Job Discussion Forums

[waxwing]

privyet, newbie here

I'm taking a trinity tefl in august and currently planning to come to russia in sept. or more likely october.

One thing that has bothered me looking at the 'big three' who are often mentioned here (I mean Language Link, International House and English First - would it be accurate to characterise these as the big three?) - 'split site'.
The idea of having to negotiate public transport every day between all the lessons is putting me off. Is it worth avoiding this? Do all three of the above mentioned use this? I suppose this is related to my more general concern that there really aren't enough hours in the day..
I used to be a schoolteacher in England, for my sins, and I know how deceptive the 'number of contact hours' statistic can be...
Do those of you who are there find yourselves stupendously busy, with no time to yourself?

I have other questions, but that'll do for now

thanks in advance,
Adam

[rogan]

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[Zolushka]

Did you know that Moscow is not the only place that language schools make their teachers travel between places? Prague is pretty dreadful too, just in case you don't know already. There are a few unpleasant things in TEFL: Namely Split Shift and Split Location! But you do develop a rhythm and get used to the Russian way of doing things. To tell you the truth, it doesn't feel so bad after a while because your students are just wonderful.
If travelling is a real issue with you, then you might want to consider smaller towns. Have you considered St Petersburg? How about Siberia? There is a nice little school called Interlang in Novosibirsk. Check out their website http://www.interlang.ru for more details. People are really friendly in Siberia.

[waxwing]

First to Rogan:
many thanks. i had a couple of weeks in moscow in 2001, so I'm familiar with the metro; as I recall it is indeed excellent (got a coupla pictures of those chandeliers ). Rush hour pretty bad, but I think Sao Paulo has it beat

Zolushka:
many thanks for the suggestions. I'm keeping my options open until August, and yes, I certainly haven't ruled out the smaller towns (e.g. the ones around Moscow - I like the idea that you could hop on the train and be in the big city in a few hours), which would doubtless feel a bit more like real Russia. It certainly seems like the big majority of opportunities are around Moscow (presumably 'cos that's where all the money is).

As for Siberia, I admit to being quite intrigued (but also daunted) and thx v. much for the link. I take it you've lived there; does it ever feel a bit isolated? Is Novosibirsk as 'developed' (whatever that means) as Moscow?

anyway spasiba balshoye
adam

[Zolushka]

Yes, there are more opportunities in Moscow. Hence, more money. Research carefully before you 'plunge' into the deep end.

[maruss]

Please do read Rogans excellent"bible" of essential points for anyone contemplating coming to work/live in Russia-work-permits,visas etc. as these are VERY important nowadays and you may well not be told about them until after you arrive and then have problems-unfortunately,employing people illegally has been standard practice with many schools in Russia for a long time,apart from the poor conditions etc.
Believe you me,Russia is definitely not a place where you would enjoy any hassle with the police,or any other officials,for that matter,most of whom are corrupt and only help when you make it"worth their while!"-and the price can be high!
M.