Job Discussion Forums

[spacemonkey]

Hey everybody, I�ve been digging around on this forum for the past few weeks and it seems like quite a few of you have some excellent advice to give. So if anyone can respond to any or all of my questions I would very much appreciate the help.
My friend and I are planning our great escape for July of 06. We are tentatively planning on a two month backpack through the highlights of Europe ending in Poland were we would like to teach for at least one school year before moving on to Asia. My main question has primarily to do with where we should take the TEFL class. We had originally planned on taking the class in Poland, hoping that the networking and exposure would allow for a better position. Also, we had hoped that the class would tailor itself, even if slightly, towards benefiting those that are going to stay in Poland.

1) Is this true? Will the class offer a better chance at finding a good local position? Will it also offer training that will be focused upon teaching in Poland, or is the instruction culturally neutral?

Alright, let�s say we decide to take the class there, this brings up a few other questions.

2) After the course, before we begin working, will we have to fly home for a visa or can this be reasonably handled from abroad? I�ve been noticing that a few posts have hinted at the fact that you can work without one provided the paperwork has been filed. Is this the only form of grace you receive in this situation, and if it is should I be comfortable depending upon it?

And I guess the most important part,

3) What is it like teaching in Poland? If anyone who comes across this has been there would you mind taking a second and letting us know your favorite part about the experience. Feel free to include a story about a night out or your favorite pub or park. Anything, don�t feel like you have to tie it to the actual teaching.

Thanks everyone, we really look forward to any advice you are kind enough to share.