Job Discussion Forums

JRJohn · Joined: 21 Jun 2006 Posts: 175

I applied for a job at TQLS and the application is nearly ready to be sent off.
But what is it like to work with them? One thing that makes me wonder me is why it is that they keep saying that the job will start at such and such a date and then they delay it to a later date.
This employer is interested in me. But do they really want a computer wizard?

Be here now · Joined: 24 May 2012 Posts: 2

TQLS has been a really good company to work for. This is my second year.

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

They pay on time. You want to ask how many got fired or didn't return last year? You're likely to get good feedback from the teachers who were cover teachers....afterall they spent/spend much less time with the students. Whatever, go there with a can't do approach and you'll have an easier life.

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

This organization has had a very up and down reputation over the years. They used to be famous for bringing bunches of teachers in and then saying "oops, we didn't actually get the contract so we don't need you...bye..." which left many teachers in the lurch as far as employment.

From posts for the last year or so things have seemed stable, but be prepared and keep expectations low. Many have used it as an entry job to get Gulf experience on their CV.

So JRJohn, it sounds like they may not know for sure if they need you, but are keeping you on the hook in case they do. Meanwhile you should keep looking for a job in case it falls through or you find something better.

VS

mustafabeer · Joined: 19 Jun 2012 Posts: 3

Wise words, VS. History has a habit of repeating itself with this particular employer. It's no coincidence that TQLS advertised for 5 teachers recently but no newbies were taken on.

Sounds like JRJohn is on the standby list and when someone quits or runs away, TQLS will be panicked into getting a replacement teacher pdq. That's when JRJohn can expect a call ...

Take VS's advice, OP, and keep searching for a job. If and when a better offer comes along, take it. You'll be glad you did.

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

The stunt they pulled last year was the voluntary leave one. It's a short-term gig to do when in need...they know that and that's how you get treated really. The classes were doled out unfairly. There were also quite a few drama queens. That said I also met some really good people there. Do it if you have nothing else and enjoy Al-Mangaf, it will make you appreciate things later on. The contract leaves you with no option but the runner once you've had enough.....I enjoyed the moonlight flit.

cfaulkner · Joined: 01 Jun 2012 Posts: 42

Sounds as if they're not worthy of the risk. I'd pass.

mustafabeer · Joined: 19 Jun 2012 Posts: 3

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

And that means you can never go back to Kuwait. I'm still weeping.......with joy.

BTW-the other thread got locked....me and a couple of pals looked at tonnes of places and couldn't find anything bearable for less than 450KD and that was in Fahaheel and Mangaf.....Salmiya was pricier and miles away from work.

mashkif · Joined: 17 Aug 2010 Posts: 178

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

But you're still in Mangaf.....a complete wasteland. We looked at places with pools. There's naff all to do around there except go to the gym, smoke a sheesha and drink endless amounts of coffee. Yep there's the flash and JD at $150 a bottle but there's really nowhere decent to go out and no female company unless you pay for it. Nice.......

mashkif · Joined: 17 Aug 2010 Posts: 178

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

It's all part of the same general picture.

JoeRomano · Joined: 12 Jan 2010 Posts: 49

The turn over is horrible. People disappear in the middle of the night, some do runners and some are fired at whim. If you get hired to teach at the KPC, you are basically in a contest. There is a lady who does observations and you need to get a certain number of points. If you don't get those, you are out. It reminds of of the Gong Show.
Americans usually cannot pass it. Seen Americans just taken to the main office and put on the plain the next day.
No job stability at all. Most people do not last.
Don't work for them.

middeastgirl · Joined: 31 May 2010 Posts: 45

I did a year with them, '04-'05. They did pay on time, and the housing was decent. The dude running the show, H.E. aka, "The Plumber", is as underhanded as they come, though. Know your rights under the Kuwait MOE.

If things go belly up on a contract, they'll leave you hanging in the wind.