Job Discussion Forums

[taipan1949]

I recently earned my TEFL certificate and have my sight on working for a quality, honest conversation school on China. Can anyone recommend legitimate schools in China? I am new to EFL teaching. Thank you

[Miasaurus]

Be wary of recommendations. A change in staff can make a huge difference. I worked at a great school in 2006 that I would 100% recommend IF I could be sure that nothing has changed... and I can't. Also, there are some double agent FTs who will tell you how great their school is just to gain favor with their decidedly dishonest bosses.

From my experiecne, I would say your best bet for honest employers who won't cheat or exploit you are public colleges. They also won't pay you what you're worth, but they'll provide a great base job that you can add to with private lessons and part-time stuff.

[nickpellatt]

'Quality, honest, conversation school'

I guess this could be interpreted in plenty of ways .... I can only share my recent experience, which I think was a good one. If it qualifies as something that might interest you then get in touch with them.

I was never lied to over teaching schedules, and I never had any hidden surprises in my contract or pay packet. I was always paid on time as promised too! I guess that covers the 'honest' part.

In my conversation school I was contracted to teach 2 x 90 min lessons a day to adults. These classes had between 4-8 students in, with a contracted maximum of 12 students (which I never experienced once). All these lessons took place between 8.30 and 16.40, Monday to Friday. The only other duty was having to attend a social night activity once a week, normally for up to 2 hours on a thursday night.

I guess I did have my gripes from time to time about the 'quality' part of your request, but I think at the end of the day, I am responsible for my own teaching quality, and you sometimes do have to understand any conversation school is run primarily as a business.

Salary isnt generous, but it compares well to similar positions in the same area, and I would certainly consider returning there if they will have me in the future....I had a great time there in honesty.

www.omeida.org

[taipan1949]

Miasaurus and nickpellatt, Thanks for your thoughtful feedback