Job Discussion Forums

[Lenn88]

I was wondering what the typical ages are of the teachers? I am 32 years old wondering if I am too old to start teaching.

[johntpartee]

You're not too old.

[Denim-Maniac]

Certainly not too old.

In my Chinese training centre we have three teachers in their 20's, three in their 30's and two in their 40's. During summer camps the average is greatly reduced, but Id still say you are a great age to start.

[Xie Lin]

Ah, to be 32!

.

[Big Worm]

Why would people think like this? You're not auditioning for a boy band. How could 30 be too old to be a teacher?

[Professional TEFLer]

[MuscatGary]

I work with teachers aged from mid-20's to early sixties! Granted the sixty somethings aren't starting out but we get plenty of 40/50 year olds who have retarined after redundancy etc...

Lack of experience is more important, you may have to accept a lower pay bracket whilst you get a couple of years in.

[Professional TEFLer]

[RoscoeTX]

Definitely NOT too old. I started when I was 30. I've seen'em in all colors, shapes, ages, and sizes. Really runs the gamut.

[ptm234]

When I taught, there were people in their 20s to 50s. 32 is not too old at all, I started at 29. I have to say teaching abroad when you're older is great because you can really appreciate the culture and opportunities you have.

[JustinC]

Also starting working overseas, when you're older, can be an advantage to some people. With some more life experience under your belt you can;

a) laugh/marvel at the new 'systems' you'll see in place
b) understand a bad day does not mean the end of the world
c) not be seen as a 'youngster' by members of the more patriarchal societies
d) have a wider age range to choose from, if you're looking for an intimate relationship
e) be taken more seriously by your students and the police
f) already be aware of how much your liver can take
g) do and see so much before you grow too old

Not that I'm saying those in their 20s won't make good teachers or be able to adapt - I've met excellent, well-adjusted younger teachers overseas - just that the chances you can take things in your stride grow as you do.

I've worked with teachers in their early 20s to early 70s; it's not about a number it's your attitude that counts: If you're a chameleon and not a leopard you'll fit right in.

[TeacherTim]

I started at 27 and I'm still doing it at 41. But in my case it is a career, not just a gap year or fill in.

[Mr. English]

You're a f______ kid. I started at 50+ and am still doing it at 60+.

[coledavis]

I started in my late forties, carried on into my fifties. Character and ability count. Most employers recognise that.

[teachergus]

Still very young. I've worked with a couple of teachers who are in their late 50s and early 60s and they still got the moves.