Job Discussion Forums

[Stewsly]

Hello,

I plan take a leave of absence from my public school teaching job in the U.S, from. Fall of 07 until Summer of 08, in order to teach english in Latin America (preferably Argentina or Chile). As much as I am looking forward to it, there are many complications (mostly financial) to putting my life on hold for nearly a year. For this reason, I have decided that paying the $1000 or so for placement and visa processing might be my best option. I have read several threads here reguarding the pros and cons already.

I do not plan to take a TEFL course. I know it would be helpful, but I dont want to pay the money if I dont have to, considering I have 3+ years of professional experience as a teacher, albeit not as and ESL teacher.

With that, here are my questions:

1) What placement organizations should I look into? So far I have really only looked closely at one, "TeachingChile". Some say the price is too high but for my purpose it might be worth it. Other reputable organizations I should look into?

2) Though I'm not planning to take the TEFL course as of now, are there any organizations in Chile or Arg. that offer the course and subsequent placement within the region, at a reasonable cost? I'm thinking a TEFL course might be something my state/district would recognize as professional development.

3) I've looked into American International Schools a littel bit, just enough to know the pay (slary) is much better and it requires a bigger commitment (more hours and longer minimum contract). Also, the School years are opposite from the Northern Hemisphere which complicates things for me, since I dont know that I can take a sabatical from mid year to mid year. If anyone has any International School experience, I would appreciate the insight.

Thanks,

Stew

[naturegirl321]

Try Guy's organisation. Innovative English Placement Service. Guy Courchesne, [email protected], www.innovative-english.com

For places that offer TEFL look at teachabroad.com and search for Chile and Argentina. I would check with your district, because many USA schools will not accept these courses.

I work at a private school and it-s March to Dec. All the international schools are the same. You might want to try the Fulbright organisation, they arrange exchanges and your school will continue to pay you. A USA salary goes a long way here and might be your best option.

[Stewsly]

That helps, thank you!