Job Discussion Forums

shannonia · Joined: 25 Sep 2006 Posts: 3

Hello,
I was just wanting a little information from people who have worked in Poland. Can anyone tell me anything about the following language schools-Word, Intencity, Bell...I think that is all for now. Smile

I would like a somewhat balanced viewpoint so some of the pros and cons would be great.
Also, on a more general topic, I would like to know how people feel about International House as a place to start. Yes, I know that it may not be the ideal place to teach, but what is it like as far as support (in and out of the classroom) and training go? I am not too fussed about the whole money issue for my first year...shocking I know! Laughing

Thanks

shannonia · Joined: 25 Sep 2006 Posts: 3

Add to that list Angloschool, Expert and English Pro. Very Happy

Sgt Bilko · Joined: 28 Jul 2006 Posts: 136 Location: POLAND

I only know about IH as I worked there. As far as training goes, a lot depends on the DoS. I know that the DoSes of Wroclaw, Bielsko and Katowice are all CELTA and/or CELTYL trainers which means they know what they're talking about.

Another good thing about IH is that there is a high turnover (something to do with the wages and the transfer system) so every year there is a new bunch of newly qualified enthusiastic and excited teachers planning together and sharing ideas.

Outside the school, again it's difficult to generalise. The schools encourage 'conversation clubs' and other social events but anything like that is going to depend on the other teachers. Flats are provided which makes things easier although different schools are more or less helpful where there are problems with landlords and you get free Polish lessons.

What makes them less attractive for more experienced teachers is the wages and the restrictive contracts (can't work for anyone else).

As far as I know, the northern schools have started already and the southern ones are having induction this week so there may not be any vacancies although, if there are, they will be very eager to hear from you.

redsoxfan · Joined: 18 Oct 2005 Posts: 178 Location: Dystopia

Have you done a search for these schools? There's a button at the top of the page. That will yield infinitely more info than asking people to repeat what they wrote a year ago. If you have more specific questions later, then put them forth. Good luck

Wild Bill · Joined: 29 Aug 2006 Posts: 37

If you mean Word in Tarnobrzeg, PM me and I will give you my 2 cents.

freudling1000 · Joined: 23 Aug 2006 Posts: 50

There are so many variables with each school, it is almost impossible to advise you. This goes for everybody wanting to come to Poland to teach: COME HERE, LOOK AROUND, MEET PEOPLE AND MAKE A DECISION. Trying to get a handle on another country in a discussion forum like this oversimplifies. However, the tidbits you get are valuable. One thing I will tell you: there are many positives but also many negatives. The corruption is the biggest and is mind boggling at times. So you will not be alone in your energy drain in this regard.

See ya.