EduCareer StaffBlog"Rinjin Blog" | "EduCareer"Supporting your career in English teaching in the Japanese school system

Welcome to Me and You

2010/04/01

Hi!

Things have changed a bit around the blog; Lynsey is no longer with us and I, Kate, will be taking over from here on out! 宜しくお願いします！

I suspect that, like me, many of you are starting new positions in the coming week or two. Your first few weeks at a new school can be quite stressful, but there are ways to minimize the shock that comes from being thrown in a new teaching environment.

1) Get acquainted with the school. This may sound obvious, but before classes start is the perfect time to make sure you know where your classes are-get a map of the school and take a walk around- it will save everyone time and stress later if your first class is 2-3 and you're not wandering around 3-2.

2) Once you know what's where, find out who is who- there will also be a desk map of the teacher's room. People are far more likely to be helpful if you can address them by name.

3) It's never too early to start preparing the lessons and collecting materials. If possible, meet with the other English staff- they may be able to give you ideas or direct you to hidden sources of English wealth, and don't be afraid to ask specifically- I once found out mid-year that a school I was at had a massive box of English plans and materials from previous teachers hidden in a closet that I was never shown just because I'd never asked!

4) Attend the opening ceremony, cleaning, and other school-wide events (get a schedule so you know when things are happening- it's quite easy to look up and realize you're sitting in an empty staff room). This makes a good impression and gives you a chance to see teachers and kids outside of class and even if you don't understand anything that's going on at least you look like a team player!

5) Relax.

I hope everyone gets off to a great start this year! Good luck!

If you're still looking for a position for the year, don't forget to check out our Job Board!

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