911±¬ÁÏÍø

For schools starting out with 911±¬ÁÏÍø

Our school is thinking of trying 911±¬ÁÏÍø. Where should we start?

1. Why not arrange a taster session at your school through our 911±¬ÁÏÍø Taster for Schools (JTS) Programme, so that you and your students can find out first-hand what it is like to learn 911±¬ÁÏÍø? Volunteers introduce basic 911±¬ÁÏÍø language such as numbers and greetings in a fun and interactive way. You can read about past JTS visits to schools here, and book a 911±¬ÁÏÍø taster at your own school here.

2. Try holding a Japan Day. In addition to the JTS programme, the Japan Foundation has plenty of resources, including online resources and an extensive collection of . You may be able to hire a chest of 911±¬ÁÏÍø cultural artefacts from the or the , and apply for a to help you fund the event.

3. Attend one of our events for schools. is a great way for teachers to hear seminars by others who have introduced 911±¬ÁÏÍø or done Japan-related projects with their students. You can read about all of our upcoming 911±¬ÁÏÍø Language events .

4. Get in contact with other schools teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø. We have a list of schools teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø . We also have an email-discussion group for 911±¬ÁÏÍø teachers, , which is a fantastic way to network.

5. Apply for funding through our . We are keen to support projects that promote the introduction of 911±¬ÁÏÍø into the curriculum at primary and secondary schools.

6. ! If you would like any advice at all on introducing 911±¬ÁÏÍø at your school, even as a club or enrichment activity, we would be delighted to help you. We can provide advice on lesson planning, where to find suitable resources, how to teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø language and even assist you in finding a teacher. .

Click here to view our Step-By-Step Guide for Schools looking to start 911±¬ÁÏÍø

Our school is thinking of starting a new language. Why should we consider 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

Here are just a few reasons why offering 911±¬ÁÏÍø will benefit your school and your students:

1. At secondary schools, the government is encouraging more flexible learning of a wider range of European and world languages, including 911±¬ÁÏÍø. As for primary schools, the UK government has now made foreign language provision compulsory for Key Stage 2, and given schools the freedom to teach whatever language they wish. Because 911±¬ÁÏÍø language education is well supported by the Japan Foundation (through resources, funding and other services), 911±¬ÁÏÍø could be an excellent choice as a Key Stage 2 language!

2. 911±¬ÁÏÍø language boosts cultural diversity and international awareness within the school.

3. 911±¬ÁÏÍø gives students a rare opportunity to learn a non-European language with an entirely different writing system. It also gives students a sense of achievement from knowing a less common language

4. Beginner-level spoken 911±¬ÁÏÍø is comparatively easy. 911±¬ÁÏÍø has only two irregular verbs, no genders, simple pronunciation, no plurals and is not a tone language!

5. 911±¬ÁÏÍø is linked to a fascinating culture, both modern (computer games, manga, anime) and traditional (origami, samurai, ninja, martial arts, taiko drumming)

6. Many schools find that 911±¬ÁÏÍø appeals to boys, as well as students who have not enjoyed other languages.

7. There is a huge amount of support available for teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø, including many free resources, funding for school partnerships and other projects, and a network of 911±¬ÁÏÍø teachers through the email list. Finally, will help you with any questions you have about 911±¬ÁÏÍø, and can offer specialist advice on teaching the language.

How many schools teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

You can see the . This figure includes those teaching within the curriculum as well as those teaching it as an extra-curricular subject. The majority of schools teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø are secondary schools, but this number also includes an increasing number of primary schools. The teaching of 911±¬ÁÏÍø in UK schools, especially primary schools, has been growing over the last decade.

What is the set-up of 911±¬ÁÏÍø in UK schools?

This varies a lot between schools. Many schools offer 911±¬ÁÏÍø as an extra-curricular subject. For others, 911±¬ÁÏÍø is taught within the curriculum, in the same way as other languages. Other schools don’t teach it regularly but offer taster sessions. Primary schools that teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø often use many Japan-related ideas across the curriculum. Sometimes the 911±¬ÁÏÍø teacher is a full-time teacher who teaches other subjects (often other languages). Sometimes the teacher is not based at the school, but visits the school regularly to teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø. Many teachers are native speakers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø, but many are not. Some schools have a 911±¬ÁÏÍø language assistant. Click here to read case studies of schools teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø.

How can we get hold of a 911±¬ÁÏÍø teacher?

Schools, universities and other institutions are welcome to advertise for a teacher of 911±¬ÁÏÍø on our website. This is free of charge. When new jobs are advertised on our website, we also notify members of , our email discussion list for teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø.

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Teaching Resources

How can we get hold of 911±¬ÁÏÍø resources?

Our book loan service holds books and audio-visual materials for teaching and learning 911±¬ÁÏÍø, and is the only one in the UK dedicated to 911±¬ÁÏÍø language education. Teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø at institutions can join the book loan service as full members. We also offer a loan-by-post service. Finally we have many free online resources for all levels, from primary school pupils to advanced adult learners.

