Teaching English in China – Harbin

Published: 11 October, 2018  |  Last updated: 12 October, 2018

Teaching English in Harbin, China

 

Report submitted on 20 Oct, 2017 by Paula K.

Teaching English in Harbin, China:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Harbin, China?
Dave’s ESL Cafe
eChinacities.com

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Full time English language school positions, part time English language school positions, teaching at kindergartens / pre-schools, teaching at state schools, teaching at private international schools, teaching at colleges / universities, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.), Volunteering for non-profits or for-profits catering to low-income university students, such as Brian English.

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Generally, a native speaker from one of the big six: USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.
Uni and HS jobs require Bachelor’s degree, TESOL certificate and experience.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Experience. You can volunteer in the states to teach ESL to get experience. I recommend a hand-on TESOL program, like Will-Excel TESOL in Harbin, a Canadian run, 150-hour excellent program. It’s really comprehensive and includes the TPR and communicative approach methodologies. It’s a month-long seminar, and after 500 hours of evaluated teaching, you’ll get a diploma in TESOL!
Also, a real passion for the culture is essential. You’ll have more friends than you can imagine!

What are the levels of payment?
Uni is really cheap at about 5000 RMB (approx. 724 US$) per month, 5500 (approx. 796 US$)with a master’s degree.
Language schools start at about 6000 (approx. 868 US$) per month and go up to about 13,000 (approx. 1881 US$).
Int’l K-gartens go upwards of 20k (approx. 2894 US$), depending. But these require you to be onsite 40-hrs per week and teach maybe 30 classes.
I work at a public high school and make 16k (approx. 2315 US$)with a housing allowance of 1500 (approx. 217 US$)which covers my rent. I work 14 class periods and have free time for private students, 8 of which are my co-worker’s children.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4-5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
20 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Depends where you work. I have Jan/Feb free, paid half salary during these times. I also have half salary for the months of July and August, which again, I have free.
Language schools vary, but typically hold classes all but the governmental days free. February, spring festival, is a week long event and often vacation days for language school teachers.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Harbin, China to teach English?
Be healthy – don’t have asthma as we hit the #1 most polluted city in the world sometimes. Over 1000 on the AQI. This is due to the heating systems and usually only lasts a few days per year. The city burns coal to heat homes…
Electricity is about 15 rmb (approx. 2,17 US$) per month, and I cook everyday!
Don’t be sickened by foul odors, because you’ll smell the WCs and garbage periodically! Also, there are some fruits and foods that just smell, well, yucky.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Harbin, China?
Feel appreciated for doing a great job!
Build confidence!
Get exposure to all facets of teaching: TOEFL, IELTS, adults, kids, uni students, high school students…everything.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Harbin, China?
Students have learned the F*** and SH** words and like to use them in class. (This happened only once…so make it part of your first day rules!)
Class sizes are unusually huge, like 62 in my largest class. This varies according to type of school.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
You’ll get used to the common pronunciation errors, though over the years I’m finding the general population has gotten much better at pronunciation. I believe this is due to early childhood exposure to English.
You will have too many offers to teach independents. Don’t undervalue yourself and don’t accept them all…you will need your free time to enjoy the city/country!
Students attend high school from 7 am to 10:30 pm Mon through Fri and keeping them awake is often a challenge. Use activities and games to get them up!

 

Living in Harbin, China:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in China?
Oh yes! It’s an ever changing, tedious process. Don’t let anyone tell you to come over on a tourist (L) visa! It must be a business (F, but I believe this has or is changing) or teaching (Z) visa. Then the school turns that into a resident permit. In this initial phase of the process you will receive a foreign expert’s certificate. Be sure to take possession of this document, as the school cannot cancel your resident permit without it. Sometimes when you want to change schools the foreign exp certificate is lost!
Follow all the requirements: these change often and are inclusive of having your bachelor’s degree notarized BY THE CHINESE EMBASSY, getting a criminal history report and providing a health check certificate from you doctor which includes some odd tests and the doctor to stamp and initial each page of the report. Like I said, a little tedious.
The good news is, once you jump through all those hoops, it’s easy to turn your visa (which is actually a resident permit) over for another year.

What is the cost of living like in China?
CHEAP!! You can find spendy apartments (3500-7500 rmb (approx. 506 US$-1085 US$) per month) but these are new and in gated communities with a view. I have an apt for 1500 per  (approx. 217 US$) month and it’s a walk-up 5 flights. It’s in a great neighborhood with a night market (meat, vegetables and fruit) on my path to and from school! A head of beautiful and fresh broccoli is 4 rmb (approx. 0,60 US$)…
You can find street food for cheap, too, though I cannot eat MSG so don’t. MSG is everywhere…I cook for myself and still save tons of cash each month. And I buy organic meat at Home Park grocery.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Uni provides a nice dorm on campus. Language schools offer free accommodations or a housing allowance. People will help you find a place. They’re super friendly in the north! Generally the housing issue is covered in the ad.
It’s also a good idea to talk about it in the interview.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Harbin, China?
SHOPPING!!!
High-speed trains!
Learn Chinese!
It’s SAFE. No one (save for the armored car drivers) has a gun.
Banks are open seven days a week!
Taobao shopping is amazing!
Bargaining!
Beer is cheap – about 4 rmb (approx. 0,60 US$) for a magnum of the local Harbin or Snow beer.
We have an IKEA store. And Metro for western products.               Meet friends!
See China!
Meet friends!

