Job Discussion Forums

maccamlc · Joined: 24 May 2007 Posts: 29 Location: Adelaide, Australia

Hi

I have been speaking to a friend who has been teaching in Eastern Europe / Central Asia, but am hoping to get as much info / advice as possible.

Basically, I am 25 and back in Australia for the rest of this year, but then hope to stop what I'm doing and embark on a new challenge. I have previously studied and worked in Scandinavia, as a Software Engineer. I'm now hoping to return to some of the places and new places that I have visited on my travels and stay for more then 2 weeks Smile

I'm interested in places like Ukraine, Moldova, Siberia, Uzbekistan. I have been told to become CELTA qualified first, and am considering destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Prague to complete this course early next year (January / February) and would love peoples thoughts on studying at these places, if my ultimate goal is to teach and live in Eastern Europe.

Also, is somebody able to explain how a new starter would usually go about finding their first job, and what to know to avoid being riped off in terms of salary and package (airfare, visa, accommodation etc.) I have got some advice from my friend, but each time I have contacted a school or organisation for information, what I am told by them is completely different Sad

Thanks for the help.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Ideally, you would want to find a CELTA or other recognized course in the area where you want to start teaching. This gives you a chance to make local contacts before you have to start searching for a job.

In terms of 'package,' in the countries you mention airfare is rare, visa assistance should be offered, and your salary will be enough for you to live on fairly well locally but not to save, pay off debts back home, or travel outside of the country where you're teaching.

jpvanderwerf2001 · Joined: 02 Oct 2003 Posts: 1117 Location: New York

I have recently seen some openings in Kyiv, Ukraine. Perhaps you can search and find those opportunities. Also, Russia has jobs galore!

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

I found my first job through the TEFL course that I did. I went through the Boland school in the Czech Republic. www.boland.cz I was offered a job to work for them in China.

The TEFL course itself was very intensive and helped me get my feet wet. Five years later I'm still at it.