Job Discussion Forums

TTScott · Joined: 22 Dec 2008 Posts: 7

Are there opportunites for older teachers in Vietnam? One that will provide a reasonable lifestyle and some savings?

I don't need alot just to be able to eat, pay bills and travel regionally once or twice a year. I live pretty frugally. If I go out it is maybe once a week and then only for a beer or two. I have debt but also engough savings to handle it.

I am 48 looking to teach some where in Asia...would like to teach for at least 10 -12 years.

I have been to HCMC and enjoyed it.

I have advanced degrees but not in english...plan to take a CELTA course later this year but want to make sure I can land and retain a job until my retirement kicks in at age 60 (but would like to work beyond that).

What are the official and unofficial polices regarding older teachers?

also would taking the CELTA course in Vietnam give me any advantage when it comes to landing a job?

Thanks so much!

VN · Joined: 08 Jan 2009 Posts: 26

No worries, I work with some folk who went to college with the Queen's mum! Laughing

They seem to be getting on!

VN · Joined: 08 Jan 2009 Posts: 26

You could save anywhere from 600USD-1000USD per month depending on how many vices you partake in! Very Happy

Also don't marry anyone here, unless s/he is an orphan Laughing

inky · Joined: 05 Jan 2009 Posts: 283 Location: Hanoi

I agree with VN, you shouldn't have any issues with your age, only with the quality of your teaching or your appearance. Vietnamese students generally respect older teachers, and the ESL business in Vietnam isn't geared necessarily toward younger people. A number of retirees teach here, and they are often seen as being more dependable and reliable than younger teachers. There are exceptions, of course!

You asked about doing the CELTA in-country, if this would improve your chances of being hired by the school running the CELTA. The short answer is 'definitely,' assuming you've done an adequate job on the course (no absences, no melt-downs, no classroom disasters). It makes sense for the school to hire someone who's been in the city for at least a month, and who they know something about from consultations with the CELTA instructors. Remember, though, the CELTA trainers don't do the hiring for the school, but they can offer feedback.

Doing the CELTA in the country where you plan to teach is a good idea, since you will feel more comfortable with the daily realties and can concentrate more completely on your new classes.

ajc19810 · Joined: 22 May 2008 Posts: 214

http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=64531

lost_gypsy · Joined: 09 Apr 2004 Posts: 274

Hey Scott, are you simply nuts or what? mid to late 40s is considered...

OLD??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

As compared to who, BACKPACKERS?

I haven't worked (yet) in Vietnam, but from my CHINA experience (five years) nearly ALL the teachers were between mid-thirties through their forties, about 1/3 were WELL above that age.

I say don't worry about being 40 (ish)!!!