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, China?
China is dirty.
Harbin is 300 miles (as the crow flies) from DPNK.
Harbin has two seasons, winter and summer. It’s fall and spring for about five minutes.
Winter is seriously cold; cold enough to play host to the Harbin Ice & Snow festival since 1985. It’s an amazing thing: the workers pull chunks of ice from the Songhua River and haul them to Sun Island where competitors assemble them (including a lighting system within each and every single block) to build ice sculptures.
Yeah, mighty cold. Sometimes as low as minus 30 degrees F!
Food safety is an issue, as is pollution, but they’re working on it! It’s not nearly as bad now as is has been in the past.
Students talk during performances. It’s just part of the culture, as is picking their nose in front of you and belching, farting. But don’t pick your teeth in front of them!
Stores close early, as do many things.
There are lots of fake goods out there, so shop wisely and carefully.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Harbin, China?
Research your area and school. I’ve had many different jobs here and have never had visa problems or been unpaid. Well, once I was not paid for a month, but it was partly my own fault…communication misconception.
Don’t sign on for more than one year until you’ve checked out the school and your coworkers, students, etc. You may end up in a district way the heck outta town and feel isolated from the goings on elsewhere!

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
TV/movies. There are a handful of films in English, so I don’t get to be too choosy.
I miss Taco Bell and gluten-free beer!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave China?
Friends and the insanely cheap massages!

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
You can pretty much get whatever you want these days, though I don’t recommend coming and thinking you’ll get a prescription filled. I take thyroid medicine, and in China it’s in a box and I have to CUT IT to the correct dose. This is difficult to do because it’s a tiny pill to begin with…ugh. I bring enough for a year.
Same with aspirin-like products and vitamins. If you’re fussy, bring enough for a year.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Paula K

Nationality: American

Students I’ve taught in China: babies (0-2 years), toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults.

Where I teach: #1 Experimental High School of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, HLJ People’s Republic of China. Teaching for 4 years.

How I found my current jobs: Dave’s ESL cafe website. Great reference and job boards!
 

My school facilities: Adequate. Broken podiums.
Chalkboards and chalk, not white boards.
One computer in room.
Crowded rooms.
SMELLY WCs
No hot water for hand-washing

 

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Teaching English in Austria – Sankt Anna am Aigen

Published: 11 October, 2018  |  Last updated: 12 October, 2018

Teaching English in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria

 

Report submitted on 20 Sep, 2017 by Rebecca Summers.

Teaching English in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria?
Difficult unless native English teacher with good German.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, teaching at kindergartens / pre-schools, teaching at private international schools

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Fully qualified and experienced Teacher. Native English Speaker. Prefer TEFL qualification or proof of course.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Experience and enthusiasm. Seek out employment.

What are the levels of payment?
Not good.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
Four days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
Eight hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Unpaid.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria to teach English?
Do. The Austrian people are welcoming and it is a lovely place to live and work.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria?
Enthusiasm of both pupils and teachers.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria?
Need for good German to interact with other teaching staff.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
From secondary level Austria has very good English teaching already in place and although they like native speakers they are not a necessity.

 

Living in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in Austria?
None unless Brexit raises any.

What is the cost of living like in Austria?
Quite expensive.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
In cities easy to rent, more difficult in the countryside.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria?
The location, the people and the country as a whole.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, Austria?
Language differences. Although their standard of English is good, the older people prefer not to speak it.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Sankt Anna am Aigen, Austria?
Give it a go. Its fun and welcoming.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Tetley tea bags, marmite and bacon.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Austria?
Just about everything.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
From their home country?
Tea bags, marmite, and make sure you go somewhere with a good internet connection. Essential.

Any other comments (about teaching or living in Austria)?
Austria is a beautiful, diverse country and the people, especially those in the south are very welcoming.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Rebecca Summers

Nationality: English

Students I’ve taught in Austria: toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years)

Where I teach: Kindergarten. First School in two different towns. Teaching for 1 year.

How I found my current jobs: Word of mouth; talking to local mothers of children at the schools.
 

My school facilities: Very good. Clean, pleasant and happy environment. Well resourced with good technological access.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: peer support / training

 

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Teaching English in Spain – Madrid

Published: 11 October, 2018  |  Last updated: 12 October, 2018

Teaching English in Madrid, Spain

Report submitted on 26 Feb, 2017 by Elizabeth.

Teaching English in Madrid, Spain:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Madrid, Spain?
Websites such as Lingobongo http://www.lingobongo.com/madrid/es/ or https://www.tusclasesparticulares.com/ help teachers find full time work or fill in free slots with one to one classes.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at state schools, teaching at companies, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)
There are auxiliary teacher programs- so you can apply through the state organizations such as https://www.ecmadrid.org/en/language-assistant.

