncourt Teaching English to Younger Learners (TEYL) course covers all aspects of teaching Younger Learners for 2 years old to High School, and includes methodology, drilling, classroom games, classroom management and how to effectively use textbooks and classroom resources. New teachers will observe more experienced teachers and they themselves will be observed as part of this training. Follow-up training will focus on teaching reading, writing and phonics, as well as teaching pronunciation to adults and 1-to-1 lessons. Other workshops will focus on teaching for exams (TOEIC, IELTS), Business English, special lessons (such as Intensives) and any other areas that teachers request help with.
3. When do we get training?
All new teachers: 4 days when you first arrive [usually] + a day to prepare lessons with Directors of Studies. 2 days on school holidays for follow-up training Morning workshops before school FELT teachers receive all the above training plus: 3 full days, sometimes on their regular day off, sometimes they'll be covered to be able to attend [usually one Sunday per month at the start of contract] All teachers will be provided with a training schedule for their first two weeks in Japan.
4. Is training compulsory, even I have a lot of experience?
Yes, as training involves looking at the different learning needs of our students and the textbooks we use, which even experienced teachers still need to learn about.
5. Will I get special training for business, exams etc?
Workshops exist for business and exam classes and will be run on a periodic basis. Teachers can request that these workshops be held and are always able to approach their DoSs for advice.
6. How much academic support will I get?
DoSs are always available to answer any particular questions. New teachers are also regularly observed, so DoSs can give them support that they need.
>> NB: For FELT (non CELTA/TESOL) teachers:
7. Can I upgrade my FELT to a CELTA in Japan?
Yes. SESJ is one of only two training organisations accredited to administer this course in Japan. Shane teachers are able to take the course on a part-time basis while continuing to work full-time, and are offered a generous discount on the price.
7. As a FELT teacher, will I be adequately prepared for teaching?
CELTA and FELT teachers do the same Younger Learner training when they first arrive, which means that they will have received a similar amount of training for dealing with those classes. FELT teachers receive additional training for teaching adults, but this is ongoing so initially a CELTA teacher will be much more prepared for teaching adults than a FELT teacher. FELT teachers will need to realize that they'll have to work hard to implement everything that is covered in training and that their classes will gradually improve as time goes on.
8. Will I be less valued than a CELTA teacher?
Other than a difference in salary paid to reflect the extra investment made by teachers who have completed a CELTA course there is no question of FELT teachers being less valued. It is understood that FELT teachers will require extra training and support but they will be given schedules exactly the same as those given to CELTA qualified teachers and expected to teach them just as satisfactorily.
9. Will I have a chance of promotion?
We have a few FELT teachers who are Senior Teachers. However, without gaining further formal ELT qualifications anything higher than that (ADoS etc.) is extremely unlikely.
I. Teaching and Schedules
1. When do I start teaching?
You will start teaching after you have completed your first week of training. In most cases our new recruits arrive on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday and you will generally start teaching the Monday after arrival.
2. What days off will I have?
New teachers will either have: Sunday plus one weekday off (Tues, Wed, Thurs or Fri). Two consecutive weekdays off (eg Tues and Wed) if they work on Sundays. These days off will normally remain unchanged for throughout the year. Second year teachers have priority in getting consecutive days off (e.g. Sat/Sun or Sun/Mon). Teachers will also work a number of 6-day weeks, which could be on either of these regular days off.
3. Will I have to work extra days?
Teachers are contracted to work 233 days in their contract, which includes 220 regular teaching days from regular 5-day weeks. The remaining 13 days will be comprised of follow-up training, stand-by and cover (for sick or absent teachers), open days and events. Therefore, teachers will work a number of 6-day weeks as part of their contract. Teachers are given notice about any of these days - a monthly cover and stand-by schedule is published on the 22nd of each month.
4. How long is the working day?
Teachers are given a 9-hour 'shift' for each working day (e.g. 12 to 9, 1 to 10), which will include one hour of meal breaks and a maximum of 6 hours teaching. Travel time needs to be added to this. Weekdays tend to be afternoon/evening work and weekends tend to have earlier starts.
5. Do I work in the same school every day?
No. Teachers will usually work in 3 or 4 different schools during the week.
6. Do I have to teach kids?
Yes. Due to the market for English study in Japan, it is impossible to assign schedules with exclusively adult students to teachers and all of our teachers will be required to teach Young Learners. The proportion of your schedule that consists of children's classes varies from teacher to teacher, but usually is 50% of your schedule. Although many new teachers are daunted by the prospect of teaching children, many come to feel that these are the most rewarding classes to teach.
