Job Discussion Forums

tokyomocker · Joined: 26 Feb 2006 Posts: 5

Hi. I was wondering if anyone could pass on any info about teaching for EF in Istanbul. I've provisionally been offered a job there starting in september and was excited about the possibility of working in such a dynamic city. However, after reading something about the school on the esl message board made me have doubts as it was quite damning. As well as criticising the school it also said it was almost impossible to find half desent accomodation in Istanbul. However I must mention that the message was written in 2004, and so maybe it's not relevant today? Any thoughts?..Cheers.

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

tokyomocker · Joined: 26 Feb 2006 Posts: 5

Cheers. I guess being an efl teacher and a crap speeler/speller is not a good combo! How much, on average would you expect to pay for half decent accommodation?[/b]

thrifty · Joined: 25 Apr 2006 Posts: 1665 Location: chip van

I think the poster meant half decent accomodation on an English First salary.

lovelace · Joined: 26 Jul 2006 Posts: 190

Positive:

paid on time, in full
monthly salary as opposed to hourly rate like some other private schools
school loans flat deposit money, to be paid back over four months
good textbook resources compared to many other schools
weekly, helpful workshops
generally friendly atmosphere among teachers
in some branches DoS will schedule two days off together (though not guaranteed)
weekend work is rotated

Negative:

many, at times all, working days split shifts
computer and audio equipment inadequate
clear divide between business and education, with the two often in conflict
lack of support for new teachers, particularly if teacher is struggling

This year the school is giving 200ytl accommodation allowance and there is also a private health insurance scheme if you want it.

It's true to say that it's one of the better private language schools in Istanbul, but please don't believe everything the recruitment manager tells you before you start. If it's not in your contract, it won't happen, so read it very carefully...

As for accommodation, it's the biggest monthly expense for someone working at a language school. If at all possible, you should try and find a flat privately rather than through an estate agent, as the commission fee is very high.