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
You can come over with no qualifications and no experience, but you really need a TEFL certificate to get your foot in the door.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
They are quite fussy about hiring native teachers, a school will train someone up to their teaching methods if you show potential, are a good communicator etc.
Brush up on the Cambridge exams – PET, FIRST and advanced, Spanish workers need to obtain these certificates in order to get get a job or even to get int university.

What are the levels of payment?
20 – 25 € (approx. 23 – 29 US$) per hour you can charge less for conversation only classes.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
If you come on a student visa 4 usually the limit. If you are from the EU 5 is average days per week

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
16-30 hours per week

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
It depends, if you work in a school you have all the school holidays free and they should pay you, private academies probably will try to get away without paying you holiday or ‘finiquito’ which is the money they have to pay at the end of a contract.
https://www.boe.es/diario_boe/txt.php?id=BOE-A-2011-7679
The link above is a workers collective agreement which ESL teachers fall under.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Madrid, Spain to teach English?
Have a bit of money saved up, get connected to the ESL network on facebook, try language exchanges, make friends and enjoy the sunny weather 🙂

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Madrid, Spain?
The weather.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Madrid, Spain?
If you want to stay here long term, it is difficult to find stable work and a company that will both respect your workers’ rights and pay decent money. It is expensive to employ workers in Spain – you may find that you get a lot of cash in hand jobs, which sounds good in the short term but in the long term if you find you need to claim sick benefits or maternity allowance you may be in trouble.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Adults – very bad classes as children, they have terrible mistakes imprinted in their brains.
Children – behaviour – they can be rowdy.

 

Living in Madrid, Spain:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in Spain?
Teachers from EU member states have no problem, other nationalities require a visa, and the process can be bureaucratic.

What is the cost of living like in Spain?
The average monthly salary for a Spaniard who is lucky enough to have a job is 800€ish (approx. 926 US$) . You are likely to earn 1200 (approx. 1390 US$) or more. Food shopping is cheap enough, and having breakfast in a cafe in the mornings is the norm (4 euro (approx. 4,60 US$) for coffee and toast).

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Rent in Madrid is expensive depending on area, I pay 900  (approx. 1041 US$) for a 3 bedroomed flat in the city centre. Most ESL teachers chose to rent a room for about 400 euro  (approx. 463 US$), bills included.
If you buy a house in Spain you get an automatic visa, but I’m sure if you want to work teaching English that is not going to be your case.
This is a link for an estate agency:
http://www.fotocasa.es/es/comprar/casas/madrid-capital/todas-las-zonas/l?OrigenVisita=2&link=32121&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=g_generico_madrid&xtor=SEC-88-GOO-[Genericos_Localizacion]-[madrid]-S-[casas%20madrid]&xts=470361&gclid=Cj0KEQjwzd3GBRDks7SYuNHi3JEBEiQAIm6EI7fOi4P9HEtvJqO4pZ6ZUoEH8yT7D2d09q-gT9W06z0aAiEl8P8HAQ&utm_medium=cpc

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Madrid, Spain?
The weather, public transport is good.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, Spain?
Pollution level in the city is unbelievable.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Madrid, Spain?
Save up, get a TEFL qualification, get connected before you come, do some skype interviews with local private schools.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Baked beans, marmite, salt and vinegar crisps and fish and chips.
When I first came here I would have said decent telly, but now with netflix etc that’s not a problem.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Spain?
Access to theatres, spas, airport – all really close by. Madrid is a small but very compact city – there is so much to do!

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
A few food items are difficult to get hold of, maybe phones are cheaper back at home and more modern.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Elizabeth

Nationality: UK

Students I’ve taught in Spain: babies (0-2 years), toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults, business, other

Where I teach: … Teaching for 10 years.

How I found my current jobs: I’m self employed, I find my clients on lingobongo and tusclasesparticulares.com
 

My school facilities: Excellent. There is a lot of investment in English on a national level at the moment.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: training / workshops, lesson observations, teacher evaluations, peer support / training

Links: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbpq7yrnc1srx6viXaO9qOw        https://eslteachingtips.blog/

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Teaching English in Thailand – Chumpon

Published: 08 October, 2018  |  Last updated: 06 January, 2020

Teaching English in Chumpon, Thailand

Report submitted on 23 Mar, 2017 by Teacher Ren.

