A journey into the over 60's TEFL graveyard
Postbox letter from John V (Thailand)
When it happened, it occurred at the speed of light. Having lost its contract with the local education authority, my company and I parted on amicable terms and moreover, in an uncharacteristic display of Chinese efficiency, within one week I found myself on a flight from Northern China back to Thailand.
Will I find work in Thailand?
Is there a definitive answer to this incredibly common question?
I wish I could look at the main scenarios, the reasons teachers ask if they will find work in Thailand, and give everyone a straight "yes, you will" or "no, you won't" answer. But unfortunately it's nowhere near that straightforward.
Chasing the big bucks
The ongoing and exhausting search for a well-paid teaching job
I'm just not making enough money to make it worth staying at my current posting. What with student loans, a mortgage, and other bills to pay, not only am I saving zilch for retirement, but I'm also barely breaking even month to month.
Language school memoirs
Tales from an academic director / recruiter
I was a lead teacher, academic director and recruiter for a private Thai language school with several branches. I did this job for well over a decade and as you would expect - there's a story or two.
The dreaded demo lesson
How to make sure your demo lesson goes as smoothly as possible
Now that the busy hiring season is almost upon us, many schools will be asking potential teachers for a demo lesson. Don't panic. Let them know who the professional is.
Tackling the Skype interview
Having an interview on Skype is nothing to fear if you are well-prepared
Skype is now used by many companies as part of their recruitment drive. If you are faced with the 'ordeal' of a Skype interview for a teaching position, what can you do to improve your chances of performing well and landing the job?
Life's so unfair for the bad teachers
Postbox letter from
For every good teacher, I'd say there are three bad ones. The bad ones are usually allowed to coast along until the school finally get their revenge and don't renew their contract.
Take the first job you can get
It's all about getting a foot in the door
There are "Teachers in Thailand" rooms that I belong to that say don't settle for anything less than 40K when it comes to a teaching job, and although I do agree with them, that's easier said than done.
Finding teachers just wasn't me
Postbox letter from Eoin
My advice to any schools in the current climate is, if you find a good teacher, hold onto them for dear life. I fear it's becoming near impossible at a TEFL level now in Thailand to find new good ones.
Who is worth working for?
In search of the holy grail.
Is there a Holy Grail of ELT jobs? Why are some teachers happy, while others suffer under a yoke of abuse? Who are these employers that are spoiling our fun?
