Job Discussion Forums

HariSeldon · Joined: 03 Dec 2003 Posts: 8

Hello all,

I'm a 23-year old Canadian male and I'm interested in teaching English for a few months in Thailand come this January. I have a brother currently living in Bangkok teaching at an International High School and (I don't know if this is relelvant) a sister teaching English as a second language just outside of Seoul.

For my specs, as it were, I have a college diploma in Music/Recording Arts (3-year program) and I am currently enrolled in my third-year of a Bachelor of Education degree majoring in English and minoring in Music. I have been teaching guitar for 4 years, including both group and private lessons.

I'd like to teach in Thailand for a variety of reasons. Primarily, I miss my brother, he left home about 11 years ago, and contact has been sporadic. Secondarily, I have wanderlust, big time. I spent a few months in the UK this summer and the Great White North is growing a bit stale for me. Thirdly (Tertiarily?), and this is connected to number two, having a bit of an income would help me justify the trip. Additionally, since I plan on being a 'traditional' teacher in the not-too-distant future, any experience in the field is useful.

Understand that I am not looking at this as a way of paying off my school debt; I simply would like to ease my mind while I experience a new place. I understand that my having only two years of my BEd done is exactly the same as having none of it done, but what does anyone here think my chances are? I'd be looking at teaching for no more than five months, possibly as few as two. Does anyone have any anecdotal evidence telling me one way or another how this might turn out?

I understand this is a point of contention for a lot of people, so I hope no one gets their dander up. I ask you fine people because you have the experience to help me out, and your experience in this field proves that you have the patience to explain something like this to a 'newb'.

Final question: I have a Canadian passport as well as an Irish passprt. Does anyone have any advice as to which one would be more beneficial to flash around in Thailand? Does it make a difference?

Thanks very much,
Brian
BFD!

AsiaTraveller · Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2004 2:49 am Post subject:

Actually, being able to teach school music is a BIG plus in terms of qualifications. Somebody who is familiar with current Western teaching methods for Western instruments is at a premium in Asia, especially in Thailand. The fact that you can probably teach English composition and literature is definitely another plus.

Even if you don't obtain a TEFL or CELTA certification, you'll probably be in high demand in Thailand, perhaps even at the college level. Learn a bit of Thai to get yourself started and you'll be all set.

Also, at the private tutoring level I'm not sure what you could charge in Thailand for private guitar lessons or for guitar classes. But I bet there are a LOT of Thais who would love to improve their guitar skills by studing with you.

migo · Joined: 04 Jul 2004 Posts: 201

Sekhmet · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 329 Location: Alexandria, Egypt

Does anyone know if music is beneficial in any other countries?? My BA is in Music (with a minor in French) and I spent about 4 years teaching singing and saxophone. I'd like to make use of that here!!!! Does anyone have any suggestions of how I could go about it??

AsiaTraveller · Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2004 5:39 pm Post subject:

Place a notice at local colleges and universities, music schools and elswhere. Offer voice and saxophone (!!!) lessons. You'll surely get some private students.

I bet there isn't a saxophone quartet in Egypt. You can start the first one. It's all the rage these days.

Sekhmet · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 329 Location: Alexandria, Egypt

Good plan. There is a Conservatiore in Alex, but I haven't got any of my instruments here with me - I had enough excess baggage as it was!!! But I guess I could offer voice and piano. One of my friends has already offered me some work teaching his nephew and niece, but thats just Keyboard - not my favorite instrument!!! Very Happy

I'm hoping to bring my Sax out when I come back from Christmas, but I'll see how it goes... I do know a couple of people here already who play, so it's a good start!!!
Thanks for the advice!!!

AsiaTraveller · Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2004 8:32 pm Post subject:

Happy noodling!

HariSeldon · Joined: 03 Dec 2003 Posts: 8

Thanks to everyone who replied.

Sorry it took me so long to express my gratitude, though.

BFD!