At Fukuoka International School (FIS), the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes—the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP)—are brought to life through engaging, inquiry-based learning within the classroom. Students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and make connections across different subjects. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students through collaborative projects, discussions, and hands-on activities that foster a deep understanding of the material. This approach not only builds foundational knowledge but also develops skills like critical thinking, communication, and self-management.

FIS is committed to fairness, inclusiveness, and providing meaningful opportunities for all staff. We welcome both international and locally based staff, with salary scales that apply equally regardless of hiring location. The distinction between international and local hires is not based on nationality but rather on residence at the time of hire, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process. Teaching contracts typically run from August 1 to July 31.

Salaries are determined based on experience and qualifications, with opportunities for annual or biennial increments depending on role and category. All compensation is provided in Japanese Yen, and bonuses are available for teaching faculty who choose to renew their contracts, subject to a cap. Comprehensive benefits are offered and will be fully outlined during the interview process, reflecting our commitment to supporting our staff’s well-being and professional growth.

Leave types and the number of days allotted vary depending on contract type. Full-time staff generally receive a combination of paid leave and sick leave or paid leave and well-being days. All full-time staff are also entitled to special leave, such as compassionate leave and marriage leave. In addition, full-time and part-time staff are eligible for childcare, maternity leave and family care leave. Details will be shared with candidates once an offer of employment has been extended by the school.

FIS provides suitable assistance to internationally hired staff and their dependents in applying for Japan visas and application renewal fees.

An economy class flight ticket is provided for internationally hired teachers from their home of record to Fukuoka. After completing two years of employment, international-hire teachers receive an economy class flight ticket for travel between Fukuoka and their home of record (a cap applies). In the final year of employment, FIS provides a one-way economy class flight ticket for the employee from Fukuoka to their home of record. Eligible dependents are reimbursed up to 50% of the same flight ticket. 

Japan has an excellent national healthcare system. Staff are enrolled in Shigaku Kyosai or PMAC (Promotion and Mutual Aid Corporation) that provides healthcare and pension for private school employees. Both FIS and employees contribute to Shigaku Kyosai based on the employee’s base salary, with the contributions deducted from monthly salaries. Members pay 30% for standard visits to the doctor.

Full-time teachers also enjoy international health insurance coverage. FIS offers an annual health check up at the beginning of each school year free of charge and offers annual flu vaccines.

New teachers are expected to maintain their existing health coverage through July 31 of the year they begin employment at FIS.

Fukuoka City offers highly subsidized local healthcare and free hospitalization for children under 18 who reside in Fukuoka city. One large hospital and clinic nearby offer services in English, and there are also several specialized clinics in the area with English-speaking doctors.

All staff are enrolled in the Japanese pension system: Shigaku Kyosai (PMAC). One is eligible for payouts from the Japan pension system after 65 years old after contributing at least 10 years. Japan has concluded social security agreements with some countries to aggregate pension participation periods. If you are non-Japanese and depart Japan, you may withdraw part of your pension contribution as a lump sum amount. Conditions apply.

Teachers are provided with another international pension provided as an opportunity to do mutual fund investment, managed by employees with help from the school's investment company. Teachers can transfer it to a new employer or redeem it after leaving FIS. Both teachers and the school will make contributions. More details will be provided at the offer stage.

Shipping allowances and furnishing allowances are provided to help internationally hired teachers to settle into their life in Fukuoka.

FIS offers a monthly Housing Allowance to Full-time teaching faculty. The school provides assistance in locating and contracting school housing. Teachers typically live in a 2-3 km radius of school and commute to school by bike or walking. Rental apartments in Japan typically come unfurnished.

The FIS staff support team provides strong support to help new faculty and staff set up and navigate life in Japan.