Korean Job Discussion Forums

[oldfatfarang]

I ws recently 'offered' a contract to work at an 'intensive' summer vacation camp run by a DOE district. I used 'offered' loosely - in fact, many teachers have been coersed into doing this camp.

The camp contract had several major points of contention.

First, there are no sick leave provisions (paid or not). We were told that we'd be covered by the medical insurance we pay in existing PUBLIC contracts. But can an existing contract be used when you sign another contract with a district office under the umbrella of your existing employer???????

Second, If a teacher resigns during the camp, they are not paid for ANY work or attendance. The contract was full of provisions about written and verbal warnings - terminations etc.

Third, we are to attend 24 hours a day - 7 days a week - for 3 weeks. Teachers aren't allowed to leave the camp at weekends.

There is not scheduled 'alone' time. You have to share a room with your Western co-teacher.

Fourth, net pay is very low - 72,000 a 24 hour day (for 19 straight days). All payment is taxable. This works out at about 3,000 won an hour (on top of regular salary). But regular salary is paid if you just sit on your butt at school and don't work camp.

Fifth, we are promised an extra 5 days paid annual leave for working the camp. But working camp we lose 4 days (2 weekends). In my opinion we are therefore only getting 1 days extra leave.

Sixth, there are no hours stipulated in the contract. It just stipulates TIME, e.g., the period of employment shall be (start date ) to (finish date). Theoretically, we can be made to teach all day and at night - and will be fired for not doing so. The current schedule is determined on ALL slots being filled by teachers - and ALL teachers attending (and staying) at the camp (not likely).

I'd appreciate any advice on this type of contract. I have no experience with camps. It sounds like we are being abused here because we don't have the ability to say no when our employer (DOE) says it's mandatory.

[lowpo]

[ttompatz]

[oldfatfarang]

Just checked my contract. It says I must do 'conversation classes at summer and winter camps'. And the all inclusive nasty: 'other duties as directed by the .......'.


Jeez, when I came to Korea to teach English I never dreamed I'd be using my university education, work and business experience, and language teaching qualifications to tell bedtime stories to middle schoolers (part of camp duties).
What are these clowns thinking? No wonder experienced teachers don't re-sign.

[yingwenlaoshi]

Sounds like hell. They have to pay you hourly for the classes and can't expect you to be available 24 hours/day. There has to be a set schedule within a certain time frame. Shared accomodations isn't acceptable. Not being able to go anywhere is the same as prison.

Tell them to fk off.

[The_Conservative]

[The_Conservative]