Job Discussion Forums

[Porlestone]

I don't know much about Thailand other than two short trips I've taken there, but practically zero about work. However on the few occasions I've read "teaching in Thailand" threads some people were speaking as though there were alot of negatives about the place -- and that's not on this forum but a Thailand board. They didn't say specifically what's wrong, but just implying it, like "man I am getting out of here and going to China!" or something. Could you please say some of the very basic but realistic negatives of esl work in Thailand, i.e. corrupt government that steals your money, schools very racist and hire/fire alot, very disrespectful natives towards teachers? Would be more than happy to listen to the whole table. Thanks.

[Kent F. Kruhoeffer]

I'm an optimist by nature, but I'll try to be candid here

since I believe your question is fair and sincere.


There are 4 downsides,

the way I see it:



I

With TEFL salaries averaging between US $700 and $900 per month,

your typical TEFL teacher isn't getting rich here, and probably not

enjoying that playboy, rockstar image he'd like to be enjoying.

That would be 'numero uno' in the negative department, imo.


II

If you work at a Thai school, you *could* be faced with:


a) not getting paid on time

b) disorganization and incompetence

c) petty friction with Thai staff


III

If you end up teaching kids, you may be facing very large classes

(as many as 50 kids) in hot classrooms without air-conditioning,

and little or no support in terms of curriculum or discipline.


Just depends on the particular school in question.


Some are really good; some are so-so, and

some have been black-listed for good reason.


IV

As a result of the immigration crackdown

which took place here a couple years ago,

it is no longer possible to get your visa

extended by a travel agency,


which means:


a) you do border runs to stay legal

or

b) you apply for a Non-B & a Work Permit


Fine, if your employer will sponsor the Non-B and WP

but not all employers do, and some promise it

but never deliver, so you're back to a).


There you have it.

The Dark Side.




For comments about specific schools,

register here: thaischoolwatch.com


After writing four negative paragraphs in a row,

I feel an urgent need to wash my hands & repent.

[robitusson]

[laben18]

having to pay taxes on my exorbitant salary