At FES we strive to fill the need for English conversation teachers throughout Okinawa and at the same time offering potential candidates employment. Qualifications vary for each position, but basically the willingness to experience a new culture while working overseas and a genuine love for helping Japanese children learn is all that is needed. However, in order to make your stay more enjoyable, an international drivers license is recommended.
Duties and work hours are also negotiable, but are similar to any teaching position. Potential teachers are required to organize their lesson plans in a fashion that is suitable for the school and ones that are pedagogically sound. Individual schools provide all training and materials, but there is still considerable room for unique ideas. All new teachers are put through on-the-job training with more experienced teachers until they feel comfortable to lead the class.
Our school is located in Japan, but the work ethic is equivalent to any North American company. Teachers are paid fairly and highly respected in the community. Individual pay varies slightly, but beginning salaries are comparable to a 1st year teacher in North America. Any candidate who is interested will be given detailed wage and duty profiles upon request.
Finally, it is important to remember that employment on Okinawa is slightly cheaper than the main land islands. This is because the cost of living is much lower and the average salary accommodates this wage difference. We do have housing available on the 2nd, 4th and 5th floors of our main school and most teachers stay there. Rent is about 350 US dollars and is deducted from your monthly salary. These apartments are fully furnished and our school pays the key and deposit money.
I hope this helps give you a better idea of what we can provide you. Please do not take my word on this, but ask teachers that have worked at FES in the past or current faculty members that are employed in Okinawa. That will give you the best unbiased view of our school.
I personally look forward to working with you and answering any questions you might have.
Sincerely,
Dr. Grant L. Osterman
FES International Administrator
