Job Discussion Forums

freebeacher · Joined: 10 Sep 2003 Posts: 76

I will obtain my B.A. in December (finally) at age 42 (I am told I look 27) and am considering teaching English in Hong Kong. I do NOT have a CELTA or other TEFL qualification. In 1990-1991 I worked in Taiwan and enjoyed the experience in addition to making good money. When I took breaks to Hong Kong I inquired about teaching there and was told British had the monopoly on the market and Americans were little desired. I supposed this due to HK being at the time a colony of Britain. Since 1997 has anything changed regarding preference for nationality of teachers? With HK under the control of Beijing is there any more preference for American teachers/accent or not? Is it worth trying to obtain a position in HK or go back to Taiwan? Thanks for your advice.

Freddie_Unbelievable · Joined: 06 Jun 2003 Posts: 288

Your qualifications will work in HK not your nationality. Americans are valued in South Korea as nationality is as important as qualifications. However, age is important in Korea.

Edited by Mr. Kalgukshi 14-09-03.

khmerhit · Posted: Fri Sep 12, 2003 2:50 am Post subject:

Hey Freebeacher, with a name like that you would fit in nicely in Cambodia--it's a lot more interesting than HK, it has a future where HK does not (viz plummeting HK property prices) -- AND the schools are not fussy where you come from. Heck, they don't know the difference. Try Cambodia!! Cool

Freddie_Unbelievable · Joined: 06 Jun 2003 Posts: 288

Yes, khermit you are right.

But, you forgot one point: In Cambodia you can save enough in one year what you can save in HK in one week.

That is a fact.

freebeacher · Joined: 10 Sep 2003 Posts: 76

Now is there anyone else who might try a serious, sincere reply to my question?

prplfairy · Joined: 06 Jun 2003 Posts: 102

Hey freebeacher,

Americans are not really discriminated against in Hong Kong anymore. There are still a few places that prefer a british accent and others that want cheap Australians on summer work visas, but in most cases it is not an issue. Alot of places actually want Americans because it rounds out the nationalities that work there. It is really a crap shoot. The main point is just that you are no better or worse off due to being an American. It would help if you had a TEFL or CELTA, but if you have experience and a relative degree then you could probably find something decent in Hong Kong.

Scott in HK · Joined: 11 Jan 2003 Posts: 148

Although you may be able to find work...you will have to be here to do it. I don't think you will have much luck if you are applying from outside HK. Good jobs are scarce now...one of my friends who works for an agency has remarked that it has become more and more difficult to find good jobs. The private schools and kindegartens always seem to be hiring, but again, they usually choose people who are already here.

Kurochan · Joined: 01 Mar 2003 Posts: 944 Location: China

I thought the NET scheme was really hurting for teachers, and didn't fill up all the places for this year. Couldn't she contact them for a placement for next semester? It seems like that could be done long distance. (I don't know, I'm just wondering.)