Job Discussion Forums

[Ferfichkin]

Hello everyone,

A couple of quick questions.

I have an interview soon with Teach Away for a public school teaching position in Abu Dhabi. I read one post about this topic, but there was only one response. I was wondering if anyone else has anything to share about what it's like teaching in an Abu Dhabi public school.

Also, what kinds of things do you think they will ask during the interview? Anything special? Any UAE specific teaching ideas or approaches that I should know about?

Thank you very much!

[veiledsentiments]

Search for ADEC (use the button near the sign in section). It just gave me 177 threads which should keep you reading for awhile.

You also might want to visit the Facebook page that Teachaway has.

Actually we have few posters here in that program or in K-12 so there really isn't too much helpful information. Most of the members here teach adults... university level, military, or oil related jobs.

It is very challenging from what I have heard. You need good classroom management skills as the students can be a handful... and a half. Much depends on where you are assigned. Support can be lacking and many of their long time teachers won't be welcoming or helpful.

VS

[Ferfichkin]

Thanks for the advice. The search provided quite a bit of useful information, most confirming your opinion that the job is often stressful and the kids can be hard to manage.

I've also heard that you more or less need a car if you are working in an ADEC school. Is that true? I don't really fancy a long commute everyday. Although who doesn't, right? Is there any way around driving in Abu Dhabi or is that just par for the course?

Thanks again for your help.

[veiledsentiments]

My stint in Abu Dhabi is from years ago, but my experience was that a car was crucial - no matter who your employer is in education. Yes, there are taxis, but they are not necessarily common and available when and where you need one. It isn't pleasant standing in the street for an hour when it is over 40C and extremely humid outside. The length of your commute will depend on where you live versus where you work... could be close... could be far... one of those Middle Eastern mysteries that only becomes clear after you arrive and get assigned to both housing and teaching location.

Many teachers start out leasing a car and if they think that they may stay more than just a couple years, they seriously look into purchasing. (over two years is where buying makes more financial sense)

VS

[Ferfichkin]

It sounds like Abu Dhabi isn't the most convenient of spots, transportation wise. Kind of like North America in that respect, and that respect happens to be one of the respects that I like least about living in North America.

Thanks you very much for your responses. They have been helpful and given me some food for thought in relation to my interview.