[SSJup81]

Hello. I'm interested in teaching in Japan (preferably ESL at an Elementary School level). How difficult is it for a foreigner to get a real teaching job there, not counting stuff like NOVA (which I heard went bankrupt) and AEON?

I know one will need to have a Bachelor's degree (for a work visa) and I'm working on it. Too bad two-year degrees are looked down upon. Either way, I should be done sometime in 2009. I wish I could just do an exchange program, but, since I'm doing online schooling due to my not being able to afford to do so the traditional way, I can't do any type of international studying through my program of study. The only places offered to me to visit for about a week or so are England and Mexico. I definitely plan on taking the England trip...when it's offered again in 2009. I just hope I'll finally be able to find a job. I haven't been out of work long, but this is driving me nuts.

Anyway, back to the original question, how does a foreigner go about looking for a teaching job in Japan? I actually was interested in ASIJ school, but, even if I got into a program like JET, that wouldn't count towards teaching experience. Do you know if this is the case in general with most schools there? Do you know of any international schools, like ASIJ? Is it true that the BOE of whatever section you're in provide one with a place to stay or a company car (if one is needed)?