Job Discussion Forums

[Rusty77]

Hi everyone,

I'm fairly new to this board. I haven't been teaching in Germany yet, but have been teaching in another European country for the past year. I've applied to Berlitz in Frankfurt, and already had a very pleasant telephone interview. The director sounded like he'd be a great person to work for, and he mentioned that indeed it is possible for a non-EU passport holder to work in Germany teaching English, and to get a fair share of hours. I'm seriously thinking about heading over there.
Any opinions on the school, the city, or on the teaching climate in Germany (which I've heard is not great, given the recession) would be greatly appreciated.

Rusty

[crashartist1]

If you ever have any interest in teaching outside of Berlitz, then don't go there. The system is horrible there business classes are a joke. Does anyone know if Peter Crawford turned Audio Performance around? They have their 'own' joking...er., I mean teaching method that is pretty much useless anyhow. Go get a TEFL, if you have to work there go ahead and do it to get paid just look for other work onthe side so you can leave that company.

crash

[Rusty77]

Hi Crash Artist,
I appreciate the feedback on Berlitz, but- wow, pretty strong negative opinion you have, so it seems. I'm wondering, are you basing this on your own experience at a specific location (i.e. which city?) . Perhaps the teaching method/environment changes from school to school?

[scot47]

Teachers tend to look on Berlitz with disdain and suspicion. With good reason.

[Showem]

Hi Rusty,

Berlitz are said within German teaching circles to pay very poorly. Are you talking about Frankfurt am Rhein or Frankfurt an der Oder? If it's FaR, you'll be hard pressed to make ends meet by just working for them.

[Rusty77]

Showem (and Scot47),
It's FaR; thanx for the advice, guys...why the bad rap, do you think: is it the teaching methodology/hours?
Rusty