ID #1408

Q. Do I need to speak Japanese in order to teach English in Japan?

Category: Asia » Japan » Finding Work in Japan

A. Answer:

No, not at all. Employers will want you to create an English-speaking atmosphere in your classes, so you won’t be expected to speak Japanese in a work context. However, you might want to learn a few key phrases to help you in your day-to-day life in-country. And, if you’re interested in learning Japanese, teaching in Japan is a great way to do it, as you can easily arrange Japanese lessons and you’ll be immersed in the language on a daily basis. In fact, some employers will even include Japanese lessons as part of your contract.

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A few of our TEFL experts (Dave, Meryl, Laura, Rebecca, Rachel and Rich) have also come out from behind their headsets to answer some of our most popular TEFL questions on camera: please excuse the giggles – they all got a bit nervous!

Anyway, take and look, and if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, just give one of them a call – they don’t seem to be able to keep a straight face, but when it comes to TEFL they really know what they’re talking about!

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