Job Discussion Forums

[Madman]

Hi - what are my chances as a brand new, fresh (even still youngish looking) ESL teacher - first teaching job, starting out in Kobe? For personal reasons I hope this is a good place to get a job, is not hideously expensive and where a newbie is employable. (I have some teaching experience but not ESL). To narrow it even further - east Kobe (just kidding ).

[furiousmilksheikali]

God!

If you've been working in the Middle East you should know a little about etiquette when it comes to such things.

How the bloody Hell are we supposed to know when we know nothing about you?

[Madman]

Hi - Sorry for not being clear.
Blame the sun, the sand and the sadness of this Magic Kingdom of KSA!

To reiterate: I am not an experienced ESL tutor but I have worked in education as a library and information worker. I have experience of running study skills, IT skills workshops and literature appreciation classes. I hold a British BA (Honours) and I have A'levels in English Language & Literature. I am a native English speaker.

Since coming to KSA I have met the ESL team here and am convinced that a move to ESL teaching is right for me. On a personal note moving to Kobe in the future is a potentially the right move for me ( ).

I had thought about starting my ESL career in either South Korea or China but again personal circumstances draw me to kobe.

What is the overall job situation in Kobe?
Could I get a full-time, job there with my experience(!)?
Can I afford to live in Kobe (is it as expensive as other cities)?
Does the lack of a TESL/CELTA qualification restrict me in Japan?
In my circumstances should I look at people like NOVA - or who would you suggest?

I hope that is clearer and I hope anyone wishing to PM me will do. This is a great web site - I have found all the forums here informative and very entertaining.

[seanmcginty]

I spent about five years living just outside of Kobe.

Its a very nice city to live in. No shortage of stuff to do and its nestled between the mountains and the sea. No good beaches but some nice hiking in the mountains. Lots of shopping and restaurants, plus convenient trains to Osaka, Kyoto etc.

The price of living isn't bad but rents will vary widely depending on where in the area you end up living.

I can't speak to the current job situation having been gone for a couple of years now but generally its not bad. The Kansai Time Out and Kansai Flea Market usually have a lot of ads looking for teachers in them.

Without any experience it wouldn't hurt to look at the places like NOVA.