How To Spot a TEFL Scam

03/13/2012

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  Being scammed is the number one concern for our students and prospects. Even those who traveled to Thailand said they half expected no-one to be there when they arrived at the training center or hotel!!

 It's certainly normal to be skeptical these days, especially with so much bad publicity about online rip-offs, but is this deep rooted fear really justified? I have never actually heard of any TEFL scam in over 10 years! I mean where someone takes the money and runs away without providing any service. It's pretty difficult these days to get in front of potential customers with just a website and zero marketing investment. It costs a FORTUNE to advertise online these days, even now on Facebook, and only serious bidders are able to do this.

 The same applies to cowboy operations but the great thing about people leaving feedback on Facebook, it can force dodgy training organizations out of business.

 The truth is, any dodgy TEFL provider will be hard to spot at first, but here are "5 Things You MUST Check" to ensure you are dealing with a reputable TEFL organization.

1. Make all payments via PayPal or your Credit Card. This way your money is secure and you are guaranteed to get it back should the organization disappear or go out of business. PayPal offers you the best protection for making online payments.

2. Make sure the TEFL/TESOL course is moderated or accredited by one of three global organizations; Cambridge ESOL, Trinity College or the World TEFL Association. 

3. Join the company's Facebook page and speak to previous customers.

4. Make sure the organization has at least 10 or more lengthy testimonials on their website. 2-3 short testimonials cannot be trusted.

5. Make sure you have the organization's office address and phone number. When you call, does anyone answer the phone? Can they speak English? You would be surprised! This gives you a sense of how responsive they will be whenever you need assistance.

So do some research and relax. You have much, more to gain by being adventurous than staying at home! Start here now>
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The Most Common Jobs in EFL Teaching in Thailand - Working Hours, Rates of Pay, Class Sizes

06/09/2011

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We consistently get asked about what kind of teaching jobs are available in Thailand. The truth is that although there is quite a variety of work, there are only two main categories that make up the bulk of the available teaching jobs in Thailand.

It's not uncommon for a new TEFL graduates to get chatty with a hotel receptionist and end up teaching the backroom admin staff 2-4 hours per week! Teaching opportunities are everywhere in Thailand but most people usually end up in a Government or Private language school.

Government Schools:
In these schools you are directly working for a Thai Government school. With the exception of those that run English programs, you can expect to be teaching very large class sizes (40-60 students). This can prove very daunting for new teachers because most Thai Government schools do not have any Western management and many teachers can often feel under supported. This can vary from school to school.

The teaching hours are often quite ideal. They are your typical 40 hour work week, with the day starting with a flag raising ceremony at 8:00 and your day ending at 4:00. The holidays are quite good as the students are no t in school for approx. 3 months of the year.

The age range of the students varies depending if you are working in a High School (Mathyom) or an Elementary School (Prathom) or a Kindergarten (Anuban).

The average pay for Government Schools (variable depending on location) is approx. 30,000 – 40,000 Baht. You can expect higher pay if you have more experience.

Summary:
Pros: Many holidays,  good pay,  good hours.
Cons: Communication with senior staff can be an issue, rarely support with housing (allowance generally given), general lack of support, too many students in class.

Private Language Schools:
These Language Schools are addressing the continually growing desire of Thai parents to have their children speak fluent English. Language schools hold classes after school classes and at the weekend. They often have a wide variety of clients ranging from kindergarten to adults, basically giving extra lessons to anyone who is interested in learning more English.

These schools have much smaller class sizes than most government schools. where the class sizes are  4 to 12 depending on how many turn up. You will also have your fair number of 1 on 1 lessons. This can result in a real feeling of accomplishment for a teacher as you have the opportunity to see dramatic improvement in your students.

Some private language schools also serve as feeder schools for government schools and the teachers are contracted out. This can result in a split shift, with teachers working both morning and evening classes. The hours can be less than ideal.

The average wage for private language school teachers in Bangkok is 30,000-45,000, depending on hours worked, and less in other parts if Thailand.

Language schools tend to have Western, English speaking management and offer a lot of support. Many times they will provide you with housing and generally provide a ‘staff team’ atmosphere. For first time teachers this can prove to be the best option for your first year.

Summary:
Pros: Lots of support, wide variety of students, housing, smaller class sizes, western management,
Cons: Split shifts, Evening and Weekend work.

This is a basic overview of the most common jobs available in Thailand. Hopefully it can help you decide which kinds of jobs you would prefer to apply for!!
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