Finding Your Place: What to Look for in an ALT Dispatch Company

If you’re an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan, you’ve probably experienced that nagging feeling of being a visitor rather than a team member. You might be bouncing between multiple schools each week, teaching a high volume of classes, and wondering if there’s a dispatch company out there that offers more stability and belonging.

The reality is that the ALT experience varies wildly depending on who you work for. Some teachers thrive with variety, while others crave a single school where they can build lasting relationships.

The Multi-School Lifestyle

Many ALTs find themselves juggling several elementary schools each week. It’s not uncommon to be assigned to five different schools, teaching around 28 classes per week. That schedule can feel like a marathon, especially when you factor in travel time between campuses.

With so many classes, you often find yourself as the lead teacher (T1) for the majority of them. Being the T1 for over 60% of your classes means you’re doing the heavy lifting—planning lessons, leading activities, and managing classroom energy. While this is great for building experience, it can also be exhausting without a consistent support system.

The Importance of T1 vs. T2 Balance

Being the T1 is rewarding but also demanding. When you’re the main instructor for most of your classes, you carry the responsibility of lesson quality and student engagement. Some teachers prefer being the T2 (assistant) more often, allowing them to support the homeroom teacher while learning the ropes.

The ideal ratio depends on your experience level. Newer ALTs might benefit from a balanced split, whereas veterans often enjoy taking the lead. If you’re at 64% T1, consider whether that feels like the right challenge or a daily drain.

Why Coordinator Visits Matter

One often-overlooked factor is how frequently your coordinator checks in. A good coordinator can make or break your experience. They provide guidance, mediate between you and the school, and help you feel connected to the company.

If your coordinator rarely visits, you might feel isolated. Regular visits, even monthly, signal that your company values your well-being. They also provide opportunities to discuss concerns, share successes, and get professional feedback.

What to Look for in a Dispatch Company

If you’re searching for a stronger sense of belonging, not all dispatch companies are created equal. Here are key factors to consider:

School Count: Fewer schools usually mean deeper relationships. While five schools might offer variety, two or three schools allow you to become a familiar face in each hallway.

Class Load: High class counts (25+) can lead to burnout. Look for companies that cap classes at a manageable number, giving you time to prepare quality lessons.

T1/T2 Flexibility: Some companies allow you to negotiate your role. If you prefer co-teaching rather than leading, find a company that supports that preference.

Support Structure: Ask about coordinator visits during the interview process. Companies that prioritize regular check-ins often have higher ALT satisfaction rates.

Community Building: The best companies foster community through training sessions, social events, and mentorship programs. Feeling like part of a team, even remotely, makes a huge difference.

Making Your Decision

Your current setup might be functional, but if you’re craving connection, it’s worth exploring other options. The ALT world is diverse, and there are companies where teachers report feeling like valued staff members rather than temporary foreigners.

Before making a move, list what matters most to you. Is it fewer schools? More T2 time? Regular coordinator visits? Once you know your priorities, you can target companies that match your ideal.

Remember, the right fit isn’t just about numbers—it’s about feeling like you belong somewhere. Trust that instinct, and don’t settle for a schedule that leaves you feeling like a perpetual guest.