Job Discussion Forums

[RiyadhAdventure]

Hi all:)

My wife and I are looking at applying for the PYP English Language positions at PSU. We are attracted to the 12 month contract and the possibility of saving a fair bit.

I have an MEd TESOL and my wife has a Doctorate of Education (as well as an MEd TESOL). We both have over 10 years of post MEd tertiary experience. We were hoping to find out information on the current work conditions, including admin/management attitudes, staff attitudes, contact hours, class sizes and any other important info. Additionally, any information about current salary packages, including possible salary ranges, housing and good/bad contract conditions, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks and all the best

[nomad soul]

I can't comment on PSU but suggest you give Al Faisal University's prep year program (UPP) a look.

[RiyadhAdventure]

Thanks Nomad Soul - much appreciated.

I looked at the current advertised positions and additional information on the university you provided in a previous post. The program and the university look good. The position advertised is for an Assistant Professor, which my wife might be suitable for - I might also meet the requirements of an Instructor, in the future if advertised.

My only real concerns would be related to the employment contract duration and the need to find housing. If we were to apply for Saudi positions, an initial one year contract with university provided housing would be preferable, as it would allow us to test the waters and still fulfill contractual obligations.

Thanks heaps

[nomad soul]

Since there are more places for men to teach than women, you're quite limited to those employers who hire both male and female teachers if you expect to both be employed at the same university and with provided housing.

In terms of salaries, most universities in the region calculate pay based on verified employment. The responsibility for providing proof of previous work experience falls on the applicant.

[RiyadhAdventure]

Thanks Nomad

No worries about employment Certificates of Service ... all sorted.

Thanks for the heads up on the coed educational situation as well.

Looks like PSU, might still fit the criteria ... hopefully someone might have some info on the current work situation and pm me, if the board is too visible.

Cheers

[nomad soul]

[RiyadhAdventure]

Thanks Nomad

Lots to think about.

[cultofpersonality]

PSU is a good place to work.

Management is good and they don't interfere at all. They are supportive in work matters. Class sizes usually range from 15-25 students and they have a good command of English. You are usually expected to teach 20 hours a week and hold 5 office hours.

[scot47]

KFUPM has only male students. At nearby PMU there are two linked campuses - one for male students and one for females.

[RiyadhAdventure]

Thanks for the replies - it's much appreciated.

We are trying to decide between Saudi and the UAE. Normally, this might be an easy decision, however the UAE market seems to have tightened up a fair bit recently and an August 2015 start is important ... at this stage.

Cultofpersonality ... thanks for all the detailed info - PSU sounds good. I was just wondering if it would be possible to find out a little more on the holiday schedule, one year contracts, coworker environment and housing for a couple - proximity to Uni (would prefer not to purchase a car), general state of the apartments and all that kind of stuff. Although difficult to generalise as Nomadsoul has mentioned ...if possible a salary range for teachers with over 10 years of certified experience and relevant qualifications.

Thanks heaps

[veiledsentiments]

If I were the two of you, I would also be applying to the American University of Sharjah and UAE University. Your wife's PhD could make her a desirable hire. If she got an offer, you would have no problem getting picked up as a teacher in nearby tertiary institutions.

If your wife has experience teaching academic writing, AUS might be a very good option. Check their website.

VS

[AGoodStory]

[nomad soul]

[veiledsentiments]

Sorry... missed that detail. But think of the savings.

VS

[RiyadhAdventure]

Thanks heaps VS for the suggestions and recommendations - we will definitely check them out. As Nomad Soul said, we would prefer a 1 year contract, but understand that this is a steep requirement and would be far more flexible in regards to a longer committment with a good position in the UAE.

All the best