Job Discussion Forums

[sde]

Hi there, I'm a native English speaking student from Canada. I'm just two years into a English BA and hoping to take a year off in order to teach English abroad. My understanding is that it's extremely difficult to get a good placement without higher education (completed) and certification. So my question is, will a diploma in Early Childhood Education and 2 years of a 4 year English degree be of any use, or should I instead wait another two years before I consider the expense? Additionally, If you're aware of any quality, legitimate schools that might consider me, please include this in your post. Thanks so much!

[spiral78]

A degree is not a legal requirement in many countries.
As a Canadian citizen, you can get legal work permits (though it's a hassle- read the country specific forums for details) for most of the 'new' EU member states such as Poland, the Czech Rep, and Slovakia.

To compete in these job markets, you would need certification from a reputable, 120+ hour provider on site, including supervised teaching practice. An on line or short certification combined with your lack of 4 year degree would put you at the very bottom of the food chain.

Further, you should be aware that European positions are not usually found from abroad - you have to go there (ideally do your course in country). Airfare will obviously not be paid, and housing may or may not be provided by your employer. Jobs in these regions pay enough to live ok, particularly if you flat-share with other teachers, but not enough to save or travel extensively outside the country.

Obviously, you should not go unless you have financial backup - you will need to pay for flight tickets, a certification course and your room+board while on it, a couple of month's rent in advance - all before receiving your first paycheck, which typically comes at the end of the first month worked.

The key to this particular region in the case of someone without a 4-year degree or experience would be professionalism, reliability, and the realization that you will be facing a lot of hard work. It wouldn't be easy - but it could be very rewarding. My point is that employers will be leery of you because of lack of qualifications, and you will need to really make yourself the most desirable possible candidate, and then follow through.

[Glenski]

For Japan, you are eligible for a working holiday visa (no degree required). Get it in Canada in about 2 weeks. Tax on your income is 20% here for WHV holders.

Why the rush, if I may ask? Why not finish the degree? You're going to compete with people that have degrees most of the time.

[sde]

Thanks for the replies. I'm not sure why I feel so compelled to take time off and travel, but it likely comes down to no more than a desire to make sure I'm pursuing the right field with my English/Education BA. The information regarding Eastern Europe and Japan is great. I'm strongly considering Eastern Europe since I myself spent a lot of time in Copenhagen growing up and it might afford me the opportunity to go back for a weekend or so. Japan is appealing for obvious reasons. Glenski, how might someone go about getting a working holiday visa and then finding a placement with it. I'm more interested in finding a quality school with an enjoyable work environment than in earning a lot of money... Thanks again for your help.