Job Discussion Forums

[Insubordination]

My supplementary question is 'Why?'

[Perilla]

[starlight]

Perilla, I can really understand your frustration!!

Been there myself. Spent just under 2 years as an IELTS examiner in Beijing. Got so fed up with all the nitpicking about 'seconds' and all the office politics at British Council that I finally just said to hell with it.

But having spent 2 years in that 'nitpicky' environment put me in a very, very good position to teach IELTS preparation classes. Went on to teach IELTS prep classes for several years, made a bundle, and had far less stress to deal with.

You have my sympathy.

[Insubordination]

Part 3:

I just listen to what they're saying and ask 'Why do you think _______?' and "You mentioned ____________. Why do you think________?" It works, it's easy, impersonal and no imagination is required. My 'monitor' gets annoyed if I think of random, barely related questions.

Almost everyone is pulled up and 'fails' once a year or so for not following procedures to the letter or rating incorrectly. We are humans and it's not an exact science. No one talks about it because they think they are the only one. The people monitoring us are also monitored strictly.

I am also sick of the job (though mainly because it's on a Saturday). Are we supposed to just be flattered that we're important enough to be examiners for Cambridge, so we'll jump through all the hoops? It's all taken so bloody seriously and paid so bloody poorly (as you mentioned, especially the speaking).

However, I agree that it does prepare you well for teaching IELTS prep, which is much more enjoyable.

[Perilla]

I taught IELTS prep for a couple of years but found it just as dull as the examining with low-level (band 4 to 5) adult students. But yes, teaching IELTS does offer some lucrative opps, especially if you can find high-level privates.

Many examiners in HK are well hacked off with regular examining, and I know a few who have either stopped or are are threatening to do so. I only do one session a month these days, just to keep my hand in - just in case the day job falls through.

[johnnyRockets]

Hello,
Can anyone out there tell me how much ielts examiners are paid per candidate in Italy, please. I am planning to travel to Italy this summer and would like to examine while being there.

thank you.

[theoriginalprankster]

If you're in the job you're a fool.

I got out when things turned south/sour in China.