1. Macquarie University
  2. Faculty of Arts
  3. Schools
  4. School of International Studies
  5. Engage with us
  6. Japanese Studies Centre
  7. Future Japanese language teachers grant
Director, MJS Centre Study for a Diploma of Languages specialising in Japanese Explore your PhD and research degree options Dr Svetanant’s research

Pursue a career as a school teacher

This grant supports outstanding students preparing to become Japanese language educators. It aims to enhance your language proficiency and teaching skills, equipping you to lead Japanese language programs in Australian schools.

Additionally, the grant seeks to encourage students to pursue careers as school teachers in Australia, addressing the growing shortage of qualified educators in recent years.

Key details

Application deadline

TBA

Eligibility

  • Applicants must currently be enrolled in Japanese language studies alongside primary or secondary education at Macquarie University.
  • Applicants must have completed at least 80 credit points in Education and 50 credit points in Japanese Studies.
  • Applicants must demonstrate an outstanding academic record.
  • While ‘practicum experience’ is not required, it is considered an advantage.

Grant amount

Up to $2000

Conditions

Successful applicants must:

  • utilise the full grant within the grant year
  • submit a final report by 30 January of the year following the grant
  • notify the MJS Centre immediately if circumstances change or if the grant can no longer be utilised.

The grant may support activities that enhance Japanese language proficiency, teaching development, and resource creation, such as:

  • purchasing textbooks, stationery, and other educational materials
  • travelling to Japan for language training or immersion programs
  • enrolling in online one-on-one Japanese language classes
  • participating in workshops or specialised courses to improve teaching techniques.

Applicants must provide:

  • a current CV and an internal transcript
  • a 300-word statement outlining their aspiration to become a Japanese language teacher in Australia, highlighting their potential to excel in Japanese language education
  • the names of two referees: one from Japanese language units and one from Education units. Applicants should inform their referees that they may be contacted during the review process
  • any additional relevant supporting documents.

Successful recipients

Below are successful grant recipients, by year.

  • 2025: Aidan Dunphy-Smith
  • 2024: Xuechun Liu and Darryl Thai

Grant recipient testimonials

The MJS Centre grant has allowed me to explore a side of Japan that very few Japanese learners can access. With the help of this grant I was able to gain insight, and acquire cultural artefacts that I hope to use in future teaching, so that the next generation may be more understanding of indigenous histories worldwide. This grant has been instrumental in my growth as an educator and has inspired me to continue exploring innovative approaches to teaching Japanese. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and the lasting impact it has had on my teaching practice.