The Teacher’s Middle Way

Blending Thai and foreign curricula

The Thai Basic Curriculum (TBC) for Foreign Languages of 2008 (BE 2551): If you are a foreign teacher at a government school or an English Program school in Thailand you will have to deal with it at some point.

Problems with the system

Postbox letter from Mike

After 12 years and four different schools, I have come to the conclusion that the "quality of Thai students' English skills" did not improve within the last 12 years. But how is that even possible when more and more NES teachers with experience and degrees in education teach Thai students, even at smaller schools?

An uncertain future?

Five ideas to reform the Thai education system

I've been teaching in different schools and businesses around Thailand for a long time and in my view, there are five important areas that need to be addressed immediately, to secure (or at least improve) the standing of Thai education for the next generation.

Why blaming everyone else is getting us nowhere.

Postbox letter from Mark, Chantaburi

If Thailand wants to improve its educational standards maybe it needs to look at how it educates.

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.

Just be thankful you don't teach in the UK

I live in a glass house so I've put away my stones.

I often notice job postings, warning teachers that they will be revered in Thailand due to their chosen profession. Believe me, Britain is one of few countries where teachers are not revered. It's the status quo in most places. I do often get told to F off by students as young as 11 when I ask them to tuck their shirt in.

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.

Who are the real TEFL heroes?

My vote and support goes to the Thai English teachers

Now, I work hard and go beyond what is required of me every day. But it's no sacrifice. I like doing it. I'm no hero. In fact, if I want to, I can quit and bugger off home at any time.

The 'Hour of Code' is here

Computer coding is going to become an essential skill for all students

Simply learning how to use popular software applications is no longer enough for today's students. Other countries are waking up to this reality and education departments have reformed their computer studies curriculum to introduce students to the basic principles of computer science from an early age.