Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the FAQ page! Here are answers to the most common questions about Starfish English. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to reach out via LINE (recommended), phone, or email or visit for a trial lesson.

Table of Contents

About The School

What kind of school is Starfish English?

I run a friendly, community-focused eikaiwa (English conversation school) in the heart of Fujieda, Shizuoka. With over 35 years of experience living in Japan, I offer a personal touch that you won’t find at larger chain schools. I specialize in creating a supportive, welcoming environment where students from Grade 5 (ages 10+) through seniors can build genuine confidence in English conversation. The classroom features traditional shoji screens and comfortable table seating in a peaceful setting that creates a warm, focused learning environment.

What is your teaching method? What makes it special?

I use a communicative approach that prioritizes practical conversation skills over rote memorization. My method focuses on:

  • Real-world conversation practice - I simulate authentic situations you’ll actually encounter
  • Confidence building - Small class sizes ensure individual attention and support
  • Cultural understanding - With decades of experience in Japan, I understand the unique challenges Japanese learners face
  • Age-appropriate learning - My curriculum adapts to different learning styles from Grade 5 (ages 10+) through seniors

What is the atmosphere like?

The classroom has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Students often describe it as friendly, relaxed, and encouraging. I maintain a “mistake-friendly” environment where learning happens naturally - you can try new things without fear of judgment. Many students become friends and continue their English journey together for years.

Trial Lesson & Enrollment

Can I have a free trial lesson?

Yes! I offer a complimentary 30-minute trial lesson. This gives you a chance to experience my teaching style, meet me, and see if my approach is the right fit for you.

What happens during the trial lesson?

Your trial lesson is relaxed and pressure-free:

  • A relaxed, pressure-free chat about your English goals and interests (I speak Japanese too!)
  • A gentle level assessment through natural conversation - absolutely no tests or pressure, just getting to know you
  • A mini-lesson showing my teaching style, tailored to your interests
  • Time to ask any questions and get to know me personally
  • Information about how I can help you reach your goals

How long does the trial lesson and consultation take?

About 30-45 minutes total - I let the conversation flow naturally rather than watching the clock! No special materials needed, just bring yourself and your curiosity about learning English.

What is the enrollment process?

The enrollment process is simple and pressure-free:

  1. Schedule and attend your free trial lesson
  2. Take time to consider the programs (no same-day pressure!)
  3. If you decide to join, complete a simple enrollment form
  4. Choose your preferred schedule and payment plan
  5. Start your English journey!

Can I enroll on a different day after the trial lesson?

Absolutely! I encourage you to take your time and be completely satisfied with your decision. There’s no pressure to enroll immediately, and you can contact me anytime after your trial lesson.

When can I start my lessons?

You can typically start within a week of enrollment, depending on your schedule preferences and class availability. I’m flexible and will work with your needs.

I’m a complete beginner and have no confidence. Is that okay?

Of course! Many of my most successful students started as complete beginners feeling exactly as you do now. I specialize in creating a patient, encouraging environment where you can learn at your own pace without fear of judgment. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and with over 35 years of experience living in Japan, I bring deep understanding of the challenges Japanese learners face when taking their first steps in English.

I’m worried I won’t be able to keep up with lessons from a foreign teacher.

This is a common concern, and I completely understand. Learning from a native speaker can feel intimidating at first, but my patient, encouraging approach and deep understanding of Japanese learners’ concerns helps students relax and enjoy the learning process. I have extensive experience working with Japanese learners:

  • I speak clearly and at an appropriate pace
  • I use gestures and visual aids effectively
  • I understand common areas where Japanese learners need extra support
  • I create a patient, encouraging atmosphere

Many students tell me they were surprised by how quickly they felt comfortable and started looking forward to their lessons.

Can parents attend their child’s trial lesson?

For children’s trial lessons (Grade 5+, ages 10+), I conduct the session one-on-one with the student to create the optimal learning environment. This allows your child to focus fully, build confidence naturally, and engage without distraction. Parents are welcome to wait in the nearby area, and after the lesson, we’ll have a brief consultation to discuss your child’s experience and answer any questions. This approach is based on established teaching methodology that shows children learn best when they can make mistakes freely and build independent confidence with their instructor.

