German wants to teach Engrish without a university degree :(

[TyLaw]

Hey guys I just signed up today and I was wondering if you could help me out.

So I am not a Native English Speaker and I don't have a University Degree. I will finish my A-Level here in Germany in 1 year from now. After that I am going to Japan with the Working Holiday Visa.

And one of my biggest dreams would be to teach little Japanese children in English and finance my stay over there that way.
It's something I always wanted to do in life.

I am very open minded and I speak English very well, without any kind of a strong accent. I am also a very friendly person who smiles a lot.
I actually wanted to do a TOEFL Test, to show the Japanese, that my English is close to a Native Speaker Level.

English is also my best subject in school right now!

Do you guys think, that I have a chance to find a job as an English Teacher?? I appreciate any kind of answer from you guys, just be honest with me.

I will be 24 when I visit Japan for the first time in my life.

Thanks a lot

 

[nice gaijin]

When I was here on a student visa I worked for Gaba part time, and there were teachers from all over the place, some with surprisingly strong accents. If your English is good enough and you can demonstrate that you can teach it with some level of proficiency, it shouldn't be too hard to be accepted. However, Gaba is a one-on-one school, more for adults and professionals. I would look into the schools you want to work for and see if you can't get in touch with them. I don't know much about the working holiday, but since you wouldn't need them to sponsor your visa, it means less hassle for them to hire you, which should help your chances. A college degree isn't a requirement for most schools, it's for the visa requirements.

 

[Glenski]

GABA takes a fair amount of non-native English speakers, yes, but the pay is appalling, and the work is not that great. Besides, you should know about this recent news article before leaping into GABA's clutches.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fl20101019zg.html

A working holiday visa is a good idea, but it will only last you a year. Did you plan to stay longer? If so, you're going to need that degree plus more experience to get a visa for teaching.
http://www.japaneselawtranslation.go.jp/law/detail/?id=1927&vm=04&re=01

A college degree isn't a requirement for most schools, it's for the visa requirements.

1. A college degree is usually the requirement people get for the visa, but you can get a work visa without a degree as long as you have 3 or more years of teaching experience. That usually applied only to native English speakers, though. Non-native English speakers have other hurdles to overcome; usually, if they want to teach English they have to prove they had all of their own education (12 years) provided to them only in English.

2. Schools usually do look for a college degree as a work requirement. If the candidate can satisfy a suitable visa, though, (such as dependent visa, spouse visa, student visa, Permanent Resident), and if they are usually a native English speaker, that won't matter.

 

[TyLaw]

Thanks for the quick replys guys

Those are some great news from both of you. I read so many stuff about NOT being a native and NOT having a degree.. that I was already very frustrated.

But you guys really give me hope again
I really only want to work there with my Working Holiday Visum. I don't have any aspirations on getting a working visa after that.

So how do you guys think I should do it? And should I do a TOEFL Test, just so that the Japanese can actually see, that I am on a native level?? Or do you believe, that my English schools marks are enough? Considering they are good of course

And do you think, that I should just walk into the schools in Japan and apply for a job Face to Face? I probably have a lot more chances other then only sending them my applications right?!
Because I heard that the personal appearance is very important for the Japanese. Is that true?

And where do you think are my best chances, not to lose the job against a Native?

And how can I find these schools throughout Japan?

Thanks so much for the Help guys!

 

[nice gaijin]

That is an interesting article, Glenski, thanks for the link!

Back when I was there I was earning the ￥1400/lesson minimum, and was working just enough to put a little extra spending money in my pocket and get a taste of working experience, but I certainly wouldn't want to try to support myself fully at Gaba. A handful of teachers there who did just that would list themselves as "available" for every lesson slot of the day, and sometimes would work the entire day straight. With about 10-15 minutes between classes, and the mandatory review/report after each lesson (unpaid), it was clearly not an easy way to earn money.

The contractor status does afford a bit more freedom, especially in scheduling, which was good for a student like myself, but I didn't mean to suggest that I'd recommend working there full-time, especially since, as the article states:

Employing instructors as independent contractors allows Gaba to reduce labor costs.

"There are absolutely no benefits and Japanese labor standards law doesn't apply," says Combs. Instructors receive no paid sick days or vacation, no pay for training, no overtime pay, and there's no limit on the number of unpaid overtime hours that can be worked. The company also avoids enrolling its instructors in unemployment insurance, the national health insurance and pension schemes, and workers' compensation. It also fails to pay a commuting allowance to instructors.

The instructors, working on six-month contracts, also lack job security. Employment as independent contractors means Gaba can dismiss any teacher, with or without cause, simply by not renewing their contract.