Teaching English in Chumpon, Thailand:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Chumpon, Thailand?
In that area, looking for a teaching job is not that difficult. You may get the help of your co-teacher and ask them where are other schools hire foreign teacher. As an Fililpino english language teacher, you’ll be the next choice if they can’t find a caucasian teacher. The salary grade is next to the caucasian so it is not so low at all. In the school where taught, the local thai teacher received 10-18k thai baht (approx. 303 – 546 US$) , we with all the freebies, we had 20-25k thai baht (approx. 606 – 768 US$). Cost of living is not expensive. In fact, a decent house rent will get you 2-2.5k (approx. 61 – 76 US$) per month. But since you are teaching English so much is being expected, so you really have to return the favor efficiently.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Full time English language school positions, part time English language school positions, teaching at kindergartens / pre-schools, teaching at state schools, teaching at private international schools

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
The minimum teaching requirements are the following.
English degree in your country, licensure exams, experience and other certificates such as TESOL, TOFEL and modern approach in teaching like the use of laptops for powerpoint presentations. TOEIC now is being required for foreign teachers.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Degree in English, license teacher in your country, pretty decent teaching experience in english subjects, TESOL or TOFEL certifications and TOEIC.

What are the levels of payment?
When i was there it is per month. I received 25k thai baht (approx. 768 US$)inclusive of free lunch and board.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
Five teaching days a weak.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
6-7 hours face to face hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Same, as with local Thai teachers. If holiday, then foreign teachers are also holiday.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Chumpon, Thailand to teach English?
The advice, well, I would say, be ready. Make yourself be dedicated. Prove that you are worth to be kept and they are not paying you for less. Provide room for improvement credentially. Don’t speak Thai language. Make sure that English language is used in your daily encounters.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Chumpon, Thailand?
Well, Thai people are friendly and easy to accommodate with less the language barrier. Teaching English requires you to be patient, effective and sincere. They are paying high that in return they get what they paid for.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Chumpon, Thailand?
Boredom and transportation.

 

Living in Chumpon, Thailand:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in Thailand?
It is necessary to be Thailand legally to prevent future serious problems. Avoid working there under tourist visa. If the hiring agency is responsible to the working visa then have it documented.

What is the cost of living like in Thailand?
Low cost of living. If you are in the rural part, yes. But if you are in the city part, there is a difference. The teacher’s lifestyle dictates. But it general teaching in Thailand is not that too expensive.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
You can find accommodation anywhere. But normally, it is stated in your contract.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Chumpon, Thailand?
If you really appreciate the culture in Thailand, then i think they accept immigrants provided you meet the requirements.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, Thailand?
As far as my experience, no other negatives.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Chumpon, Thailand?
Learn the language. If you are in the school setting, speak English. If not it is highly advisable to learn the local language.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
The cost of living and fast internet.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Thailand?
the pupils and the fast internet

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Teacher Ren

Nationality: Filipino

Students I’ve taught in Thailand: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), adults

How I found my current jobs: Current teaching job is amazing.

My school facilities: Very good: The school has the teaching resources that can be used in aid of teaching.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: training / workshops, lesson observations, teacher evaluations, peer support / training

 

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Teaching English in France – Paris

Published: 06 March, 2017  |  Last updated: 06 March, 2017

Teaching English in Paris, France

France-Paris

Report submitted on 27 Feb, 2017 by Preeshymite.

Teaching English in Paris, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Paris, France?
Normally through the internet and expat websites and expat Facebook groups that share jobs around.

Or promoting yourself around Paris with flyers or French friends (if you have any!).

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.).

Business English through private school are very popular. Most young French are looking to learn English, but in particular all ages are desperate to learn Business English!

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Having a TEFL certificate is great, but being a native speaker/fluent of English or if you’ve grown up in an anglo-taxon country is generally enough to teach. However, if you want to teach in bilingual or international schools, a teaching (*sometimes* require from France) degree and fluency in French is necessary.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
To have ease and a less stressful experience teaching English in a foreign country, I highly recommend doing a TEFL course to get you into the mind frame of a teacher, the workload and expectations required of you. Especially if you’ve never taught before (like myself). It’s much more work than you think!

In France, you are likely to be asked to apply for a “Entrepreneur Status” so you can work as a sole trader for yourself and not an agency or school.

What are the levels of payment?
Generally you can charge between 25-40 (approx. 26 – 42 US$) euros an hour, depending on your experience of teaching and confidence to teach!

How many teaching days a week is normal?
Not too sure – you can work 5-6 hours a day if you like Monday – Friday days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
No idea, I don’t work a “normal” job hours per week

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Generally the school holidays are your holidays.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France to teach English?
Get a TEFL certificate and try and observe some classes in your home country. Either adults, teens or children. The more experience you have seeing how teaching is done, the less scared you’ll be when you arrive.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Paris, France?
If you don’t have a great level of French yet – your student will undoubtedly teach you some new things, naturally. So you benefit from each other and it’s fun learning about different cultures and exchanging cultural differences with your students. They want to know all about anglo-saxon culture!

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Paris, France?
It’s not a very secure job, and you can be out of pocket for a few weeks if it’s holidays. There are also lots of scummy jobs that exploit foreign people and they’re very sneaky (and nice) about trying to keep you in the job, so be aware of your rights in France!

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
The language barrier has been a little difficult so far, especially teaching children under 7, as classroom management get really tough if you can’t express yourself in their native language. But you’re here to teach them English and I believe speaking English should be the main focus, not explaining things in French. Although it requires a lot of patience!!

