It's better in Slovakia

Postbox letter from Tim

The TEFL industry here is pretty poor also, but they have proper laws protecting teachers from unscrupulous schools.

The natural order of things

Not all students are created equal or should be treated as equal

In the best interests of the students who are capable, interested and who want to learn, some kids have to be left behind. That's why our school has streams.

Marko's guide for newbies

Ten top tips for new teachers arriving in Thailand

New teachers teaching Thais in schools are often placed into an awkward and stressful situation, not really sure of their authority and sometimes not even placed with assistants who are much help

Handling students with learning difficulties

How can I ignore students just because they are different?

I remember in my first week at my government high school there was a student who was severely autistic. I just wasn't prepared for the task at hand.

My students don't even try!

The power of expectations

During my training as a teacher, we were told never to call a student stupid. Or lazy. Or bad. Or any other such pejorative. It seems like a sensible prescription, right? Criticize the behavior, not the person.

Just plain abuse

Postbox letter from Connamera

School officials have never openly threatened me but they have made it clear to everyone that they don't like me and they're out to get me

Random TEFL musings (part one)

Preparing yourself for teaching in Thailand

Teaching in Thailand isn't easy. Accept that you will never be the perfect teacher. Take classroom management seriously. Expect bad or negative things to happen. Finally, know exactly why the school has hired you.

The end of an academic year

It's a hectic team for teachers especially

International schools are approaching the end of the year now, and for both teachers and students, it's among the peak stress periods of the year.

Where is the professionalism?

Postbox letter from Joshua K

I would like to see foreign teachers act with more professional attitude and not treat a teaching job like it is just an easy way to stay and enjoy your time in Thailand.

How can I make it in the madness?

The harsh reality of teaching in Thailand

It's depressing just how many people come here to teach and leave with lots of resentment and bitterness. Or worse still, remain here polluting the place with those same feelings! Don't be one of them.