Developments
Some JETs in recent years have been placed in elementary schools, reflecting MEXT's plan to raise the English ability of Japanese students. Some contracting organizations go further and have ALTs periodically work with kindergarten students teaching basic English vocabulary through games and activities. This also brings them exposure to non-Japanese people. JETs occasionally also teach in special schools.
Several prefectures have opted out of the JET Programme in recent years. Some hire individuals directly through advertising or word of recommendation while others use an intermediary dispatch company - usually one of the big English schools such as Heart, Interac or Altia. While direct-hired employees may obtain working conditions similar to the JET Programme; those employed by dispatch companies often have very different working contracts—unpaid holidays or pay-by-the-day contracts are not uncommon. Some dispatch methods used by certain Boards of Education have even been declared illegal by Japanese labor standards authorities (see Assistant Language Teacher).
From 2007, the possible stay for some JETs has been extended from three years to five years, subject to certain stipulations. A JET participants in their third year is able to re-contract two more times if their work performance, accomplishments and abilities are deemed outstanding by their Contracting Organization. However, as in most JET matters, the application process is decided upon by the individual contracting organization.
From 2009, it is possible to apply for an April start. This option does not exclude the applicant from being considered from the traditional August start. Successful applicants starting in April are notified in early March (this notice includes their placement). The April start is in line with the start of the Japanese School year.
Since 1998, the Hong Kong government has operated a similar program, known as the Native English-speaking Teacher scheme, which employs about 800 teachers. Korea has also implemented a similar program called EPIK (English Program in Korea).
In May 2010, the JET program came up for review by the Government Revitalization Unit, the jigyōshiwake budget review panel, due to the need to cut costs given the current state of the economy of Japan. In February 2012, the Japan Times alleged that one contracting Board of Education had fraudulently deducted payments from JET participants and harassed whistle-blowers of the practice.
Read more about this topic: JET Programme
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