Glossary

小学校指導者
しょうがっこうしどうしゃ

The ALT(s) who assist Guidance Division in running training sessions for elementary school homeroom teachers, or HRT(s), and providing elementary-related support to other JET(s).

英語祭
えいごさい

Run by Kobe ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers), is an event organized to promote English language learning and cultural exchange among students. These festivals typically include a variety of activities such as English games, performances, and interactive booths where students can practice their English skills in a fun and engaging environment. The goal is to create a lively atmosphere that encourages students to use English outside the classroom, fostering both language proficiency and cultural understanding.

These festivals are often part of broader efforts by the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Program to enhance English education in Japan, providing students with opportunities to interact with native speakers and learn about different cultures through immersive experiences. Events like the English Festival help to build confidence in speaking English and make language learning an enjoyable and memorable experience for students​ (JapanTravel)​​ (Tofugu)​​ (Miyagi JET)​​ (Eigo Ganbare)​.

宴会
えんかい

Defined as a "party" or "banquet." A large gathering of school/office/company employees that almost always involves some kind of restaurant or izakaya, a set dinner course, and all-you-can-drink menu. Comes in many forms. Here are some terms you may hear during your time as a JET:

• Kangeikai (歓迎会) - welcome party
• Soubetsukai (送別会) - farewell party
• Kansougeikai (歓送迎会) - joint welcome/farewell party, especially in March and April, around the time of staffing transfers
• Shinnenkai (新年会) - new year party
• Bounenkai (忘年会) - year end party, literally to forget the past year
• Joshikai (女子会) - women's party
• Uchiage or Otsukarekai (打ち上げ or お疲れ会) - party held after a major event, used to celebrate a job well done (e.g. after Sports Day or Summer School)

宴会 (Enkai) and 懇親会 (Konshinkai) are both types of social gatherings in Japan, but they have different connotations and contexts:

1. 宴会 (Enkai): This term is generally used to describe a banquet or party, often involving a large group of people. It's a more formal term and can refer to various types of gatherings, such as company parties, wedding receptions, or formal dinners. The focus is often on drinking, eating, and formal speeches or toasts.
2. 懇親会 (Konshinkai): This word translates to a "friendly gathering" or "get-together." It implies a more casual, intimate, and friendly atmosphere than an 宴会. While still involving food and drink, a 懇親会 places more emphasis on building relationships and camaraderie among attendees. It's often used for smaller, more informal gatherings within organizations or groups.

In summary, while both 宴会 and 懇親会 involve gathering for food and drinks, 宴会 is more formal and can be larger in scale, while 懇親会 is more casual and focused on fostering personal connections.

イベント

An "Event" on KobeJET refers to various activities and happenings organized for or by the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) community in Kobe. These events can range from professional development workshops and social gatherings to cultural experiences and community engagement activities. They are designed to support JET participants in their teaching roles, help them integrate into the local community, and provide opportunities for networking and personal growth.

For example, KobeJET might host workshops on teaching strategies, Japanese language and culture classes, or events that celebrate local festivals and traditions. These events are an integral part of the JET experience, fostering a sense of community among participants and enhancing their understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture.

For more detailed information, you can visit resources like KobeJET Life and Japan Travel for updates on specific events and activities in the Kobe area​ (Tofugu)​​ (JapanTravel)​​ (JETRO)​.