 

Living in Paris, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
As an Australian and being under 30 – France and Australia have a special visa for Australians: Working Holiday Visa which entitles you to live and work in France for up to 12 months.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Paris…well is Paris. It’s expensive regardless. Living IN Paris, meaning inside the “Périphérique” you’re looking at 500-800 (approx. 529 – 847 US$) euros a month in a shared apartment or 700-1000 (approx. 740 – 1058 US$) euros for a studio.

Food is reasonably priced in France. A Metro pass a month can range from 40-73 (42,50 – 77,50 US$) euros depending on the zones you need to travel, but some work places offer reductions on these too as well as give you restaurant tickets which you can use anywhere during lunch time and get 7 (approx. 7,40 US$) euros off your meal.

Depending on the arrondissement you go out to and hang at – a coffee can cost 5 (approx. 5,30 US$) euros (TOO EXPENSIVE) or 1-2 (approx. 1,10 – 2,10 US$) euros at others. Same goes with pints of beer!

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
I’m in a unique position as I live with my partners family, but most young people share or “coloc” as it’s called in France. If you can afford a studio – -mad props to you!

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Paris, France?
Paris is a very historical place, with amazing culture and great food. Everywhere you turn there is something new to discover and be in awe about.
But seriously…THE FOOD! *drools*

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
It’s Winter here at the moment….whilst in my home country of Australia, it’s the beautiful Summer…I miss the sun the most so so so much! The weather can really affect your mental health too, and being away from family and not sharing the same language can make you feel isolated – so make sure to learn French whilst your here!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France?
Learn French, connect with expats currently living in France, get a TEFL certificate, be ready for French Bureaucracy….it’s a nightmare sometimes and processes of things can take a long time (much longer than what I’m used to in Australia), get ready from an amazing culinary experience (be adventurous! and please don’t eat frogs legs…most Frenchies find this so unethical! Yes times do change) and finally don’t be afraid to make mistakes (especially whilst speaking French), it’s better to attempt speaking French first before you launch into English. The French appreciate it (even if they don’t show it, they really do), but if you don’t make the effort, they’ll be less inclined to help you 😛

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
THE SUNSHINE!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The transport system hahah the metro is amazing!
The food…mmmm boulangeries
The cheap wine and beer
The cultural / historical events/buildings and cinema
The sound of French being spoken everywhere of course!

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Surprisingly it’s easy to get Vegemite and Tim Tams these days….except they’re like 4 euros and under….pretty pricey but for a slice of home 🙂 it’s nothing.

I love Lemon Myrtle the scent and mixed in tea – it’s unlikely to find native Australian things like that here (obviously). Plus Australian items are super expensive here and are seen as a luxury item (hot thing to have)!

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Preeshymite

Nationality: Australian

Students I’ve taught in France: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults, business.

Where I teach: … Teaching for 2 months.

How I found my current jobs: Online, through English speaking expat groups.
 

My school facilities: Good. Classroom and teaching resources are good.

 

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Teaching English in France – Vasles

Published: 06 March, 2017  |  Last updated: 06 March, 2017

Teaching English in Vasles, France

Vasles-France

Report submitted on 24 Jan, 2017 by Josie.

Teaching English in Vasles, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Vasles, France?
It’s hard to get a foot in the door unless you have contacts or they come to you.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at kindergartens / pre-schools, teaching at private international schools, teaching at community centers, etc., private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.).

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Previous teaching experience, TEFL or in my case being a mum at the school!

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Speak French to a good level and be super patient, also have excellent grammar skills.

What are the levels of payment?
Outside of the towns and in rural areas the pay is low, about €15 (approx. 16 US$) per hour.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4.5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
15 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
School holidays are 2 week Oct, Feb, Apr and 2 months for summer.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Vasles, France to teach English?
Do not come to rural France unless you have contacts or a job offer. Stick to the cities or big towns as there are more opportunities.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Vasles, France?
Students are very enthusiastic and love learning about all things British.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Vasles, France?
The bureaucracy and paperwork and lack of teaching resources.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Most people around here have hardly left the region, let alone the country and have no idea what life is like outside France. They have very fixed stereotypes and can be very closed.

 

Living in Vasles, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
Not for Europeans, but non-EU need a visa or carte de sejour.

What is the cost of living like in France?
More expensive that the UK for most things other than fuel and wine.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Not sure as I am a permanent resident and own a house. I think renting is quite hard without a proof of income.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Vasles, France?
Beautiful countryside, great weather and a lovely relaxed upbringing for children with plenty of space and safety.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
There is NOTHING happening in the evening unless you meet up with friends at their house. Everything shuts by 9.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Vasles, France?
Think very carefully about what it is you want. If it is a career and nightlife, don’t bother.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Going out to a pub, or to see a show…in fact just going out in the evening.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The peace and quiet, space, empty roads, good food, wine etc.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Cheap stationary, teaching resources and a good range of clothes. French clothes are rubbish.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Josie

Nationality: English

Students I’ve taught in France: Toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), adults.

