Job Discussion Forums

Michael Hovland · Joined: 21 Jul 2013 Posts: 2

Looked around for an existing thread on this topic in the Newbie forum with no success so hope this gets some replies.

I'll be 60 years old when I begin a search in earnest next Spring for TESL jobs in the middle east. Needing to earn some money in preparation for retirement and told that Korea / Japan (other countries with higher salaries) are out as the culture values youth over experience.

I've a teaching license in Washington State, 28 years classroom experience in elementary and special ed, an M.Ed. in Special Education, and a recently acquired TESOL certificate. Willing to teach any level and confident in my teaching / classroom management skills but concerned about similar attitudes about age in ME.

Any feedback on likelihood of finding a job or adapting to Muslim culture would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

You may get more/relevant info if you post on the General Middle East forum below. But from my limited experience on the topic, age discrimination is mostly limited to Asia, though there is a ceiling in most regions (they're afraid they might have to pay a pension).

However, I'm not sure that you've actually got the qualifications that better employers in the Middle East are looking for. Special Ed doesn't translate much to teaching language....and a fresh TEFL cert is very much an entry-level sort of thing.

Chancellor · Posted: Wed Jul 24, 2013 6:03 pm Post subject: Re: age discrimination

ossie39 · Joined: 18 Jan 2009 Posts: 105

Hello. Yes sadly ageism exists in some establishments. On the other hand some employers and students will very much welcome your experience and professionalism. Enthusiasm is very much an individual thing and with a new move I am sure your enthusiasm is evident.

I think you are from the states so Europe can be difficult for you but Hungary and Czech Republic can be easier for Americans regarding red tape. Central Eastern Europeans are quite respectful of much older teachers. You should also investigate Turkey. Turks are very respectful of older people and with a wide young population I think there are great possibilities for you. Your special needs qualification will be understood. In schools I think they will feel you have above average classroom management skills. Also skills in diagnosing certain problems (eg. speech impediment, word blindness etc.) which may see discrete offers for remedial help on 1:1 Even thes days Turkey is moderately Islamic compared to some countries so no real adjustment in your life.