Job Discussion Forums

[Oballef]

Hi, I am soon to be a new recruit in the international TESL army. I want to make a go of it in Istanbul this Fall, so I've kept my eyes open for jobs there. Recently a great sounding "package" was posted for Discover English in Kadikoy. They offer return airfare, accommodation and $1000-$2000 USD a month. From what I've gathered that is quite decent compensation - especially the airfare - no?

What have you folks heard about Discover English? How's the management? Is the curriculum good? I can find nary a trace about them on this board, but they SEEM really legit from the website. Do they rarely hire or something? Would a total neophyte be unlikely to land a job there?

Generally speaking I will have a three year Bachelor's degree from a Canadian university and an Oxford Seminars 60hr TESL certificate when I take the plunge. How will that place me in the Istanbul job market?

thanks!

[fishmb]

I've never heard of that program, but I've only been in Istanbul for six months.

Sounds like you don't have a lot of experience so you'll be towards the bottom of the food chain. Of course, that doesn't mean you shouldn't apply for other jobs. Maybe you'll get lucky. Fortunately or unfortunately, there are lots of language schools that will hire people just starting out. Conditions and compensation drastically vary. Best of luck to you.

[svenhassel]

I think they're a new school on the block, never heard of them before, been here for a while.

$2000 a month is a little better than average for an experienced teacher.

How many hours is that?

I saw the ad but didn't apply as there was hardly any information.

[Oballef]

Ah okay, that explains the lack of chatter about them.

I have no idea how many hours they're asking for. We probably saw the same ad which only says:

"Qualifications:
English Teachers who have TEFL, TESOL, CELTA or DELTA certificates.
Compensation:
1000 - 2000 USD
Accomodation provided.
Return Ticket"

I'll send them a query soon and post what they say.

Qs...
Teaching hours?
Length of contract?
Help with work visa?
Shared or single accommodation?
Distance of accommodation from school?
Health insurance?
Holidays?
Lunches?
.............anything else important to ask?

thanks!

[svenhassel]

class size?

I think you have it all there I'd be interested in hearing more about them.

I think.

The lack of info is somewhat suspicious...

[atoklas]

i also think the huge salary range is a bit shady... does anyone actually make $2000/month? is that an hourly rate based on you teaching millions of hours/week? or do you have a phd on their "scale" to qualify for that?

[svenhassel]

$2000 is feasible for normal hours