Do you teach children under Grade 5 (under age 10)?

At the moment, I mainly teach from Grade 5 (age 10+) and up, so students have the focus and independence needed for conversation-based lessons. If you tell me your child’s age and goals, I can suggest the best next step.

Lessons & Courses

What kinds of courses do you offer?

I offer specialized courses for different age groups and goals:

Student Courses:

  • Upper Elementary English (Grade 5-6, Ages 10-12): Interactive foundation building through games and activities (Grade 5+ aligns with when English becomes a formal subject in Japanese schools)
  • Junior High English: Academic support and conversation practice for middle schoolers
  • High School English: Advanced communication and university entrance exam preparation

Adult Courses:

  • Adult Conversation: Daily conversation skills for all levels
  • Senior Travel English: Research-based approach for mature learners planning international travel
  • Business English: Professional communication and career advancement
  • Certificate & Exam Preparation: TOEIC, TOEFL, IELTS, and Eiken test prep

Do you offer private (one-to-one) lessons?

Yes! I offer both private lessons and small group classes (maximum 6 students). Private lessons allow for completely customized instruction and flexible scheduling, while group lessons provide opportunities for peer interaction and cost-effective learning.

How many students are in a group lesson?

All group lessons have a maximum of 6 students. These small class sizes ensure everyone gets plenty of speaking practice and individual attention.

Can I take one-off lessons or study short-term?

I mainly run monthly plans for steady progress; if you need short-term or irregular lessons, contact me and we’ll see what’s possible.

What are your online lesson options?

I offer flexible online lessons via Google Meet for both private and small group classes. Google Meet is a high-quality, reliable platform that’s easy to use on any device. Online lessons follow the same curriculum as in-person classes and include:

  • Interactive conversation practice
  • Screen sharing for materials
  • Digital whiteboard for grammar explanations
  • Flexible scheduling for busy lifestyles

You can mix online and in-person lessons based on your schedule and preferences. The price is the same for both, giving you maximum flexibility.

About Your Teacher

Tell me about yourself as a teacher.

I’m Richard, a native English speaker from the United States who has lived in Japan for over 35 years (since 1990). I have:

  • A university degree and extensive teaching training
  • Deep understanding of Japanese culture and the unique challenges Japanese learners face
  • A patient, encouraging personality that helps anxious students relax
  • Commitment to professional development - I’m always learning better ways to help you succeed

Will I have the same teacher for every lesson?

Yes! That’s one of the biggest advantages of learning with me. Because I’m the sole instructor and owner, you’ll work with me for every lesson. This consistency allows me to:

  • Remember your struggles and celebrate your progress
  • Track your development over months and years
  • Build genuine rapport and trust
  • Personalize every lesson based on what I know about you

Unlike chain schools where teachers rotate every few months, you’re building a long-term relationship with someone who genuinely knows your learning journey.

Are you hiring teachers? Do you have job openings?

No, Starfish English is a solo practice - I’m the sole instructor and owner. There are no teaching positions available, and I’m not looking to hire staff. If you’re looking for English teaching jobs in the Fujieda area, I’d recommend checking with larger chain schools like NOVA, ECC, or AEON, which regularly hire foreign teachers.

Fees & Policies

How much is the tuition?

My fees are competitive and transparent. Pricing varies by course:

Student Courses:

  • Elementary English (Grade 5-6, Ages 10-12): ¥10,000/month (weekly lessons)
  • Junior High English: ¥10,000/month (weekly lessons)
  • High School English: ¥13,000/month (weekly lessons)

Adult Courses:

  • Adult Conversation: ¥13,000/month (weekly lessons)
  • Senior Travel English: ¥12,000/month (weekly lessons)
  • Business English: ¥17,000/month (weekly lessons)
  • Certificate & Exam Preparation: ¥15,000/month (Group, weekly lessons) / ¥27,000/month (Private, weekly lessons)

Special Programs:

  • 1-Day Domestic Immersion: ¥48,000 (10 hours, Founding Price)

What other fees are there besides tuition?

