Berkeley Language School (3/3)

Our Programs

List of Programs Offered at Berkeley Language School     Kindergarten Program   Days / Time Mon. ~ Fri. / 9:30 ~ 5: 25 PM Student Type 5 ~ 7 years old Class Structure Seven 35-minute periods (normal class), three 40-minute periods (after-school class) Academic Focus Follows Korea's Nuri Curriculum, offering interactive English and Korean classes tailored to foster holistic development. Class Divisions Hope (5Y) Wisdom (6Y) Faith, Joy (7Y)     Elementary Program (Afternoon Program)   Days / Time Mon. ~ Fri. / 2:30 ~ 5:45 PM Student Type Grades 1 ~ 6 Class Structure Two 45-minute periods for each class level (3 levels) Grades 1 ~ 2 - 2:30 ~ 4:05 Grades 3 ~ 4 - 3:20 ~ 4:55 Grades 5 ~ 6 - 4:10 ~ 5:45 Academic Focus Tailor phonics curriculum to foster cognitive development and utilize American storybooks and coursebooks for specialized speaking practice to raise confident bilingual learners.  Class Divisions Elementary A (G1 ~ 2) Elementary B (G3 ~ 4) Elementary C (G5 ~ 6)   ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Textbooks and Resources     Phonics   Bricks Education (Spotlight on Phonics) Two Ponds (Fly Phonics)  NE Books (Come on, Phonics) Coursebooks & Storybooks Compass Publishing (English Bus) Harper Collins (My Weird School Series by Dan Gutman)   We use North American textbooks from both Korean and U.S. publishers, focusing on speaking skills through phonics and storybooks.     ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Academic Calendar & Special Activities   Kindergarten Every Friday: Event Day (Cooking Class, Theme Class, Pajama Party, Field Trip, Sports Day, etc.) Musical Performances are held 4 times a year (Ready Action) Speech Day (Special days where students present a prepared speech in front of the class)   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Sample Kindergarten Schedule (5-7 Years)     Periods Time  Mon.  Tue.  Wed.  Thur. Fri.   9:20 ~ 9:30 Morning Assembly 1 9:30 ~ 10:05 Normal Class 1   10:05 ~ 10:15 *Snack Time* 2 10:15 ~ 10:50 Normal Class 2   10:50 ~ 10:55 *Break Time* 3 10:55 ~ 11:30 Normal Class 3   11:30 ~ 11:35 *Break Time* 4 11:35 ~ 12:10 Normal Class 4   12:10 ~ 12:55 *Lunch Time* 5 12:55 ~ 1:30 Normal Class 5   1:30 ~ 1:35 *Break* 6 1:35 ~ 2:10 Normal Class 6   2:10 ~ 2:15 *Break* 7 2:15 ~ 2:50 Normal Class 7   2:50 ~3:10 *Break* 1 3:10 ~ 3:50 After-school Class 1   3:50 ~ 3:55 *Break* 2 3:55 ~ 4:35 After-school Class 2   4:35 ~ 4:40 *Break* 3 4:40 ~ 5:25 After-school Class 3     Sample Elementary Schedule (G1 ~ 6)     Periods Time  Mon.  Tue.  Wed.  Thur. Fri. 1 Elementary A (G1 ~ 2)   2:30 ~ 4:05   Elementary B (G3 ~ 4)   3:20 ~ 4:55   Elementary C (G5 ~ 6)   4:10 ~ 5:45       Phonics 2       Speaking       Story Book, Ready Action       Writing       Story Book, Ready Action       Speaking

Berkeley Language School (2/3)

