Job Discussion Forums

[Squire22]

Dear all,

I have filled in an application form for International House(IH) and after searching through the threads on here, I still can't find the info i'm looking for (assuming that I haven't gone past it that is). Has anyone worked for IH in Kuala Lumpur, Spain (Colon), Vietnam, or Thailand(Bangkok)? What are they like as employers? Do they offer good teacher support? Help with finding accommodation/orientation? I realise that wages are all relative depending on what country you are in, so relative to these countries and other EFL jobs in them, what are the wages like? Is it just enough to scrape by on, or can you afford to go out with friends once/twice a week and buy a CD every now and then?

It would be greatly appreciated if I could get a few replies from people who have actually worked there,

Many, many thanks in advance,

[EnglishBrian]

Surely someone on these forums has worked for IH? Afraid I haven't. The nearest I've come is being offered a DoS job there which I didn't take - oh, and I've known one or two people who worked for them, but not in the places you've mentioned.

In the absence of more informed info. I can say that within Europe they tend to pay around average salaries, perhaps a little less, but have a reputation built on good support and professional development for their teachers - usually a good place for newly qualifieds - you'll see out your contract but perhaps move on afterwards, if you understand me.

Away from Europe you find more ambiguously affliliated schools - the whole organisation is rather strange - not a franchise deal but 'similar'. Anyway, away from Europe things might be a little more wild. Pay may not be anywhere near that of other schools (eg their Saudi 'branch'), hours could be excessive etc.

Probably you know this already, and hopefully someone with first hand experience can fill you in better soon.

[gmjones]

Hi,

I am going to start working in Spain in a weeks time for IH. While Im obviously not there yet so I cant tell if they will follow through, they have offered me 1300 euros a month for a max 25 hour week, which for Spain is quite good. Week one (paid) is just orientation: city tours, flat hunting (all organised by the school) and a few training sessions for those less experienced in teaching younger learners. Free Spanish classes, relocation expenses (small but helpful) and one way flight reimbursement up to about 180 euros.

I have heard from seversl people that IH is EXCELLENT in providing staff support and training, often in different cities, and paid susbistence.

However, because I have worked in Madrid and I know what a meat market the TEFL industry is there, I would say it's possibly an exception to the rule... I doubt very much that they will offer as many perks. But likely in furter afield posts, such as KL, they will also treat you very well. Its a mega reputable chain of schools (presuming that the ones you apply to have been affiliated for a reasonable amount of time) and I would have no question in applying to any one of them.