Job Discussion Forums

[desertstorm]

I have limited teaching experience and recently graduated with an MA in TESOL.
Other than work experience - which I know will help - what must I do to climb the salary ladder? Are they other courses that you recommend that I can undertake while teaching? If so, which ones?

One of reasons for asking this question - other than blatant greed - is that I am a family man. So I would like to reach a stage quickly where I can live a comfortable life with my family.

Thanking you in advance.

[pooroldedgar]

I too am interested in whether salaries increase the longer you stay with a school. Particularly the ones that many people on this forum say are among the best gigs in the Kingdom, at least in terms of teaching and management and actually getting some respect.

[currentaffairs]

At one of my last jobs they offered 500 riyals extra on my monthly salary if I renewed my contract.

In terms of starting out on a higher rate, for MA holders, especially with a degree related to teaching, actual solid working experience preferably at universities will be the best course of action.

[balqis]

Re. Pooroldedgar: KAU 5% yearly of your salary, based on your ''performance evaluation'' [ whatever it means].
So in 5 years you may add 25% to your salary. Then you reach the ceiling, if I remember rightly the KAU booklet of rules.

Re. original question - nothing will get you that far money wise as many many years of experience, granting your have an M.A. and a Celta, with government universities at least. Skill in teaching can be acquired through practice solely, and inborn talent if one has it; this skill cannot be educated. It is like surgery or being an aircraft pilot - your learn as you perform.

balqis

[nomad soul]

Frankly, the best scenario is when both spouses are able to bring in an income. But if that's not doable in your situation, then you need to step it up rather than count on big, yearly raises (salaries have slowly declined within the past decade). In other words, be realistic --- you teach English skills and not chemical engineering in an academic program. That said, as I mentioned in your other thread, additional coursework or certification in eLearning instructional design will help you stand out. Just be aware that the Saudi government does not recognize degrees/qualifications that entailed online coursework.

After you gain a couple of years of relevant experience, plan to attend the annual job fairs at IATEFL in the UK or better yet, TESOL Arabia (UAE). Many direct-hire employers from throughout the Gulf do their recruiting/hiring at these events. You'd need to focus mainly on those employers that are family friendly. For more info, see "The skinny on direct-hire university opportunities" (http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=103722).

[veiledsentiments]

[sicklyman]

[Pikgitina]

[scot47]

Experience. You have to "serve your time".

[MuscatGary]