Submit your own 'Great Escape' »
Danny
Q1. Where did you move to and when?
I moved to Shanghai, China, around two months ago, mid August 2011. I'm now teaching mathematics at an A-Level school for Chinese students who want to attend university abroad.
Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?
I taught English in Chiang Mai for a year, at one of the private missionary-founded schools.
Q3. What was your main reason for moving?
I really had an amazing life in Chiang Mai - but with few oppurtunities for career advancement, I knew that I would need to get my education degree to move up in the world of education.
Q4. What are the advantages of working where you are now compared to Thailand?
Money is of course a big plus. I can afford a much nicer apartment and can splurge on nice meals and big nights out without worrying too much Shanghai is a massive city with endless oppurtunities for entertainment, so I'm never at a loss for things to do. Plus I'm getting valuable experience teaching A-Level mathematics which will come in handy in the future.
Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?
The friendliness, politeness and warmth of Thais. Living simply and enjoying life. Cheap and delicious food.
Q6. Would you advise a new teacher to seek work in Thailand or where you are now?
Thailand is a great place for a few years if you're young, unqualified and just want to enjoy life. Its also a fantastic place if you are highly qualified and can get into a well paying international school. However, for recent educaton graduates, Shanghai is ideal because there are many well-paid positions for subject teachers. It can be a great place to start a career in education.
Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?
Absolutely. Thailand isn't perfect but it has so many good things going for it - low cost of living, pleasant culture, good weather, amazing food, relative safety, and terrific holiday opportunities - that few other places can compete.
Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?
The year I spent teaching English in Chiang Mai was probably the best year of my life, and there are moments when I wonder why I left. At the same time, I'm grateful for the opportunities to develop as a teacher and enjoy a nicer lifestyle.
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In Thailand the government has set 2012 as English Speaking Year with a goal of encouraging students to converse in English every Monday. Such policies are useful but the major leap of enacting legislation to make English an official language for Thailand is also needed
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The integration of internet and computers with education and English learning is something students find normal, and classrooms without some access to educational software may seem quaint. Some students may even feel they can get more ‘professional' teaching from the numerous online ELT sites if a school is behind in IT.
About Ajarn.com
Ajarn.com was started as a small hobby website in 1999 by Ian McNamara. It was a simple way for one Bangkok teacher to share his Thailand experiences and pass on advice. The website developed a loyal and enthusiastic following. In 2004, Ian handed over the reins to Phil Williams and 'Bangkok Phil' has run the ajarn website ever since.
Ajarn.com has grown enormously and is now the most popular TEFL site in Thailand - possibly even South East Asia. Although best-known for its vibrant jobs page, Ajarn has a wealth of articles, blogs, features and help and advice. But one principle has always remained at Ajarn's core - to tell things like they are and to do it with a sense of humor. Thailand can be Heaven or Hell for an English teacher. It's always been Ajarn.com's duty to present both sides of the equation. Thanks for stopping by.
