The 18 days I recently spent in Japan was the most exiting and memorable experience of my life. Whilst in Japan, I was able to not only be a tourist but I was able to be immursed in the Japanese education system, which provided me with invaluable learning experiences. During my trip I was welcomed into three primary schools where I was able to observe their daily lessons, routines and teach some of the students. I was also able to visit a kindergarten and a highschool where I noticed a range of similarities and differences between the Japan and New Zealand schooling systems.
These visits were extremely beneficial to me, as a soon to be teacher, because there were so many opportnities to gain a new perspective on education and this experience opened my eye to what it feels like to be an ESOL learner. An experience that stood out to me was being able to have lunch with the students at the three primary school. It was amazing to see the routine and how organised the students were, as well as feeling the sense of community when eating with the students. Through seeing how a classroom is run in Japan, I hope to use my new knowledge to create a learning environment which welcomes all students.
The main thing I have gained from this trip is more confidence in myself and my abilities. This study tour has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and try new thing, not only building my confidence but also making me a more open-minded individual. This experience for me has deepened my passion for teaching and opened my eyes to the possibilities of teaching outside of New Zealand.
I would like to thank everyone who has played a role in organising this amazing trip, it has been truely inspirational and without your support and help this trip would not would not have been possible. The learning and friendships I have made are invaluable and I hope to return to Japan in the future to continue to develop my teaching skills.