Teacher Testimonials

As mentioned earlier, teachers at James tend to stay longer (3 years typically) and get more out of their time here than at many of the larger English Schools.

Here are a few letters from teachers past and present to give you an idea of what makes teaching at James such a positive experience.

I’m from Burlington, Ontario. I’ve been at James for over 3 years now. The experience I’ve gained, both professionally and socially, has been invaluable. Coming halfway across the world and immersing yourself in a new culture is a great catalyst for personal growth. I’ve met some excellent people here, eaten foods that would have made me cringe back in Canada, and gone on some amazing adventures. My world view has definitely widened.
- Mike Ring

I've been with James for 3 years. I have made so many good friends. The teaching is professionally and personally rewarding, and there is always something new and interesting to do in my free time. Northern Japan is beautiful and James is a great place to work.
- Melissa Serena

I've been a teacher with James English School for these past five years. Teaching ESL at J.E.S has been a very rewarding experience and an invaluable way to learn about Japanese culture and way of life. What I particularly appreciated was having the chance to learn about teaching in various ways, through the extensive library, extremely helpful, professional and creative colleagues, professional development days and last but certainly not least from the students. J.E.S has given me a wealth of teaching experience, all levels and ages and I have gained many long lasting friends. Five years well spent! - Suzanne Squires

Teaching for James has been an exciting and life altering experience for me. Japan is a welcoming nation that is intertwined with both tradition and modernity. Keeping an open mind and being culturally sensitive yet maintaining your `Western` ways has helped me settle comfortably. This school allows teachers to teach an array of students of all ages in addition to corporate classes. These challenges enable you to be creative and to develop professionally. If you want to be enriched with a new perspective and if you want to create new friendships and networks then come to Japan.
- Jennifer J. Carino

I’m having a fulfilling experience not only teaching, but outside of work as well. In my year and a half here I have made some wonderful friends and am having a great time exploring the life and culture of Japan!
- Nadine Mannella

I have been working for James for the past five years. Each year has been a new and exciting experience for me, both professionally and personally. I know many teachers in other companies and I can proudly say that, from a teacher’s point of view, we are considered the number one company in Northern Japan.
- Scott McDonald

I am a new teacher at James and I am enjoying it very much. Japan is a beautiful country. I have only been here for 3 months and I am very excited for my remaining time here in Japan.
- Intikhab Mobarak

Working for James and living in Japan has proven to be a wonderful experience for me. From both a professional and personal standpoint; every day brings something new and rewarding.
- Jon Friday

Moving to Japan and teaching English with James has been the most exciting and rewarding period in my life thus far. The challenges of adapting to such a different and unique culture ensure that there is never a dull moment. I’ve had many wonderful experiences, made some lifelong friends and have no plans of going home in the near future.
- Jason Peppard

James provides an excellent working environment. My co-workers are all supportive and tolerant and at the same time great people away from work as well. My city is surrounded by nature, rivers, mountains and all types of animals. The people here are proud of their city and keep it very clean. Sometimes I feel I won't be able to leave this place.
- Ryan Odamura

James is an excellent company to work for, fair and supportive. Northern Japan is a fantastic place to live. There is always something to do amid beautiful surroundings.
- Lisa Mee

I had the privilege of working with a great team of teachers, as well as a dedicated Japanese staff at James English School in Koriyama City for 4 years. If you enjoy life and people, as well as a great challenge, then I would highly recommend that you come to Japan to teach EFL at James English School.
- Verna P. Burry

My four years with James have far exceeded my initial expectations. Teaching a wide variety of ages and classes, working at James has enabled me to develop my professional skills and gain international and intercultural experience at the same time. I recommend James to anyone wanting to experience teaching and life abroad.
- Tony Caldwell

Working for JES has been an excellent experience. JES encourages its teachers to be creative and use a variety of techniques in the classroom, which allows for a lot of flexibility in designing lesson plans. There is an excellent network of support from trained professionals who assist teachers through professional training and development.

At JES we are fortunate to be able to interact with students both inside and outside of the classroom. I have learned a lot about myself professionally and personally while experiencing a foreign culture. I recommend JES to anyone wanting to delve into a truly unique and life changing experience.
- Jillian Hill

I was relieved to find out that I didn't have to do ANY of the selling and soliciting I had heard about at so many of the other schools. Teaching days are reasonable and include ample time to complete all your lesson plans. I was worried at first about teaching at the companies but soon found them some of my favorite classes. I would recommend James to anyone.
- Chris Little

Three years ago, I made a significant change in my life and moved to Japan with my son. Life in Japan has been challenging but it has also been a most rewarding experience! Teaching English is fun, for both you and your students! There are so many wonderful people to meet and so many fantastic sights to see. We often live in places that tourists don't visit and we see a more traditional Japan. My life here in Japan gives me an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective. Come and join us. James English School is a great place to teach!
- Carol Luczak

I come from Alberta, Canada. I joined James English School 6 years ago. The experience has been very valuable professionally, and now I am working on a Master's degree in Teaching Second Languages.
- Todd Stafford

I'm really enjoying the challenges and rewards of working for James. Teaching a variety of classes, from kids to companies, ensures that every working day is both challenging and interesting. Unlike many schools, I feel James encourages teachers to be creative and to develop their own teaching styles, while knowing that guidance from a highly skilled team is always available.

The Tohoku region is a great place to live. Beautiful lakes and mountains are never far away, there are many unique festivals to enjoy, and most importantly for me, the people are genuinely warm and friendly. I would highly recommend working for James.
- Paul Dickinson

I taught at James English School in Sendai for almost three years. Compared to other places I had taught, the teaching situation was very professional. The variety of in-house and corporate classes challenged my teaching skills and all JES students were eager to learn anything I could bring to the classroom. Although I followed a set curriculum, I was free to adapt lessons to suit the needs of a particular class. This made for more interesting lessons and more effective teaching on my part. After several years back in the West, I am once again preparing to move back to James.
- Andrea Hardcastle