The students forgave me; the admin staff never did
Postbox letter from Neil (still waiting for photocopies)
The students know me, the parents like me, the director shakes my hand at every ceremony (mostly because he thinks I’m someone else, but still). On paper, I’m settled. But there’s one wound that never healed: Admin Office, Level 2.
Can we just shut up and teach, please?
Surviving the staffroom one complaint at a time
I’m not saying we need to be all sunshine and lotus blossoms. But how about just a little balance? A few positive comments to go with the griping. A moment to appreciate the good things - the student who improved, the lesson that landed, the joke that actually got a laugh.
The expat bubble in Thailand
Why it's worth making the effort to step outside
There's so much more to Thailand than what you'll find inside a Western-friendly pub on Sukhumvit. Step outside. You won’t regret it.
The dreaded teacher conflict
What can you do if you don't get on with a Thai teacher at your school?
It’s worth trying to build rapport outside the classroom. Sharing a meal in the canteen, participating in school events, or simply asking about a colleague’s family or weekend plans can help strengthen the relationship.
A foreign woman in the Thai workplace
If you’re a woman thinking of working in Thailand, don’t worry if things feel unfamiliar at first.
Over time, I noticed that the Thai teachers appreciated when I asked questions respectfully and showed that I wanted to learn, not just change everything.
How to offend Thai colleagues in one easy lesson
Postbox letter from Robert
In Thailand, never underestimate the cultural pride tied to food.
Mistakes that long term teachers make in Thailand
What do the old hands often do wrong?
If you have been here a year or two, you have probably made or seen all the newbie mistakes. But more pitfalls await. Here is a run-through of things you should avoid