Teaching English in Thailand

Posted by Tim McCann - 17:10 on 26 April 2012

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Given its popularity as a favourite holiday destination, it's no wonder many TEFL teachers clamour for English teaching jobs in Thailand . In many ways the country epitomises the TEFL dream – getting paid to do a job you love in a far-away exotic destination where you can immerse yourself in a new culture while taking in the tropical splendour. It's certainly true that teaching English in Thailand offers all this and more.
Many of the TEFL jobs advertised will involve teaching children to speak English, so it's worthwhile considering TEFL Scotland's specialist module on Young Learners, before jetting off. This module is built-in to many of TEFL Scotland's recommended courses, but it's worth checking prior to booking. This age group includes students up to and including secondary school age.
You'll find work all over the country, not just in Bangkok, so there's plenty of opportunity to live and work out of the big city environment and closer to nature if that's what you prefer. It's possible to find work in both dedicated language schools in addition to government institutions. All you'll need is an accredited TEFL certificate, such as those you can obtain by studying with TEFL Scotland.

Living and working in Thailand
While the scenery will knock you sideways, so too will the culture! From the amazing and diverse cuisine, to the art and architecture, you'll feel you've very much arrived in a whole new world. Don't be alarmed, however, the Thai people are extremely welcoming and friendly and eager to learn English. With an established TEFL industry there, you'll also find yourself among other likeminded English teachers, so assimilating into your new life abroad will be easier than you may initially think.
You'll probably teach for around 20 hours a week leaving you time to take in the sights be it watching the amazing aerial stunts of kite fighting, feeling the adrenaline rush of a Thai kick boxing match, or even diving with sharks in Bangkok's Siam Ocean World. For those who prefer a less frenetic spare time activity, how about kayaking through the islands in Phang Nga Bay, near Phuket? You'll never be stuck for things to do and why not ponder what to experience next over a mouth-watering Thai green curry and cold beer? Book me on the next flight!

Your Comments

Comment by Craig McLennan at 22:25 on 13 June 2012.

This is actually something I am considering as my wife is Thai and our daughter is half Thai. We met while I was in Thailand for 6 months and we got married there, she is now in Scotland with me but I really would love to go back there. I am just concerned that my English is too poor to succeed in this course but I would love to teach Thai children how to learn English in Thailand and live there with my wife again.

Comment by Eilidh Stanners (TEFL Advisor) at 12:06 on 14 June 2012.

Hi there Craig. Thailand is a great country for TEFL opportunities. Your main asset as an English teacher is that it is your native language, and so you don't need to be an expert to teach it - the immersion style of TEFL teaching means that students will pick up the language from you through games and activities in the classroom. However, I would make sure you include the Grammar and Language Awareness module with your TEFL course to brush up and learn some terms that you perhaps haven't heard before - this will make it much easier when you come to teaching grammar to your students. If you have any other question or would like advice on which course to take or finding a job, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Eilidh. tefl@teflscotland.co.uk 0800 9 888 200

Comment by Faye at 15:17 on 17 June 2012.

I was thinking about applying for a job in Thailand with my contract starting around January time. Is it unlikely that I will be able to get a job at this time? What months are easiest to get employment as a Tefl teacher in Thailand?

Comment by Eilidh Stanners (TEFL Advisor) at 16:57 on 19 June 2012.

Hi Faye. The school year starts in May in Thailand so just before that is probably the best time for looking for work, but many schools recruit all year round. Do you have any idea where in the country you would like to be located? Eilidh

Comment by Kevin Campbell at 20:50 on 06 April 2013.

It's been a while since did my w/end course but found it a lot of fun. As trained Psychiatric Nurse, with well developed communications skills, I am really quite confident in being able to relate well to, and teach people of all ages. I am a mature man so my only concern is whether my age (54) would count against me. Please advise - I'd so like to make a fresh start in a new career.

Comment by Alana at 11:25 on 10 April 2013.

Hi Kevin! Thanks for getting in touch, i'm glad to hear you enjoyed the weekend course! The best thing to do is give us a call on 0800 9 888 200 or email info@teflscotland.co.uk and one of our experts will be able to advise you on the opportunities available.

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