Q&A with Our Native Teacher Team Leader

  Self Q&A with Native Teacher Team Leader: Ms. Robyn Berkeley Language School       Hi! My name is Robyn.   I currently serve as the Native Teacher Team Leader at Berkeley. I’ve worked here for about 7 years overall, and have worked as a Team Leader for a little over 4 years.     1.    Can you describe your main responsibilities?   I am in charge of training Native Teachers, communicating expectations and feedback, assisting in classes when needed, and providing support in and out of the workplace.     2.    What are the daily expectations for teachers at your school? Teachers are expected to be at work on time, conduct their classes in an enjoyable and interactive way, and keep track of their students’ progress.     3.    How do teachers contribute to lesson planning and curriculum execution? Every week, each teacher is expected to create and submit a weekly plan of classes built on the curriculum, teaching materials, and schedule provided by the school. These weekly plans are in part for the teachers to keep track of what they have planned for their classes, but also for parents to be able to follow along with what’s being learned or reviewed throughout the week.     4.    What types of materials are provided to the teachers? Each teacher has access to the school’s Dropbox folders where they can find scanned pages of each book, PowerPoint presentations, recommended daily lesson plans, supplementary materials, and more. Outside of that, the school provides classroom materials as well (board markers, crayons, stickers, activity materials, etc.).     5.    What reporting systems are the teachers responsible for, and how frequently do they report?   The Native Teachers are expected to make progress reports for the Elementary section every 2~3 months (2 months for special classes aimed at 5th and 6th graders; 3 months for the normal conversation classes aimed at 1st ~ 4th graders). For Kindergarten, a midterm report card is required by the end of the first semester.     6.    What is expected of teachers regarding student engagement and classroom management?   Teachers are expected to create an interactive classroom environment for their students. This, to us, means creating an environment where students feel comfortable enough to speak up and speak out about their thoughts, feelings, ideas, and the like. We want our students to be able to trust us enough to share these things with us. When it comes to classroom management, the school implements a point system in the elementary classes, where students can collect their points over the course of the semester and then participate in a school market day. In Kindergarten, we have a sticker system to reward students for their good behavior. After collecting all the required stickers, the students are allowed to pick their own prize from the prize wall.     7.    How do you assist foreign teachers in adjusting to the school system and Korean work culture? How do you and the Korean staff help support new teachers at the school?   At the beginning of the work period, I try as best as possible to explain to all new teachers how the school works, what the expectations are, how to carry out our main duties, etc. Of course, every teacher has their own way of adjusting to new work settings and needs their own time to get properly into the swing of things. If time allows, we also try to get new teachers to sit in a class during the day and observe how current teachers conduct their classes, or I try to go in and observe or help out, to give feedback later. In Kindergarten, the classes are taught along with a Korean co-teacher who provides support when needed. Native teachers and their co-teachers tend to build a pretty strong bond of support and camaraderie, which we find really helps to settle teachers into their classes.     8.    Does the school help the teachers with things outside of school? (i.e. banking, hospitals, etc.)   The school can help to a certain extent, but tries not to overstep personal boundaries. I tend to give advice on where to go, why go to this place over that place, and step in where possible to provide help with translation. Other admins are on hand for such matters as well, but I’m usually the first person our native teachers go to.     9.    What is the surrounding area like for teachers living and working here? Is there easy access to transportation, local amenities, and nearby cities?   The surrounding areas where the majority of our teachers live are quite convenient. Coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, gyms, doctor’s offices and hospitals, all within a few minutes walk. It’s easy to get a taxi, or hop on a bus or the subway, to get to anywhere else in the city – from either campus.     10.    Does the school provide housing for teachers? If so, are the living conditions, proximity to public transportation, and overall quality of accommodations?  The school can provide housing. All standard provided housing options are studio apartments, with all necessities provided (refrigerator, stove, bed, AC units, etc.). Public transportation is never far away -buses, subways, and taxis- all within reach.     11.    Are there any challenges that international teachers commonly face when adjusting to teaching in Korea, and how does the school help with these? Culture shock can be very jarring, and different teachers take to it in different ways. I try, as best as possible, to provide teachers with what they need in the way of help and understanding, and always make sure that they know I’m available to talk when they need it. I also try to make sure that they know that they’re not the only person to feel culture shock and that their feelings are valid, but just about everything can be worked through, even if they don’t see how in that moment.     12.    Do you have any additional advice for prospective teachers? No matter which school you work with, Berkeley or somewhere else, it’s important to be open-minded and a little flexible. Not everyone will do things the same way, and adjusting to any space can be difficult. But by staying open-minded to change and/or differences, you can always find a way to adjust to a new situation. What may seem easy now could turn out to be difficult later, but that’s just a chance to learn and grow – the same thing we, as teachers, push our students to do.  

Campus Tour: Berkeley Haeundae

Welcome to Berkeley Language School Haeundae Campus!   We’re delighted to introduce our wonderful campus!  Our kindergarten program is located on the 12th and 13th floors with dedicated play areas and spaces for our youngest learners. On the 12th floor (Berkeley Davis), students explore their curiosity through hands-on learning, such as by building robots and playing with Legos.         In addition, we feature a dedicated piano room and a large playroom where children can engage in imaginative play through musicals and role-playing.         On the 13th floor (Berkeley Ivy), we have a dedicated library and sitting area, an indoor gym for physical education classes, and classrooms for coding, Chinese, science, and more.         The 14th floor is dedicated to our elementary program, offering spacious classrooms equipped with desktop computers and large whiteboards.         That concludes our tour of our Haeundae campus! For details on the Dongnae campus, please check out our Dongnae campus tour [link]!

