Tamaki TEFL Recruitment (TTR)

Program Reviews

Janaycia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Highly Recommend TTR!

Moving across the world to teach is a massive milestone, and I honestly don't think I could have done it smoothly without Tomoko. From day one, Tomoko was incredibly organized and patient with all my questions, making sure I felt completely prepared instead of totally overwhelmed by the logistics. She motivated and encouraged me, she also uplifted and that is something I will never forget.

What really made a big difference and what I appreciated is that TTR's support didn't stop once I landed. Even now that I’m settled in and teaching here, Tomoko still checks in regularly just to see how I’m adjusting to daily life. It feels so reassuring to have that kind of support. TTR doesn't just place you and move on, they genuinely care about you as a person. I can't recommend them enough!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My biggest piece of advice is to just ask questions! The paperwork and prep for moving abroad can feel like a lot and very overwhelming, but Tomoko does a great job to make you feel at ease and never makes you feel silly for asking. Also, try to keep an open mind once you land. It is a big adjustment, but knowing you have a recruiter who actually cares and keeps in touch makes the whole transition so much easier.
Pros
  • Excellent step-by-step guidance.
  • Tomoko is very easy to talk to.
Richard
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Miyazaki teaching

Moving to a new country for work is always difficult, from leaving friends and family to working out how to pay for your water bill. Tomoko was amazing from start to finish. The paperwork got on top of me in some spots however she guided me through it all going advice along the way which helped the transition to much smoother than it would have if not for her. I would recommend trt for anyone looking to start a new challenge as the guidance you receive from Tomoko is exceptional. The messages checking everything is going okay may seem small however when you’re jut settling in it’s nice to know someone is checking in on how you’re doing.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Medium rare chicken- from a European this seems crazy.
Ciara
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Tamaki TEFL Recruitment - Excellence at its Finest!

Where do I begin… Tomoko helped me tremendously throughout the process of securing a teaching job in Japan. I have never experienced such a high level of support during a recruitment process before. She was always available to help, answered all of my questions promptly, and supported me every step of the way. She also secured me a teaching location that I had been looking for beside the coast and I was thrilled when she told me that was where I would be based! I truly cannot thank her enough.

Tomoko consistently went above and beyond. Even while I was on my flight to Japan, she checked in on me and offered advice about what to expect upon arrival and the next steps to take. Having her support during such a major life change brought me so much comfort and reassurance.

Even now, after living in Japan for two months, Tomoko still checks in to see how I’m doing. These thoughtful gestures perfectly reflect TTR’s approach, you genuinely feel cared for and supported, not only during the recruitment process, but even after settling into your new role.

I would highly recommend TTR to anyone who would be looking to teach abroad! Tomoko is so supportive and creates such a smooth experience for such a major life transition. Thank you for everything TTR I will never forget all the help you gave me and how much it benefited me when moving to Japan to teach - an incredible experience so again thank you!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
I tried red bean paste in a pancake for the first time and it was amazing! It’s now my new favourite treat.
Pros
  • Consistent check in’s
  • Easy to follow step by step process to moving and teaching abroad
  • Advice, support and guidance on moving and teaching abroad
Alec
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Would definitely recommend!

I finished my CELTA teaching course in September 2025 and I applied for numerous positions in Japan and South Korea. The interview process I had with Tamaki TEFL recruitment was definitely the most in-depth and I really felt like she was doing what she could to guide me, through the difficult process of moving to Japan, step by step. She was clear from the beginning of the process about the position and this ensured I was able to adapt quickly to life in a new country. I have moved to Japan, I’m still in contact with Tamaki TEFL recruitment, who wants to ensure that all is well with me and that I am settling in well into a new country and culture. To put it simply, she made what could’ve been a daunting experience and challenging process, as seamless and straightforward as possible.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I live in a slightly more rural part of Japan, so there is not a huge amount of information online about the area, so I’m always curious and intrigued about the events that happen in my town/city. So I was not really sure what it would be like before moving here. The scenery here is beautiful and the best thing I did to overcome it was, it sounds simple, but explore. I’m confident but not a massive extrovert, but I think living here certainly forces you to throw yourself into things that I don’t think I would’ve done in the UK.
Pros
  • Swift interview process
  • Any questions I had throughout the process were answered quickly and appropriately
  • The consistent support before moving helps you adjust more when you do arrive in a new clubtry
Christina
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

TTR is the best!!

Tomoko was just the best! She was so helpful and attentive. She answered all my questions no matter how many I asked. She made the entire process so simple and easy. I truly could not have done it without her help! I definitely recommend TTR for anyone who is looking to teach abroad. She will equip you with the best knowledge before you leave to help your journey. Tomoko still keeps in touch with me to ensure I’m doing well in Japan. The fact that she shows so much care is one of the reasons I would recommend TTR. Thank you for everything :)

Madison
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

TTR is the best!

