Job Discussion Forums

[Klava]

Hi everybody,

I'm currently teaching in China and considering to change the location to Thailand. But after everything I've read on this site I'm a bit causcious. So I wanted to try it out first before signing a serious long commitment contract in Thailand. Is it possible to find a decent job for 6 months? I have 1 year experience, hold BA and TESOL certificate. Will the school be willing to bother with the proper visa and work permit if they are hiring somebody just for 6 month (with the possibility to renew the contract)? And will I be able to get a good pay?

By the way, how do they treat couples? I work with my husband. I know that they love them in China 'cause the accommodation expenses are less this way for the school.

Is there anyone who've actually taught in both countries and can tell me which one is preferable and why? I understand, that it is very personal, but still would like to hear the more experienced people! Thanks.

[Kent F. Kruhoeffer]

Hi Klava!

There's no problem for couples working in Thailand; many employers actually prefer it. Be aware, however, that a flat is usually not included in Thai TEFL contracts unless you're teaching out in the provinces or way out in the suburbs of Bangkok.

A housing subsidy of 3,000 to 5,000 Baht is more likely.

As for the visa: No school (imho) will go through the Teacher's License / Work Permit application for only a 6 month commitment (since that process can take several months from start to finish) although I certainly understand your wish to 'test the waters' before diving off the deep end.

No real problem though, since you can do a couple border runs on your tourist visa until you make a final decision about staying long-term. Bangkok to Cambodia is the most common. It takes almost a full day, but there are special bus services available to make it as painless as possible: see The Master Index Thailand, located @ the top of this forum, and scroll down to the last 3 links in the Virtual Bangkok category.

As for pay: With a BA & TESOL cert, you can expect to be earning between 30,000 and 42,000 Baht per month in Bangkok; 20K to 35K in the provinces. For short-term work, you might want to consider a summer school position. For the latest job offers (in addition to scanning the offers here @ Dave's) you can also check out The Master Index - Part II - TEFL Thailand - click on the first 4 links in that category.

I've spent some time in Shanghai & Hong Kong but never actually taught there, so I'm afraid I can't really help out with that particular comparison.

Good luck with your plans!

[Klava]

Thank you so much, Kent, for your detailed reply! It is everything I wanted to know. It's such a pleasure to deal with people who actually know what they are talking about (I terribly miss it in China)!!

Now I just have to find those with the first-hand experience in both countries. Hello-o-o?! May be I should put my last question in a separate topic...