According to figures from the company posted on the G.U. website, pay for Gaba instructors ranges from \1,500 to \2,200 per 40-minute lesson depending on the instructor's status level and the time of the lesson. Most instructors fall into the bottom of the pay scale, with 502 out of 854 instructors receiving the minimum \1,500. Only 16 instructors earn \2,200 and Gaba caps the number of instructors that can be promoted to the higher pay brackets, the union says.

Especially since you can't get benefits from an "independent contractor" position like this, I wouldn't recommend Gaba, I was just using it as an example because it's what I have first-hand experience with.

It's hard to say how to proceed, but I would suggest trying to look for as many opportunities as possible before you get to Japan. I wouldn't want to arrive here with no guarantee for work.

 

[TyLaw]

Ok, so the GABA schools aren't quite the ones I should be looking for right?

But how do you actually apply for a job from your homecountry?? Do you just look around the web for schools like the eikaiwa schools for example?
Did you just send them your resume and application?

And how about a TOEFL Test guys? Should I do one? Do you think it would increase my chances a lot, or do you believe it isn't neccessary for me to do one?!

Hope you could answer me those questions.

 

[nice gaijin]

I'm afraid I can't be of more assistance, as I haven't tried to apply for a teaching job from outside of Japan. A friend of mine applied to one or two of the eikaiwa chains and had to go to interviews at their offices (at her own expense) on a specific date to be able to apply. Since you aren't in an English speaking country, I would say that you wouldn't be able to try this way. Any sort of certification or proof of your abilities would be a leg up, since you're at the disadvantage (resume-wise) of not being a native speaker. I don't know the what cost-benefits are for taking TOEFL.

One thought, you might have a better chance at teaching German (I'm assuming that's your first language) at a language school in Japan. Berlitz teaches quite a few languages and have a good reputation, but as I understand they are intense and hard to get hired by. You could check gaijinpot or daijob for more information about working in Japan, there might be others in similar situations.

 

[TyLaw]

Don't worry nice gaijin Any little help is very appreciated!
Right my first language is German yes, but I heard it's almost impossible to find a school where German is really wanted. I heard that there are some schools.. but it's probably a much much smaller chance for me then as an English Teacher.

I thought so, that every little certificate would be a leg up for me not being a Native. So I am pretty sure that I am going to make either a TOEFL Test or even a CELTA especially for teaching english to foreigners.

I will definitely take a look at those websites.
But do you think I should just try to contact some schools in Tokyo for example and just try my luck? Maybe just built up some connections before I get to Japan?! But I still believe my best chances are probably, just to visit them Face to Face, right?

I also stumbled over this beautiful website today, with lot's of Informations about teaching English in Japan.

take a look.. all-about-teaching-english-in-japan.com

Thanks again And really every little information I can get is a blessing!
Ty

 

[epigene]

And how about a TOEFL Test guys? Should I do one? Do you think it would increase my chances a lot, or do you believe it isn't neccessary for me to do one?!
Hope you could answer me those questions.

TOEFL is a test for foreign students seeking admission in schools in the US and other English-speaking countries. So, getting more or less "average" score isn't impressive.

If you want to impress, you need to have top-level scores.

JFYI, another test that would be a good alternative is TOEIC. A member here (Japanese who lived in the US for a very, very long time) scored perfect in this test.

Your reference:
http://secure.vec.bc.ca/toefl-equivalency-table.cfm

Hope it helps!

 

[Glenski]

I really only want to work there with my Working Holiday Visum. I don't have any aspirations on getting a working visa after that.

So how do you guys think I should do it?

Just apply and you'll probably get it in a couple of weeks.

As for the job hunting, though, that could be a bit trickier. You do realize, don't you, that teaching jobs in general are in high demand here, and that October to January is the slowest time of year to be looking for work?

Scour the ads. See who is hiring. Contact them and tell them your visa status and when you plan to be in Japan. Try to line up an interview before you come. Employers other than the biggies will usually look around inside Japan to find candidates. Your WHV beats out newcomers because they can't get PT work, while you can. The WHV also beats out jobs where they don't sponsor visas because you don't need a sponsor. Otherwise, you'll still be competing against lots of people.

And should I do a TOEFL Test, just so that the Japanese can actually see, that I am on a native level??

No, take TOEIC.

And do you think, that I should just walk into the schools in Japan and apply for a job Face to Face?

No, don't waste your time making cold calls.

I heard that the personal appearance is very important for the Japanese. Is that true?

Yes, but if they aren't advertising, it is likely they aren't hiring, even well-dressed people.

And where do you think are my best chances, not to lose the job against a Native?

What do you mean "where"? City or type of school? Actually, it doesn't matter because native speakers are everywhere. Try Berlitz, where you could teach English and German! I used to work at a private high school with a part-time German teacher (from Austria). With your WHV you should seek out similar opportunities in addition to places like Berlitz.

