Job Discussion Forums

[simplelife]

Another newbie-arriving in Taiwan in a week for the first time. It appears that Kojen and Hess have an interest in hiring me, although I'm feeling some trepidation about furthering the process with either for a number of reasons. I have an impression that most of these chains hire fresh-off-the-boat college grads with little or no experience. I'm 33 with a little bit of prior teaching experience-are there any 30 to 40-somethings working in the chain schools, or do most of the oldies work elsewhere?

Sorry, I somehow was too tired to make this a short message.

Thanks in advance for help

[clark.w.griswald]

It is true that most schools, not only chains, prefer teachers who are in their twenties. Most of the kids schools will set an upper limit of 35 for teaching jobs, but all are flexible for applicants just over that, or those with really young and active personalities. I believe that the schools are just trying to avoid applications from retirees back home who may apply.

It is not to say that retirees can't do the job, but I doubt that many parents would chose an older teacher over a younger one, and the schools have to give the market what it demands.

The life experience of retirees is probably best appreciated by schools that target adult students.

As for being 33, you will have no trouble getting a job provided that you look reasonably young and/or are active. Personality maketh the teacher.

[Girl Scout]

I'm 37 and my husband is 40. We both work at a private buxiban. We have had no trouble getting work in our 3 years here.

[Chris Smith]

Hi simplelife,
I work for Kojen and have done so for 8 years now. I'm 38 years old and there are several people our age in the company. As usual, Clark's advice above is pretty spot on, especially about the personality bit. If you have any reservations about Kojen I'll do my best to clarify anything that needs it. You can post in this thread or send a private message as you like.

Regards,

Chris

[matchstick_man]

33 isn't all that old. I'm nearing 35 although apparently don't appear to be that old or act like it. At my previous school all the teachers were in their 30s for about six months. I felt one of the applicants should have been given the position that came up but it was felt he wasn't the right person. I suspect age and maybe nationality played a major part there as two younger less experienced North Americans were hired.
Although Clark is accurate, the word 'most' in his part plays a major part in his point. I work for a school that employs a retiree and we teach 6-13 year olds.
I know of a few over 30s teaching at the kiddie's cram schools but most get to a point where they question if it is really for them.