English Concept

Our school has been providing English lessons since 1981. We currently employ several full-time native English-speaking teachers. Pioneer Language School is unique in training with a focus on intercultural communications. What is intercultural training? Our lessons emphasize understanding and awareness beyond verbal communication, including body language and communication styles from both eastern and western cultures.

We have two branches in Shizuoka prefecture and one branch in Kanagawa prefecture. The two branches in Shizuoka prefecture are located in Fuji City and Fujinomiya City. Fujinomiya is situated in the countryside at the foot of majestic Mt Fuji. This prefecture is about two hours by car from Tokyo. Closer to Tokyo is our other branch located in Kanagawa prefecture, in Yokohama.

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PLS System

We use a top-rated children’s curriculum method and receive training directly from the developers once a year. We also have a weekly teachers’ meeting for training and discussing teaching methods. The PLS System children’s curriculum is based on a system of ranks, each with its own targets and goals, beginning at 10th rank. 10th rank objectives are focused on listening and learning English through physical, fun-filled games. 9th rank begins self-expression through creating sentences, with an emphasis on sounds and words through phonics. 8th rank requires creation of higher-level sentences along with practicing basic reading and writing skills. 7th rank brings in the 4 basic skills of communication as well as making home stay overseas possible through the study of “survival English”.

VIP Immersion Course

This curriculum is called the A Beka program, one of the most popular home schooling programs used today in the United States. It is taught by a native English speaker using only the English language, completely immersing the students in English, creating incredibly fast results. This program is a full curriculum that covers major subjects, such as Bible Studies, English, Math, Science, Geography, History, Music, Poetry, Arts & Crafts and Language Arts (spelling, writing, reading, phonics, grammar, etc.). But this program also goes deeper than just teaching subjects; it also includes classroom and behavioral skills development. 　It has a very high standard of education and follows a foundational Christian philosophy making this program one of the most successful curriculums used in America today.

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Yokohama

This branch provides English language lessons to children from 2 to 12 years old. “The PLS System” is used at this branch for a variety of classes. The “VIP Immersion Course” is only available at this branch for children ages 3 to 4 years old. This class can also replace Japanese kindergarten classes for students. We also use the A Beka program for “returnees” (students returning from America or another English speaking country). Currently we are providing the Elementary School Language Arts curriculum but are available to open classes in any grade.

Shizuoka

These branches provide English language lessons and intercultural training to students of all ages and levels. “The PLS System” is used for a variety of classes. Adult business classes are also provided via private lessons and group lessons. Business class curriculums vary depending upon individual company desires and requirements. It is our vision to expand the “VIP Immersion Course” to these branches in the future.

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Teachers’ salaries and benefits are adequate for the cost of living in these parts of Japan. A base monthly salary of 250,000 yen is guaranteed for the first two months of employment and will be increased to 255,000 yen thereafter. Overtime is paid at a rate of 3,000 yen per hour. Furthermore, a bonus will be given to teachers upon completion of each one year period. Working hours are five days per week, nine hours per day (including two 30 minute breaks), Monday through Friday in Shizuoka prefecture and Tuesday through Saturday in Kanagawa prefecture. Pioneer Language School has high expectations of its teaching staff and expects applicants to be professional and serious about teaching. Applicants must enjoy working with children. During the first two months of employment, teachers receive extensive on-the-job training. Apartment deposit money and key money are paid by the school. A refrigerator and washing machine for a semi-furnished apartment are also provided. Monthly rent (50,000 yen-70,000 yen), utilities, health insurance, and transportation to and from Japan are the teacher’s responsibility.

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Vacation

1 week Summer vacation (days fixed)
2 weeks Christmas vacation (days fixed)
1 week Golden Week (days fixed)
Various national holidays

Basic Requirements

1. Native English speaker.
2. 4 year university/college graduate.
3. Commitment to a 1 year renewable contract.
4. International driver's license (Shizuoka Prefecture only).

Preferences

1. Experience with children.
2. English teaching experience.
3. Creative talent (activities, music, games, events, etc.).
4. Those seeking teaching as a future career.

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If you are a native English speaker and are interested in teaching at Pioneer Language School, please send a resume, two letters of reference from previous employers or a Dean of Students, a copy of your degree and transcript, a passport-size photo, and a written statement of your interest in Pioneer and in teaching English. For the position in Yokohama we require the applicant to be a Christian since all subjects in the home schooling curriculum are taught completely from the Christian perspective.

If you are interested in getting more information on our school or to apply for a teaching position please email Yuko Hiroyama at the following address : info@pls.bz

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