Job Discussion Forums

Trumpcard · Joined: 29 Sep 2005 Posts: 50

Ive been in this industry now over 2 years, mostly in japan and now in hagwan hell in korea. And it is hell. I have a European friend in Japan who will be settling in the Czech Republic in a year or so. This friend has constantly put down my chances of working in Europe as next to nothing simply as I am Australian. I am a little jaded about teaching based upon my experiences in Asia but feel Europe might be a whole different ball game (ie a lot nicer).

I have always loved Europe and would really like to teach in the Ukraine, Portugal, Italy, Hungary, France or Czech Rep. Is my friend correct in asserting that my chances are zilch? I have good written references from my time in japan, a CELTA, business experience, a business degree and lots of business English teaching experience. Does anyone know of schools who regularly recruit non-EU citizens?

furiousmilksheikali · Posted: Sat Nov 25, 2006 9:02 am Post subject:

The Ukraine is not part of the EU so you probably wouldn't have as many problems teaching there. I don't know about this, however.

Deicide

chiquitita · Joined: 13 Aug 2003 Posts: 37

How old are you Trumpcard? You're an Aussie so if you're under 30 you can get working holiday visas in quite a few countries in Europe. If you're over 30, well, um, good luck!

dvasas · Joined: 31 Jan 2006 Posts: 138 Location: Taipei, Taiwan

haku · Joined: 28 Nov 2006 Posts: 14

canucktechie · Joined: 07 Feb 2003 Posts: 343 Location: Moscow

You will be able to get a job in Russia easily. Whether you want to work there is up to you.

I disagree with the previous poster about Ukraine - it's a very nice country. Unfortunately the job market stinks. Full time positions with good schools are very, very scarce, and the pay is bad.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

The new EU member states are still generally open to North Americans and Aussies. So, your chances in the Czech Rep and Hungary are still open. However, Italy or France would be pretty near to impossible, regardless of your qualifications. Both countries have quite strict laws mandating the hiring of EU citizens only for teaching positions.

The Czech Rep, Ukraine, Hungary, and Russia won't be comparable to Korea in terms of income. But you can expect to make enough to live fairly well in the country and travel a bit. Just not to save or to pay back outside debts.

I don't mention Portugal because I'm not specifically sure of the possibilities of legal work permits for non-EU citizens there, but I'm pretty sure it will fall into the Spain/Italy/France category. Most of the older EU members are legally off-limits to non-EU member citizens.

jpvanderwerf2001 · Joined: 02 Oct 2003 Posts: 1117 Location: New York

I worked in Ukraine for two years and loved it. Oh well, different strokes for different folks...

IanK · Joined: 21 Mar 2007 Posts: 2

Are you still in the Hakwon in Korea? I know a lot of people working in Academies in Seoul who enjoy their work and earn good pay. I also know people who hate their employment etc. Funnily enough, they often work for the same companies. Are you interested in BE teaching in Seoul? I have an American friend who is looking for experienced BE teachers who have a business background.

[quote="Trumpcard"]Ive been in this industry now over 2 years, mostly in japan and now in hagwan hell in korea. And it is hell. I have a European friend in Japan who will be settling in the Czech Republic in a year or so. This friend has constantly put down my chances of working in Europe as next to nothing simply as I am Australian. I am a little jaded about teaching based upon my experiences in Asia but feel Europe might be a whole different ball game (ie a lot nicer).

I have always loved Europe and would really like to teach in the Ukraine, Portugal, Italy, Hungary, France or Czech Rep. Is my friend correct in asserting that my chances are zilch? I have good written references from my time in japan, a CELTA, business experience, a business degree and lots of business English teaching experience. Does anyone know of schools who regularly recruit non-EU citizens?[/quote]

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

So, Ian, what's your point?

Deicide · Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2007 5:06 am Post subject:

IanK · Joined: 21 Mar 2007 Posts: 2

My point is two fold. Firstly, I know people who work for Hakwans - some are happy and others are unhappy. I think their states of happiness are more in their own control than what they think possible. Secondly, I have an American friend who is looking for good BE teachers - the ones who prefer to teach good quality BE and not the kindycrap served up in the typical Hagwan. I think he needs one or two BE teachers fairly soon. That's all. No hidden agenda.

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

Your chances of earning enough to live on in Europe are slim. If you expect to make enough to keep you in beer as well even slimmer.

Cakes and ale are not feasible for EFLers on the old continent.