Job Discussion Forums

[Iwantcoffee]

Hi there,

I'm interested in teaching English in Europe and Asia, with a particular interest in Germany, Korea, Japan, and China. I was wondering where my best options for employment would be, and what I could realistically expect to earn.

Firstly, I'm female, 24, a native English speaker and a dual German/South Africa citizen who attended high school in the UK. I currently reside as a permanent resident in the US.

Secondly, I don't have a Bachalor's Degree, although I do have an Associates Degree in Business, and 5 years experience of teaching/working with kids.

Thridly, my experience is not the norm. I've taught at a Science Museum performing interactive demonstrations for attendees of all ages. Currently I'm teaching at a Challenger Center for Space Science Education. We simulate NASA missions for school groups, covering 3rd-12th grade state science curriculum requirements.

So far my experiences in teaching have all been alternative (in the sense that it's not in a formal classroom setting), interactive, and with an emphasis on hands-on learning. I'm a huge fan of these methods of teaching, but am open to expanding my horizons. Also, although I've only taught science so far, I'm confident I can teach English based on my life experiences of grown up in three very different English speaking countries, and having to learn the nuances of each dialet.

So knowing all of the above, where would you suggest I teach and why?

Thanks and Kind Regards =D

[Glenski]

Being German allows you a chance to get a working holiday visa for Japan. With that, you an work a full year before you have to leave or get another type of visa. WHVs let you work at almost anything, not just teaching. You will have to pay 20% taxes, though.

Although English is a major language for South Africans, this fact is often not recognized by many Japanese employers, who seem to think that the only native English speakers in the world come from Australia, Canada, the US, the UK, and New Zealand. Be mentally prepared to deal with that.

Your alternative teaching is just that--alternative. It's some form of teaching, so don't leave it out of a resume or cover letter, but understand that people who are experience in EFL/ESL will be perceived as more experienced in the game. It's up to you to describe how your experience is useful in EFL.

You have not mentioned a timeline. When do you want to start work? The major hiring season in Japan is over, and the JET programme doesn't take applications until end of the year (and you'll have to interview in your home country) for start dates in the following August.

You're qualified for entry level work in Japan; that is, you can apply for ALT jobs and conversation school (eikaiwa) instructor. There's an outside chance that you might also try business English schools, too.

[tttompatz]

Korea is off the table without a Bachelors degree.

You will need a CELTA (or other RECOGNIZED TESOL cert) to work in Germany as a teacher (but you won't have visa problems) if you get your German passport.

The northern and western (rural) provinces in China will consider you with an Associates. You won't find work in the south, on the east coast or Beijing without at least a BA.

Japan has already been covered.

With less than a BA you can expect bottom dollar in china (3000-5000rmb + housing and possibly airfare allowance at the end of your contract).

You will get minimum wage in Germany IF you can find a position.

[naturegirl321]

China, you might be able to teach without a degree. Korea has the talk.go.kr programme that would work

But bite the bullet and get the BA, it'll help in the long run.