Where I teach: Ecole privée – Vasles. Teaching for 6 years.

How I found my current jobs: My children went to the school and the headmistress approached me and asked if I would be willing to set up English lessons.
 

My school facilities: Inadequate. There are no teaching resources provided, I have to find my own. We still have blackboards and no technology exists. Classrooms are very basic.

 

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Teaching English in Germany – Lübeck

Published: 06 March, 2017  |  Last updated: 06 March, 2017

Teaching English in Lübeck, Germany

Lübeck-Germany

Report submitted on 20 Jan, 2017 by Cynthia Walther.

Teaching English in Lübeck, Germany:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Lübeck, Germany?
By sending out applications to language schools.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.).

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Usually native speaker, college degree. Teaching certificate is a plus.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
I would recommend doing a teaching course before applying to schools.

What are the levels of payment?
Sometimes unqualified teachers (students making some money on the side) charge as little as €8 (approx. 8,50 US$)/hr. Otherwise it’s usually €20-30 (approx. 21 – 32 US$).

How many teaching days a week is normal?
  It’s different for everyone days per week

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
See above hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
I believe most schools close during school holidays and their teachers take their holidays at that time as well.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Lübeck, Germany to teach English?
Besides doing a course before, get an apartment close to the center, buy a bike and you’re all set.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Lübeck, Germany?
You get to know all sorts of people, it’s a respected job, it’s interesting and your customers are always happy to see you. If you work in a larger school, you can meet other foreigners. I still have contact to some of my earlier co-workers from 20 yrs ago!

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Lübeck, Germany?
The hours are spread out, morning, afternoon and evening, which makes it difficult to do other courses yourself, e.g. German or fitness.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Sometimes people in companies don’t like talking about their personal lives in front of colleagues, which can create a stiff atmosphere.

 

Living in Lübeck, Germany:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in Germany?
Yes, you have to get a resident permit and a work permit, but if you’re teaching your own language that’s usually not a problem for western countries.

What is the cost of living like in Germany?
My town is relatively cheap. Rent: €12 (approx. 13 US$)/sq mtr, Pizza €12 (approx. 13 US$), Bus €2.50 (approx. 2,70 US$), Loaf of bread €3 (approx. 3,20 US$)

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
I live with my family in our own house. Young people might want to share an apartment with other students, called a Wohngemeinschaft or WG for short.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Lübeck, Germany?
Culture, the Baltic Sea, traveling possibilities, reliable health care.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, Germany?
There are no mountains here and the weather is pretty lousy.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Lübeck, Germany?
Don’t just come in May, visit in November. If you can stand it then, it’ll be fine.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
The American people (enthusiastic, up-beat, fun, chatty with strangers, spontaneous); pop tarts, butterfingers, candy corn; the great outdoors (the woodsy areas are broken up by highways more in Germany).

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Germany?
The German people (honest, decent, reliable, loyal), the affordable cultural events, the free healthcare, the food especially the bread and pastries, riding my bike everywhere, the architecture, the Christmas markets, coffee and cake time.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Bring some food items that you love, to make the transition time easier. Macaroni and cheese in a box, reeses cups, bisquick, poptarts or whatever you love. You’ll need a taste of home for a while.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Cynthia Walther

Nationality: American

Students I’ve taught in Germany: Toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), adults, business

Where I teach: YouSpeak Language School – Lübeck, Germany. Teaching for 25 years.

How I found my current jobs: I founded it. I’m the owner.
 

My school facilities: Good. We’re very small and don’t have much technology. However, the room is very comfortable and the location is great.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: However, the room is very comfortable and the location is great.training / workshops, lesson observations, teacher evaluations

Links: www.you-speak.de

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Teaching English in Italy – Casinalbo-Modena

Published: 06 December, 2016  |  Last updated: 06 December, 2016

Teaching English in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy

italy_casinalbo-modena

Report submitted on 30 Nov, 2016 by Stella.

Teaching English in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy?
I teach English privately at home, only for children.

Initially I was asked by a few mum’s from my daughter’s class and then through word of mouth I managed to get two groups of children to teach.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Teaching at private international schools, teaching at companies, teaching at community centers, etc., private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

There are lots of private bilingual schools around Modena that are always looking for qualified teachers, also there are many companies that hire private teachers to teach English for their employers.

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
You need to have some teaching qualifications and experience, they valued mother tongue a lot and that’s the level they require ( proficiency).

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
In my area of working with children, if you would like to work in schools you will have to be a qualify teacher, or have some other degree and be able to teach English.

What are the levels of payment?
On private group lessons like mine, it is about €10 (approx. 10.50 US $) p/h

How many teaching days a week is normal?
I do it twice by choice , but there are always more demand. 

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
2 hours per week

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
I don’t know.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Casinalbo-Modena, Italy to teach English?
Start with after school groups, as a bilingual monitor, then after getting some experience you can try to offer private lessons.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy?
They value English as a second language, they want their children to learn and they look for it.

There is a good demand.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy?
Distance and long period of holidays in summer, which then you would have to find something else to do.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
For me it is the qualifications.