7. Do I get observed?
Yes. Initially you will be observed by your line manager in your first few weeks of teaching and then about three weeks later. After this you will be observed as part of your continual development programme on a regular basis. After each observation with your line manager you will have a feedback session in which you will be given the opportunity to discuss areas of your teaching which are going well as well as those which need to be improved. As well as these observations with your line manager, you may also periodically be observed by potential students, students' parents, school staff and your peers.
8. Is there enough time to prepare for lessons?
Yes. Teachers get a minimum of one hour preparation time before their first lesson. Because the working day is 8 hours and there is a maximum 6 hours' teaching, there is a minimum of 2 hours in the working day for preparation/admin.
9. Do I have access to a photocopier and supplementary materials?
Although no schools have their own photocopiers, these are available for use in your Regional Head Office or Head School. These also have a wide range of supplementary materials that you can use. Schools also have all of the materials that you will need for each lesson.
10. Are there computers in the schools?
No. Although by arrangement with your line manager it may be possible to use a computer in your regional head office for lesson preparation purposes.
11. What teaching materials should I take with me?
All of the materials that you will require can be found in our schools and head offices. However, all teachers should possess a good grammar reference book that will prove an essential item and if you have any favourite photocopiable materials, please feel free to bring these with you.
12. How do you differ in terms of methodology compared to other schools in Japan? Compared to other countries?
Unlike our major competitors we employ a variety of texts each chosen to meet the specific needs of the level or age group of students being taught. Furthermore we don't have a 'Shane method'. Instead we have a number of well-qualified and experienced academic managers who advise and support teachers in trying to meet the needs of their students. Teachers are best placed to understand those needs as again unlike our major competitors, teachers have a fixed schedule, are able to meet their students each week and, within agreed pacing parameters, therefore determine the optimum method for teaching their students. TEFL in Japan is a very different market to other countries, especially Europe and South America. There is more focus on 'communication' and lessons are much shorter. A lot of TEFL ideas do not work so well in Japan - such as a lot of discussion and debates.
13. Which exam courses will I teach?
This again will depend upon your individual schedules but course which are commonly taught include: IELTS, FCE and other Cambridge exams, TOEIC, EIKEN, TOEFL etc.
14. How much business teaching is there?
This varies from schedule to schedule but will usually be given to teachers with previous experience in this area. As this is not always possible teachers who are required to teach business classes without previous experience will receive the necessary training.
15. Can I teach privately?
Teaching privately is not allowed for full-time teachers and any other employment must first be approved by your line manager.
J. Dress
1. What constitutes acceptable work dress?
Teachers in Japan are expected to be dressed smartly, in attire that is acceptable for a business environment. The General Directives for Teachers states: The Teacher should wear smart clothes and shoes that would be suitable for normal office wear. This means that male Teachers should wear a formal shirt and tie, and a business suit/trousers (not jeans) and formal shoes (not training shoes, boots or sandals). Female Teachers should wear a formal blouse (not T-shirt) with a business suit/skirt/trousers, or a dress, and formal shoes or boots (not training shoes or "Doc Marten" style boots). Hairstyles, jewellery and standards of personal hygiene should be consistent with these guidelines.
2. Do I have to shave off my beard?
No. Provided that it is neatly groomed and in line with the above dress code.
3. Do I have to wear a tie for all lessons?
Yes. This is an essential component of business wear for men.
4. Can I wear jewellery?
It is acceptable for female - but not male - teachers to wear modest jewellery such as earrings. However, nose rings and studs must not be worn by any teacher.
5. Is it true that the Japanese do not like tattoos?
Having tattoos has traditionally been a sign that you are a member of the Yakuza - the Japanese mafia. At school, any tattoos must be covered up. Many public baths, swimming pools and gyms ban people with visible tattoos.
K. Social / Pastoral
1. Do I get Japanese lessons?
Yes. Many local councils also offer free lessons for foreigners and the school will organise for you to attend a course nearby. Recommended study books are 'Japanese For Busy People' or 'Teaching Yourself Japanese'. A travel phrase book is essential.
2. Are there social events for teachers?
Throughout the year special events are made available to teachers company-wide. The events held in 2002 included a visit to Sumo Wrestling training Stables, and Sumo Restaurants, National Museums, Kabuki Theatres, an evening cruise in Tokyo Bay with a disco and Pub Quizzes. Social events also take place on a district level and these include football teams, pub quizzes, hikes etc.
3. Can I socialise with students?
Unlike many of our competitors SESJ does not prohibit teachers meeting their students socially and this can be a valuable opportunity to gain an insight into Japanese culture. However, the initiative for social activities that are not connected to SESJ must be from the students and teachers must behave in a professional manner and avoid behaviour which may be misconstrued.
