Job Discussion Forums

[ClaireMarie]

Hi,

I am a first-time teacher who is moving to Hanoi in April in search of a one-year contract. I have a degree in English Literature and a TEFL certificate through TEFL institute. It is a 120 hr online class, however it does include a practical component for which I volunteered 20 hrs at a local school. I have worked as a nanny for a number of years, so I have some experience with kids but no Early Ed. degree. Ideally, I would like to work with kids, but in my research so far it seems that most kindergartens/elementary schools require Early Ed. degree or experience. Are there schools that will hire someone with my qualifications? Or should I aim my sights towards private tutoring? I am outgoing and will be applying in person, which I have heard helps a great deal. Will the fact that my certificate is online limit my options a great deal? And one last question: is April an ok time to apply for teaching jobs?

Thanks in advance for any responses to these questions,
Claire

[inky]

If you're interested in working at an English language center, April is an excellent time because these schools will be making preparations for their summer children's programs (public schools close from early June to mid-August approximately, so the language centers offer expanded young learner programs). You could be hired and be all settled in for the start of summer, offering the school some stability and continuity, as most schools hire some teachers only for the summer period.

There is no reason that you should wait until you're in Hanoi to begin putting out feelers. The only 'magic' about just showing up at the door would be a matter of luck, if there happened to be an opening at that moment. I would suggest that you begin making contacts at the end of February as the schools gear up after the Tet break, then follow up in person if need be. There is a lot of natural turnover in language centers, so there is a rolling hiring process. If the person doing the hiring can plan ahead, all the better for the school (and for you). Your qualifications shouldn't prevent you from getting hired, as you do qualify for a Work Permit.

[ClaireMarie]

Thanks for the advice,

I think you're right that I should get something lined up before I go. Are there many language centers in Hanoi? What is the difference between a language center and a language school?

[inky]

Yes, there are. Apollo, CleverLearn, Language Link, ILA, etc. Language center/school, no difference as far as what I wrote.