It’s nearing that time again when the newest batch of JETs head off to Japan. In the past, the consulate has run a half-day information/orientation session for the outgoing JETs, however this has been deemed to short by all parties concerned. This year, with the assistance of JETAA, there will be a full day orientation in the City, featuring the usual information provided in the past, plus additional tutorials in team-teaching and Japanese language.

Due to the expanded nature of the orientation, your help would be appreciated. If you can spare an hour or two at the end of June to assist in the running of a tutorial, or to help with some Q&A, or even if you have some suggestions for information you think should be included in the orientation, please contact Justine at the JICC (formerly JIS) on (03) 9639 3277 or by e-mail: melbourne@japan.org.au.

Later in the year (September) we are also planning to organise a Career Orientation for JETAA members. Targeted primarily for those just returning from Japan, the Career Orientation will be useful to all JETAA members who are perhaps at a crossroads in their career and would like to know how to get the most OUT of their JET experience put INTO their careers. Again, if you think you can help in any regard to organising this orientation (perhaps you have some useful information or anecdotes that might help someone else.) More details about the orientation itself will feature in the next newsletter.

Please contact Raynard Harris on 0410-527-066 or by e-mail: accesspotential@smartchat.net.au.

Applications are currently being sought for an assistant English teacher. This program, established between DEET and the Inami Board of Education, Japan, enables successful applicants to work mainly in junior high schools in Inami (in Hyogo prefecture between Kobe and Himeji) for twelve months and assist Japanese teachers in English language education.

Benefits: The Inami Board of Education will provide successful applicants with their return airfare to Japan, a salary of 300,000 Yen per month. Two flats are made available for the Victorian Assistant Teachers at a location nearby to all schools.

Applications: All applicants for the program are required to provide references from two referees including one from their current principal. The principals’ reference must also include a comment regarding the potential benefits of participation in the Inami program to the school and its programs.

Please Note: This program will operate from January to December of 2003.

Application forms and further information are available from Ian Wykes, International Division on (03) 9651.3947.