Pros
In the years that I worked in ABC English, I felt appreciated, heard and valued - not just by my bosses and co-teachers, but also my students' parents. I was happy, and I always looked forward to going to work. Hikone is such a warm community, and it was the perfect blend of city and countryside for me. I had zero experience in teaching smaller children, but they gave me a chance and a lot of support. Ms Pamela (principal/owner) took her time and never rushed through my training period. She oriented me on the most important things about the school, but careful not to overwhelm me. She's warm, gentle, and talked to me like she would talk to her own children. She cared about her teachers. I remember once, I went to work with high fever. She caught me, scolded me for reporting to work sick, and then drove me home. She told me to take the rest of the week off and to not hesitate to ring her if I ever needed anything, even during the weekend. Mr Hiro (HR manager/owner) took care of my relocation and made sure everything was ready when I arrived. He was able to still accommodate me, even though I had to move in a week earlier than planned. Any questions or concerns I had about my employment, visa status etc he answered clearly and transparently. I never had any fears. I was always reassured. Both owners, I imagine, have a very busy schedule and got a lot on their plate. Yet they are still able to patiently answer any of our questions, and attend to any concerns that we may have. I never once saw them looking annoyed or grumpy. Tired maybe, but not grumpy. I was inspired to work hard, and I tried to be as useful as I can be, because it was the only way I could pay them back for their kindness and generosity. They go by, "We take care of our teachers, so that they can focus on taking care of our students." Sumiko-sensei, the Head Teacher at the time, was the best co-teacher I ever had. She was also my classroom partner for a year. She's well-organized, very reliable, patient, kind, considerate, laid back, and such a professional. All of us teachers have so much regard for her because we trust her as our leader. Like Ms Pamela, she cared for her teachers, especially the foreign teachers who lived alone. Once, one fell very sick and hasn't reported to school for a couple days. She drops by her place to check on her, bringing groceries and keeping her company for a short while. We always appreciated what to them were smalls acts, but to us it already meant so much. Even as I was leaving them for good, they continued to support me and helpe me through everything that needed to be arranged and settled. There was no bitterness. Just genuine well wishes for the next chapter of my life. I had such great leaders then, that I felt safe enough to learn and grow. They nurtured me into the teacher that I am now. I am now a licensed/registered teacher in Singapore, equipped with all the skills and learning I acquired through ABC English.
Cons
Not really a "con", but if I had to put one, perhaps it's the fact that I never got a taste of their yearly bonus 🤭 Apparently, they've had this practice of giving early bonuses to their teachers. But it stopped when I started there, then resumed when I left. 😭 Such a weird coincidence 😌 but it's okay. The best bonus they have given me is the opportunity to teach in their school.
