Jet Programme Series: Settling In - Aidan Roberts
2022/6/30
Jet Programme Series: Settling In - Aidan Roberts
One thing I love about my placement Kobe city is how much it reminds me of Port of Spain. Both Kobe and Port of Spain have rich histories as port cities where they were the gateways to the world for their countries at a differing points. They are also both central locations. The two cities are homes to several government offices and headquarters of both local as well as multinational organisations. But the most beautiful similarity for me is how both cities have stunning, historically abundant, locations and artefacts quietly coexisting with modern marvels. The Shinto shrine just two minutes away from my base school is over 110 years old. And for all the history buffs, next time you walk down Frederick Street I suggest taking a close look at the railings for the shops on the second floor. Some of those wrought-iron railings like the one for the department store “Glendinning’s” have been there since 1838! However, despite all the majestic shrines and temples it will never cease to amaze me that you can go anywhere on the planet and find a Starbucks coffee house.
I currently work at two elementary schools. Though they are around two minutes apart via train, they are quite different. At my visit school, students and teachers wear indoor shoes! I enjoy working at multiple schools because I am exposed to two different school cultures. Working at two schools also means being slightly busier and a little more tired. But the students definitely make it worth it! There is a range in ability among the students at both schools but regardless of the level I met them at, many students have a willingness to learn English. There are also a few students who are interested in learning more about the Caribbean region as well. I have shared information with my students about Trinidad and Tobago in classes and through the culture board at my base school but I would definitely like to share even more in the new school year!
Moving to Japan means I will endure a long adjustment process. Based on what senior assistant language teachers here in Kobe have said, adjusting can take up to a year. But I am super excited to continue adjusting and settling in. And if anything, the seasonal snacks will make things easier to bear!
JET Series: Settling In (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives
I currently work at two elementary schools. Though they are around two minutes apart via train, they are quite different. At my visit school, students and teachers wear indoor shoes! I enjoy working at multiple schools because I am exposed to two different school cultures. Working at two schools also means being slightly busier and a little more tired. But the students definitely make it worth it! There is a range in ability among the students at both schools but regardless of the level I met them at, many students have a willingness to learn English. There are also a few students who are interested in learning more about the Caribbean region as well. I have shared information with my students about Trinidad and Tobago in classes and through the culture board at my base school but I would definitely like to share even more in the new school year!
Moving to Japan means I will endure a long adjustment process. Based on what senior assistant language teachers here in Kobe have said, adjusting can take up to a year. But I am super excited to continue adjusting and settling in. And if anything, the seasonal snacks will make things easier to bear!
JET Series: Settling In (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives