Job Discussion Forums

[frustratedwithTEFL]

If you are interested in working for AMIDEAST in Rabat, there are a few things you should be aware of first;
Beware of all information given to you over the phone as the vast majority of it is inaccurate. Get everything that is promised to you on paper before you accept the position and I mean everything; from startup costs to working conditions to medical insurance.
In reality, the start up costs are about 4 times what you are told and will eat all of your savings before you even get your first pay check, yes, even with the start up money provided by the school. Morroco, and especially Rabat, is not the cheapest place to live.
The hours you work are far less than promised and are generally spreadout piecemeal over six days. Beware of the December/January slump when you have 1 month with no guaranteed work except for an optional 2 week 'intensive' course over Christmas where you can expect to work a max of 15 hours a week. ie; 30 hours max. of teaching over 1 month just when all your money has disappeared in start up costs.
Don't expect any help as promised from the school in finding accomodation or in getting your working papers; I was told blatantly that "it was not the school's responsibility".
There is NO insurance scheme... it is almost impossible to organise anything from here so make sure you are well and truly covered before you leave home. Again your welfare as an employee of AMIDEAST does not appear to be their concern.
All teachers teach young learners whether you like it or not, so be prepared for classes of 17 (the maximum promised was actually 16 but nearly all teachers have classes of 17-18 ) young learners 6-17 years old.

This posting is not to say don't come. Morocco is an amazing country. But make sure that you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
The title of 'Independent Contractor' does not mean that you have more freedom as a teacher; it means that the school accepts no responsibility for you or any problems you may encounter while here. All in all, it is not an honest or supportive working environment and there are no bonus schemes in place to provide teachers with an incentive to strive to do their best.
To be certain the job is right for you, ensure that you have any concerns well and truly dealt with and on paper before you hop on that plane.