On the 21st of November, during the British Council’s International Education Week, 20 teachers of Japanese and primary class teachers came to the Japan Foundation, London for a chance to learn about support and resources for Japanese language classes in primary schools. This event was part of the Japan Foundation, London’s series of workshops and events for our Primary Japanese Campaign 2014, to help prepare primary teachers who would like to teach Japanese from September 2014.

The seminar started with an overview of the wide range of support (including resources and funding) for primary schools in the UK, with plenty of time for questions. Teachers then had a chance to explore the Japan Foundation library and have a look at possible teaching materials for Key Stage 2. Lastly, Dr Seiji Fukushima, the Chief Language Advisor for the Japan Foundation London, introduced some resources in detail, and explained how he is currently using them in a West London primary school. He showed how he is adapting our Key Stage 2 scheme of work, and using it along with Ready Steady NihonGo, Eirin’s challenge and videos of Japan from JNTO.

Most attendees mentioned that the information about resources was very helpful Thierry Maillard mentioned that it was “Great for videos and ideas, even for MFL in general.” Another teacher commented that is was good to “see resources and websites in action.” Quite a few participants mentioned that they were interested in a longer version of the seminar that could include some basic Japanese language training. We will try to provide another basic Japanese course for teachers in the future, so please sign up to our e-bulletin or Primary Japanese Campaign to ensure you receive the latest information.

Click below for the full presentation about support and resources.