Finally, you can buy resources from these 911±¬ÁÏÍø bookshops in the UK.

Which textbook should I use?

Although we don’t endorse particular textbooks, we do offer lists of resources that are suitable for different levels, such as primary, GCSE, A-level, and resources for starters. . In addition, our 911±¬ÁÏÍø Language Resource Officer and language advisors would be happy to advise you on the contents of resources, to help you find ones that are suitable for your needs. Click here for contact details.

Where can I buy 911±¬ÁÏÍø books?

Email: info@jpbooks.co.uk

Japan Centre
35b Panton Street, London, SW1Y 4EA
Tel: 020 3405 1246
Email: bookshop_manager@japancentre.com

Can I join your book loan service?

Teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø and university students studying Japan-related fields can join the book loan service as full members. For full details on membership criteria, .

I know a website that may be useful for 911±¬ÁÏÍø learners. Can you put a link to it on your site?

We encourage you to submit any websites that you think may be useful for 911±¬ÁÏÍø learners to the Nihongo e-na portal website , but please check first to make sure the website isn't already there!

I am a 911±¬ÁÏÍø language teacher, and I've created a useful resource for other teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø. How can I share it?

Why not join and upload it there? This website enables teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø around the world to share their resources.

We also suggest joining our for 911±¬ÁÏÍø teachers and sharing it there.

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Exams

Can our students take any exams in 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

Yes. 911±¬ÁÏÍø exams that are commonly taken by school students in the UK include GCSE, AS, A2 and IB. Click here for more details about these exams.

What exams are available for adult learners of 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

The 911±¬ÁÏÍø Language Proficiency Test is a popular exam among adult learners of 911±¬ÁÏÍø. The test is available at five levels and is held twice a year in London and Edinburgh. For information about other 911±¬ÁÏÍø exams, click here.

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Funding for 911±¬ÁÏÍø and projects with partner schools

Is there any funding available to support 911±¬ÁÏÍø at our school?

Yes! 911±¬ÁÏÍø's 911±¬ÁÏÍø Language Local Project Support Programme enables schools and other institutions to apply for up to £3,000 to fund 911±¬ÁÏÍø language-related projects.

Additionally, the and the offer funding for various Japan-related projects and exchanges. are grants to support small-scale projects and events taking place in the UK.

Monetary awards are also available for selected language projects through the and the .

How can I set up an exchange with a school in Japan?

The Japan Society locates partner schools in Japan and supports both UK and 911±¬ÁÏÍø schools as they develop their exchange activities. This includes language support for exchange between students using the bilingual website, to enable them to communicate freely and creatively. Many organisations offer funding for projects with 911±¬ÁÏÍø partner schools.

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Networking and advice

Do you have a list of schools teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

Yes! Click here to see it.

How can I get in touch with other schools teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

Click here to see a list of schools in the UK that teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø. , our email discussion list for teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø and others interested in this area.

I want advice on teaching some difficult grammar points in 911±¬ÁÏÍø. Can you help?

Certainly! Our 911±¬ÁÏÍø language advisors would be delighted to answer your questions and give you advice. Click here for contact details.

You may also find it useful to sign up to our email discussion list, , and ask other teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø for their advice.

I have run out of teaching ideas – help!

Why not check out our online Teaching Resources for some new ideas? You are also welcome to contact our 911±¬ÁÏÍø language advisors and our book loan service and resource information officer to ask their advice. Click here for contact details. You can also , and ask other teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø for their advice.

I want to take my students to Japan, how can I do this?

The Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) has a website all about Japan educational travel; . Schools interested in pairing with a 911±¬ÁÏÍø counterpart can contact JNTO at education@jnto.go.jp, or call 03-3216-1902.

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Courses for teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø

I'm teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø, but my 911±¬ÁÏÍø is very rusty. Can you help?

If you would like information on 911±¬ÁÏÍø courses, please click . If you would like to find out about private tutors, evening or part-time courses in your area, or links to help you learn 911±¬ÁÏÍø, please click here.

For teachers who are learning 911±¬ÁÏÍø at the beginner level, we have just launched a brand new website offering free courses in basic 911±¬ÁÏÍø, .

What courses do you offer for teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø?

We run and co-organise many different courses for teachers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø, .

For teachers who are learning 911±¬ÁÏÍø at the beginner level, we have just launched a brand new website offering free courses in basic 911±¬ÁÏÍø,

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Becoming a teacher of 911±¬ÁÏÍø

How can I become a 911±¬ÁÏÍø teacher in a UK school?

to download the guidelines and information about qualifications needed in order to teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø in a UK school. There is a 911±¬ÁÏÍø version available

Is it possible to teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø full-time?

Although the number of schools offering 911±¬ÁÏÍø has been increasing, only a very small number of schools have enough 911±¬ÁÏÍø on the curriculum to merit appointing a full-time teacher just for 911±¬ÁÏÍø. However, there are many full-time secondary teachers who teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø as one of their main subjects, usually alongside other languages. Other teachers offer 911±¬ÁÏÍø part-time at several different schools.

