Kindergarten English Teacher Required In Japan

Are you a native-level English speaker with a passion for working with young children? i Kids Star Honmokuyamate, part of the YARUKI Switch Group, is looking for a warm and enthusiastic Kindergarten English Teacher to join their team in Kanagawa. In this role, you’ll work alongside a Japanese-speaking homeroom teacher to support children aged two to six, helping them build language skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. If you’re team-oriented, adaptable, and ready to make a real difference in a nurturing bilingual environment, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

About i Kids Star Honmokuyamate

i Kids Star is part of the YARUKI Switch Group, a well-respected organization with both directly managed and franchise locations across Japan. This franchise location in Honmokuyamate, Kanagawa, offers a warm, supportive environment where children are encouraged to grow into confident, independent learners. The curriculum is built on three pillars: English, Japanese, and Physical Education, creating a well-rounded experience that emphasizes both language and cultural awareness. As a teacher here, you’ll be part of a caring team that values collaboration, professionalism, and a genuine love for helping children thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach classes conducted in English, following the provided curriculum to support language development, reading, writing, math, and life skills.

• Assist with lessons and activities conducted in Japanese, working closely with your Japanese-speaking homeroom teacher.

• Actively interact with students throughout the day, modeling friendly, enthusiastic, and professional behavior.

• Lead creative activities, songs, and indoor-outdoor play that make learning fun and engaging.

• Support students with toilet training and reinforce proper manners and basic life skills.

• Plan and prepare materials for classes using the provided curriculum and lesson plans.

• Participate in physical education classes and outdoor play, encouraging children to stay active.

• Prepare for and participate in school events, including field trips, open school days, sports days, and seasonal celebrations.

• Provide feedback for parents through weekly comments and twice-yearly report cards.

• Perform daily cleaning of classrooms and school facilities as part of shared staff responsibilities (including bathrooms).

• Support extended childcare and or extracurricular programs as part of weekly shared duties (paid overtime available).

Qualifications and Experience

We’re looking for someone who is friendly, team-oriented, and genuinely passionate about working with young children.

Essential Requirements:

• Native-level English proficiency.

• Must currently reside in Japan.

• Minimum of a two-year associate degree (or equivalent) or hold an unrestricted working visa.

• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to adapt to a highly active, engaging work environment.

• Warm, patient, and enthusiastic approach to working with children.

• Visa sponsorship and renewal support are available for qualified candidates.

Preferred (But Not Essential):

• Previous work experience in childcare, teaching, or related fields.

• Experience working with young children in a bilingual or international setting.

Benefits and Perks

YARUKI Switch Group values their teachers and offers a comprehensive package designed to support you both personally and professionally.

• Competitive Salary: Starting salary of ¥250,000 per month, with raise opportunities based on school performance.

• Paid Leave: Ten paid days of leave per year after six months of employment, in addition to national holidays.

• Training: Fully paid initial training to set you up for success.

• Commuting Reimbursement: Work-related commuting costs reimbursed up to ¥50,000 per month.

• Health and Social Insurance: Social Security and Health Insurance provided.

• Visa Support: Visa sponsorship and renewal support available.

• Work Schedule: Eight-hour shifts with a one-hour break (total nine-hour commitment). Typical shift is 8:30 to 17:30.

• Event Days: Several event days throughout the year (may occur on weekends or national holidays), with paid overtime available as needed.

• Supportive Environment: Work alongside caring colleagues and supportive parents in a positive, team-oriented setting.

 Working Hours and Commitments

• Shifts consist of eight hours of work with a one-hour break (total nine-hour commitment). A typical shift is from 8:30 to 17:30.

• Several event days take place throughout the year and may occur on weekends or national holidays.

• Paid overtime may be required, depending on school needs or special events.

• Extended childcare and/or extracurricular programs are supported as part of weekly shared duties (paid overtime).

 How to Apply

If you’re ready to bring your warmth and enthusiasm to this rewarding role, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your application including a cover letter with the following information:

• Available starting date

• Preferred location(s)

• Closest train station to home (if living in Japan)

• Availability for an online interview during the next two weeks (in Japan Standard Time)

Interview Availability: Interviews are typically conducted Monday–Friday, between 10:00 and 18:00 JST.

Please send your application through the platform where you found this listing.

Important Notes:

• We accept only one application per candidate within a six-month period. If you’re interested in multiple positions with YARUKI Switch Group brands, please indicate this in your application.

• While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Take the next step in your teaching career apply today and empower young learners to build confidence, language skills, and a love of learning that will last a lifetime.