Last Updated on March 8, 2024
Millions of visitors fall in love with Japan every year, but what is it about this country that fascinates people so much? Is it the millennia-old history or the advanced technology? Is it the safe environment or the ultra-modern architecture? Or perhaps it’s the unique and ceremonial culture and the mouthwatering food?
Well, for a typical tourist, it might be all of the above; but this country must be an amazing place to live in if many teachers decide to move and teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) there.
One aspect that attracts TEFL teachers is the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) programme, which allows international teachers to apply for teaching positions in Japan. Let’s look at this programme in more detail.
What is the JET programme?
The JET Programme represents a cultural exchange and educational project supported by the Japanese government, aimed at enlisting university-educated individuals from countries where English is the first language to instruct English in Japan. The abbreviation “JET” stands for Japan Exchange and Teaching.
This programme has been designed to prioritise employment opportunities for Japanese teachers while also recognizing the value of integrating modern teaching methodologies into language classrooms, a responsibility often entrusted to English language teaching (ELT) professionals. Therefore, teachers hired through the JET programme would be assuming the role of an assistant language teacher (ALT) to support the local teachers during their lessons.
Upon acceptance, participants are assigned placements across various locations in the country. Although preferences can be indicated, the final decision regarding the teaching placement is made by the program administrators. Contracts typically span one year, although individuals can extend for a maximum of five consecutive years.
Application windows typically open in October, with a November deadline, while interviews commence in January-February for a departure in July.
Remember: Specific details and requirements may vary slightly each year, so please check the official JET programme website for the most current and detailed information.
What to expect as a JET teacher
Teachers should expect to dedicate around 35 hours per week to teaching duties, from Monday to Friday. The average salary stands at approximately ¥3,360,000 per year (equivalent to $2,675 USD), with yearly increases.
In the capacity of an ALT, your primary objective would be to infuse an enjoyable vibe into lessons and facilitate cultural exchange between learners and educators, especially in rural settings where cultural exposure might be limited. State school classes tend to be sizable, accommodating up to 40 students per session. Additionally, apart from national holidays, ALTs typically receive 10-20 days of paid leave.
You will require an appropriate work visa to be able to teach in Japan. If you secure a teaching position through the JET programme, you can apply for a Working Visa under the category of ‘instructor’, but you must remember to include a ‘letter of invitation’ from your prospective employer with your visa application.
Things to consider before moving to Japan
Prepare for the potential impact of culture shock on both your personal and professional life abroad. Mitigate its effects by familiarising yourself with Japanese culture, traditions, and societal norms before your departure. Engaging with online expat communities can provide valuable insights and support from those who have already experienced life in Japan, offering a wealth of knowledge to ease your transition.
Don’t forget to learn and practise a few key phrases in Japanese before you move there. The locals understand how difficult learning Japanese can be and really appreciate your efforts. For trickier conversations, technology is your ally!
Other aspects you should keep in mind about living in Japan are your specific location and the impact of cultural differences in your day-to-day interactions.
- Living in Urban Areas: Moving to a bustling metropolis can be a sensory overload, with vibrant colours and neon lights, crowds of people, and a cacophony of sounds. One of the main advantages of urban settings is that it offers a more cosmopolitan environment with a Western influence, which may alleviate your worries about feeling out of place and decrease the chances of culture shock.
- Living in Remote Areas: Choosing to settle in a small village may position you as one of the few, if not the only, Westerners in the vicinity. English proficiency among locals is typically limited, but they are often friendly and curious towards foreign visitors: don’t be surprised or offended by their unusual questions!
- Cultural Differences: Embracing an open-minded approach is essential when experiencing the cultural nuances of Japan. Japanese society places great emphasis on respect, manners, and etiquette, which require mindful behaviour on your part. Paying attention to both your own and others’ body language is crucial, as it may convey different meanings.
Fly high with the JET programme
There’s nothing quite like Japan: the ancient culture and history, the friendly and curious locals, and the exquisite balance between old and new. As a TEFL teacher moving to Japan, you are in for a real treat! The JET programme will help you make your professional dreams come true. Have you packed your bags yet?
