Job Discussion Forums

[gramps]

My partner and I are planning on teaching in Istanbul for a year and we have some questions. We both have degrees, Hers is in law and I have a diploma and a degree in fine art. I have also taught English in Thailand for six months (filling in the end of a contract that someone had broken). I also teach art classes privately from home as well as at art centres.
At the moment our plan is to do a year in Turkey and see where the wind takes us next.

We are looking at doing a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA course and would like some advice on which is likely (if any) to land us legal work in Istanbul.

Is this even possible?

With our qualifications will we have to do the full 'in class' courses or will the 'online' courses be looked at the same way by the Turkish education ministry?

My experience in Thailand was a deeply gratifying one. I didn't earn much money but I had enough to live comfortably and do weekend trips around the country and save a small amount. Is this possible (likely) in Istanbul?

Is it easier, with the cost of living, to teach outside of Istanbul?

If yes, any suggestions?

We will be looking from early next year, is this a time when we are likely to find work?

I know this is a lot of questions but the most consistent piece of advice I have read is to do lots of research.

[fishmb]

I can't answer most of your questions, but I do know that if you don't have "English" in your degree you'll need some sort of TESOL/CELTA to get a work visa. I know it doesn't make since, but there it is. A degree an English Literature could get you a work visa, but not a degree in Politics, Philosophy, History.

Therefore, you'll need some sort of certification to work there legally, I'm not sure how much quality matters so I'll leave the rest of your questions to people who know more.

[TeachEnglish]

I have known people with an online TEFL certificate that got a work visa through their employer. The TEFL and a 4-year degree is usually enough to work here legally. Good luck

oh... and by the way.. the employer is supposed to get the work permit for you.

[gramps]

Thanks Teachenglish, The 4 week course in Australia (where I'm based) looks the go but my girlfriend is going to struggle finding 4 weeks straight to study.

[TeachEnglish]

Try an online TEFL.. maybe it will work better for her. Good luck