And how can I find these schools throughout Japan?

Look in the ads. There are zillions online.

But how do you actually apply for a job from your homecountry?? Do you just look around the web for schools like the eikaiwa schools for example?
Did you just send them your resume and application?

Yes, just apply to the ads. However, there are darned few ads from employers who are seeking overseas. Keep that in mind. Some will have recruiters who interview abroad, usually in native English speaking countries, though. Some will do Skype interviews. Most want you in Japan.

 

[TyLaw]

TOEFL is a test for foreign students seeking admission in schools in the US and other English-speaking countries. So, getting more or less "average" score isn't impressive.
If you want to impress, you need to have top-level scores.
JFYI, another test that would be a good alternative is TOEIC. A member here (Japanese who lived in the US for a very, very long time) scored perfect in this test.
Your reference:
Hope it helps!

Thanks epigene, you helped me a lot!
I know that the TOEFL test is mostly for people who want to study overseas.. however, I thought it would also be a good proof on my English skills.
The TOEIC Test sounds really great. I just couldn't find anything about the prices for this test. Do you have any information about that? :?
But because of this Japanese student, you think I should be able to score into the GOLD level?

Just apply and you'll probably get it in a couple of weeks.
As for the job hunting, though, that could be a bit trickier. You do realize, don't you, that teaching jobs in general are in high demand here, and that October to January is the slowest time of year to be looking for work?
Scour the ads. See who is hiring. Contact them and tell them your visa status and when you plan to be in Japan. Try to line up an interview before you come. Employers other than the biggies will usually look around inside Japan to find candidates. Your WHV beats out newcomers because they can't get PT work, while you can. The WHV also beats out jobs where they don't sponsor visas because you don't need a sponsor. Otherwise, you'll still be competing against lots of people.
No, take TOEIC.
No, don't waste your time making cold calls.
Yes, but if they aren't advertising, it is likely they aren't hiring, even well-dressed people.
What do you mean "where"? City or type of school? Actually, it doesn't matter because native speakers are everywhere. Try Berlitz, where you could teach English and German! I used to work at a private high school with a part-time German teacher (from Austria). With your WHV you should seek out similar opportunities in addition to places like Berlitz.
Look in the ads. There are zillions online.
Yes, just apply to the ads. However, there are darned few ads from employers who are seeking overseas. Keep that in mind. Some will have recruiters who interview abroad, usually in native English speaking countries, though. Some will do Skype interviews. Most want you in Japan.

Thats good to hear Glenski Because I plan on visiting Japan with the WHV in Feburary or March 2012. And when I arrive, I am going immediately on search for a teaching job, so that my plan on staying in Japan for 1 year isn't jeopardised.

I am happy that the WHV opens so many doors for me.

I just read everything I could found about the TOEIC Test and it sounds really great. Should be the best option. I just hope, that a Blue degree won't smaller my chances, if I am not able to score enough for Gold. Maybe it could even be a stumbling block if I don't finish at Gold Level.. ? Do you think the same?? ☝

So when I know, that a school is looking for Teachers, I can try to make a cold call?? Or do you even than still prefer to first contact them via phone or E-Mail??

I meant the type of schools sorry
I will definitely search around for the Berlitz schools. So you think, I might even have chances to get a job at a Junior High School?? That would be totally amazing!

But where do you find all these abs? It's kinda hard for me to find Japanese school sites, with an English website.. almsot all of them are only in Japanese. Could you give me a link to some of the ads and websites? That would be so nice from you!

 

[Davey]

Try to take a TEFL course as well. Although the course itself isn't that good in my opinion, it might help to have that on your resume.

www.i-to-i.com

 

[skankfish]

About contacting schools - it is usually through the Board of Education that teachers are doled out, so you'd be better off calling them.

To be honest I don't think it's going to happen that you can get a teaching job in a school, but do let us if it does. As my friend pointed on my our blog today (coincidence??), even if you do find something the pay will be abismal. As mentioned, some eikaiwa might take you on if they are desperate. I'd think you'd be better off hassling them.

 

[Glenski]

Thanks epigene, you helped me a lot!
I know that the TOEFL test is mostly for people who want to study overseas.. however, I thought it would also be a good proof on my English skills.
The TOEIC Test sounds really great. I just couldn't find anything about the prices for this test. Do you have any information about that? :?

You should be able to find it all here, in German.
http://www.de.toeic.eu/

But because of this Japanese student, you think I should be able to score into the GOLD level?

I don't understand this question.

I plan on visiting Japan with the WHV in Feburary or March 2012. And when I arrive, I am going immediately on search for a teaching job

Start looking before you come here! Let potential employers know ahead of time to reduce down time.

