Job Discussion Forums

[Cathy OB]

Hi, is ILA reputable, and is it a good place to start work in Vietnam? Thanks

[drandreasbrown]

I've worked in ESL for about 5 years and I would say ILA pretty reliable. It's fairly standard for large private ESL schools, but I would put it at the better end of the spectrum- they pay you on time, sort out your visa, give regular professional reviews and the schools are pretty well resourced. I would describe it as a safe bet, and a good place to work especially if you're fairly new to ESL teaching. I'm leaving after my first contract, but that's not so much to do with the school as the city.

[csleeper]

In my opinion it is a very reputable school. I worked there for a year and a half and had an amazing time. It was my first ESL job out of CELTA and it is definitely a great school to start at. They give you a lot of support and professional development. The curriculum is structured, but you still have the opportunity to use your own ideas in the classroom.

It is probably one of the most well organized language schools in the country as far as scheduling, resources, visas, work permits, and teacher salaries.

I think one of the biggest critiques is that ILA is a Business first and School second. I can't say I entirely agree with this, but if you can get over the idea of "working for the man" you'll have a great time.

I worked at the Vung Tau branch which is on the smaller side. If you are a particularly sensitive female I advise you to do some research on the city before you head there. I have friends who work in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi and they all seem to share my opinion as far as working at ILA goes.