Job Discussion Forums

[emmanuelle]

Hi,

I have noticed that a few job ads stipulate that they will only accept applications from native English speakers.
I am French but I lived and worked in England for 10 years and have a CELTA and teaching experience.

Has any non-native English teachers experienced problems finding jobs in Asia?

Thank you in anticipation.

[eslstudies]

In China, quite a few are able to do this. As demand outstrips supply there are Europeans working there, as well as "non-big 5" native speakers, particularly from Africa and India, and also quite a few Filipinos.
You'll have to send more applications than a native speaker to get a similar outcome, and probably can't expect to land a post in one of the big cities. Stressing what you've outlined in your post will help: tell them you're of native-speaker standard. Being French - the Chinese are Francophiles - and female won't go astray either.
Many students are interested in French as an additional language, which might provide tutoring opportunities too.
http://www.asiaxpat.com/ will sometimes carry adverts re: this. Choose a city from the menu.
Also, there are many kindergarten positions for English speakers for which you may be suitable.

[Teejay]

I have searched the net for years now and most of the postings I've seen require native English speaker to teach English subjects in Asian countries. Try any search engine to help you get a work in Asia. Having CELTA is an additional qualification.

[eslstudies]

[Glenski]

In Japan, you will find that immigration requires that non-native English speakers need 12-13 years of their education to be completely in English if they want to teach English here. Some employers stipulate 10 years, I think.

If you are French, why not teach French here? Berlitz does it. English outstrips all other foreign languages in popularity, but French is fairly popular, as is Italian.

[liehtzu]

Anyone can teach in Thailand.

[Mydnight]

I think I met you today. You were the guy in the office, right? Sorry I didn't have time to stick around and chat.

Anyway, to be brutally honest, in Dongguan, if you are indeed the guy I met today, most companies/schools/centers are looking for white people. It is incredibly racist and disgusting but it tells alot about the class of people that we cater to here. Most of the folks from Cameroon, which is where I assume you hail from, forgive me if I am wrong, end up working kindergartens and teaching kids here. Most people I know say it's pretty easy. I would say I could put you in touch with some of the folks that I know that do that, but they are pretty protective of their work and for good reason. Whitey can come along any time and snatch their work.

Anyway, I'll give you the advise that I give most newcomers to this area: Run away as fast as you can and don't look back. The people that have been here longer than a few months, like moi, are still here because they have the connections that enable them to get more classes easily. The life of the "new guy" in this city is one of pain and suffering as well as isolation.

Anyway, take it easy and good luck. PM me if you need more info.

[Bangkok Hound]