Hitomi Kobayashi-Prior is a former senior lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies in Japan and the author of 17 textbooks on Japanese language teaching and teacher training. Committed to student success, she creates tailored learning environments that inspire motivation and foster meaningful educational experiences. Through theory-based practices and dedication, she empowers students to explore their curiosity, achieve their goals, and excel in Japanese language learning and beyond. >> As a highly experienced instructor in Japanese language education, Hitomi has an extensive academic background, holding a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics with a specialisation in Japanese Language Education. She is one of the most experienced Japanese teachers in Scotland. In addition to her degrees, she holds a Certificate in Japanese Language Teaching Competency, accredited by the Japanese Minister of Education. In recognition of her contributions to teacher training, she was honoured with a prestigious Teaching Award in 2008 from a leading teacher training institute in Japan. >> Hitomi has gained a wealth of experience over 20+ years of dedicated teaching. She began her career at the age of 19 at a tutoring school in Japan, where she spent eight formative years guiding students aged 5 to 19 in both Japanese and English. She later transitioned into higher education, enriching the linguistic and cultural knowledge of students from diverse backgrounds. >> Beyond the classroom, Hitomi has made considerable contributions to Japanese language research, focusing on learner autonomy, self-regulated learning, and language assessment. She has also served as an assessment specialist for the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). >> Now based in Edinburgh, Hitomi plays a key role in the acclaimed Japanese Book Club, which fosters cultural exchange and language immersion among local Japanese learners. She is also PVG-certified.

 

As the Head of the Japanese Department at a prestigious language school in Edinburgh, I bring over seven years of dedicated experience in teaching Japanese to learners ranging from beginner to intermediate levels. Fluent in both Japanese and English, I specialise in creating engaging and effective learning experiences tailored to diverse needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully designed and delivered hundreds of group classes and private lessons, earning a reputation for inspiring students and fostering a deep appreciation for the Japanese language and culture. My expertise extends to curriculum development and class organisation, ensuring a seamless and rewarding journey for every learner.

Hi! I’m a fluent Japanese speaker with an A in A-level Japanese and a strong cultural background. I was born in Nagasaki, lived in Japan until I was 4, and visit regularly. I speak Japanese daily with my mum, girlfriend, and through Japanese School in Scotland. My goal is to make learning Japanese enjoyable, relaxed, and tailored to what you want—whether that’s exams, travel, or just for fun.
 

N2 / Teach Japanese around 6 Years

BA Hons in Japanese; several years living in Japan; experience in teaching Japanese to school children and adults

Hi! I am Jess and I run Nihongo Connection, an online and in-person intermediate Japanese Conversation Community. I organise and run JLPT and Beginner’s Japanese Bootcamp Weekends and teach Beginner’s Japanese to groups and 1-1 online and in person. In 2014, I started my intermediate Japanese conversation club in Edinburgh. In 2018, I quit my job at the Japanese Consulate in Edinburgh to build my growing and thriving Japanese language community. We arrange weekly online conversation club calls in Japanese, supporting speakers around the world.

I am a qualified (accredited by UCLES) Japanese language teacher with business background. My lessons can be tailored to fit your level, interests, goals etc. I am based in Glasgow but happy to teach online anyone in UK. Learning Japanese is fun. Look forward to hearing from you!

Born to a Japanese mother, raised in Japan. Spent 6 years in Japanese schools and the rest in international schools. Experience working as a teaching assistant to Japanese children learning English.

Taught English in Japan for 15 years to private individuals and commercial organisations – including banks. Fluent in spoken Japanese.

UCLE (University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate) April 1996-March 1997　Diploma in Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language (450 hours) Institute of International Education in London, Regent’s College. Principal of i Japanese Language School (a private school in Oita, Japan) More than 200 students with levels varying from beginner to advanced, many of whom successfully obtained a JLPT qualification September 1999-March 2016 Teaching Japanese language to foreign students at Beppu University, Japan. April 2006-March 2016 Teaching Japanese language to foreign students at APU (Asia Pacific University), Beppu, Japan October 2013-July 2015 Teaching Japanese language to postgraduate students (beginner course) at APU April 2015-July 2015

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