Berkeley Language School (1/3)

QnA with Our Director

Self Q&A: Director Soon-mi Kwon Berkeley Language School     Hello, I'm Director Kwon!   My desire to lead a school that goes beyond memorization and test-taking stems from my previous job, where I saw how ineffective and stressed students were in traditional Korean academies. At Berkeley, we focus on making English fun and immersive!     1. What is your educational philosophy? My educational philosophy revolves around "living, conversation-centered learning" and "acquiring foreign languages through speech." The core principles are as follows:   English as a Communication Tool: Emphasizing meaningful expression over flawless pronunciation. Practical Approach: Focusing on learning through speaking, even for students who are unfamiliar with the alphabet. Confidence Building: Prioritizing confidence in English through consistent practice during class, rather than overwhelming students with excessive tasks. Feeling and Meaning-Centered: Encouraging students to connect with words through their emotions and meanings, making English an enjoyable experience. Character Education: Aiming to develop not just English proficiency, but also the character and personality of students, shaping them into well-rounded communicators. Play and Experience-Based Learning: Creating an engaging and enjoyable learning environment through play and real-life experiences. Through this approach, I strive to help students acquire English in a practical, effective, and enjoyable way.     2. What makes Berkeley Language School stand out from other English kindergartens in Korea?  Berkeley Language School differentiates itself from typical English kindergartens in Korea in several key ways:   Emphasis on Self-Directed Learning that is Stress-Free: Unlike many Korean English kindergartens, which often adopt a competitive and academically-focused approach, Berkeley Language School removes compulsory homework and tests, allowing children to find the joy of learning on their own. We create an environment where children can enjoy learning English without stress. Prioritization of Character Education: The school places a strong emphasis not only on English proficiency but also on character development. It encourages polite behavior and the use of respectful language, helping children grow into socially aware and well-rounded individuals. Development of Creative Thinking: Beyond simple language learning, the school fosters critical thinking and creativity. This is in contrast to the typical Korean approach, which often focuses primarily on vocabulary, reading, and writing. Experienced-based Learning: We designate every Friday as "Special Day," during which we organize picnics or events. These activities allow children to gain diverse experiences and naturally acquire English in an engaging and fun way. Small Class Sizes: We limit class sizes to 13 students, ensuring close interaction between teachers and students. Additionally, we assign a teaching assistant alongside the homeroom teacher.  With these distinctive features, Berkeley Language School provides a more integrated and natural English learning experience compared to traditional English kindergartens in Korea.     3. Can you describe your leadership style and how it applies to managing an academy?  My leadership style is student-centered, innovative, and forward-moving.   Innovative, Student-Centered Teaching Approach: I focus on teaching “practical English” through conversation-centered education that prioritizes real-life communication skills, rather than overwhelming students with excessive assignments. I strive to make the English learning process enjoyable for both students and teachers. This approach is unconventional in Korea, where most schools typically emphasize memorization and academically-focused learning. Continuous Development: I also prioritize ensuring and maintaining high-quality education and training for all of our teachers. With 20 years of experience, I am committed to fostering long-term, sustainable growth for both teachers and students. I believe this leadership style is reflected in the school’s operations and its focus on continuous improvement and the success of both students and staff.     4. How do you handle conflicts between teachers, staff, or parents? My conflict resolution strategies can be described as follows:   Fostering an Open Communication Culture: Provide continuous opportunities for meetings and discussions among teachers, staff, and parents to maintain an open channel of communication. Educational Programs: Implement educational programs for parents to help them develop a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Offer conflict management and communication training for staff to ensure effective handling of issues. Ensuring Fairness: Use a fairness checklist in the decision-making process to ensure transparency and impartiality. Gather feedback from staff through committees such as the Personnel Committee and School Management Committee to ensure diverse perspectives are considered. Collaborative Projects: Plan and implement projects that encourage collaboration among teachers, staff, and parents, ensuring everyone is actively involved in the school's initiatives. These strategies aim to promote a harmonious environment, build trust, and create a community that works together to resolve conflicts constructively.     5. How does the leadership staff at the school support the teachers?   Berkeley Language School follows a homeroom system, prioritizing the development of strong, personal connections between teachers and students. This structure fosters open and effective communication between instructors and the school administration. My educational philosophy, which centers on "learning English through feelings and meaning," is brought to life through ongoing dialogue and feedback with the teaching staff. This collaborative approach ensures that the teaching methods are consistently aligned with the school’s core values, creating a supportive and cohesive environment for both students and educators.  

