?? A Day in the Life of an ALT in Japan

Ever wondered what it’s really like to work as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan? Let me walk you through a typical day to highlight some of the perks and challenges of the ALT role!

? Morning: Preparation & Morning Greetings The day often starts early, with ALTs arriving at school around 8:00 AM. Upon entering, there’s a flurry of “Ohayou gozaimasu!” (Good morning!) exchanged with fellow teachers and students. I always found this a great way to start the day, as it gave me a sense of community and energy when I began my career as an ALT.

Before classes begin, there’s time for lesson preparation, reviewing plans, or chatting with the Japanese Teacher of English (JTE) to fine-tune the day’s lessons. Whether you’re teaching vocabulary through games, leading pronunciation practice, or sparking conversations, collaboration and coordination with your JTE is key.

?? Mid-Morning to Afternoon: Classes in Session Classes typically begin around 8:30 AM. An ALT’s role varies from school to school. You might lead a class in a “T1” role, work alongside the JTE in a team-teaching arrangement, or focus on circulating among students, helping them with activities and conversation practice in more of a supporting or “T2” role.

Creativity, adaptability, and flexibility are essential to keeping students engaged and building relationships with your JTEs and school. As an ALT, your role may involve a mix of lessons—from teaching basic English to elementary school children using songs and games, to more complex grammar points for junior high schoolers, and even leading discussions or debates with high school students. Every day brings a different dynamic!

?? Lunch Break: Sharing Meals & Stories Many ALTs join students for lunch in the classroom, which is an experience in itself. It’s a perfect time for informal conversations, where you can bond with students and learn more about Japanese culture and student life. Expect giggles, questions, and a chance to share a little more about your home country and culture.

?? Afternoons: Clubs & Connections After the final bell rings, school life isn’t over. Many ALTs participate in after-school activities. In junior high and high school, this may include helping with the English club, coaching students for speech contests, or joining sports clubs to foster deeper relationships and show an interest in students outside the classroom. It’s during these times that you can really connect with students, and it often translates to students taking a stronger interest in your lessons.

?? Wrapping Up the Day The last part of an ALT’s day might include more lesson planning for tomorrow, reviewing student work, discussing activities with the JTEs, or creating English board displays for the hallway. The workday typically ends between 4:00 and 5:00 PM, although contract hours usually run until 5:00.

Being an ALT is more than teaching English—it’s about connecting with students, contributing to their growth, and learning from them in return. It’s about sharing your culture while embracing another. Every day is a step toward building confidence, curiosity, and global perspectives in young minds. Even as adults, many of us have fond memories of a particular teacher or class we loved growing up. As an ALT, you have the opportunity to be that teacher or teach that class that will stick with someone well into the future.

Thinking about joining the ALT community? You can learn more through Interac’s website here: https://interacnetwork.com/