Job Discussion Forums

[piscean21]

Hi,
I'm interested in applying for work with Instituto Britanico and was wondering if anyone could give me some background info. on them - aside from what they have posted on their website. i.e., working conditions, relationship between management and teachers, student attitudes, horror stories, positive comments, etc. I've found a few posts about them, but there wasn't much said. Thanks!

[p_town_green]

I taught at Instituto Britanico from March 2004-March 2005 and had a good experience there. I'd say it's one of the better organized institutes in San Jose, with clearly defined levels, a wide array of resources, and helpful, resourceful teachers.

Working conditions are pretty standard by CR standards: some split shifts (though usually two or three days per week max), saturday morning classes (though you get 48 hours of weekend as no teachers work Monday mornings), and average pay--perhaps a bit lower than at some places, but one month of paid vacation and a year-end bonus (in addition to the required Christmas bonus) end up making it relatively lucrative, by CR standards.

The management treats teachers pretty well--definitely no concerns about getting paid on time, etc--and gives teachers quite a bit of freedom while encouraging them to improve as educators. No horror stories at all, actually. Like any place with 30+ employees there are some "office" politics you'll become aware of, but nothing too crazy. Overall I got on well with the administration and fellow teachers, many of whom were good friends.

Students: there are some kids classes, which I chose not to teach. I taught adults at the Institute and at off-site corporate locations (they pay you extra to teach off-site, unlike many language institutes). I had a great time with my classes--I'd say the majority are pretty motivated to learn English, but of course there are some, especially in corporate classes, who would rather be anywhere other than in an English class. If you can make classes fun they usually come around though, and I had some who ended up liking coming to class despite initial resistance. It's also pretty common for teachers to go out with their classes for dinner or a drink from time to time--I had several friends who were, or who had been, students.

Hope that helps!!! FYI, I was considering renewing my contract at IB but felt that one year was enough time in San Jose...

Good luck!

Nick