10 Jun Teaching English in Thailand

Teaching English in Thailand was my first foray into TEFL and living abroad. It was crazy, intense, and incredible all at the same time. If you're a new TEFL teacher especially, I'd recommend teaching English as a Foreign Language in Thailand in a heartbeat. Many people (myself included) head to South East Asia with the intention to teach English in Thailand for 6 months, and then move on to teach English in Vietnam, and maybe do a bit of China while they're there. But many (myself included) get stuck teaching English in Thailand - and loving it.

In Thailand, as in most countries, there are a range of teaching situations for you to choose from or that you might find yourself in. Here’s a rundown of the most common:

Primary/High school

I didn’t find much difference between the private and the government high schools in terms of pay or contact hours. Classes in government schools, though, can be quite big – up to 40, whereas in a private school you can expect about 25. You might or might not have a teaching assistant and if you do s/he might or might not be decent. Private schools will have access to more resources, so you'll need to get creative in a government school.

University

Don’t get confused when you see really old students wearing school uniforms. University students have to wear a general uniform too, though it seems they are allowed some leeway in terms of interpretation. As far as I can tell, working at one of the universities would be an amazing job but I’m pretty sure you have to be pretty damn qualified for that. When I was there in 2003, when I was 21, I didn’t quite crack the nod. The universities are generally good, so I might consider going back there for a post now if I could get it.

Language schools

Just like in most countries of this world, in Thailand (mostly Bangkok and Chiangmai) you can find EF and IH and other big-name language schools, as well as lots of smaller schools. In language schools you are paid hourly and you may work shifts or afterschool hours. In general, language schools are a great supportive environment so a great place to start for a new teacher. Chances are also that there will be more foreign (farang) teachers here than in a Thai school or university.

Summer camps

Thais love to play games and have fun, so it’s no surprise a lot of (wealthier) kids grow up going to English summer camp. Summer camps can be held on weekends or during the holidays. If your full-time job allows it, it’s a great way to supplement your income.

They are usually held outside the city, at a beach or in a nature reserve. Staff are given transport, accommodation and all food is provided, so while the pay may not be amazing, you essentially do not spend money while you are working.

On the flip side, it can be exhausting. Be prepared to sing songs, play games  and be on your best behaviour 24 hours a day. You won’t need to work all that time but even if you are not teaching or leading an activity, you still be expected to be “on duty”. But generally it's a lot of fun and you can see some amazing places you probably won’t see otherwise.

Those first few years in Thailand were very special to me and Thailand will always hold a very special place in my heart. I would go back in a heartbeat so I'd highly recommend teaching English there.