Campus Tour: MPoly Mokdong

Welcome to MPoly Mokdong Campus!    We're thrilled to introduce our wonderful campus, where we take pride in teaching advanced English learners.    At the front desk, visitors are greeted by our friendly bilingual administration team. In addition, we proudly display our awards recognizing MPoly's academic excellence and the hard work of both our students and staff.         Our classrooms are equipped with smart TVs and large whiteboards.  Our main hall serves as both a classroom and a library, featuring a large collection of books that reflect our commitment to fostering a strong reading culture among our students.       We hope this provides a closer look at our facilities that support the academic growth of Korea's brightest learners!

Altiora Pangram Wirye (3/3)

Q&A with Our Native Teachers

  Native Teachers Self Q&A:  Ms. Kayleigh & Mr. Thomas Altiora Pangram Wirye     1.    Can you introduce yourself?    Hi! My name is Kayleigh, and I'm a native headteacher at Altiora Pangram Wirye, and I've worked here for 3 years.   Hello, I'm Thomas, and I'm a homeroom teacher for the 6-year-old Viento class at Altiora Pangram Wirye.   2.    What types of resources and materials are provided to the teachers?  They provide us with a laptop, stamps, and all the necessary teaching materials, which makes it easy to deliver lessons.   3.    What reporting systems are the teachers responsible for, and how frequently do they report? Altiora headquarters sends a monthly report form, which both native teachers and subject teachers need to check. Every two months, we also write overall comments about the children.     4.    How would you describe the overall culture and atmosphere at this school? Overall, communication with my co-teachers is smooth, and we have a weekly teacher meeting where we can freely discuss various topics.   5.    Can you describe the facilities at the school? Here at Altiora Pangram Wirye, there’s a gym used for special occasions as well as PE.  There’s also a library filled with interesting books, and a rooftop on the 12th floor.  I really appreciate how spacious it is, and there are many classrooms and amenities.   6.    Do the foreign staff members support and spend time together outside of the school?   To be honest, all the teachers support and help each other as much as possible. And from time to time teachers will get together outside of work.   7.    How do you assist foreign teachers in adjusting to the school system and Korean work culture?  Foreign teachers help new foreign teachers adjust via a “big sister, little sister” program where the new teacher follows a veteran teacher and is able to ask them for help whenever they need it. The foreign teachers lean on each other a lot and frequently help each other both in and out of work.   8.    How do you and the Korean staff help support new teachers at the school? Similar to the foreign staff, the Korean staff are always offering to help new teachers. We sit and work at a long table during breaks, so if there are any questions, both the Korean and foreign teachers are available for help.   9.    Does the school help the teachers with things outside of school? (i.e., banking, hospitals, etc.) The school is very helpful with things outside of school-especially for teachers who have never lived in Korea. Administration helps new teachers set up appointments at immigration and directs them to hospitals if they need it. They also help new teachers set up a bank account if they do not already have one in Korea.   10.    What can teachers expect in terms of workload, work-life balance, and support? When it comes to work-life balance, it's a big change for me. I worked 9-5 at my old job and had time to work out, cook dinner, and spend time with my friends. With the change to 9-6, I have to meal prep, and I can really only spend time with my friends on the weekends. It's not ideal, but it could be worse. Whenever I need help with classes, my co-workers are always supportive and help me as much as possible. Sometimes we're too busy helping each other, and other times groups of us can help each other.   11.    What kind of training or onboarding did you receive as you first started as a teacher at Altiora Pangram Wirye?  The training here was great! The classes are easy for kids to understand, and teaching them is a great experience. Some classes may feel repetitive, but they can be used for other purposes, such as catching up on missed lessons or doing group readings. I was able to grasp all the classes I taught within a week. Occasionally, you might be assigned to a class you haven't taught before, but the lessons are very self-explanatory.

