Public School Jobs in Japan

Teach Away is proud to offer a unique opportunity of working as an ALT within the public school system in Japan .   All placements are in rural areas, which gives teachers the opportunity to experience Japan's fascinating culture to the fullest.

What is an ALT?
An ALT is an Assistant Language Teacher who works together with a Japanese teacher on a daily basis.  This is an excellent opportunity for you to learn about the Japanese education system, methods, and to build your teaching portfolio.  Teaching assignments are in high schools, junior high schools and elementary schools throughout Japan. 

Junior High Schools and Elementary Schools
The majority of  ALTs teach at public Junior High schools. These are the seventh to ninth grades of schooling, with students aged between 12 and 15 years.  As a major step towards improving English language education in Japan, the Japanese government introduced English language instruction in elementary schools as well. 

What are my responsibilities?
Usually, ALTs are responsible for developing teaching materials and activities in consultation with the homeroom teacher for each class.  Teachers need to maintain respect and professionalism at all times.

Working Hours and Benefits
ALTs work approximately 29.5 hours per week. Classes are scheduled on weekdays only, between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm. Most ALTs teach approximately 20 to 25 forty-five to fifty minute classes per week. There are no evening, public holiday or weekend shifts, although occasionally attendance at a special school event such as the Sports Day or Cultural Day on a Saturday or Sunday may be required.

Training in Tokyo
Prior to beginning their new assignment, all new  ALTs undergo a comprehensive and professional training program. This covers such topics as: Working in Japanese Schools, Techniques and Activities, Effective Use of Textbooks, Elementary School classes, School Teaching Materials, First Day and First Class, as well as Survival Japanese.  Teachers are not paid during this time, but their accommodation in Tokyo will be covered.

Salary
Most ALTs qualify for a guaranteed salary of 250,000 yen per month, which includes a monthly attendance bonus component. National income taxes are approximately 7% and are automatically deducted from each employee's salary.

Many ALTs are able to walk or cycle the short distance from their apartment to the schools, but teachers will be reimbursed for any work-related travel expenses.

Additional Benefits
- Subsidized, comprehensive health insurance partly covered by employer, offered at discount rates for all full-time employees.
- Free online Japanese lessons .
- Generous vacation package, including all public holidays and the winter school holiday periods for all Full-Time ALT positions.

Locations
All candidates should keep in mind that we do not have positions in Tokyo.  All positions are in rural areas.