Job Discussion Forums

[panda888]

Hello Everyone,

As John Lennon said, "Life is what happens while you are making other plans." I am finally free of all commitments. Family, career, all behind me. Only the junk in my apartment to clear out. Unfortunately, the price was time. I am now 61.

Have any of you encountered older people teaching in Asia? Do they have age limits? Either by law or by preference?

I am not looking for the best paying jobs nor the best cities. Just enough money and free time to do a bit of travelling on the side would be fine.

I do have more questions but I feel that age may be the deal-breaker.

I welcome any feedback, whether it is fact or opinion.

cheers

GM

[Glenski]

I know of people in their 50s and 60s doing TEFL in Japan. They are certainly not in the majority, but if you have what an employer wants, give it a shot.

There will be "preference" for younger types, but it is a myth here to say that entry level work hires only people under 30 or 35.

[Humbug]

Hi Panda,
my husband and I have just signed contracts for jobs in China. He's 62 and I'm 59. Give it a go - some employers like people with life experience!
Good luck!

[jpvanderwerf2001]

Hi Panda,

I have worked with a number of "older" teachers with various years of teaching experience (0-35!) and in many countries. To most reputable schools, in most reputable countries, age is not nearly as important as quality!

Go for it, best of luck, and let us know how it goes!

[Lhenderson]

I've seen the age issue crop up for teachers over age 40 unless they have dynamic academic credentials.

[Carll101]

Age isn't an issue in Thailand as I have encounter a lot of older teachers. But most of them have been in TEFL for quite a long time.