Job Description
Workdays run from Tuesdays to Saturdays, with Sundays and Mondays off.
Over the course of the year, there are 46 weeks of work. All teachers are
granted equal vacation time. Including paid leave and additional holidays,
teachers receive approximately six weeks of paid vacation per year.
Each teacher is responsible for an average of 20 to 24 classes per week.
Each class typically lasts 50 minutes, while classes for preschoolers and
younger children are usually 45 minutes long. Classes are small, with a
maximum of six students per class.
Students range in age from 2 years old to adults, but the majority of
our students are children between the ages of 6 and 15. While there may
be variations between different schools and teachers, approximately 80%
of the students are under 15 years old. The content taught in each class
varies based on the students' ages, their levels, and the reasons why they
are attending classes. There are many resources and assistance available to
new teachers in order for them to plan appropriate, interactive lessons.
At ABC Plus, we teach American English spelling, aligning with the English
taught in public schools. Native teachers teach English without using Japanese.
This approach is taken because parents prioritize English communication within
the lessons. We believe in interactive lessons where students have the opportunity
to use English in a fun and supportive environment.
We focus on assisting students to build the necessary skills and confidence to
communicate in English. In addition, lessons include English comprehension, grammar,
and examination preparation, including the English proficiency exams.
Japanese staff members are available to provide support and translations when
needed. At ABC Plus we use a variety of textbooks and worksheets to reinforce learning.
The role of native teachers goes beyond just teaching vocabulary and grammar, as they
focus on enabling students to apply what they've learned in practical ways.
A Typical Working Day
Unless given specific instructions, the work times and schedules are set and will not change from week to week.
The difference between the working shifts does not affect monthly salary or duties. However, it does affect teachers’ arrival times, finishing times, and what type of health insurance and pension programs teachers are signed up for.
Teachers at ABC Plus are expected to always behave professionally and
appropriately while at work. They are expected to handle their work
efficiently and be prepared for their lessons before each class starts.
A day at ABC Plus
The school opens. This is the earliest employees can come to the office.
This is the earliest classes can start though most of them will start later in
the day.
Shift B employees may start at this time . When they do not have a lesson scheduled, teachers can spend their time freely preparing for classes, doing research or correcting students' homework.
These are the peak hours at ABC Plus. Most classes are scheduled during
this time. The last class ends at 9:00 pm. Afterwards, teachers spend a few
minutes completing their daily cleaning tasks before heading home.
The school closes.
Please note: Saturday shifts have a slightly different flow to the day.The
shift is from 9:30 am to 5:15 pm for Shift B employees. Classes will start
from 10:00 am and there will be an hour break starting at noon for lunch.
Teachers may have up to six classes on a Saturday depending on demand.
Students & Class Types
Here at ABC Plus we cater to a variety of students, although about 70% are aged 15 and under.
Kids Plus
Our youngest students, aged 2-3 years old, attend Kid’s Plus classes where
they are introduced to English through songs, games and craft activities.
The focus of these classes is English exposure through fun activities and
building their motor skills.
Stage Classes
Total beginners, aged between 3 and 12, attend Stage classes. Similar to Kid’s Plus classes, Stage classes use a variety of English songs and games. These classes aim to expand the students' vocabulary, improve their understanding of phonics, and encourage them to speak in complete sentences. Students continue in Stage classes until they can read three-letter words.
Elementary Students
From elementary-aged students, about 7 years old and up, we start using textbooks in our lessons. We continue to build their phonics and vocabulary along with the material presented in the textbooks. As the students get older, reading, writing and listening become more important because many students will start studying to take English proficiency tests, such as
Eiken.
Junior High School and High School Students
In addition to English proficiency tests, Junior High School and High School students need English for school entrance exams. These classes normally consist of a good amount of conversation in addition to grammar, reading comprehension, and writing.
Adults
More often than not adults take English classes for one of the following
reasons: for business, as a hobby, or to prepare for an upcoming trip
abroad. Although the majority of these classes are textbook based,
conversation is still an important part of each lesson.
Dress Code
As professional educators, we feel it is important to maintain a polished and professional appearance that reflects the values and standards of our school. All clothing should be neat, clean, and appropriate for a professional educational environment. The following guidelines should be observed:
Female Teachers
All clothing should be neat, clean, and appropriate for a professional educational environment. Avoid overly casual or informal attire.
Skirts and dresses should be knee-length or longer. Blouses, button-down shirts are recommended. Blazers, cardigans, or professional sweaters are acceptable. Casual jackets or hoodies are not appropriate for the classroom.
Professional slacks, skirts, and dresses are appropriate. Avoid denim jeans, leggings (unless worn under a dress), or athletic wear. Dresses of appropriate length are acceptable as well, however, keep in mind you will be teaching small children and running around or playing games. One small earring per ear is accepted, but all other facial piercings are not.
Male Teachers
All clothing should be neat, clean, and appropriate for a professional educational environment. Avoid overly casual or informal attire.
You must wear long-sleeve dress shirts, slacks, and a tie. T-shirts and graphic tops are not permitted. Professional slacks, chinos, or dress pants are acceptable. Please avoid denim jeans, cargo pants, or shorts.
From May to November, wearing a tie is not mandatory. During this period, both long- and short-sleeve dress shirts are acceptable. Dark brown, black, or blue socks should be worn. You must be clean-shaven with no facial hair, and have no visible piercings.
