Job Discussion Forums

[PolishChick]

Is it possible to teach in Indonesia without a degree in education or TEFL? I am having trouble finding any good leads if so. I have a BA in Business and a TEFL as well as TESOL certificate. I have been teaching ESL for more than 2 1/2 years and have spent 1 year teaching in Thailand. I would be so grateful for any information about opportunities in Indonesia, Malaysia or Thailand for October 2014.

[p1randal]

Technically...no..However, this is Indonesia and it really will depend on the school and what they are willing to bribe immigration to get you. At my current school two of the teachers have B.A in Ed or an MA in TESOL while another has a Journalism degree and another has a degree in a Social Studies related field. Last year we had a teacher who has/had a degree in ICT.

My best advice would be just to apply to some National Plus schools around January-March and see what happens. However, like other threads have mentioned, if you are someone who doesn't like places where the rules and visa things are less than transparent then Indonesia is not the place for you haha.

[PolishChick]

Ok, thanks for the insight! I taught in Thailand so believe me I know all too well the run-a-round with immigration/rules.

[princesss]

In terms of Malaysia, there is a program where you are placed in local schools. It pays well and they are currently looking for people in Sabah and Sarawak. People speak well of the program though you will be in a remote community. They employ more than 100 new teachers every year.

In Jakarta it may be worth trying the Japanese and Korean schools. Because they are affiliated with embassies the local authorities leave them alone more. And pay starts st $2000 per month.

[princesss]

By the way, the degree being asked for in Indonesia is not actually a BA in Education. Most job ads ask for a Degree in English / English Linguistics / MA in TESOL.

I am sure many employers would see the value in a teacher with a Business degree, especially those offering Business English courses, but Diknas may not agree.

[EFL Educator]

A lot of English language schools in the Jakarta area will hire you with only a Bachelors degree + the CELTA...but the pay is nothing much to talk about.

[markustm]

I heard that Thailand is having a visa crackdown at the moment, but I am not sure how it isl affecting the ESL scene, there.

A similar change could happen in Indonesia, with visa rules for work permits tightening up this year, although often it really depends on the school, whether they can get you a KITAS.

Malaysia is a reasonable option, but bear in mind "remote" could mean you lack access to the Internet, and if its in Borneo, probably the infrastructure is limited in places. Although it does sound like an exciting project, if you like adventure, and a challenge.

I heard this is a British Council project, which could mean either they accept only British Nationals (In some countries) or have a lengthy, and regulated recruiting policy. There are also, other options in Malaysia.

I guess you are already aware of the situation in Thailand, but perhaps try emailing as many schools/organizations as possible in all three countries, and take the best offer you feel suits you.

[Tudor]