ALTing in Japan

This community platform on Discord is designed to connect ALTs across Japan, providing a welcoming space to share resources, ask questions, and build professional connections. Whether you’re part of the JET Program, employed through a dispatch company, directly hired, or an aspiring ALT looking to teach English in Japan, you’ll find valuable insights and support here.

The community also welcomes alumni who offer guidance to current ALTs — whether they’re planning to continue living in Japan or preparing for their next steps back home.

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Teaching Resources:

1. Strategies and advice for effective collaboration with Japanese Teachers of English (JTEs).
2. Tips, strategies, and resources for team teaching in elementary schools, junior high schools, and high schools. Share lesson ideas and collaborate on activities.
3. Links to downloadable resources or materials.
4. Tech tools and solutions for classroom use.
5. Information and resources on grants and financial support for educational and ALT team-teaching project expenses.

Living in Japan:

1. Help with legal visa-related questions.
2. Guidance and resources for filing U.S. tax exemptions while working as an ALT in Japan.
3. Assistance with apartment hunting, utilities, and living essentials.
4. Advice and recommendations for travel within Japan.

Inclusivity & Support:

1. A space to discuss diversity, inclusion, and accessibility needs within the ALT community. Share experiences, resources, and support.
2. Tips, questions, and feedback for crafting a strong JET Statement of Purpose
3. Cultural adaptation as an ALT: respecting workplace hierarchy, understanding indirect communication, participating in school activities, and adjusting to different teaching styles and social norms.
4. Support for handling stress and maintaining mental health.

Professional Growth:

1. A space to practice Japanese and prepare for the JLPT exams.
2. Discuss graduate programs, certifications, and other learning opportunities after ALT work.
3. Explore networking opportunities, career advice, and job options beyond ALT.
4. Tips and discussions on securing direct hire teaching roles.

Networking & Community:

1. Discussions and advice about the JET Program experience and applications.
2. Insights and support for ALTs working through dispatch companies.
3. Tips and support for planning your transition and moving out of Japan after ALTing, including guidance on claiming a refund for your Japanese pension contributions and filing for tax refunds.
4. Connect with JET alumni for career advice, insights on life after ALTing, and guidance on the next steps—whether you’re considering staying in Japan or returning to your home country.

Connect with Your Fellow ALTs!

Join the Discord here: https://discord.gg/qNHD337MwF.

Feel free to join the conversation at r/ALTinginJapan, too! It’s a great place to connect with JET ALTs and other ALTs, and to learn from their experiences in Japan.

The JET Christian Fellowship (JCF) is also a great community for religious JET participants and Christian ALTs, offering spiritual support, retreats, and opportunities for outreach in Japan. Another great resource for Christian ALTs is connecting with Reach Jesus for Japan (RJC), a Christian organization that supports community-building and service projects across Japan.

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