Great for a gap year - Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) JET Program Employee Review

3.0
18 Mar 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

An amazing experience that I'll never forget. I was placed in quite a rural town and was terrified that I'd be bored and isolated. But I was able to meet so many amazing people and travel all over the country.

Cons

Having a deep interest in language education, I was really looking forward to the work side of things. However, I was largely a tape recorder with tons of deskwarming which was depressing. The English textbooks are bizarre and mainly focus on how to explain Japan and Japanese culture to foreigners. Students are also taught the language in a robotic and unnatural way and any attempts to change this are often ignored.

Explore other reviews about JET Program

5.0
15 Sept 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great entry point into Japan Positively affect lives of students Sharpen communication skills

Cons

No real growth within company aside from CIR role

4.0
6 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

JETs have support from CLAIR , their Board of Education, and local AJET chapters. CLAIR provides training, orientations, and even funding for teaching certifications.

Cons

Some ALTs co-teach actively and feel valued; others get stuck reading from a script. Your school, co-workers, and Board of Education make a big difference.

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