Job Discussion Forums

[bobo_bt]

I am currently working in Korea but am really interested in working in UAE next year (starting around Feb/March 2008).

I have a degree in Politics
1 year teaching experience (age 5-15)
TEFL 120 hour certificate.

What are the chances of finding a job?

What advice could anyone give me in finding a job? And where would in the country would you suggest working? (I've noticed a lot of people commenting that they didn't like Dubai)

I'd be really grateful for any advice you could give me

[mishmumkin]

Honestly, the UAE is not a good place for someone w/ your qualifications. There are very few language schools, and those employers tend to exploit teachers for everything they're worth. Almost all K-12 schools require teaching certification, though there are less than a handful who will hire you based on your experience and qualiifications. Almost all the unis require an MA TESOL. You've probably searched the forums and found lots of bad press for institutions like Abu Dhabi University who I believe would be the only university who would hire you based on your credentials.

Have you considered Oman? Lots of jobs seem to be going w/ the Ministry of HIgher Education Universities...I've seen the Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) advertising just this week, too. Same job seemingly, different hiring bodies.

[bobo_bt]

Cheers for the advice, I'll look onto Oman. I am in Korea at the moment and am also seriously considering Japan & Vietnam. Nothing decided yet!!

[mishmumkin]

NP Oman, IMHO, is a more culturally rich experience, anyway.

[veiledsentiments]

If you are in your 20's, I'd say that you would be better off in Viet Nam or Japan with your lack of credentials and experience.

VS

[bobo_bt]

Yeah, I think I've narrowed it down to those 2 now. I wish I could make a decision and stick to it, but I seem to be swaying between the 2 of them.

[scot47]

And if you are going to stick around in this TEFL racket - get an MA. Do one by distance.