Job Discussion Forums

[Mavrik]

Has anyone heardof or worked for the Aipusen English Training Institute in Guangzhou? Any feedback good or bad would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

[Roger]

They have been in hibernation for a year or so, and not generated any opinions on this forum.
BUt before that period of time, there were piles of critical comments in the Job Discussion Forum.
I remember having a job offer by phone from Aipusen, only to see it being withdrawn under a somewhat mysterious pretext.
But that alone does not qualify me to pass unfavourable judgment on Aipusen; suffice it to say they did get flak before, usually for browbeating expats, reneging on visa promises, spying on expats and bullying.

[Klamm]

Dare I warn that you take the last posters advice with such?

I have no connection with aipusen and have only read the job journals on it...didn't seem overly negative.

And no, a job withdrawn under such "pretexts" does not warrant suspicion. Maybe they decided to hire someone else.

Anyway, do your own research. They have a lot of foreign teachers currently working for them. Talk to them. It's worth a little check around there when they offer 8-10k straight up.

So, use your head and research by talking with people currently working there. That's the best way. And remember if they're really out to give you a hard time...this is China. And whose sitting in the catbird's seat in this country: the employer or the employee? Might be difficult for a company to run in these conditions and have (as they say in their ad) 37 current teachers if they were spying on expats and causing all sorts of constant problems.

Like I said, don't take this the wrong way. Do your research. I really have no idea.

K.

[Mavrik]

Thanks Klamm,

For the words of encouragement but I have already checked it out and everything looks cool and legit, like you say 37 teachers can't be wrong. So as of Aug 28th I will be in Guangzhou for my second tour of duty in China. So if there's anyone out there that can give me the lowdown on Guangzhou, either pm me or post it on here, I was in Guangzhou for only a day before as a stopover on my way to Sanya. Looking forward to what everyone has to say, and until then...I bid you adieu.

[Roger]

What exactly do you want to know about Guangzhou?
Go to a five-star hotel and pick up a Thats Guangzhou monthly magazine for free, or visit their website
www.thatsguangzhou.com
a publication that specirfically targets Westerners.

Guangzhou is a monster city, so I can't put all in a nutshell. If you are historically interested, you will enjoy a stroll along the north bank of the Pearl RIver from Dongshan district to Liuersan Lu, with its many colonial buildings. On Shamian Island you will find well-preserved little Europe, the former English/French concession. Guangzhou also has one of China's oldest mosques right across from the train station and behind the Canton Trade Fair grounds. There are several beautiful churches that offer service in English, most of which are near the Pearl RIver.
Bars are scattered along the Huansi Donglu area next to the Garden Hotel. OThers are on Shamian, and the latest addition has been opened over in Fangcun, with a barstrip in mock-European style.
Green surroundings abound, but it involves logistical headaches. The closest parks are Yuexiu Park in downtown and Baiyun Park to the north.
I hope your school wil house you in a nice neighbourhood. That's a big challenge, knowing the high population density of this city! And, if you have to commute by bus, my p;rayers go out for you!