Korean Job Discussion Forums

[alistaircandlin]

Hi,

I've copied my post below from another thread, on international schools, because I thought that some people might not read it there. I'd appreciate any advice, and wanted to post my question on a separate thread, with a specific title.

I'm thinking about applying for international schools this year, or more likely for starting in September 2012.

I wonder if anyone here works at an international school in Seoul, or anywhere in Korea. If you do, or have done - what was your experience of working there like? Would you have any advice for applications or interviews?

I'm qualified to teach English in UK schools from age 11-18. I have a professional teaching qualification, a CELTA, and two degrees in English Lit. I've got three years' experience in ESL teaching in Korea, and two years' experience teaching the English curriculum in a UK secondary school. Since September 2010, I've been back in Seoul, and teaching at a public school.

My students in England were aged 11-18, and predominantly native speakers, although we did have quite a high percentage of second language students. One of my Year 11 classes last year was about 40% EAL students. (English as an Additional Language). So I do have experience teaching the British curriculum to second language speakers.

One question for me is whether I'd be able to work in an American school - or teach a curriculum other than the UK one. I would love to teach another country's curriculum, and get experience working in an American school, but what I really mean is whether I'd be able to get a job. I would not be happy applying to a school that puts Christianity at the centre of their curriculum, so I feel my choices in Korea might be limited. There are a few British schools here - but vacancies are not massively frequent.

My reasons for wanted to change are: to teach my subject in more depth - I'm particularly interesting in Literature; for the experience of working in an different working environment, with teachers and students from different countries; for the longer holidays; and - hopefully - for the higher salary.

Thanks in advance for any useful advice - it is appreciated.

[Bruce W Sims]

Have you also checked-out government sponsored schools. In my case I could approach the US government schools attached to military bases. The students could be resident dependents or perhaps even military personnel. Or, did you want to stick with a civilian population? Thoughts?

Best Wishes,

Bruce

[warmachinenkorea]

Sounds like you're qualified for International schools. Most international schools are faith based but that's your choice to make. I'm sure if you display knowledge about U.S curriculum and "American style" of education they would give you a shot. It can't hurt to apply.

I think you have to be a US citizen to teach for the DODEA like the other poster recommended.

Good luck.

[alistaircandlin]

Thanks guys. i'll check out the government sponsored schools. Not sure if you do need to be a US citizen - I vaguely remember that an old friend of my dad's started his teaching career working in American schools on military bases in German - back in the 70s I guess. You might be right though - I'm not sure.