Job Discussion Forums

[SydGirl2]

Do all PNETS have TESOL qualifications? According to the information I have been given, a PNET must gain a TESOL qualification in the first year in HK if they don't already have it. How strictly is this enforced?

[hkteach]

The job description advertised by EdB lists this as a requirement and specifies that PNETs who don't have it must gain this in the first year, but I know many PNETs who have been here between three and six years without getting this qualification (or anything similar). I'm included in that group.
My first school and second schools drew my attention to this clause in the contract but didn't pursue it. My third school didn't raise the issue. Others I know have been at the same school for multiple contracts without TESOL.
But I've known others whose principals insisted they do it.
Like everything else concerned with being a HK PNET, it depends on your principal.
It's a case of supply and demand....... there are a lot of NETs leaving this year and if all those without TESOL were forced to get it or else leave, then there'd be even fewer than there are now.