Home >FAQ

Below is a list of the most common questions we get at English Garden. Hopefully we have addressed your questions here, but if we didn’t, please contact us directly.
Click on the question or scroll down, to see the answer.
■Question 1

I can't speak Japanese, but I’m really interested in working in Japan. Is this possible?
>> Answer

■Question 2

Is it possible for me to be hired by English Garden if I don't have a university degree?
>> Answer

■Question 3

I’m not from a English speaking country, or I’m not a citizen of an English speaking country, can I still work for English Garden?
>> Answer

■Question 4

I have a bachelor’s degree, but I’ve never taught English. Is it possible to work for English Garden?
>> Answer

■Question 5

I don’t have a work visa, can I still apply to English Garden?
>> Answer

■Question 6

Why is contract length 1 year? Is it possible to do a longer or shorter contract?
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■Question 7

What’s a reasonable amount to save before coming to Japan?
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■Question 8

Is there an age limit for teachers at English Garden?
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■Question 9

Can me and my partner work together at English Garden?
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■Question 10

When will I start if I am hired by English Garden?
>> Answer

■Question 11

Can I choose where I live in Kansai?
>> Answer

■Question 12

Is it possible to return home in the unfortunate event of a family emergency?
>> Answer

■Question 13

Will I be teaching kids or adults? Group or one to one?
>> Answer

■Question 1

Will I be teaching kids or adults? Group or one to one?

●Answer

Yes it is. Most teachers at English Garden arrived with little to no ability to speak Japanese. The people here are generally really friendly, and most of them can speak some English. Learning the basics of the language before you leave will make a huge difference when you get here. Being able to express yourself in Japanese will help you out a lot, especially when you go to the bank, or to the doctor’s office. There are plenty of opportunities to learn Japanese while you are here. If you put the effort in either before you arrive or while you are here, you will see amazing results.

■Question 2

Is it possible for me to be hired by English Garden if I don't have a university degree?

●Answer

We require all teachers to possess at least a Bachelors Degree from an accredited university. If you are still pursuing your degree, please indicate when you will be completing your program so we can plan an interview for after you have completed it.

■Question 3

I’m not from a English speaking country, or I’m not a citizen of an English speaking country, can I still work for English Garden?

●Answer

Yes you can. Provided that you went to an elementary and high school that taught exclusively in English.

■Question 4

I have a bachelor’s degree, but I’ve never taught English. Is it possible to work for English Garden?

●Answer

Prior teaching experience is not necessary at English Garden. While it is an asset, it’s not essential. We simply require that you have a Bachelors degree and a flawless command of the English language.

■Question 5

I don’t have a work visa, can I still apply to English Garden?

●Answer

No, due to the costs involved it is not possible at this time. Even applicants applying from inside Japan will need a work visa. If you do not currently have a visa, consider the working holiday visa program. Information can be found about this program at immigration websites of your country of origin and Japan’s immigration website.

■Question 6

Why is contract length 1 year? Is it possible to do a longer or shorter contract?

●Answer

We choose to sign 1 year contracts for several reasons. Our students are our highest priority. Having teachers that swing in for a few months then leave on a regular basis prevents them from forming any bonds with their teachers. Without these bonds it’s easy for them to lose interest in English. If you want to work for longer than 1 year, we still think signing a 1 year contract is the best option. It gives us a chance to reflect on your position and your plans for the future. We prefer to promote from within the company rather than hire outsiders. If you’re willing to take the challenge, after 1 year you could move up to a management position.

■Question 7

What’s a reasonable amount to save before coming to Japan?

●Answer

How much money you will need depends on several factors. Plan on saving at least enough to cover your flight and 2 months of living expenses. Remember, all Japanese businesses pay their employees once per month. Depending on when you start working, you may need to wait 1 month or more for your first paycheck. If you plan to rent your own apartment in Japan, it is very expensive in Japan. While the monthly rate may be low, expect to 4-5 times the monthly rate in deposit and gift money. There are a few other cheaper alternatives. You can stay in one of the many guest houses in Osaka. While rent will be higher and your apartment will be smaller, you don’t have to pay much in the way of deposit.

■Question 8

Is there an age limit for teachers at English Garden?

●Answer

No, there isn’t. We hire people of all ages and backgrounds.

■Question 9

Can me and my partner work together at English Garden?

●Answer

Yes you can, however you will need to apply separately.

■Question 10

When will I start if I am hired by English Garden?

●Answer

We don’t like to make teachers wait. As a result, as soon as both parties have agreed, we will sign a contract and begin training as quickly as possible.

■Question 11

Can I choose where I live in Kansai?

●Answer

Were you choose to live is entirely up to you. With many different competing train lines, getting to work is possible from anywhere in Kansai. Please consider your daily commute when you make a decision.

■Question 12

Is it possible to return home in the unfortunate event of a family emergency?

●Answer

Of course. We understand that family is the most important thing in anyone’s life. Should his happen, we ask that you tell us as soon as possible so we can make a plan together that allows you to take the time off you need.

■Question 13

Will I be teaching kids or adults? Group or one to one?

●Answer

At English Garden we teach anyone who has the desire to learn English. While most of our students are children, we also teach adult classes. Both children and adults have the option of taking group or private lessons. Our youngest students are 2 years old, and come with their mother or father. Our kids classes are a lot of fun, and usually the kids put in an extra effort to study what they learned in class at home. While they may be shy at first, all of our students will open up once they get to know you and surprise you with what they know, and how they use it. Adult classes are also a lot of fun for all parties involved. Even with the age gaps that exist in our some of our adult group classes, our students not only bond with the teacher, but by encouraging them to speak English to each other, the entire class bonds together.