Job Discussion Forums

garfield · Joined: 12 Oct 2005 Posts: 14

I've just been bitten by the bug again -the sand bug! I want to return to the Middle East. I have previously worked in Saudi -as a nurse, not a teacher.
Basically, I'm 57, living in Bangkok, UK national, BA in TESOL and TEFL cert (Not CELTA but full 120 hour course) 3 years experience. What should my next step be?

moot point · Joined: 22 Feb 2005 Posts: 441

garfield · Joined: 12 Oct 2005 Posts: 14

I fell for that one, any constructive advice, moot point?

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

I'd say the first step is to spend a few hours reading about on this board. Decide which countries interest you or not. See what appeals and what looks like you may be eligible for. Almost all of the best jobs in the universities require an MA. Are you thinking language schools or K-12 or...

Check out any ads you can find. This is the time of year to start thinking seriously about applying for September 2006.

VS

garfield · Joined: 12 Oct 2005 Posts: 14

VS
Language schools are out! I have worked part-time for a few of them in Thailand but would not consider them as suitable full-time positions. I have been studying the board and also some job boards on the net. Looking at Oman, Kuwait,and certain parts of Saudi - DKD, Asir region and Jeddah

abufletcher · Posted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 5:47 pm Post subject:

Seems like you'd make more money as a nurse. But whatever. How recently were you in Saudi and where and when did you get the 3 years of EFL teaching experience.

At your age I'd think that employers are going to look hard at your work history. If your work history has either large gaps (living large in Thailand?) or is mostly in the nursing field, you might have some problems.

On the other hand, it never hurts to apply. I'd say private companies doing EFL training in Saudi would be your best bet. I doubt you'll find a university position anywhere so that leaves the language schools, high schools, and companies.

Anyway, good luck. I know how you feel about wanting to return to the sands.

garfield · Joined: 12 Oct 2005 Posts: 14

No gaps at all in my work history
Last 3 years have been in Thailand teaching
Last time in Saudi was '95

abufletcher · Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 3:47 pm Post subject:

Of course you know how any Saudi is going to perceive an extended stay in Thailand... You might honestly have more luck (and get a better salary) if you apply from the UK -- even if it's through a proxy.

Bebsi · Joined: 07 Feb 2005 Posts: 958

Well, just make sure when applying that the prospective Saudi employer is a party animal (just look at the weekend exodus to Bahrain Laughing

). Then, you will be assured a favourable hearing, as he will have nothing but unmitigated admiration for you, you having spent three years in Thailand!

On a more serious note, the third-level institutions will probably be out due to your lack of relevant experience or an MA (you don't need both in KSA, but you do need one), tho no harm in trying. However, you will definitely be a runner for the high-schools (tho fewer are now hiring westerners), oil company contractors and language schools. DO be careful, when applying to contractors, as among them you will find the good, the bad and the downright ugly. Also, read my posting of earlier today in the Saudi forum regarding visas.

Good luck.