I believe in complete transparency and simplicity:

  • Entrance Fee: ¥8,000. This includes your professional initial assessment, customized learning plan development, diagnostic evaluation, and curriculum materials setup—reflecting my 35+ years of experience in Japan.
  • Textbooks: I am an educator, not a bookstore. I’ll provide you with a direct link to purchase your textbook at the lowest price (typically ¥2,000-2,500). No markup from me!
  • No hidden management fees or system charges!

Is it a monthly payment system?

Yes! I keep it simple with monthly payments - no large upfront fees or complicated packages. Planning to study for several months? Just ask me about options for longer-term students.

Why do some months have more lessons than others?

I teach 42 lessons per year at a weekly pace. This means some months have 3 lessons, others have 5, but it balances out over the year. Your monthly tuition stays the same regardless of whether it’s a 3-lesson month or a 5-lesson month—you’re paying for consistent weekly learning throughout the year.

What payment methods do you accept?

I accept cash payment for tuition. Monthly tuition is due at the beginning of each month.

Can I cancel my contract midway through?

Yes, you can cancel with one month’s notice. For monthly plans, you simply don’t renew for the following month. For pre-paid packages, I’ll refund unused lessons minus a ¥2,000 administrative fee.

What is the refund policy?

Fair refund policy:

  • Monthly plans: No refund needed - simply don’t renew
  • Pre-paid packages: Full refund of unused lessons minus ¥2,000 administrative fee

Are there any discounts available?

Yes, I offer specific discounts to reward my loyal students and their families:

  • Family Discount: When two or more members of the same family enroll, each additional member receives a 10% discount on their monthly tuition.
  • Friend Referral: When you refer a friend who enrolls for a monthly course, both you and your friend will receive a ¥2,000 discount on your next month’s tuition.
  • Pre-Payment Plan: Commit to your learning and save! Students who pay for 3 months of tuition in advance receive a 5% discount on the total price.

Please note that these discounts cannot be combined.

Do you provide receipts?

Yes. I can issue a receipt (領収書) for tuition and fees—please let me know the name and details you need.

Scheduling & Support

How do I book lessons?

Booking is easy and flexible. Contact me to schedule:

  • Phone: 054-660-7740
  • Email: starfishfujieda@gmail.com
  • LINE: See homepage for QR code/link
  • In-person: Schedule during your visits to the classroom

Is it difficult to get a reservation?

Not at all! My small size means I can be flexible with scheduling. I offer lessons Tuesday through Saturday, with some evening slots available. I work with your schedule to find convenient times.

If I miss a lesson, can I take a make-up lesson?

Yes! Life happens, and I understand that. However, to protect both your time and mine, I maintain an industry-standard policy:

Cancellation & Make-Up Policy

  • 24 hours advance notice: Free make-up lesson, scheduled at your convenience
  • Less than 24 hours notice: Full lesson fee charged, no make-up offered
  • After lesson time or no-show: Full lesson fee charged, no make-up offered

Exceptions: Force majeure events only (typhoon, earthquake, train strike)

This policy is standard across Japanese eikaiwa schools and protects my ability to offer flexible scheduling. When you provide 24-hour notice, I can adjust my schedule or offer your slot to another student. Last-minute cancellations mean I’ve already reserved the time and prepared your materials.

The good news: Unlike large chain schools with computerized systems, I handle make-ups personally. If you contact me as soon as you know about a conflict—even on the same day—I’ll note it and work with you to reschedule when possible. The key is communication.

Make-up scheduling:

  • Valid for 2 months from original lesson date
  • Flexible timing to fit your schedule
  • Same curriculum continuity

What are your opening hours? What is the latest class time?

School Hours:

  • Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Sunday-Monday: Closed

Latest lesson times:

  • Weekdays: Last lesson starts at 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: Last lesson starts at 5:00 PM

Is parking available?

Yes! My house has four dedicated parking spaces for students, and street parking is also available. Unlike station-based schools where you pay ¥400+ per visit for parking (¥20,000+ per year!), parking here is completely free.

Who can I talk to if I have a problem or need advice about my studies?

I’m here to support you throughout your learning journey:

  • Direct access to me for immediate questions about lessons or materials
  • Email support for non-urgent questions (I typically respond within 24 hours)
  • Regular progress check-ins to ensure you’re meeting your goals

I pride myself on being accessible and responsive to my students’ needs. You’re never just a number at Starfish English!

