Job Discussion Forums

SpecialEd · Joined: 15 Mar 2006 Posts: 3

I know I know there is tonnes of info about Kojen if I run a search. BUT, none that I have found is discussing the Taichung branches.

Does anyone have any info on either of the branches in Taichung?

And as far as the program.. I have a couple of specific questions:

- How many hours do they expect you to work on Sat?
- Is there some sort of seniority system, or do the good teachers get rewarded with hours? I was promised hours if my perfomance was 'good' but I find it hard to believe I will take any hours from people who have been there longer than me.
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kuberkat · Joined: 03 Jun 2005 Posts: 358 Location: Oman

Hey, SpecialEd. (Loved the name! lol!).

I never actually worked for KoJen, but I did once in the dark ages do an interview/ demo at the uptown Taichung branch. Most cram schools are a bit cramped and grotty, but this was more so than I felt comfortable with. The interviewer (a foreigner) seemed a little too desperate as wel- a sure sign of sloppy seconds, methought. Er, actually, after the interview I decided not to hang around for the demo and made a discreet exit on the seedy fire escape.

On the upside, there is a good mix of different age and language levels at KoJen that you might not find in other jobs. Must say I met some decent teachers while hanging around for the interview, but the job was just not rewarding enough, since I had some experience by that time. I guess it's OK for a newbie, but if you have experience you certainly can do better.

kuberkat · Joined: 03 Jun 2005 Posts: 358 Location: Oman

er, on second thoughts, do check out the post "The story of my year at Kojen" by teach2005... a far more gruelling experience than mine, fraid to say...

Pop Fly · Joined: 15 Feb 2003 Posts: 429

Saturdays are the busiest day of the week in this business. Expect 6-8 hours of classroom time.

Yes, of course good teachers are rewarded and boat rockers are weeded out. Tell your manager you don't want to work on Saturday and you'll quickly find out what camp you are in.

I know nothing about TC KJ, but southwest Taipei (city and county)Kids KJs should be avoided. At all costs. Otehrwise, great place to whet your feet.

They also offer a soft landing and you can rent the room you are put up in indefinetly. I have a buddy that lived in a KJ house for over a year.

Yon Chi

SpecialEd · Joined: 15 Mar 2006 Posts: 3

thanks.

not going with kojen after all. got an offer that made that decision very easy.

cheers.

kuberkat · Joined: 03 Jun 2005 Posts: 358 Location: Oman

Ah! It's all falling into place, then.... Happy working.