Job Discussion Forums

[kraeside]

Hi, I am doing a CELTA course in March and then hoping to find a position to start sometime in May. I would prefer to go to Vietnam, Cambodia or Thailand (in that order), but really want to teach in government schools rather than go down the private language school route. I also need to get something lined up before I go as I am a bit limited on funds.

The only agency I have managed to find so far is Mediakids, who place in government schools in Northern Thailand and the little feedback on them I can find has not been so good. Has anyone out there worked fo Media kids and had a positive experience? Can anyone give me advice on other points of contact for work in government schools? I would also be willing to take on a volunteer job as long as food and accomodation were covered and there was a small living allowance.

I would appreciate any advice forthcoming on next steps. Thanks in advance.
Katherine

[MaiPenRai]

Katherine, are you sure that you really want to work in a government school in Thailand? Most of the gov school jobs in Thailand will involve teaching classes of 45-65 kids. In my 3 years of experience, most of these students will be quite uninterested in any real studying of English. You will be an entertainer more than anything (most of the time).

I have posted before regarding Mediakids and have probably been the only poster to say good things about this company. Unfortunately, during this past year, they have taken a turn for the worse (IMHO). Constant changes of contracts, rapid decline of effecient communication with teachers (most of you would say that that is common in Thailand), teachers have been made to pay (money and time) for an increasing number of mistakes made by the company regarding Non-Imm B visas and workpermits, etc, etc. Many of the contracted schools are decent schools with welcoming Thai staff. However, I have seen an increasing number of problems arise between the schools and the company this year as well. On a positive note, they (the company) do usually pay on time and the pay is decent (although they have a history of unexplained deductions which are explained only after a maze of emails and people). IMHO, it is not a safe company to work for anymore.

The majority of posters will tell you that you should set up a job after arriving in Thailand. In light of the recent changes and subsequent difficulties in Thailand regarding Immigration and Work Permits, I would wager that there this year will be a good year for qualified teachers in Thailand. Make sure to have a criminal record check with you as well as original copies of degees and official transcipts. If you have all of these and you will be completing a Celta course as well, you should have NO problems finding a good job in Thailand once you are here.

For other options check out:

www.ajarn.com
www.thai-dragon-fly.com
www.bangkokpost.com

Sorry, I dont know much about Vietnam and haven't heard much for work in Cambodia. If you want a more detailed and honest feel for mediakids please feel free to PM me.

[MaiPenRai]

sorry, it should be www.thai-dragonfly.com.