Korean Job Discussion Forums

[jkelly80]

I was just wondering if someone could explain what the deal is with summer and winter camps, specifically for SMOE. I've seen a lot of people allude to what the situations are, but usually re EPIK and GEPIK, not for Seoul.

I'm wondering if:
1. They're mandatory? And if so, how many hours per day/days per week/weeks in all?
2. They're delineated ahead of time, in the contract?
3. Do you get paid overtime? If so, how much?

Sorry if this has been covered (I'm sure there are nuggets of info betwixt the endless flaming) but the search function is rather lacking.

Any info is appreciated.

[Snowkr]

I work for GEPIK but was offered a position with SMOE.

I think your camp situation depends on whether you're with elementary, middle or high school.

From everything I've understood, the camps are mandatory... however, not always bad. Again, I'm sure it depends on the school and the organization of the whole thing.

I'm looking forward to mine, but I teach high school. We do 2 hour lessons per day for a week or two, or something like that.

You couldn't pay me enough to work in an elementary school here and stay overnight to help supervise 8- 12 year olds. Just shoot me now...

It seems to me that there was a thread on SMOE camps a few months ago. It was very instrumental in my decision not to work for SMOE.
If I can find it, I'll post the link!

[Bibbitybop]

You are expected/required to do camps, one in the summer, one in the winter. One of the camps will probably be a district camp. You sleep away from home during these. You can refuse to do them, but it may cause some tension and you miss out on the benefits (see below). You will still have to do a camp at your school, or at another school.

District camp benefits: An extra 70,000 won or so per day, more on the weekends. 5 bonus vacation days (though these really just replace your missed weekends. They can be fun, or a nightmare, depending upon the district. You are not in charge of the students and will probably sleep in a separate building. You are only in charge of your own classes and activities. You get to know some cool kids and get to watch them learn since they are there by choice, or parental force.

District camp cons: You are there for 2-3 weeks including weekends and probably won't see your home. Many people do leave at night, though, and go out when they aren't teaching. You could be in BFE with nothing to do, so pray there is an Internet connection and bring a computer.


School camps happen in Seoul, so you get to stay at your home. You get no extra pay or vacation, but most likely you will do the camp for 3-4 hours a day, M-F for 3 weeks, and go home when it's finished.

[jkelly80]

Thanks all for the info. I'm applying for the SMOE spring semester so I'm just trying to figure out what to expect.