Job Discussion Forums

[TeacherTim]

Hi all,

I currently work for the MOE in an elementary school. I am well qualified with several TEFL related certificates. I also hold a PGCE (further. higher and adult education).

It now looks certain that my work permit will not be approved. According to the MOE (contradicting what they say on their website) I need an elemenatry teaching certificate. This comes despite having more than seven years full time experience of teaching all levels both in the UK and Taiwan.

Question - Is just me who has been frustrated/humilated in this way?

Cheers,

Tim

[clark.w.griswald]

To my knowledge it has always been a requirement that teachers employed by the central MOE's program of getting foreign teachers into some government schools must be qualified teachers back home. I don't think that there has been any confusion on this issue.

Tim it seems that you may have been told otherwise so who told you? Are you working for the central MOE or one of the provincial/city MOE's? This shouldn't make a difference but it does unfortunately!

Many of the local MOE offices have tried to piggy back on the central governments program by getting foreigners into schools in their areas that were not included in the governments program. Teachers in these programs are generally not working legally with the work permits and ARC's being arranged through a third party.

You mention that you are working now - do you have an ARC? If so is the name of the employer on your ARC the same as the school that you work at?

[TeacherTim]

Thanks for the reply Clark,

Its such a waste. I work in one of the provinces. I'm not bitter and I accept the decision (after all I have no choice!). I don't have an ARC as I can't now get a work permit.

I think to be honest, it would help if the MOE had their own website with clearer information for applicants. In my case I have found out too late.

My options are to look for alternative work in Taiwan, but overall the salary and working conditions are not as competitive. I'm also rather bruised by my experience. A flight home beckons me.

Again, thanks for your input here.

Tim

[SanChong]

Hi Tim,

There have been lots of problems with this new government drive to put teachers in schools. It's sad and very frustrating that they didn't tell you before hand if you had the proper qualifications!!!
That is certainly their responsibility, not yours. It seems you have acted in good faith and done everything right, on your end.

What Company did you come to Taiwan through? I believe the government usually uses Companies to help them recruit teachers.
Is that Company not helping you now?