Job Discussion Forums

[maruko]

Hi!
Does anyone know anything about Tai Po Public School?
Anything! ...school culture, ex-PNET who has worked there, students,
location (convenience)etc.

Maruko

[pedrocruza]

Because this board is viewable it is not wise to publish true comments about particular schools in Hong Kong. Many pnets are reluctant to say things about some of the schools because of the power the Principal holds over staff in HK. There are schools which are fine and some which make your hair stand on end.
Note that in the Pnet contract it says that NETS can be asked to work at the Principals discretion. This basically means holidays are not guaranteed and you can be asked to attend the schools after you have made all your summer holiday bookings. I have had to cancel mine for the last two years.

Some Principals allow teachers 6 weeks while others may hold summer English camps in the middle of the summer break.

Do I know about Tai Po Public School...Yes

[saroq]

I agree with the comments of the previous poster but remember because one NET did of did not enjoy a school is no guarantee that the next NET will have a similar experience. Individual personalities have a large part to play in how you perceive a particular school. However, it is prudent to take note of what someone with first hand experience has to say.

It's worth mentioning that last year 40% of the PNETs did not renew their contracts. This year it could be even higher. There are many reason for this and treatment by Principals is just one factor. Less money and the failure of the EMB to put in place clear directives about conditions of service are others areas of discontentment.

The good news for you is that with a 40% + attrition rate schools are kneen to find and keep good NETs. You can sort out issues of whether or not you'll work weekends (just tell them that you're not going to) and exactly when and what you holidays will be. Don't accept any wording that leaves this up to the principal or that is not specific. Explain to them that it's a contract you're signing and you have a right to know the exact details of these things. They'll say they can't vary the EMB contract that's no problem. Get the school to type up the specific holiday dates, no weekend work, hours of work, how many classes and across which year levels you'll be working etc. on school letterhead, signed and stamped with the school seal and you're covered. In fact even an agreement to this in an email would probably be enough to force them to agree to these conditions if push came to shove. Other NETs have done this.

If the school won't agree to this then you don't want to work for them anyway.

Tai Po is located along the KCR line. You can travel directly into TST no problems (about 35 to 40 minutes) but getting home after a late night is a problem because the KCR isn't a 24 hour operation. Housing is readily available (now) but rents are on the increase. Something that even the international press has commented on but the EMB insists is not the case thus the slashing of the living allowance by $2500 a month. Tai Po is a nice enough place to live but there's not a lot going on there.

[maruko]

Hi pedrocruza & saroq!
Many thanks for your useful insights and honest comments!
You have been of great help.
Cheers,
Maruko