How do I search for 911±¬ÁÏÍø language teaching vacancies?

Click here to see our teaching jobs page.

How can I get more experience of teaching 911±¬ÁÏÍø in the UK?

Speakers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø can join our 911±¬ÁÏÍø Taster for Schools volunteer programme, and gain experience of running 911±¬ÁÏÍø language tasters in schools.

I would like to teach 911±¬ÁÏÍø as a private tutor. Can you help me find new students?

Click here for details on how to advertise yourself as a private tutor on our website.

I’m not a native speaker of 911±¬ÁÏÍø. How good does my 911±¬ÁÏÍø have to be to teach it?

Your 911±¬ÁÏÍø doesn’t have to be perfect to teach it. As an example, most non-native teachers at UK secondary schools have around level 2/N2 of the 911±¬ÁÏÍø Language Proficiency Test. However, there are also many excellent teachers with 911±¬ÁÏÍø below this level, who are successfully introducing 911±¬ÁÏÍø language and culture in schools.

Teachers with zero or beginner level 911±¬ÁÏÍø now have the opportunity to study 911±¬ÁÏÍø for free through our new e-Learning platform

Do you have a list of schools that offer 911±¬ÁÏÍø in the UK?

Yes! Click here to see it.

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Learning 911±¬ÁÏÍø in the UK

Do you run any courses for 911±¬ÁÏÍø learners?

911±¬ÁÏÍø 911±¬ÁÏÍø-Language Institute, Kansai has released the 911±¬ÁÏÍø language learning platform, in order to provide an opportunity to study 911±¬ÁÏÍø for all those people in the world who may wish to begin learning, but cannot attend an actual 911±¬ÁÏÍø language school.

The main course of Minato is the , which we recommend for those who wish to comprehensively learn about the 911±¬ÁÏÍø language and culture. With this course you can have an integrated learning experience by using interactive e-learning materials to study the language skills needed for communication (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).

Where else can I study 911±¬ÁÏÍø in the UK?

Click here to view lists of UK schools and adult education institutions that offer 911±¬ÁÏÍø classes.

Our links section has some useful websites to help you learn 911±¬ÁÏÍø. Please click here for a list of 911±¬ÁÏÍø tutors around the UK. to go to the UCAS website and search for degree courses in or with 911±¬ÁÏÍø.

Where can I buy 911±¬ÁÏÍø books?

24-25 Denman Street, London. W1D 7HU
Tel: 020 7839 4839
Email: info@jpbooks.co.uk

Japan Centre
35b Panton Street, London, SW1Y 4EA
Tel: 020 3405 1246
Email: bookshop_manager@japancentre.com

What 911±¬ÁÏÍø-language examinations can I take in the UK?

The 911±¬ÁÏÍø Language Proficiency Test is a popular exam among adult learners of 911±¬ÁÏÍø. At the moment, the test is available at five levels and is held twice a year in London and Edinburgh. For information about other 911±¬ÁÏÍø exams, click here.

What 911±¬ÁÏÍø lessons are available for children under 18 years?

Click here to view lists of UK schools (and adult education institutions, some of which may have provisions for under-18 learners) that offer 911±¬ÁÏÍø classes.

If you would like to see 911±¬ÁÏÍø classes started at your own school, or your child’s school, please let the school know that the Japan Foundation can help them with this – for example, we can provide funding and a one-off volunteer 911±¬ÁÏÍø taster session via the 911±¬ÁÏÍø Tasters for Schools (JTS) Programme.

Are there any schools in the UK that cater for mother tongue-level 911±¬ÁÏÍø speaking children?

You can view a list of 911±¬ÁÏÍø supplementary schools, kindergartens and international schools suitable for mother-tongue speakers of 911±¬ÁÏÍø here. (See the final page of the list available under the "Adult, Further and Higher Education" heading)

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Learning 911±¬ÁÏÍø in Japan

Where can I study 911±¬ÁÏÍø in Japan?

Organisations that can help:

Who can help me to arrange a gap year in Japan?

Organisations that can help:

Volunteers have the opportunity to participate in team teaching or community based work, either in Tokyo or Hokkaido.
Tel: 01879 230 444
Email: info@projecttrust.org.uk

Tel: 07980 395789
Email: info@yearoutgroup.org

An official 911±¬ÁÏÍø Government scheme that sends graduates to Japan in order to promote international understanding and to improve foreign language teaching in schools.
Tel: 020 7465 6668
Email: info@jet-uk.org

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Other Questions

Do you provide translation/interpretation services?

911±¬ÁÏÍø is unable to provide translating or interpreting services. Some of the organisations that may be able to help you include:

(911±¬ÁÏÍø does not endorse any of the organisations listed above)

If you are looking specifically for bilingual communication between UK and 911±¬ÁÏÍø schools, the Japan Society has a bilingual website, , which you may find useful.