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Opportunity to work in Japanese Sister City

Latrobe City Council is calling for applications from persons interested in assisting with the teaching of English in junior high schools in Takasago, Latrobe’s sister city in Japan.

By Latrobe City Council - 23rd March 2006 - Back to News

Latrobe City’s mayor, Cr Lisa Price said there was a wonderful opportunity for someone from Latrobe to work in Takasago for twelve months or more assisting its young citizens to learn English.

"Takasago City has once again generously made the opportunity possible and will pay all costs including wages, accommodation and travel to the value of about $50,000 Australian," Cr Price said.

Cr Price explained that the program first commenced in 2001 and since then, many graduates from Latrobe have taken up the role of Assistant English Teacher (AET) in Takasago.

"Joelene Thompson, the current AET, finishes in July and will return to Latrobe after a rewarding twelve months. We know from the reports she has sent back that she has found the experience most worthwhile both in terms of her own career and her personal growth," Cr Price said.

"One of the most attractive aspects of the position is that the selected candidate is teaching overseas, but living within a community which has strong connections with their home city. It makes settling into the different environment so much easier, because of the positive relationships between the two cities that have already been forged.

"Takasago City and Latrobe City share many similarities. However, the lifestyle, school system and many everyday basic things in Japanese life such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home, and riding a pushbike to work every day, are quite different.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for a young person to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, exploring that culture. Living within the community and working with local people will give the selected candidate a great opportunity to broaden their mind and see things from another culture’s perspective.

"The AET program is another example of the benefits that can come through the development of a successful international relations program. We should take pride in the fact that the relationship with Takasago is so good that they specifically want people from Latrobe to help with the education of their young people," Cr Price said.

"The key prerequisite for the AET position is that the incumbent should hold a Bachelor’s degree or obtain one by 30 July 2006, or be qualified to teach at elementary schools or junior high schools, or obtain such qualifications by 30 July 2006.

"We are looking for someone with links to the Latrobe area, who can become an ambassador for Latrobe City. Confidence, independence and a respect for other cultures are also key attributes. Above all, we are looking for someone who is willing to open themselves to new and rewarding experiences as part of the year-long program," Cr Price explained.

"While some knowledge of Japanese language is an advantage, candidates do not need to be able to speak Japanese. Council will however, assist the appointee to learn some basic Japanese before taking up their position, and Takasago City will enhance the appointee’s Japanese language skills during their twelve months in Takasago," Cr Price added.

The position will commence in August 2006. Applications are now open and will be received until 21 April 2006.

Application forms together with employment synopsis and ‘Assistant English Teacher in Takasago City – Terms and Conditions of Service’ can be collected at reception in any of Council’s service centres in Moe, Morwell and Traralgon; downloaded via Council’s web page at www.latrobe.vic.gov.au or telephone 1300 367 700 to obtain a copy by mail or email.

Persons wanting further information are encouraged to contact Yuki Poole at Latrobe City; email yukipo@latrobe.vic.gov.au.


Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com



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