4. Is there any pastoral support?
SESJ aims to provide advice and assistance to all employees in adapting to their new lives in Japan, and support is available whenever required, from our team of dedicated welfare staff, academic managers and your peers.
5. Is Japan a safe country?
Compared to many Western countries Japan is indeed very safe and crime is much lower. However, as with any country, care must be exercised.
6. Are there any areas to avoid?
As with any country, it is sensible to avoid badly lit streets at night when alone. This precaution applies particularly to women. Nevertheless compared with other industrialised countries Japan has a well-earned reputation for safety and low crime levels.
7. Is there Internet access in schools?
No. Unfortunately we are unable to allow employees to use company computers to access the Internet, but staff in your regional head office will be able to give you a list of local Internet cafes - they are usually cheap and open 24 hours.
8. Is it difficult for Vegetarians in Japan?
Yes, as the concept doesn't really exist in Japan. Buying food from the supermarket and cooking at home is easy, although veggie stock cubes can be hard to find. Possibly bring some from home if you think you'll be cooking for yourself a lot. Although the Japanese eat a lot of tofu and it's much tastier than at home, it's very hard to find the sort of soy products we use as meat replacement at home (Beanfeasts, veggie gravy etc.) Vegetables can be more expensive in supermarkets than we're used to, but it's not too bad. Eating out in Japanese restaurants can be much more problematic.
Learn "Niku nashi ga dekimasuka?" which means "can you make this without meat?" But be aware that many people don't consider ham, bacon etc. to be meat and your supposedly meat free noodles might turn up with sausage in it. Anything soupy will nearly always have fish or meat stock in it and it's very difficult to get around that. Be very specific that you don't eat meat, fish or seafood. Waiters are usually quite patient and you can always find something on a menu, such as tofu or salad. You'll slowly find your way around a Japanese menu and find a few favourites. Italian, Indian and many other types of restaurants often have excellent vegetarian food.
We don't want to make it sound really difficult but we also want to be honest! There are plenty of vegetarians who eat very well in Japan. It will take some time to get used to everything but ask around and you'll soon have more than enough choice.
9. Can I drink the water?
Yes.
10. Can I get an English Newspaper/English books?
Yes. There are several daily newspapers published in English in Japan (e.g. Japan Times, Daily Yomiuri, International Herald Tribune) and these are readily available form convenience stores, station news stands or you can have them delivered. Major bookstores carry a limited selection of English newspapers, magazines and books (particularly novels) and more comprehensive selections can be found in large bookshops in Tokyo. Municipal Libraries also often have a large selection of English books. Most Head Offices have a book exchange. The cheapest way to buy books is through the Internet from sites such as amazon.com.
11. How can I phone home cheaply?
There are a number of different methods of calling home cheaply from Japan. The telephone the company supplies teachers with has a very competitive system built in but others do exist.
L. Travel
1. How long will I have to spend travelling each day?
This depends on your individual schedule and the maximum that you will be required to travel to a school in your regular schedule is 75 minutes in each direction from station to station. The average travelling time each day is about 45 minutes and may often be within 30 minutes.
2. Is it easy to find your way around?
Generally speaking yes, and most stations have maps and signs in English. There is also always some one around to offer a hand if necessary. The only difficulty can be ensuring that you do not confuse Rapid and Local trains! All teachers are provided with a 'How to Get to Schools' guide which includes detailed maps, written explanations of which trains to catch and the address and telephone number of every school in SESJ, head offices etc.
3. Do I get reimbursed for travel?
Yes. Your travel expenses from your local home station to the station closest to the schools in which you work will be calculated and reimbursed monthly, with your salary for that month.
4. Can I get a travel card?
Travel cards can be purchased easily at local stations and on buses. Monthly passes are only worthwhile if you are travelling between the same stations each day, which most of our teachers do not. Pre paid cards can be used on trains and buses and the fee is automatically deducted when you pass through ticket barriers.
5. Can I go travelling before I start my contract?
Due to complications with the issuance of work visas this is usually quite difficult to arrange, but you should discuss these plans with your recruiter very carefully before making decisions.
6. Will I have an opportunity to visit other places in Japan?
As mentioned above the holidays at SESJ are quite generous, which give teachers sufficient free time to travel around the country and to other Asian and Pacific destinations.
7. Where can I go on day trips?
As part of the Welcome Pack you will receive upon arrival in Japan you will receive ideas on places to visit in Tokyo (within easy travelling distance of all our Kanto based teachers) together with a weekly listings magazine on things to do and see in Tokyo. Each Head Office contains additional information and there are scores of English language books giving details of things to do in and around the Kanto area. In preparation the Lonely Planet Japan book provides a good overview.
