Job Discussion Forums

[Michael Hovland]

I'll be 60 years old when I begin a search in earnest next Spring for TESL jobs in the middle east. Needing to earn some money in preparation for retirement and told that Korea / Japan (other countries with higher salaries) are out as the culture values youth over experience.

I've a teaching license in Washington State, 28 years classroom experience in elementary and special ed, an M.Ed. in Special Education, and a recently acquired TESOL certificate. Willing to teach any level and confident in my teaching / classroom management skills but concerned about similar attitudes about age in ME.

Any feedback on likelihood of finding a job or adapting to Muslim culture would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

[sicklyman]

I don't think the issue will be age per se, but it might be qualifications and relevant EFL experience. If you have experience dealing with bad classroom behaviour in all those years teaching, that would be useful too.

What kind of job are you willing to do? There are entry level jobs teaching kids in public schools (UAE, Saudi). But they don't pay well (for the ME) and the jobs don't have a great reputation.

[DLIguy]

I think 28 years of Special Ed would work well in Saudi Arabia!

[nomad soul]

Your age is an issue in terms of the retirement age (for expats) rather than discrimination. So unfortunately, you're probably a bit late for this region. That is, your age is likely to work against you for entry-level TEFL positions in vocational schools or universities, although, some Saudi contracting company may be able to find a way to get you onboard. But think twice about going down that route.

That's not to say you shouldn't try for a job in this region. In fact, I suggest you focus on teaching positions in special education since that's your field of expertise and you hold a current teaching license. Plus, there's a need for special ed teachers. Check out Teachaway.com, which specializes in placing licensed teachers in public and private international schools in the region, particularly in the UAE. You can also contact them with your questions. But don't wait until next year to look at their site; do so now to see if your age would put you out of the running.