Job Discussion Forums

[jimboclark]

I'm trying to decide between JET and one of the big three Eikai (NOVA, AEON, and GEOS.)

GEOS claims on their website that after one teaches for two years in Japan, one can transfer to another of their schools overseas.

So, a couple questions for current or former GEOS teachers who have done (or tried to do) exactly this:

1) How difficult is it to transfer to another GEOS school in another country?

2) How does the pay compare to teaching at GEOS in Japan?

3) Does one gain rank, responsibilities, and pay after only two years?

4) Does GEOS assist with the move- i.e. visa, transportation, housing, etc?

I ask because I'd like to start teaching English in Japan for a couple years and then, if I like it, use that experience as a spring-board towards more exotic locales in southeast Asia. It seems that it would be easier to stick with one company the whole time, rather than going through the hassle of applying to other schools I've never heard of in countries I've never been to. Furthermore, I'd like to steadily gain rank, responsibility, and pay rather than starting from the bottom over and over.

Are these realistic expectations for a teacher at GEOS?

PS- Let me make it clear that I'm not looking for a career- just the best way to travel around for a few years, gain experience, have fun, and make a couple bucks.

[markle]

Geos only operates in Singapore in SEA and you would need at least a CELTA as well as a degree as well.
Seriously take the JET option and have one of the Big Four Eikaiwa in reserve.

[Angelfish]

1) In the two yeears I've been with Geos, I've only seen maybe 3 or 4 vacancies for overseas, and you must be CELTA qualified to go for them (also, you probably have to have done subbing for Geos for at least 6 months).

2) No idea about pay.

3) No. You can get promoted to a 2nd level, but that doesn't happen often.

4) Not sure. Probably not, but they may do.

ps. Geos doesn't only operate in Singapore. They have schools all over the world. I've personally seen the schools in Vancouver, Victoria and London. Other teachers have visited the Seoul, Cairns and Sydney schools.

[stillnosheep]

Go for Jet.