SAMPLE RISE Gangnam: Our Programs

List of Programs Offered at RISE Gangnam   RISE K (Kindergarten)   Days / Time Mon. ~ Fri. / 9:00 ~ 2:50 PM Student Type 5 ~ 7 years old Class Structure [SAMPLE] 5, 30 ~ 40-minute sessions Academic Focus 5Y - Learn Alphabet, phonics, speaking, music, P.E., science, and arts & crafts. 6Y - Begin reading, writing, and team presentation projects. 7Y - Incorporate test prep, writing, and debate classes.  ********************************************************************************************   RISE Talented Program (Gifted Learners)   Days / Time Mon. ~ Fri. / 9:00 ~ 2:50 PM Student Type   Class Structure   Academic Focus Project-based flipped learning which focuses on creative liberal arts and current affairs.((((((((((((((((=     Elementary QSD -  Foundation Program (New learners)   Days / Time   Student Type 8 ~ 13 years old Class Structure   Academic Focus Phonics - Reach mastery Reading - Understand simple stories Listening - Follow simple instructions Writing -Write basic sentence structures Speaking - Communicate through simple questions and answers***********   Elementary QSD - ​​​Exploration Program (RISE K graduates)   Days / Time   Student Type 8 ~ 13 years old Class Structure   Academic Focus Reading - Critically analyze reading passages and understand text structures Listening - Critically evaluate the listening passages Writing - Informative and descriptive essays Speaking - Discussions with evidence   Elementary QSD - Values Program (Literature Program)   Days / Time   Student Type 8 ~ 13 years old Class Structure   Academic Focus Reading - Literary analysis and evaluate the author's perspectives Listening - Evaluate different perspectives Writing - Narrative and persuasive essays Speaking - Impromptu debates and mock Model Congress.***************** ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Textbooks and Resources   We utilize a variety of educational materials to ensure an enriching learning experience: Reading & Writing – [List textbooks and materials] Speaking & Listening –  [List textbooks and materials] [SAMPLE] Journeys, In-house RISEWISE    Technology Integration Online Learning: Learning Box Our eLearning platform flips the traditional model, emphasizing a balance between online pre-learning and offline discussion-based learning. Evaluations: Teachers review online work by their students   Technology Use in the Classroom Interactive Smartboards/Smart TVs: [Explain typical multimedia integration/activities.] Laptops: [Writing student reports, communicating with staff] Tablets/Other: [Use, description & purpose] ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Academic Calendar & Special Activities   March: Entrance Ceremony (early Mar.), St. Patrick's Day April: Arbor Day May: Children's Day Event, Day Trip, 1st Quarterly Test (7Y) June: Field Trip July-August: 2nd Quarterly Test (7Y), School Event, Summer Vacation (Late Jul.-Early Aug.), Summer Intensive Program, School Event September: Chuseok Event, Chuseok Holiday October: Day Trip, Open Class (in front of Parents) November: 3rd Quarterly Test (7Y), Halloween Event December: Christmas Event, Winter Vacation (Late Dec.) January: Winter Intensive Program, Lunar New Year Holiday, 4th Quarterly Test (7Y) February: Graduation Ceremony & Orientation ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Sample RISE Kindergarten Schedule (5-7 Years)    Time  Activity  Program Details 9:55  Circle Time  Morning Questions & Discussion  10:30 Interactive Whiteboard  Learning with a Smartboard 11:40  Act it Out  Building Understanding and Expression through Role-play 12:10  Play Gym  Engaging with English through Play 12:20  Lunch Time  1:30 Singing Learning through Songs and Chants 2:10 Theme Project Group Project with Presentation 2:35 Wrap-up Homework Review, Reflection & Wrap-up 2:50 ~ 6:00 Afternoon Class Games, Phonics, Art, Music, Science, etc.

Altiora Pangram Wirye (2/3)

Campus Tour: Altiora Pangram Wirye

Welcome to Altiora Pangram Wirye Campus!    We are excited to introduce you to our key facilities that help create an engaging and dynamic learning environment for both our students and staff.   ​As you enter, you'll find our school uniforms, shoe racks, and slippers neatly arranged for the students. Beyond the entrance, our library provides a welcoming space where students can read, study, and explore new topics. With thousands of books supporting our programs, we aim to cultivate a lifelong love of reading!         ​Just beyond the library, the classrooms are designed to inspire learning across various levels, including dedicated spaces for Kindergarten and Elementary students. A handwashing station is conveniently located nearby, promoting good hygiene!         Our Indoor Gym is a lively space for PE classes, offering a variety of activities that help our youngest learners learn English through engaging activities. And just outside, we have our Outdoor Playground,  where students can enjoy physical activities, play, and breathe in the fresh air during breaks.       We hope this gives you a glimpse of the wonderful facilities that support both our students’ and staff’s growth here at our campus!  