8. Can I get a Japan Rail Pass?
This Rail Pass is only available to visitors with a tourist visa; as you will have a full working visa, you will not be entitled to use this.
M. Packing
1. Should I take my mobile phone?
Once you have completed all of your registration procedures (which takes a few weeks), getting a mobile phone in Japan is relatively easy and generally much cheaper than in the UK. Japanese mobiles are smaller and more advanced than at home - you can surf the net, send e-mails and send video clips and photos from your phone to your friends at home. Few people use 'pay as you go phones' in Japan - a monthly contract is better value.
2. Can I take a laptop?
This should not prove to be a problem and there are a number of free ISPs available that can be used with an English Operating System (OS). Please check with the manufacturer for advice regarding this. Most laptops run on different voltages, so you just need a simple pin adapter. You will also need a telephone adapter due to the different size telephone sockets.
3. How can I get a mobile/laptop?
As mentioned above mobile phones are relatively easy to get after registration procedures have been completed and most high streets have at least one mobile phone shop and phones are available from most department stores. English OS computers and software are more difficult to obtain, although there are a few shops in the centre of Tokyo (especially Akihabara) offering a limited selection.
4. What are the essential items to pack?
Smart clothes for work, seasonal clothes depending on the time of year you come to Japan. Summers are very hot and humid and loose cotton clothes and shorts are best for leisure time. Winters are crisp and cold and require similar layers to a British winter. Tall men and women may have difficulty finding clothes/shoes to fit so these may well be the most essential items. Anti-perspirant for the aforementioned summers is also a useful addition to any toiletry pack. Mementos from home for helping introduce yourself to students and small gifts for giving to your new neighbours will also be useful.
5. What items shouldn't I bother taking?
Food items. While some brands may be unavailable it is possible to buy most types of food in Japan. Also hi-fi and other electrical equipment can all be purchased more cheaply in Japan; you can't buy pre-recorded cassettes and Japan, so don't take a walkman - you may get funny looks on the train!
6. Will my UK electrical equipment work in Japan?
Japan operates on a 110-volt system and with two flat pin connections. Step-up transformers and adapters will therefore be necessary. Please note above comments on bringing electrical products.
7. Should I take a heavy winter coat?
This depends on the time of year and your build. Any teacher coming out between December and February should bring a winter coat. Taller teachers may have difficulty finding a coat to fit so should probably pack a coat whatever time of year. Teachers of average height will be able to buy a coat here when it becomes cold.
8. Is it possible to obtain condoms and oral contraceptives?
Whichever form of contraception you prefer, it is best to bring it with you. For women, if you are taking the contraceptive pill, stock up, as it is very difficult and expensive to get here. There is very little privacy with a gynaecologist, so have a check up before you come. Japanese condoms are generally not popular with foreigners living here (size).
9. What's the best way of sending stuff to Japan?
The cheapest way is to divide your stuff into smaller parcels and send via the 'small packets and printed papers' (maximum 2kg) rate with Royal Mail (www.royalmail.com). Surface Mail takes up to 8 weeks and costs much less than airmail. It may be worth checking other couriers such as DHL, FedEx, etc - although their prices are likely to be higher. Sending extra luggage on your airline is to be avoided, as it involves a couple of trips to Narita Airport on another day (when you are supposed to be training), negotiating forklift trucks in a hangar and requires an excellent knowledge of Japanese language red tape. We have been asked by teachers who tried this to warn others not to do so!
N. Career Opportunities
1. What career progression opportunities do I have?
Within SESJ, teachers can be promoted to Senior Teacher of one of the larger schools, usually after at least one year of employment with SESJ. Those with enough TEFL experience (minimum 3 years, including extensive Younger Learners experience) and perhaps an MA TEFL or DELTA could be promoted to Assistant Director of Studies (ADoS) of a district and following that, Director of Studies (DoS). There are also opportunities in Teacher Training and Materials Development/ELT Publishing. Other teachers branch out and specialise as Younger Learner Specialists or work for outside contracts such as in-company and in private kindergartens and high schools.
2. Can I transfer to other Shane schools?
Teachers have the opportunity to transfer to other Shane schools in Asia, such as China, Taiwan and Vietnam and they would expect to receive a higher salary than new teachers. For example, if a teacher has taught 2 years in Japan, they would earn the salary of a 3rd year teacher if they transferred to Taiwan.
3. Will I find work in other countries/companies?
You will gain a lot of valuable experience with adults, younger learners, business and exams students. Saxoncourt can also help place you in other countries we deal with - such as Latin America, Europe and the Middle East.