Job Discussion Forums

[KeliiCompulsive]

Does anyone have any experience with this school? I've been offered a skype interview. I found negative feedback via a google search about other 'British Institutes' schools in Italy from a few years ago, but nothing about this particular school.

I'm new to this, and all the scams seem to be a terrifying minefield! Should I just do the interview and see what 'vibe' I get or is there a better way to check them out?

Advice appreciated, thanks!

[spiral78]

Skype interviews are a red flag from the start if you're looking for a reputable school. Hiring from abroad is not common anywhere in Europe at the newbie level; it can often indicate that the offer is either a total scam or the school is dodgy and local teachers know better than to work there.

It will be serious luck if anyone here knows anything directly about this school; there are a few regulars here (teacherinRome, primarily).

In your place, I'd do the interview, but
1. under no circumstances send them any money for anything
2. ask if they will give you contact information for a couple of their current teachers
3. check that their contact information is legit - scammers often use the identity of a genuine school
Good luck.

[KeliiCompulsive]

Thanks very much for your advice! It seems that this advice applies pretty much everywhere? In terms of it being much better to find jobs on the ground in the country of your choice rather than online, is that correct?

[spiral78]

Across the European region, yes. In Asia, it's more common to find something from abroad. Ditto Middle East (not for the newly qualified). Latin American seems to usually prefer to interview in person.

Quite a lot depends on how competitive the job market is. Most of Europe is very competitive. Lots of teachers around.

Asia, many parts of, less competitive.

I can't recall if you have a university degree; if yes, Asia is probably your easiest choice to get started, but would be problematic for your non-teaching partner.

[Teacher in Rome]

I'd echo what Spiral says. Sorry but I don't know the school, but British Institutes are a chain if I'm not mistaken, which could mean your particular school is great while others aren't...

If you've got the necessary paperwork for Italy (EU citizen / dual nationality plus CELTA) you're good to go if you come over and interview in person. That way you're spreading your net wider.

However, it might also be interesting to do the skype interview and find out a bit more about what they're offering in terms of salary, hours etc. That way we could give more advice on whether it sounds like a scam / slave labour etc!

[CANDLES]

Interested to know if anyone has/had dealings with this Language school.
What is this like? This was on the 'blacklist' in 2007 along with other Institutes. Might have improved or a false alarm!

They are advertising on TEFL.cm, so feedback please.