I am happy that the WHV opens so many doors for me.

I just read everything I could found about the TOEIC Test and it sounds really great. Should be the best option. I just hope, that a Blue degree won't smaller my chances, if I am not able to score enough for Gold. Maybe it could even be a stumbling block if I don't finish at Gold Level.. ? Do you think the same??

I don't understand the references to colors here.

So when I know, that a school is looking for Teachers, I can try to make a cold call?? Or do you even than still prefer to first contact them via phone or E-Mail??

If an employer is advertising, answer the ad. If you hear from a secondary source that they are in the market for a teacher, get the pertinent details and mail them a resume and cover letter.

I will definitely search around for the Berlitz schools. So you think, I might even have chances to get a job at a Junior High School??

A public one, no. A private one, maybe.

But where do you find all these abs?

You mean ads? I told you -- online. They are in English not Japanese. Look at the FAQ for this site and get cracking on some basic research. Google is your friend. Go to the ESL Cafe employment discussion forum for more.
www.eslcafe.com/discussion

 

[andiw]

Don't take this personally, TyLaw, but your English isn't as great as you may think, and certainly not anywhere near the level of a native speaker.

If even me, a high-intermediate English speaker, notices several mistakes in almost every sentence, with some sentences not being understandable at all, you should really forget about teaching English.
Not only for your sake, mind you. Mainly for the sake of those that would learn this from you.

You've been told to look out for a job as German teacher. Probably because people are too polite to tell you "Hey, your English sucks". Well, I am not, but I don't mean to insult you, but bring your feet back on the ground.

 

[Bradsan]

Don't take this personally, TyLaw, but your English isn't as great as you may think, and certainly not anywhere near the level of a native speaker.

If even me, a high-intermediate English speaker, notices several mistakes in almost every sentence, with some sentences not being understandable at all, you should really forget about teaching English.
Not only for your sake, mind you. Mainly for the sake of those that would learn this from you.

You've been told to look out for a job as German teacher. Probably because people are too polite to tell you "Hey, your English sucks". Well, I am not, but I don't mean to insult you, but bring your feet back on the ground.

This is your very 1st post wow ok well tylaw i think your English is really good for someone that wasn't born just learning English never give up and follow your dream.

 

[andiw]

yes, that was my first post. and your point is?
seriously, would you want your kids to learn this kind of english? rhetorical question ofcourse.
i wouldn't even have said a word if he hadn't started off like "i can speak english almost as good as a native" - because that just aint true.

we're not talkin about some translation job here, we talk about becoming english teacher.
i may be a little upset because my two son's english teachers also suck. and i bet they think too they'd be "almost as good as a native".

i've read a nice article about empty compliments the other day. check it out, the blog's name is "Foreign Language Mastery".

 

[TyLaw]

Thank you very much for your reply Glenski
if you have any more informations for me, I would be more then pleased to hear them from you. I am also having a couple of more questions in my mind for you guys, but I haven't found the time to post them yet.

Also, thank you very much for your nice and warm-hearted reply Bradsan It really means a lot to me. Believe me, I won't let some Internet dude destroy my dream. I am studying even more English lately and also doing web cam conversations with a friend of mine from South-Korea to get my conversation skills going again.
1 year is a lot of time for improvement isn't it

Also if anbody else is interested, this right here is a wonderful side about teaching English in Japan, with all kinds of help and tips!

all-about-teaching-english-in-japan . com

really worth a look!

 

[Bradsan]

yes, that was my first post. and your point is?
seriously, would you want your kids to learn this kind of english? rhetorical question ofcourse.
i wouldn't even have said a word if he hadn't started off like "i can speak english almost as good as a native" - because that just aint true.

we're not talkin about some translation job here, we talk about becoming a english teacher.
i may be a little upset because my two son's english teachers also suck. and i bet they think too they'd be "almost as good as a native".

i've read a nice article about empty compliments the other day. check it out, the blog's name is "Foreign Language Mastery".

whats wrong with his English he sounds really good to me i can understand every word i hope he doe's really well his english will get better by time as well ^_^

 

[Mike Cash]

This is your very 1st post wow ok well tylaw i think your English is really good for someone that wasn't born just learning English never give up and follow your dream.

For the love of God, man.....USE PUNCTUATION. This isn't your cell phone; try to present your thoughts in intelligent and intelligible complete sentences.

 

[undrentide]

For the love of God, man.....USE PUNCTUATION. This isn't your cell phone; try to present your thoughts in intelligent and intelligible complete sentences.

99% off-topic: your post reminded me of this, which is one of my favourite books.
Eats, Shoots & Leaves - Wikipedia