Job Discussion Forums

[Pigilene]

Hello,

i've been reading lots of threads about working in KSA, I'd be grateful for some advice.

I'm a UK citizen (female), been teaching for 7 years.
Quals:
BA degree (Art)
CELTA

Which seem low, so I'm relying on my experience: Senior teacher at current school and have taught levels from kindergarden to adults. A lot of elementary/high schoolers. also TOEFL/IELTS, some Cambridge exams and Business.
Also I'm experienced in teaching on and organising summer camps and other courses in English, art, cooking, drama, sports. Making course resources.
Some teacher training too.
None of which I imagine I'll have the opportunity to do in Saudi, but hopefully shows adaptability...

I have to work 3 mths notice in current job, and the last day is 16th Nov.

so it seems I've missed the boat for the current school year, but there was talk of jobs being offered in January?

I've made a start writing to schools and places, just to see what comes back.

if anyone has any advice on good establishments to try, I was looking at Riyadh or Jeddah primarily, I'd be very grateful.

Thank you
Pigilene

[veiledsentiments]

Just writing to places will not get you many, if any, responses. They tend to only reply to people who apply and would fill their needs. So, apply now with a cover letter saying that you can start second semester. If your CV appeals, they may respond... or wait until late December and they will then want you to start the next week.

VS

[Pigilene]

I've been applying to actual job ads and registering with agancies.
Thanks for the tips!
Pigilene

[Peggy Sue Higgenbottom]

Bell Educational for K.S.U.

[Pigilene]

Peggy Sue,
Interesting, yes i've seen lots of ads for it, but from the posts i've been reading they seem to say stay away.
Can I ask you why?
Thanks

[Mia Xanthi]

There are lots of places that end up with no-show teachers, or with teachers who come for a look-see and bolt as fast as they can. I think you might get offers to come over even earlier than next semester. But I agree that you should not do a mass mailing. If the place needs teachers, they'll advertise it.

[Addis24]

Hi, I'm also looking for a job starting from mid November. I have an interview with Bell for KSU, but having read the negative comments about it I doubt I will take the job even if it is offered to me. I was just wondering if anyone has recently started working there and can tell of the current situation, particularly regarding the holidays. Thanks

[mailman13]

Addis24 and Pigilene,

I've accepted a job at KSU through Bell and have read these negative comments. It doesn't fill me with confidence but hey, it's only 10 months and the pay is good. It is what you make of it at the end of the day.

[veiledsentiments]

[Addis24]

Ideally I want to work in the UAE...possibly Oman for a year. I have completed an MA and have about 6 months University EAP teaching experience, with about 4 years in total. However, compared to others, I am under qualified and have had a couple of rejections from Unis in the UAE telling me this. I will keep applying and hope I can get something for Jan/Feb. The other option is TESOL Arabia and trying for a job after next summer. I know it's early, but does anyone know when it is? If I go to the UAE as a tourist, would it be possible to get interviews do you think?
Thanks

[veiledsentiments]

[scot47]

There is an academic holiday in Mid-November (11-21 November) Some teachers will not return. That is your chance.

[Mia Xanthi]