Job Discussion Forums

[frasertyxx]

hi All,
I am currently teaching in South Korea and in about 10 months to a year will hopefully be heading back to Canada in search of proper deadlines, ethical business practices, and the Western mentality.

I know this forum has a reputation for being negative, and I dont doubt that negative experiences have happened. They have happened to me.
But at this time, I am seeking assistance on how to make a smooth landing back in Canada in the ESL market, and I would appreciate all positive advice.
Now, it is obvious that Vancouver and Toronto have the largest ESL markets...ie the most ESL schools and demand per Canadian cities.
What are the job prospects in these cities.
And please, any other Canadian cities which attract an ESL market please feel free to mention.
I know it would be difficult finding full time work, but I think from the research that I've done that it would be possible to piece together a few part time positions.
Does anyone have any experience with what I am talking about?
Any ESL job sites in Canada that you can point me to would be very much appreciated.
I also have a growing passion to explore all of Canada...any other teaching job websites you can hook me up with would be very much appreciated, such as private language or other vocational schools.
Thanx.
Childrens Republic of Korea

[ETG]

A lot depends on your qualifications. What are they? There ar many avenues in Canada besides private language schools - community colleges, LINC programmes, public schools, universities so it depends on your qualifications and where you want to work. Check out some places you would like to be and see what they are asking for. The TESLCanada web site has jobs for each region so check that out to get an idea of what employers are asking for.

[frasertyxx]

My credentials are
a four year BA in History
TESOL certificate--from Australia
and 1years teaching experience in Korea

[chan_konabe]

The good news is that you've got lots of time (10 months to a year) to research and make an informed decision. There are ESL markets to be found all over Canada, in both big cities and small towns. The trick is to find one that's right for your goals, interests and preferences. No matter where you choose, if you're determined, you'll succeed.

Some more random advice:

- A lot of the better entry-level positions require at least an English language teaching certificate that's recognized by TESL Canada or its equivalant (usually 120 hours with a supervised practicum). If your Australian TESOL certificate holds up, that's great. If not, don't worry - your experience in Korea will compensate.

- I'm in BC teaching in the public school system and there are a LOT of Korean students here. Every school district is trying to attract Korean students. Of course, you can't teach in the public school system without a teaching qualification. However, these students spend a significant amount of time studying English after school and on the weekends. In BC, at least, it's very good to have teaching experience with Korean students.

- The Service Canada - Job Bank is a good starting place for your job search.

- Wages can vary wildly in Vancouver thanks to the large number of university students willing to work in the business. Entry-level positions could pay anywhere from $12/hr to $25/hr. Often, the wages are negotiable so have in mind a wage that matches your qualifications and experience - then hold out for it.

- Look to improve your qualifications if you plan to make a career of English language teaching. Always be thinking of your next step - for example, take some linguistics courses, get a masters degree, specialize in a certain age group, get a public school teaching certificate, get a DELTA, join a professional organization, etc...

[frasertyxx]

Do English language schools hire English Canadians to teach in the province of Quebec?
What are the ESL prospects there anyway?