 

Living in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in Italy?
If outside EU, yes

What is the cost of living like in Italy?
I’ll say it is on a medium level, all depends on where you live.

I have a family and I teach privately for some extra cash, I couldn’t live on what I make teaching, I do it part-time, but there are people who do it full-time of course.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
You have to find on your own, through agency or news paper

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Casinalbo-Modena, Italy?
Lots.

Is is beautiful and adventurous, the food is fantastic, the people are nice and friendly. I love Italy!

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, Italy?
Technology is about 10 years behind in here!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Casinalbo-Modena, Italy?
Be patient, have all your papers ready and come with a job lined up already.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
I miss how simple and easy things were/ are in UK.

I miss the practicality and the technology, and how the costumer is always right!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Italy?
The weather, the scenery, the mountains, the food….. and the lovely friends I made here!

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
You can find anything in Italy, even if it is a little harder or more expensive.

I believe people should adapt to their new environment.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Stella

Nationality: Brazilian/British

Students I’ve taught in Italy: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years).

Where I teach: I teach at home, after school, usually for children from my own children’s class.

Teaching for 4 years.

How I found my current jobs: Word of mouth
 

My school facilities: Very good. I have a room that I use for the lessons and I have everything I need!

Do you teach English in Italy?

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Teaching English in France – Nice

Published: 06 December, 2016  |  Last updated: 06 December, 2016

Teaching English in Nice, France

france-nice

Report submitted on 19 Nov, 2016 by Gemma.

Teaching English in Nice, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Nice, France?
Language schools, word of mouth, other English teachers in Nice.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at companies, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

Getting a full-time job contract in France is very complicated, and seems to be offered to French people who can navigate their way through the system. Therefore, it’s easier to be a free-lancer who is sent to different clients at their home or place of work, or to teach short courses for the students’ specific needs; for example, they need to pass an exam or need it for their job.

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Generally, a TEFL certificate. Native speakers are preferred. Non-native speakers may need a higher qualification to give them an edge, and many non-natives teach only up to the pre-intermediate level. If they have a car and can travel to clients, this helps as well.

Perhaps a higher education is required for a university or state school.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Be a native English speaker. The more experience, the better. TEFL is generally okay.

What are the levels of payment?
It varies between 16 – 40 euros an hour. France has a very complicated tax system and it’s expensive to hire people under job contracts as the employer has to pay their employees’ social charges. If a teacher does have a job contract, they’re likely to receive less per hour than a freelancer. However, a freelancer has no guarantee of a set amount per week, and has to travel to each client at the times that the client prefers. This may mean working in the evenings, during the lunch break or perhaps even on Saturday.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
Nothing is normal in France

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
Most is face-to-face. hours per week

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
It depends on the student and the school.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Nice, France to teach English?
Be prepared for a lot bureaucracy and inflexible attitudes!

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Nice, France?
English is held in very high esteem in France, and people feel it’s very important to speak English. French people love English music, films and TV series. My students are generally very motivated to learn and improve. They’re also generally not afraid to say when they don’t understand, to ask questions, and to provide feedback as to what they’d like to learn.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Nice, France?
I don’t have a lot of support in terms of resources and training. Directors of language schools are tied up in red-tape and are more interested in sorting out paperwork rather than keeping up with innovative teaching ideas and resources. French students generally are not afraid to complain either if they’re not happy with a teacher.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Lack of practice outside the classroom for the students. It’s difficult for them to progress. TV and films are all dubbed into French, so French people are completely unaccustomed to the sounds of English, and their lack of oral comprehension causes frustration and de-motivation. The methods of learning English at school are ineffective as they learn to read and write, but they can’t speak or understand. Additionally, their teachers at school are usually French, and even if the teacher conducts the class in English, learners are unaccustomed to native English speech.

 

Living in Nice, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
Yes, you must be a European citizen or have a visa to work. Some universities offer a year’s job contract and visa to native English speakers.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Cost of living is fairly high. Taxes and social charges are high and therefore wages are quite low. As a result of the high taxes, services such as hairdressing, clothing repairs, plumbers and electricians etc are expensive. Rents are generally high.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Accommodation is very difficult. In order to rent, a person must have a permanent job contract called a CDI; however getting a CDI is difficult. Normally, a person gets a temporary job contract first, and then a permanent one. In addition, a person must earn 3 times the rent. As this is virtually impossible on the riviera, some landlords will accept two times the rent. If you don’t have a CDI, they won’t sniff at you. I was lucky to find a landlord who accepted a year’s rent in advance in lieu of a CDI.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Nice, France?
Perhaps you can learn French if you’re really determined.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
Trying to understand French culture and mentality. Even after two years here, I’m still struggling. My French teacher told me that French people’s “bark is worse than their bite.” It’s really a nation of rebels, who love to fight against any perceived injustice, authority or wrong attitude. The idea that they beheaded their king in order to get justice still resonates. In order for me to get what I want, my voice has to be louder than theirs. I have to put aside my polite anglophone ways and not accept no for an answer; or to realise that no is always the first answer, then after much insistence and negotiation, it becomes maybe, and then after more patience, persistence and negotiation, it might perhaps eventually become yes. Why the answer can’t just be yes in the first place, I don’t know!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Nice, France?
See above.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Being able to speak English and to fully express myself!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
Perhaps one dear friend.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Teaching books/resources, especially for lower-levels.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Gemma

Nationality: Australian

Students I’ve taught in France: Babies (0-2 years), elementary (6-12 years), adults, business.

