Is It Possible to Be a Foreign Teacher in Japan?

For anyone looking to work as a foreign teacher in Japan, understanding the local context and the steps to take are crucial. This article explores the possibilities, demands, and practicalities of becoming a foreign teacher in Japan, especially in the lead-up to the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.

Language Proficiency and Certification

Before embarking on this journey, it is essential to understand the linguistic and cultural environment in Japan. Japanese is the primary language, but English is gaining traction, especially in the education sector. To become a teacher, you should ensure you have the necessary credentials, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, which are standard requirements for the English language proficiency test in many countries.

Huge Demand for Foreign Teachers

Japan is experiencing a surge in demand for foreign teachers, particularly as it prepares for the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. The need to avoid any cultural or linguistic mishaps during this international event is underscored by the massive preparation efforts underway. This demand extends to various sectors, including:

Train operators Bus operators Taxi operators Hotel operators Fast-food operators And numerous other public and private sector roles.

The motivation to avoid embarrassment or communication failures during the high-profile international event is driving this demand. Yet, the need for foreign teachers in Japan is not solely limited to these roles. Many industries, such as financial firms, trading companies, automotive parts manufacturers, anime companies, and apparel firms, value the ability to communicate with an international audience. A certified teacher can be a valuable asset for these companies, acting as a bridge to the global market.

Past Experiences and Current Opportunities

The history of foreign teachers in Japan dates back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, with Peter Fuchs, a seasoned educator, sharing his experiences from 1977 to 1980. He found a job in a local English school in Nagano Prefecture through a Japan Times advertisement, a precursor to modern online job platforms. Despite the less glamorous tasks and potentially lower remuneration, these roles offer significant benefits, such as personal and professional growth, language skills improvement, and cultural immersion.

However, it is worth noting that the opportunities and remunerations may vary. The financial firms, trading companies, automotive parts manufacturers, anime companies, and apparel firms require someone who can effectively communicate with the rest of the world, and foreign teachers can play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.

Conclusion

Japan presents a genuine opportunity for foreign teachers, especially as it prepares for the international spotlight. The demand for foreign teachers is not just about teaching English but also about bridging cultural gaps and facilitating international communication across various industries. While the opportunity may be limited to a few years, the experiences and skills gained during this time can prove invaluable for personal and professional development.

For those interested, conducting thorough research, preparing the necessary credentials, and staying informed about job openings through reputable platforms and advertisements are the keys to success.