How will I know if I’m improving?

You’ll notice progress in several ways:

During lessons, I point out when you use new vocabulary naturally or when your pronunciation improves. I track patterns in your speech—for example, when you start using past tense correctly without thinking about it, or when you stop translating in your head before speaking.

Regular check-ins help you see the bigger picture. Every few months, we review your goals together and I show you specific examples of your progress. Many students are surprised when they look back at where they started.

Real-world feedback is often the clearest sign. Students tell me they suddenly understood a movie scene without subtitles, successfully ordered at a restaurant during travel, or confidently participated in an English meeting at work. These moments happen because you’ve been building real skills, not just completing exercises.

Progress isn’t always linear—some weeks feel faster than others. That’s completely normal. What matters is that you’re consistently moving forward.

What if you’re sick?

Like anyone else, I sometimes get sick. When that happens, I contact students as soon as I know and we reschedule according to the same make-up lesson policy (free rescheduling when I provide 24+ hours notice).

Since I’m the only teacher, there’s no substitute available. This is actually one of the reasons students choose to study with me—you get consistency and a teacher who truly knows your learning journey, not a rotating cast of part-timers. The trade-off is that when I’m genuinely ill, we reschedule rather than sending in someone unfamiliar with your progress.

If you have an important deadline coming up (like an exam or business presentation), let me know in advance and I’ll prioritize your needs in any scheduling adjustments.

Comparing Your Options

Why should I pay more than a budget school?

With Starfish English, you’re not just buying lessons—you’re investing in consistent support from the same experienced teacher over time.

What that means in practice:

  • Consistency: The same teacher every week (not rotating staff)
  • Experience: Over 35 years living in Japan (since 1990), with deep understanding of Japanese learners
  • More speaking time: Small classes (max 6) so you actually get to talk
  • Fewer hidden costs: For example, many station-based schools add parking costs that can total ¥20,000+ per year

If you want steady progress and a teacher who truly knows your learning history, this model works well.

My child already attends juku. Why add another English class?

Many families use both because they do different jobs.

Juku are great for grammar, reading, and test strategy in Japanese. What’s harder to get there is real-time listening and speaking practice—especially the kind of natural English where sounds connect and phrasing becomes casual.

In my lessons, students practice:

  • Understanding natural spoken English (not just textbook audio)
  • Responding quickly and clearly in conversation
  • Building confidence speaking, not only studying

I’m not replacing juku. I’m filling the parts that Japanese-language instruction often can’t provide.

How do your entrance fees compare to other schools?

My entrance fee is ¥8,000, and I keep pricing straightforward and transparent.

The entrance fee covers:

  • An initial assessment
  • A simple learning plan and level guidance
  • Setup for materials and your course structure

Some schools advertise “free entrance” but recover costs through required seminars, higher monthly fees, or expensive materials packages. I prefer to be clear from the start.

I’ve heard native speakers can’t teach grammar properly.

This concern usually comes from experiences with very new teachers who rely entirely on a textbook.

I’ve lived in Japan since 1990 and understand where Japanese learners typically struggle (for example, articles, prepositions, and conditionals). That means I can explain grammar in ways that make sense from a Japanese learner’s perspective—and then practice it in conversation so it becomes usable.

Why not just use Duolingo or another language app?

Language apps can be useful tools for vocabulary practice, but they’re designed to keep you engaged with points and streaks rather than help you actually speak. I’ve written a detailed blog post about why language apps feel like a waste of time and what actually works for real conversation skills.

The key difference: apps can’t listen to you speak, give you feedback on your pronunciation, or adjust to the specific areas where Japanese learners typically struggle. That’s where working with a teacher makes the difference—you get real-time correction, personalized guidance, and practice in actual conversation, not just tapping buttons.

Many students use apps for vocabulary review between lessons. That’s a great combination—structured learning with me, reinforcement on your own time.

Ready to Start Learning?

Contact me today to discuss which course is right for you and schedule your free trial lesson!

Phone: 054-660-7740

Email: starfishfujieda@gmail.com

Book Your Free Trial