David Parfitt's blog on Ajarn.com
Living smart in Bangkok
Why renting near the BTS or MRT makes sense on a teacher’s budget
Living near the train lines doesn’t just help you get from point A to point B. It improves your entire routine and connects you more deeply to the rhythm of the city. For me, it was one of the best decisions I made.
Understanding the Thai school system
A guide for foreign teachers
If you’re planning to teach in Thailand, it helps to have a basic grasp of how the education system is structured. While life inside a Thai classroom can sometimes feel unpredictable, the framework that holds everything together is actually quite well organised - at least on paper.
Why do technical school students fight in Thailand?
In Thailand, fights between students from rival technical colleges have been happening for years.
Movies, TV shows, and social media often glamorize technical students as tough and rebellious, making fighting seem cool. Some students see it as a way to earn respect or boost their reputation.
Navigating teaching contracts in Thailand
Before signing a contract, take the time to thoroughly evaluate the terms.
Teaching in Thailand comes with its share of challenges, and one of the most critical aspects to understand is your employment contract. While some agreements are fair and well-structured, others can be ambiguous or skewed in favor of the school.
I definitely made the right choice
The expat teacher lifestyle is filled with rewards
I've always wanted to travel, write, and have varied experiences, and I'm now able to do those things.
Honestly, I'm here in Thailand to teach
For the male teachers out there, how do you build rapport in the classroom?
There's no denying it: there's sometimes a stereotype about male English teachers in Thailand being seen as sex tourists. If you're single, you're fighting an uphill battle against this perception.
A teaching room of your own
It's not just about having a space to teach; it's about creating a hub for learning, laughter, and lifelong memories.
Starting out as a floating teacher meant I didn't have a proper classroom for the first two years. It was like being a nomad in the world of education, but it taught me to adapt like a pro.
The ideal student to teach
What characteristics make the perfect Thai student?
It's only fair for teachers to entertain thoughts about the benchmarks for role model language learners. Let's explore the traits that many teachers would cherish in their students.
