Job Discussion Forums

[canucktechie]

Any advice on looking for work (contract, freelance, privates) in Ukraine these days? Yes, I have looked at the JIJ and searched this forum. Just wondering if anyone currently working there has anything to add.

Thanks folks.

[ockyocky]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone had some firsthand information on any of the schools that operate in Kiev and what they offer. I have a job offer from one ,the European Language school, and they seem ok but i would like confirmation from someone else as this is my first time teaching abroad or teaching for that matter.
Can any suggest another school that has decent conditions and is fair to work for?
Thanks

[canucktechie]

I have been told that there are 3 levels of schools in Ukraine:

1. British Council (don't call us, we'll call you).
2. International House and London School (good schools but few vacancies).
3. Everyone else.

Never heard of your school and they don't seem to have a website. Full time positions in Kiev are scarce, and right now is not hiring time. I'm saying you're not likely to find anything else at all right now.

[ockyocky]

Thanks Cannuk,
the school I have a job with does have a website but not in English and i realise that the school year starts in September which is when i am looking at going. I was just thinking of applying for some others to make sure I have the best deal.
Thanks for the help

[ibasiram]

Try the London School of English (LSE). They are the best in Ukraine. Schools in Kiev, Odessa and Donetsk
I

[BrianPBG]

Besides the 3 schools that canuck listed, you will find A LOT of crap jobs, A LOT of cheating, and A LOT of schools that do their students a disservice.

I dont have personal experience, but I have lived there for several years, and this is coming from many teachers that have worked there. Most ended up going to Russia. Not trying to prevent you from going, just passing on the word

[Jack-1]

I had a bad experience with London School of English and I have to say I it soured me to them. Actually, I never got pat the interview stage. I had constant correspondence with them for about 2 months as they played a game with me and told me that they want an in-person interview in London. I told them I would only be able to come(From the states) at a preplanned time. They agree and we began to make the arrangements. Then the emails from them went silent. This was all after they told me they were "very interested in me" and strung me along for 2 months!
I kept after them though and finally got a reply. After wasting about 2 months of my time, they told "oh, sorry we have a policy of not hiring americans."
This was crazy because they knew I was an american from the first contact we had when I originally sent my resume. The only thing I can say is they don't seem straightforward and honest and if they give you any kind of a run around, ask for an instant explanation. If you don't they will waste your time and they could careless that it is your time.

[canucktechie]

In defense of LSE I have been to their premises and met some of their people and it is a respectable school, and they do pay well by local standards.

However as noted above there are so few respectable schools in Ukraine I guess they feel they have the right to jerk around prospective employees at will. LSE is not alone at this. It's just a matter of supply and demand.

[ibasiram]

I've been with LSE for more than a year now. Never had any problems.