Altiora Pangram Wirye (1/3)

Our Programs

List of Programs Offered at Altiora Pangram Wirye     Altiora Kindergarten    Days / Time Mon. ~ Fri. / 9:35 ~ 4:15 PM Student Type 4 ~ 7 years old Class Structure Two 35-minute periods Academic Focus OneBite Program Learn 600 words through songs, games, storybooks, and other play-based activities Based on 20 years of research, focusing on the most frequently used words in daily life. Class Divisions Mare (4Y) Aqua, Nieve (5Y) Arbor, Flos, Viento (6Y) Cambridge, Harvard, Oxford, Stella (7Y)     Pangram Kindergarten (Afternoon Program)   Days / Time Tue., Thur. / 4:30 PM – 5:50 PM Student Type 6 years old Class Structure Two 30-minute periods Academic Focus Focus on building a strong foundation in English through phonics and speaking practice for new learners.     ​​​Pangram Elementary (Lower Elementary Program)   Days / Time Mon., Wed., Fri. / 4:30 PM – 5:50 PM Student Type Grades 1 ~ 3 ( 6 ~ 9 years old) Class Structure Two 30-minute periods Academic Focus Focus on developing English skills through innovative and interactive international school-style debate classes. Class Divisions Pangram Tier 1 (1st Year) Pangram Tier 2 (2nd Year) Pangram Tier 3 (3rd Year) ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Textbooks and Resources       We utilize a mix of in-house materials and US textbooks to create a rich learning experience, with a curriculum that supports bilingual education, self-directed learning, STEAM principles, and physical activity.   Habitus (our in-house book series)         Online Learning: OneBite Home, Learning Box Our eLearning platforms flips the traditional model, emphasizing a balance between online pre-learning and offline discussion-based learning.   ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Academic Calendar & Special Activities   Vacation: Summer (Aug.), Winter (Dec.) Competence Testing: Jun. Sept. and Jan.  Parents: Parent-Teacher Conference (May), Open Class (Oct.) Other events/fied trips: St. Patricks day, Safety Education Center, Easter, Song festival, Spring picnic, Children's day, Zoo, Pajama day, War Memorial, Summer event, Musical, International day, Fall picnic, Halloween, Farm, Christmas event, Indoor playground, Lunar New Year event, Fire station, etc.  ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   Sample Altiora Kindergarten Schedule (5-7 Years)     Periods Time  Mon.  Tue.  Wed.  Thur. Fri.   9:30 ~ 9:35 Student Arrival 9:35 ~  9:50 Aqua - Circle Time (Daily questions & Discussion) 1 9:50 ~ 10:25  Aqua_Habitas  Aqua_Habitas  Aqua_Habitas  Aqua_Habitas Aqua_Habitas   10:30 ~ 10:35 *Morning Snack / Bathroom Break* 2 10:35 ~ 11:10 Viento_Migh Tree Aqua_Phonics Aqua_Phonics Aqua_Phonics   3 11:10 ~ 11:45 Aqua_PlayTree Aqua_PlayTree Aqua_PlayTree Aqua_PlayTree Aqua_Phonics   11: 45 ~ 11:50 *Bathroom Break* 4 11:50 ~ 12:25     Viento_MighTree   Viento_MighTree   12:30 ~ 1:10 Lunch (Native teachers supervise 1x a week) 5 1:10 ~ 1:45 Sol_PlayTree Sol_PlayTree Sol_PlayTree Sol_PlayTree   6 1:45 ~ 2:20       Viento_MighTree Aqua_MighTree 7 2:20 ~ 2:55 Aqua_MighTree Aqua_MighTree     Flos_Monster     *Afternoon Snack/Bathroom Break* 8 3:05 ~ 3:40   Viento_MighTree Aqua_MighTree Aqua_MighTree ESL Teacher Meeting  9 3:40 ~ 4:15   Aqua_MighTree Flos_Monster Flos_Monster    

MICA Campus Tour

  Welcome to the MICA campus!   We are excited to introduce you to our key facilities that help create an engaging and dynamic learning environment for both our students and staff.   Our campus consists of two main buildings, situated adjacent to one another. The first building is mainly for our primary students, while the second building is primarily for our secondary students.              The homeroom classrooms are central to our daily learning, equipped with touch-screen TVs, laptops, and iPads to support interactive digital lessons to foster student engagement and encourage participation.   Each building also features a dedicated staff room, where teachers can grab a cup of coffee and chat with colleagues. These rooms are stocked with coffee machines, snacks, and microwaves, providing a comfortable space for staff to relax during their free periods.              We also have specialized classrooms for elective subjects like Psychology and Music, where students can explore their interests in more depth. Our auditorium is primarily used for classes, but also used to host a variety of events throughout the year, including plays and musical performances.               The library provides a peaceful space for reading and relaxation, with a wide range of books and resources, including new arrivals and grouped by different grade levels. The IT room is set up for research and digital learning, where students can use computers for lessons and online tools. Teachers can reserve the room in advance for their classes.               Our counseling room provides a confidential and supportive space where students can seek guidance on academic or personal matters, offering a safe environment for them to feel comfortable and supported. Nearby, the cafeteria acts as a central gathering spot for both primary and secondary students, serving healthy, organic meals and snacks designed by a licensed nutritionist. Along with a variety of lunch options, the cafeteria is equipped with vending machines for students to grab snacks and drinks during breaks.   Our indoor gymnasium hosts PE classes and after-school sports like basketball, volleyball, and badminton, as well as hosting games with other schools. It also serves as a recreational space for students during recess. In the warmer months, students can also go outside for recess on our outdoor recreation area.             That concludes our overview of the MICA campus! We hope this gives you a good sense of the key facilities that will support you as a teacher here at MICA. We look forward to welcoming you to our community and supporting your teaching journey.   Interested in joining our team? Explore our available positions here.  

