Job Discussion Forums

[jpvanderwerf2001]

Hello, all.
I'm considering making a move to the ME.

I have a BA, CELTA, 9 years EFL exp., IELTS examiner, all-around great guy
I also have a wife and a two year-old son.

Some questions:
1) What in the ME would be the best possible place(s) for someone with my qualifications?
2) Where would be a good place for a young family?
3) My wife can't sit at home all day; she's extremely active. Where would be a good option for her while I'm working? (She's Russian, so teaching English is not an option.)
4) Where are there decent facilities for children?
5) Where can I find all of this and save a bit of moolah?

Your expert input is greatly appreciated!

jp

[15yearsinQ8]

your basic qualifications make it difficult but not impossible to support a family (wife and child in diapers)
you would probably be at an institute, company or K-12 school
if your wife is so active she needs a car or transport money then that an added expense

[veiledsentiments]

What kind of teaching experience? K-12, language schools? kids? adults? academic English? general English?

You would be in better shape in the Middle East with an MA. The one country that would have the most jobs for your credentials would be Saudi, but it would be the most restrictive one on your wife's activities.

As to your wife... is she looking to work? Does she have any skills?

VS

[jpvanderwerf2001]

Thank you for the responses!

I have taught at language schools (IH, EF, a couple of smaller ones), a university, and a private "gifted and talented" secondary school; I've taught business English, general English, ESP, worked as an accent trainer, a teacher trainer, and an ADOS. As I mentioned previously, I'm also an IELTS examiner.
Will any of this be a great benefit to finding a good position in the ME?

My wife is an accomplished accountant (at least in Russia). Her English skills are upper-intermediate, but could improve. Basically, though, if a tennis club and shopping opportunities are available, she'd survive.

What do things cost in the ME country where you live or have experience?

[veiledsentiments]

OK... so your wife will be fine in any of the larger cities. Most have clubs with pools, tennis, and such... and she can shop till the money runs out. The Middle East is very child oriented, so that should be covered.

It may be a slim chance as they prefer MAs, but I would try applying to HCT (Higher Colleges of Technology) in the Emirates. Study their website to see their programs and focus your CV and application on what you read. Focus on the Academic... reading/writing especially... business... IELTS... teacher trainer. Their applications are online. They hire many teachers and your 9 years might help you get an interview.

No promises, of course, but take a look. That is probably your best chance at the higher tier employers outside of Saudi. In Saudi, a good choice might be KFUPM... do a search on the Saudi board... no MA required. I think you live on campus and there are activities. Less money than many Saudi employers, but perhaps more tolerable for your wife.

VS

[jpvanderwerf2001]

Thank you for the information, veiled; that's great stuff!