Korean Job Discussion Forums

[judoka]

I am new in this forum and have done a search for answers but didn't get much. As I was not hired for a job in HK, I am now focusing on Korea.

My goal will be to work for SMOE and maybe stay long term. Will a multiple subject teaching credential (PGCE is the UK equivalent I believe) that is for elementary schools be worth getting before I go? I now have the chance to get this done but wont if it wont help me. And correct me if I am wrong but would a single subject English teaching credential look better and more valuable or are they seen sort of as the same thing--a teaching credential? If the single subject English one is better, is the multiple subject one still worth getting?

I also know that a master's in English or applied linguistics helps with getting a college teaching job, but does a master's also look better and earn more money when compared to a teaching credential when working for SMOE or GEPIK?

Last question. I also did a search on this and came up short. Is there a difference between applying directly with SMOE or using a recruiter? I don't think there is a difference but want to make sure.

Oh, and I also think Korea is like Japan in that they prefer younger teachers, so is 35 still young enough to not have any problems? And do they seem to prefer the blonde hair blue eyes type like they do in China?

[andrewchon]

1. In general, it's better to be multi-skilled even if it won't pay in short term.
It'll be useful in international schools and some hagwons. Otherwise, multi subject or just English doesn't make much difference in PS or hagwon teaching.
2. Masters gives you couple of hundred bucks more a month in PS jobs.
In this era of 'cheap and cheerful', it may work against you (especially if you don't have teaching experience)
3. No difference really. Recruiter may try to steer you to a hagwon job.
4. You're correct. Koreans prefer nambyfems.

[judoka]

Thanks a lot. But what is a nambyfem?

[judoka]

To add to my inquiry, for a teaching credential in California, it has to be cleared( renewed)or it will expire within 5 years. I am wondering if the same holds true with the PGCE or the equivalent in Canada and others, where your teaching license expires. Also, do the Koreans even care about this? I think there might be a notation on the California teaching credential paper with the expiration date. I believe once it is cleared (renewed), it never expires again.