Tomoko provided exceptional support throughout the entire hiring process. What initially felt overwhelming quickly became manageable due to her guidance, organization, and consistent communication. She took the time to understand me on a personal level, which helped create a comfortable and reassuring experience from start to finish.

Throughout the process, Tomoko regularly checked in to ensure I was doing well and stayed on track. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made each step clear and approachable. I was especially impressed by how organized she was and how smoothly everything progressed as a result of her efforts.

Her encouragement and support played a significant role in helping me reach this point, and I am truly grateful for her dedication.

I highly recommend Tamaki TEFL Recruitment to anyone interested in teaching abroad. What can often feel like a daunting process becomes far more manageable with Tomoko’s expertise and guidance.

Isabella
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Thank You Tamaki TEFL Recruitment

I am a South African who’s always dreamt about teaching English to kids from all around the world. When I applied for my current teaching job it was my first step towards achieving this dream and I could not have done it without the incredible help from Tamaki TEFL Recruitment.

Tomoko Tamaki’s attention to detail, her transparency, her dedication, thoughtfulness, and encouragement made the entire process of getting ready to begin my new chapter all-the-more comfortable and calming. Tamaki TEFL Recruitment is efficient, diligent, professional and caring in carrying out their duties. Everything from the interview to preparing documents to ensuring I was well informed about the culture and ways of life in Japan to answering all my questions were taken care of with great respect. Tomoko and the staff at TTR are encouraging, understanding and what makes it such a special organisation is their incredible sense of support. TTR still keep in touch with me to ensure that I am well and enjoying my experience abroad. I am truly grateful for the tremendous support, care and kindness that Tamaki TEFL Recruitment has shown me - and continues to show me.

I highly recommend Tamaki TEFL Recruitment. :)

Lefu
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

TTR review

I had a wonderful experience with TTR. Tomoko was incredibly supportive, patient, and caring throughout the entire process. She was always available to respond to my emails, even outside of working hours, which truly meant a lot to me. What stands out most is that she still checks in on me even now, as I continue to settle in, to make sure I am doing well both at work and personally. I am truly grateful for her dedication and support and highly recommend her services. She went out of her way numerous times just to assist me when I needed assistance with my application process and for that I will forever be grateful.

What was your funniest moment?
I was at the convenient store when the cashier said "arigato godzaimus" which translates to "thank you", and I replied with "Konnichiwa" which translates to "hello" 😂😂we both laughed
Pros
  • Support
  • Patience
  • Warmth
Cons
  • No airpot pick-up
Lwaluhle
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Tomoko is so supportive and amazing throughout this journey- Highly recommend!!

I highly recommend Tomoko and TTR!! Tomoko is truly the best recruiter I've meet especially since this journey was new to me and I was very nervous. On our first conversation, she was easy to talk to and made me feel at ease with the process. Tomoko assisted me in every step of this journey and was patient with any questions I has. She responded within time and clarified any confusion I had along the way. Thinking about working overseas can be a daunting decision but Tomoko offered consistent emotional support and encouragement that words can't express. I'm truly grateful for Tomoko's guidance and support.

Tomoko goes above and beyond to guide and ensure that everything goes well. She is so reassuring and helps calm any nerves you might have. Words truly can't express how wonderful Tomoko has made this journey and continues to as she is so kind, supportive and works hard to help us in our transition to teaching.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
This is the best decision you've ever made. Everyday will be different and some days you'll feel anxious and sometimes down but take each day one step at a time. There'll also be days you'll be so happy you'll feel like crying in the train!!
Pros
  • Supportive beyond words
  • Encouraging throughout the process
  • Kindness
Cons
  • No airport pick up
Dzunisani
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Tomoko Review

Tomoko was the most sweetest and helpful recruiter I've ever encountered. When I first emailed to apply, she replied on time and even to some days where she had other commitments she always communicated. I have had struggles along the process with getting my documents ready and any time I emailed for clarification, she was always happy to help regardless of how many times she had mentioned that thing before. If there were any delays regarding anything she always communicated on time. Tomoko doesn't just do her job but she loves doing it. Before I left South Africa she helped me connect with the other person's who were traveling from South Africa too. It made the whole experience a lot more easier because I wasn't alone. Getting to Japan she has always checked all the time. Even during our training she checked in on how we've been doing and how we are settling in. Furthermore, suggested food we could try to fit our liking. She provided ways to help us navigate also from the airport to the office.

What was your funniest moment?
When we realized we always bought food at the convenient stores because we didn't know there was a supermarket closer to our accomodation.
Pros
  • Tomoko was very supportive not only during the process of getting ready but after we've arrived in Japan.
  • During the interview she was very accommodative and very nice.
  • She made time to avail herself to help us understand any of the things we needed to have ready and even understanding the job entirely.
Cons
  • No one picks you up from the airport.