Job Discussion Forums

[originaluhtee]

Hi Everyone,

I recently moved to Bologna to look for a job/jobs teaching English. I figured that it would be pretty easy to find something, given the fact that I have EU citizenship, a degree, a CELTA-equivalent qualification, and more than a year's experience. I would also say that I look and act professionally.

I've interviewed at about seven different places, and it seems like they've all talked about what they're going to tell me, because the answer is so similar in every place! They all say that they have to make sure that they have enough work for their returning teachers, and that they'll be in touch if any additional work comes up.

So my question is: how long is this process likely to take??? I'm unfortunately not made of money, so I can't stick around very long. I'm just wondering what the actual chances of finding steady work are, and how long it's likely to take before I do. I was apparently laboring under the misapprehension that if I moved to Bologna in the first days of September, I would come right on time for jobs. Can I just chalk this up to the Italian tendency to put things off?

Thanks a lot for reading, and hopefully you experienced teachers out there can help me!

[SueH]

Hi,

I think you need to hang in there just a little longer, and maybe try and get a few private lessons as well - amazing how a few 20 euro notes will cheer you up.

I'm waiting myself for a local library to see if they have enough students to run an evening class, and just seen my downstairs neighbour (an Italian teacher of English) who says that her college may have a 'project' starting in October. (Unfortunately both that college and the Adult Education centre have had Americans working there the last year or so - so there is hope for non-EU citizens - but hey, there are wetbacks everywhere! )

Worth waiting a little bit longer, in my opinion, and the odd phone call to remind them you're still available.

[kattie72]

Yes, I'd try to hang in there a little longer. Many schools don't start their annual courses until early to mid October. A lot of teachers return to the same school year after year and are obviously given first refusal for jobs after which the schools will recruit for any courses which are not covered. As Sue says, the odd telephone call or visit to remind them of your availability is a good idea. Good luck!

[originaluhtee]

Thanks a lot for the info folks! This week's definitely looking better.

[teacheringreece]

Would really appreciate an update - am considering Bologna for the future.

[Daniela172]

Hi originaluhtee

It was with great interest - and trepidation - that I read your post. Apart from the one-and-a-half years' experience, you may as well have been describing me (of course, I plan to build up my teaching experience over the coming months)! I plan to go to Bologna around next September, when I thought I should have no trouble finding a job teaching English. So please, tell me that things aren't that bad and that you have managed to find a job that pays you a decent wage that you can live on! And that you are having the time of your life in Bologna. Please reply, and help put this worrywart out of her misery (even if it is bad news)!!

Cheers
Daniela

PS If you don't reply then I will assume that you are too busy with your fabulous new job and marvellous social etc life to respond!!