A Day in the Life of a Teacher at MICA

  Hello! I’m David Kramer, and I've been teaching at MICA for two years as a third-grade homeroom teacher. I was born and raised in New Jersey, I moved to Korea to teach ESL.  MICA is my first experience teaching at an international school, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities it’s given me. I’m excited to share what a typical day looks like for me and my fellow teachers.     Start of the Day I live in the housing provided by the school, which is just a five-minute walk from Migeum station. I usually leave around 7:10 AM and head to Exit 8 of the station to catch the MICA shuttle bus at 7:20 AM. Most teachers take the shuttle, and it’s a comfortable 10-minute ride to school. During the short trip, I typically chat with my colleagues or listen to music.               To get ready for class, I print out the materials and lecture notes for my students. Once I’m done preparing for the morning lessons, I grab a cup of coffee in the staff room and chat with the other teachers. By 8:15 AM, students start arriving, and I help them store their backpacks in the correct cubbies and finish setting up my laptop and the touchscreen TV for the school day.    During the School Day As a homeroom teacher, I teach math, reading, science, social studies, and writing. Three days a week, I teach four of these subjects, and on the other two days, I teach all five. Specialty classes like art, music, P.E., Korean, Chinese, and IT are taught by other teachers in different classrooms, giving me two free periods each day. During this time, I grade papers, prepare materials for upcoming lessons, and occasionally take a walk around the school. This helps me complete all my prep during the school day, so I never have to bring work home.  We follow a general curriculum for lesson plans, with clear expectations for each quarter, but there's a lot of flexibility in how we approach the material. If we find we're moving too quickly through a topic, we can adjust and add related content. Lesson plans are done on a weekly basis, which allows us to adapt to the students' pace. The school places a lot of trust in its teachers, especially those with more experience. They understand that we know what we’re doing and give us the freedom to manage our classes as we see fit, while also offering support.    First period: Math from 8:40 to 9:30 Second period: Reading from 9:35 to 10:25 Third period: Specialty class (free period from 10:30 to 11:20)             At 11:20 AM, we break for lunch and recess, which lasts until 12:20 PM. For lower-primary students, lunch comes first, followed by recess, while upper-primary and secondary students have recess first. Teachers take turns supervising lunch and recess. For example, on Mondays, I supervise lunch, and another teacher handles recess. We don’t sit with the students but monitor them from a separate table near the vending machines. Lunch is provided by the school and typically includes rice, a main dish, side dishes, and soup. Today's menu featured marinated chicken, a cheesy omelet, pigs-in-a-blanket, and udon broth. Classes resume at 12:20 PM. I usually finish my last class around 3:25 PM, which allows me to help students pack up and send them off.   Fourth period: Science from 12:20 to 1:05 Fifth period: Specialty class (free period from 1:10 to 1:55) Sixth period: Social Studies from 2:00 to 2:45 Seventh period: Writing from 2:50 to 3:35            After-School & Extracurriculars After-school programs run from 3:40 to 4:30 PM. Teachers are encouraged to propose at least one program based on their interests and to teach it once a week. As an avid hockey fan, I teach floor hockey on Tuesdays, I teach floor hockey. Some teachers, like myself, choose to be more involved and run multiple programs. On Thursdays, I also teach a Test-Ready Readers class for primary students transitioning from secondary school. On days when I’m not teaching extracurriculars, I use the time to prep for upcoming lessons or relax. Other teachers, like Mr. Harwood, are involved in athletics and coach teams that compete with other schools. Inter-school games take place every other week, with the games being hosted in MICA and the other schools. Teachers who run after-school programs are compensated for their time, which not only provides a financial incentive but also gives them a chance to connect more with students outside of the classroom.     End of the Day At around 4:40 PM, I catch the shuttle bus back to Migeum Station and head home. Some teachers get together for dinner, but since I’m married, I usually say my goodbyes and head home to spend time with my family.   One of the best things about MICA is the supportive community. The teachers, administration, and leadership are all incredibly helpful. Daniel, our Dean of Students, is especially prompt and responsive whenever I have a concern, which makes the work environment even more positive. Overall, I feel fortunate to be part of such a welcoming and supportive school community. When I first started at MICA, I was working on my teaching certification, getting married, and starting a family. Despite everything happening at once, the schedule gave me the flexibility to manage my personal life, and the support from the staff has been incredible.