Where I teach: — In Nice, teaching here for 2 year.

How I found my current jobs: Online.
 

My school facilities: Adequate. Teaching resources, technology and classrooms.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: None.
 

Do you teach English in France?

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Teaching English in China – Weihai

Published: 26 October, 2016  |  Last updated: 26 October, 2016

Teaching English in Weihai, China

weihai_china

Report submitted on 18 Oct, 2016 by DKL.

Teaching English in Weihai, China:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Weihai, China?
There are several agencies that can help place teachers in China.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Full time English language school positions, teaching at private international schools.

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
TESOL/TESL/TEFL certification, bachelor degree, 2 years experience. Natural speaker from usual country set (Canada, USA, Australia, Britain, South Africa).

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Requirements are low but the higher paying positions do have stricter requirements. Degree in education is preferred, Masters will get you into better paying positions if you lack experience.

What are the levels of payment?
Payment runs from 8000 to 16000 RMB (approx. 1,180 US$ ~ 2,360 US$) per month with perks making up the balance. Apartment is supplied by many schools, residence is often close to school so commuting costs are zero to low. Cost of living sharply lower then major Chinese cities so less of your money will go towards living costs. Work week 20-25 hours and overtime is paid at any legitimate school.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
20 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Holidays may or may not be paid depending on contract and school. Vacation time again negotiated. As you become more skilled your negotiating position sharply improves.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Weihai, China to teach English?
Weihai is a very good place to teach English. The city is fairly affluent and there are many students wanting to learn. There is a good mix of grade school, high school and adult students.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Weihai, China?
Low cost of living, very good climate (4 seasons with light winters and cooler than average summers) International airport and easy access to major areas in China, Korea and Japan. Cost of living is very low and easily offsets comparatively modest wages. Low cost of travel means visiting the rest of China is reasonable and convenient.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Weihai, China?
Wages. If you need a job to pay bills in another country it will not be ideal. If you want to keep the money local you will be living quite well.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Younger students provide the same challenges in any country, you must have the temperament to work with them. Older students have remnants of being taught “Chinese English” by non native speakers and modifying pronunciation and vocabulary can be difficult.

 

Living in Weihai, China:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in China?
Yes, the schools usually handle the cost of the residency visa. Z Visa cost incurred by teacher before arrival. Visa requirements may vary depending on country.

What is the cost of living like in China?
Pay is low in comparable currency BUT cost of living is sharply lower. The position pays very well if your plan is to remain long term.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Accommodation usually supplied by school. No or partial cost passed on to teacher. Average cost of very good accommodation between 1000 and 2000 RMB (approx. 150 US$ ~ 300 US$) per month. 1000 RMB (approx. 150 US$) average.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Weihai, China?
Weihai is one of the best places to live in China. It doesn’t suffer from problems of larger city centers and more industrialized regions. Foreigners are still unique and the local population are very generous and helpful.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, China?
There are very few foreigners and the isolation is at times difficult.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Weihai, China?
Learn some of the local language before coming, basic survival level not anything approaching fluency, when you get here you will be busy and around people speaking English at work which, oddly enough, makes learning Chinese a little difficult. You can survive well and easily learning hello, thank you and smiling and pointing but learning some simple phrases will make life easier.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Tim Hortons.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave China?
The people. They are very easy going and make living here very easy.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Comfortable clothing and general medications (cold, flu, Imodium, general pain stuff) to make the transition easier. Your body will have to adapt to the new environment and it will be easier with meds you are comfortable with.

Other comments (about teaching or living in your country)?
I had read many horror stories and had researched some reports on you-tube. I was very happy that I have yet to have a bad experience. I am happy with the way this career change has worked out.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: DKL

Nationality: Canadian

Students I’ve taught in China: Elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults, business, other.

Where I teach: — Teaching here for 1 year.

How I found my current jobs: 
Through Job agency in Canada.

My school facilities: Very good – Classes are smaller than some reports I’ve seen. All supplies and books supplied by the school. Working hours are above what I contracted for but overtime was requested not demanded. Contract hours are 20 per week (80 per month) and overtime has been paid for all hours worked over that amount. Time off to Travel was accommodated without any issue.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: Training / workshops, lesson observations, teacher evaluations, peer support / training.

Have we missed any important questions?: It is hard to stress enough the difference between Weihai and most major Chinese cities. Clean environment, beautiful city and good people. Cost of living is ridiculously low when compared to any North American city. They are always having trouble attracting teachers but most who do arrive remain for years.
 

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