Job Discussion Forums

[mattyk]

Hi,

Silly question I know but I would love some feedback.

I will have completed my TESOL course by mid August and wish to teach abroad. I have done quite alot of research into where I can and can't teach. It seems that with a few exceptions ( no degree ) that I can teach pretty much anywhere in the world. I am 32 years old and have run an events company in London for the past eight years. Very stressfull, incredibly long hours, ultimately quite rewarding but have decided its time for a change. Have thoroughly enjoyed living in London but need a new challenge. My ideal scenario would be beautiful location, preferably a small town, nice students, good standard of living, opportunity to learn Spanish. I know this all seems a little ambitious for a first job but I am 100% committed and would dearly love some advice. What do you think ?

[ls650]

[grahamb]

I suggest you list your criteria in order of priority.
If learning Spanish is high on the list then Spain's the obvious destination. The problem is that most of the work is where you find most people, ie in Madrid - hardly a small town, not very quiet (Spanish people are loud!) and, like most big cities, rather polluted. In addition, finding accommodation here can be a nightmare if you don't have any contacts. Having said that, you can make good money here.
Who are you doing your TESOL with? Is it a language academy that has schools in Spain? If so, ask them if they have any vacancies.
Long hours are often part and parcel of teaching English. I frequently spend 14 hours a day out of the house but only work 8. It depends on who you work for.
And of course that old chestnut, the EU passport. Are you from the UK or just living and working there? If it's the latter, and you don't have an EU passport, you'll have a problem working legally here.
Look through the various tefl websites to get an idea of what's on offer.
Spain, like any country, is what you make of it. I've enjoyed my time here.
Good luck, and feel free to email me direct if you have any specific questions.
Graham.

[biffinbridge]

in your dreams sonno as this aint no place for reality...you'll end up destitute or in the middle east................god forbid

[rogan]