Migeum Station and the Bundang District

We at MICA International Scholars are pleased to introduce you to the location of our provided housing and the vibrant Bundang District. Our housing is coveniently located in Bundang, offering easy access to Migeum station. Budang is known for its modern infrastructure and green spaces, providing the perfect balance between nature and city life. With excellent connectivity to Seoul and a range of amenities, Bundang offers a balanced lifestyle in one of Korea's most sought-after districts. Bundang offers a balanced lifestyle in one of Korea's most sought-after districts.     1. Close Proximity to Gangnam, the heart of Seoul   Bundang's central location puts it just a 20-minute subway ride (6 stations) from Migeum to Gangnam station, making it easy to visit popular destinations like the Starfield Library and COEX Aquarium or enjoy the vibrant night scene with friends. Bundang’s location also offers unparalleled access to Gangnam’s diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an ideal place for both professionals and those looking to relax after work.            2.  Key Amenities and Facilities in the Bundang District    Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Department Stores: Hyundai Department Store (Pangyo station), Lotte Department Store (Sunae station), AK Plaza (Seohyeon station), etc. Large Supermarkets: Nonghyup Hanaro Mart (near Ori Station), Homplus (near Ori Station), E-Mart (around Jeongja Station) Banks: Hana Bank, Woori Bank, Industrial Bank of Korea, Nonghyeop Bank, Kookmin Bank Coffee Shops: Starbucks, Holly’s Coffee, Tom N’ Toms, Ediya, Twosome Place, Pascucci Coffee, Mega Coffee Restaurants: KFC, Lotteria, Outback Steakhouse, Stove-On Pizza, Pizza School, 7th Street Pizza Bakeries: Paris Baguette, Tous Les Jours Home Décor & Retail: 2001 Outlet, Daiso Convenience Stores: GS25, CU, 7-11, Mini-Stop Movie Theaters: CGV (Seohyeon, Ori Stations), Megabox (Seohyeon Station) Medical Services General Hospitals: Seoul National University, Hospital Bundang Hospital, DMC Bundang Jesaeng Hopsital, CHA University Bundang Medical Center, etc. Pharmacies: Over 10 local pharmacies around Miguem station Medical Clinics: Multiple medical clinics near Migeum station (Optometrists, dentists, dermatologists, gynecologists, orthopedic surgeons, etc.) Animal Clinics: 365 Veterinary Clinic, Haengbok Veterinary Clinic, etc. Lifestyle & Wellness Churches: Large churches, like the World Mission Society Church of God and St. John's Church, as well as smaller churches, are easily accessible Salons: Several popular salons near Migeum station, including Juno Hair Gyms: 24-hour gyms, like SPOANY, as well as smaller private gyms, are widely available     3. Popular Sights & Landmarks in the Bundang District   Nature & Parks Bundang Central Park boasts scenic walking trails, traditional pavilions and historical sites. Visitors can also enjoy badminton courts and performances at the outdoor theater inside the park. Tancheon Park offers scenic walking and cycling paths along the Tancheon stream, providing a peaceful environment for outdoor activities.  Yuldong Park features a 2.5 km walking and cycling path, children's playgrounds, badminton courts, and expansive grassy fields. The park also includes a bungee jumping tower, a 13 meter-high rock climbing wall, a flower garden, and more.             Entertainment, Dining & Sports Seongnam Arts Center is a cultural center with three performance halls (Opera House, Concert Hall, and Ensemble Theater), and three exhibition halls.  The center hosts various festivals art and cultural festivals (Tancheon art & cultural festival, International Dance Festival, etc.) Jeongja Café Street is home to around 40 trendy cafes and restaurants, offering a European-style café experience and making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Baekhyeon-dong Café Street similarly provides a European atmosphere with numerous cafés and restaurants offering a range of cuisines from Western, Thai, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.  The Tancheon Sports Complex is a multi-facility sports center with a multi-purpose stadium, baseball stadium, swimming pool, ice rink, and more, offering a variety of recreational and athletic activities.          For more information, check out the VisitKorea website, which provides detailed insights on attractions, accommodations, and activities in Bundang and across South Korea.