Job Discussion Forums

conwaypk · Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2015 9:30 pm Post subject: LC Asia legit?

Hi there,

http://www.languagecorpsasia.com/home

I was wondering if anyone here has gone through their program? I have seen some videos on YouTube and it looks good. I know it actually costs money for a program (which is usually a big no-no and unncesseary) but they offer Diving certification and a place to stay during your teaching contract.

Opinions, experiences?

I'm thinking I could find a job that doesn't require a fee and find my own diving certification anyways. I just don't want to be the lone foreigner again.
This program might help with that, given that others would be a part of it.

Also, the language classes would be cool too, though I could do that my own.

suphanburi · Joined: 20 Mar 2014 Posts: 916

MaiPenRai · Joined: 17 Jan 2006 Posts: 390 Location: BKK

LCA is legit. In my opinion if you are going to do a TEFL course, it is best to focus on the course rather things like scuba certification. I wont speak about the quality of their course, but its not a scam as I know plenty of people who have been through various programs with them. Ask to speak with their trainers and judge for yourself.

Nothing wrong with using a TEFL course with a guaranteed job placement service if you are new to the TEFL world. For anyone with experience its not really necessary. More and more employers are asking for TEFL qualified teachers. Anything less than 120 hours and 6 hours observed teaching practice will not be worth it as that has become the industry standard.

While its true that if you have a degree, are Caucasian and have some common sense, you should be able to find work, many schools have no idea how to process work permits and/or deal with foreigners. A good placement company/agency will be worth it if they provide work permits and have the paperwork process sorted. Many people dont want to spend their time knocking door to door in 35-40 degree heat, doing demo lessons, or trying to get a Thai school to reply to an email. Some enjoy the idea of a week holiday on the islands knowing that they have a job secured. For these types, a good placement company/agency could be a viable option.

Best of luck