Job Discussion Forums

[mistert]

Hello folks,

I am new to this forum (and to the world of efl) and wonder if you might impart some of your collective wisdom.

Would any of you veterans advise the use of an agency for getting my foot in the teaching door once in Thailand? Bearing these factors in mind -

* I have no degree
* I have one bona fide CELTA
* lots of enthusiasm
* a smile that could launch a thousand ships, but has not yet had the opportunity to do so. However, I may have sunk a couple - nothing to do with my smile - I am heavy-footed.

Or would a personal visit to schools in and around the area/s (initially Pattaya then Chiang Mai), fully laden with copies of CV and passport pictures of aforementioned smile be more appropriate? Ultimately, I'd prefer to be working in more rural areas but as a teacher with no (unassisted) teaching experience, would this be advisable?

One more question ('oh go on then' I hear you say) - is it commonplace for someone in my position to start with a tourist visa? I am very keen to get started, however, I do not want to work illegally...

Any assistance would be very wonderful!

Many thanks

[tttompatz]

Just so that you are aware - you will NOT be getting LEGAL work (with non-immigrant "B" visa and work permit) without your degree.

After that said, the only chance you really have is with agencies or language academies that are either desperate or dodgy.

Then considering the WHERE you are looking (major tourist spots) you should also be aware that the competition for what little is left is fierce and the pay is substantially less than anywhere else for those same substandard jobs.

On your final query, people in YOUR CASE always start with a tourist visa (and stay on one) since they can't get a work permit.

If you get a 60 day - double entry visa then at least you can stretch your vacation out to 6 months with an extension at the end of each 60 day stay (for a total of 90 days) and a border run to start the second 90-day stay. Then you will have to leave the kingdom; perhaps Cambodia or Laos for your next stop.

ESL won't pay for your vacation but it will at least give it a substantial subsidy.
Without a degree it is virtually impossible to make ESL a viable, long-term career option in SE Asia

..

[mistert]

thanks for the reply ttompatz, some useful info. I am aware of the legalities.

I would just like SOME experience, and to develop some skills in the short while that I'll be in the country.

If I was to avoid any unscrupulous schools/agencies, would volunteer teaching be an option? I have read about some jobs up in the north which might OK. Have you heard of anyone taking such a route? To get some classroom hours under their belt of course, not to live the life of riley...(which has never been my intention anyway)