Job Discussion Forums

tellersquill · Joined: 08 Apr 2016 Posts: 94

Good news - I got a job in HCM starting in August!

I only need an online tefl with a 20hr practical as the my new boss said they will help train me up when I am there.

The wage isn't the greatest as its just over a $1,000 per month for 20hrs of in class work, but the housing is free so that's a big bonus. Hopefully my cost of living without rent will be around $500 so if I am lucky I can save $500 per month.

The head of the school is British and I think that's reassuring for me for whatever reason. He also told me that there is plenty of guidance and training and that's really great to hear as a new teacher.

Overall I'm very happy.

1st Sgt Welsh · Posted: Fri May 05, 2017 9:00 am Post subject:

OK. Personally, my advice would have been to get the CELTA and then start applying for jobs from there, but, if this is the way you want to go then good luck to you. Hope it works out.

ExpatLuke · Joined: 11 Feb 2012 Posts: 744

skarper · Joined: 12 Oct 2006 Posts: 477

I'm dubious tellersquill is actually genuine. Feels more and more like someone trying to wind us up.

I would run a mile from that job offer. Very low pay for a summer gig and free housing is always a minefield.

'Plenty of help and guidance for a new teacher' just about has me falling off my chair laughing....

1st Sgt Welsh · Posted: Fri May 05, 2017 9:53 am Post subject:

I don't know skarper, but I'll give him the benefit of the doubt that he is genuine. Anyway, 20 hours a week works out to about 12 USD an hour. Very much on the low side, but, if he is getting a free, decent apartment that would otherwise cost 400-450 USD a month then it's not that bad. If I was him, I'd certainly be wanting to know the location and would be taking a very close look at the photos. Personally, I'd prefer to just be paid more and decide on my own lodgings, but, whatever. Remember, tellersquire has decided to opt for an online TEFL certificate and most of the larger schools in Saigon wouldn't even consider him for a job with one of those. Like I said, not that way I would have suggested, but, it's his call and good luck to him.

rogerwilco · Joined: 10 Jun 2010 Posts: 1549

tellersquill · Joined: 08 Apr 2016 Posts: 94

I divided the wage $1000 per month, plus rent $300, plus visa paid for and a paid holidays and I divided it by 80hrs and it comes out at 18$ per hour.

I'm told that for a teacher with zero experience but with a tefl and a degree 18$ per hour is pretty normal (some may get 20$).

After 6 months my contract will be reviewed and he said that most people who choose to stay on get an extra dollar or two per hour.

I feel its a good first job that is waiting for me when I get there. Plus, if I don't like it after 6 months or I feel I can earn more I can always apply for other positions and the plus factor is I will also have experience by then.

tellersquill · Joined: 08 Apr 2016 Posts: 94

As for the tefl - its 100 hours online and 20 hours in class - so its a pretty standard mix (but not just an online course).

I couldn't afford the celta in the end - it costs £1,500 without housing!

I have around £3,500 in savings. Flights and moving costs come up to a £1,000 and this leaves me with £2,000 as a backup and to help with living costs for the first one month where I don't get a wage.

1st Sgt Welsh · Posted: Fri May 05, 2017 1:12 pm Post subject:

tellersquill · Joined: 08 Apr 2016 Posts: 94

Well I can always accept the position and apply for other positions in the meantime as I don't actually sign a contract until I arrive.

If I don't find anything better before july I will take it and then look for a new job after the 6 month contract is up.

RustyShackleford · Joined: 13 May 2013 Posts: 449

I'm with Skarper now. This guy, if he's not a troll, is a rube and I'm done here.