Job Discussion Forums

ESLer · Joined: 29 May 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Toronto

I may have an offer from this school for Sept. Any experience or opinions to share? Thank you!

mishmumkin · Joined: 01 Sep 2007 Posts: 929

Hi there,

If you do a search on "Al Ghad" you should see some very recent threads w/ input from at least a couple people working there this year.

moralleader1 · Joined: 15 Oct 2007 Posts: 69 Location: USA

I am sure that the offer will change your mind, BUT wait until you get there and kiss the reality. You will regret it if you take the job. Just read others' comments and you realize that you will be sinking professionally.

All the best!

wannago · Joined: 16 Apr 2004 Posts: 85

If you decide to work with Al Ghad, just be advised that it isn't ESL as you may know it. You will be working under the constraints (and I do mean constraints) of the Emirati educational system. If you go in expecting to make changes and improvements you will be sorely disappointed. If you can go put in your time, handle the local students, put up with having your marking second guessed constantly AND still get up to do it the next day, you will do fine as the pay and benefits are pretty good. I couldn't do it. Good luck.

ESLer · Joined: 29 May 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Toronto

Thanks for all your input guys! As for down-grading my professionalism - I get the idea and it's worthy to warn people. However, I worked in China for a year and have done 7 years in Asia and have no problem living with/by other people's rules anymore. Marking/lessons/structure, it's all fluid, really. I work for the company and the company sets the pace. In most respects I'm pretty laid back about that. I do my thing and try to help the students as much as I can and the rest just is what it is. Can't change the world - went through that phase in my early twenties and thank god I'm out of it now Smile

holyhell · Joined: 19 Jun 2008 Posts: 8

Good luck to you then.
In the smaller emirates you needn't worry about the local staff. Watch out for the team leader with a napoleon complex, a sharp tongue and in charge of writing your evaluations. She is the company as far as you are concerned.

moralleader1 · Joined: 15 Oct 2007 Posts: 69 Location: USA

7 years in Asia will not help you to cope with the Napoleon Lady Complex. Trust me and if you have other options, think twice.

All the best anyways.