Job Discussion Forums

[rippery]

I am 23, Bachelor of Computer Science (from Auckland uni of Technology, New Zealand), will have 1 year of full time teaching English experience by the time I go and already have 2 years of part-time teaching experience (Maths and English). I want to work in Thailand... I saw in many posts that with a degree it's easier to find a teaching job (any job?), but it isn't specified which degree... (first question) Is Computer Science ok? I am also soon getting Cambridge's Teaching Knowledge Test Certificate and want to get CELTA. (second question) When is the best time to go? And how much $$ should I have with me?

I actually want to immigrate there permanently if it will be possible. Additional info: English is my second language and my passport is from Kazakhstan.

[tttompatz]

[rippery]

[Eagle Eyes]

Thailand is a great place to start your TEFL career....for both Native and Non-Native English speakers. Once you get your TEFL certificate expect to earn anywhere between Baht 30,000- Baht 40,000 Monthly at English language institutes in Bangkok and upcountry. With your computer science degree you can also possibly teach computer subjects in English albeit at both government and private schools .Remember that Thailand is a very humid and hot country most of the year so if you like this kind of weather you will enjoy living here. Best of luck!

[rippery]

[plumpy nut]

Bangkok is the hottest capital in the world. It's not just the temperature, it's the heat content in the atmosphere. However if you don't mind the heat then go right ahead and come. Another problem is I get the impression it's going to flood again. That might put a wrench in your teaching opportunities. It was 41degC with very high humidity just a couple of days ago.

[MaiPenRai]

[Scott R]

Hopefully no more floods. That was not fun walking through waist deep sewage water.

[Eagle Eyes]

Actually if you really like the steamy, tropical heat there is no place like Bangkok to experience it. You can get really hot here from the weather, the food and especially the tropical sun. Thais love hot, spicy food in general so be prepared when you eat you will most likely perspire too in the heat. Many of the classrooms you will teach in government and private schools are hot too...no a/c just a ceiling fan or two too cool you down in the summer months from March to May when the heat index in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces can soar to about 50 degrees celcius! Good luck!

[tttompatz]

[rippery]

Thanks everyone for answers

I have another questions about degree paper itself: do I have to bring original or can I bring good photocopy (can do notarized) ?
(The reason I'm asking this is because the paper itself is size A2, I have no idea how I am going to transport it in my backpack without messing it up..)
Perhaps this is silly question.. but still.

[tttompatz]

[Eagle Eyes]

When coming to Thailand bring ALL your original degrees, certificates, and documentation. Immigration wants to see everything. They are very strict when it comes to teaching English in Thailand now...mainly because there are thousands of EFL teachers here on the ground teaching English. The paperwork and documentation you will need is endless...be prepared for a lot of work to do and time needed to get your work visa. Also regarding the weather it is steamy hot and humid for about 9 months a year...the dry season lasts about 3 months and it is still hot with temperatures usually in the 90's Farenheit during the daytime hours. Also if you teach in Bangkok and/or CHiang Mai note the air pollution levels)are very high combined with dust levels as well as vehicle emissions due to the chaotic traffic jams. Good luck in your search!

[rippery]