Job Discussion Forums

IceMan1976 · Joined: 04 Aug 2015 Posts: 4 Location: Mexico

Hey folks,

I´m looking for a teaching job in KSA and needing tips to distinguish reputable employers from ones that may not be worth working for. I've heard that some of the recruiting agencies actually hold your passport until your contract is up. That sounds to me like a deal breaker. Any tips on how to know what you're getting into with employers and recruiting agencies and how to avoid getting trapped in a bad situation?

nomad soul · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 11454 Location: The real world

If you have solid qualifications (i.e., a TEFL-related MA + at least 2 years of relevant teaching experience), go the direct-hire route (see "The skinny on direct-hire university opportunities" http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=103722 ). However, if your quals aren't at that level, you're mostly limited to a position with one of KSA's many contracting companies. Either way, always research the employer since some are a mixed bag.

Also....
- Be aware the government of KSA does not recognize degrees that entailed online coursework.
- Recruiting agencies only recruit and nothing more; they have no contact with job seekers' passports. Employers that retain passports, however, are breaking the law. See "Do employers/sponsors still withhold passports?" http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=108129

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

Since you are very early in this process, I would spend a few hours slogging through the threads here. Your questions have been asked numerous times, but the answers could change by the time you are actually looking.

VS

nickelgoat · Posted: Tue Aug 11, 2015 1:49 am Post subject:

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currentaffairs · Joined: 22 Aug 2012 Posts: 828

The College of Excellence jobs are paying more than the regular contractors for universities. Check them out first.. Not really one that stands out to be honest!

RustyShackleford · Joined: 13 May 2013 Posts: 449

fledex · Joined: 05 Jun 2011 Posts: 342

2buckets · Joined: 14 Dec 2010 Posts: 515 Location: Middle East

My RSAF students were fine, usually less than ten to a class. These students for the most part came from villages and saw the military as an economic opportunity. There was also the possibility of follow on training in the UK or the USA which was attractive to some.

I actually caught some students studying and listening to practice CDs in their car.

johnslat · Posted: Tue Aug 11, 2015 2:44 pm Post subject:

Dear 2buckets,

"I actually caught some students studying and listening to practice CDs in their car."

I hope you reported such aberrant behavior to their superiors. Very Happy

Regards,
John

IceMan1976 · Joined: 04 Aug 2015 Posts: 4 Location: Mexico

Thanks for the tips!