Job Discussion Forums

LateStarter · Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2011 4:51 am Post subject: AGE QUERY

Hi, I'm new to Middle East Forum. I'm heading close toward 60, female, in very good health, and with + 2 years teaching experience in China, children, university, and adult business classes. I've not yet enrolled in Masters (I have CELTA) and was wondering if my age precludes me from working in UAE or elsewhere close. Hope you can help, and sorry if this topic has been done to death. Maybe you can direct me to previous posts on age questions. Thanks in advance.

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

With your combination of age and lack of credentials, there will be very few jobs. Is money a major object or are you doing this for the experience?

If experiencing the cultures is the object, you might consider places like Morocco or Egypt where one can pick up work at language schools and perhaps add some private lessons to - almost - cover living expenses. Laughing

Oman has small universities around the country... some in rather small villages. Here the pay will be better than North Africa with free housing and other usual Gulf benefits. For instance, the University of Nizwa has hired a number of women in their 50s. Many of these place have issues with management being... not exactly stellar. Cool

But it is an interesting country to spend a year or two in...

VS
(PS... the closer you are to 60, the less helpful getting an MA will be, and you will never recoup the costs... if that matters)

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

For all practical purposes 60 is the cut-off. I know of some over that age(including this humble scribe) but to get into a job after three score is VERY difficult.

LateStarter · Posted: Thu Jan 27, 2011 1:17 am Post subject: AGE QUERY

Thank you both for responding. Maybe I stay in China where there are still plenty of options for an 'ageless' English Teacher.

Gulezar · Joined: 19 Jun 2007 Posts: 483

A known quantity can continue on one year contracts after 60, but in many countries those who are 60+ can only get a one year visa from the immigration folks. If you are 60+ with many years of experience, some in the Middle East, and two masters directly related to TESOL or a PHD, you might be considered.