I went through the 300-hour pr…
I went through the 300-hour professional certification. I felt somewhat happy with how it worked out. As a student who finished the short-term course too, I liked the setup. My main reason was to travel and work.
Near the end of the course, I …
Near the end of the course, I felt thrilled to finally see it all come together. My big goal was just to improve my teaching skills. I am a hands-on learner, so the live practice really helped me get it.
I just got through the whole p…
I just got through the whole program. It was a 300-hour professional certification deal. I felt pretty neutral about it overall. Since I’m a goal-oriented student, it worked fine for me. My main reason for signing up was to see new places through teaching.
I just finished a self-paced m…
I just finished a self-paced microcredential program last week. A student who completed the certificate feels really proud of their achievement. They were very happy with the whole thing. Their main goal was to leave their old job and get into teaching.
When ‘Going the Extra Mile’ Becomes an Unpaid Highway
You step into the classroom with a genuine passion for teaching. You want to connect with students, share your culture, and help them discover the joy of learning English. But what happens when your school’s expectations start to blur the line between ‘doing your job’ and ‘doing everything’? For many English language teachers abroad, especially those working in Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) rol...[Read More]
When TEFL Workplaces Go Wrong: Navigating Challenging Student Behaviour
Teaching English abroad often looks like a dream: cherry blossom-filled commutes, smiling students, and rewarding cultural exchanges. But what happens when the classroom reality includes name-calling, unwanted touching, and an administration that does nothing? One ALT recently described working at three different elementary schools in the same town. The first school was a pleasure, the second mana...[Read More]
Korea vs. Japan: Which Country is Right for Your First Year Teaching English Abroad?
So you’ve just graduated, you’re getting your TEFL certification, and you’re ready to spend a year teaching English abroad. The dream is real, but the decision between South Korea and Japan? That’s the hard part. You love K-dramas and K-pop, but you’ve also heard mixed opinions about life in both countries. Let’s break down the real, recent experiences so you can make an informed choice. The Finan...[Read More]
Teaching in Foshan: Is a $14,500 Monthly Salary Worth It?
Making the leap to teach English abroad is both exciting and overwhelming. If you’ve just received a job offer for an English teaching position in Foshan with a monthly salary of 14,500 RMB, you might be wondering whether to accept it or hold out for something better. Let’s break down what this offer really means and how to decide if it’s the right move for you. Understanding the...[Read More]
Teaching English in Taiwan While Trading Stocks: A Realistic Guide
Are you a trader dreaming of relocating abroad while keeping your financial career alive? The idea of teaching English at a buxiban (cram school) in Taiwan and trading the US stock market after hours might seem like the perfect blend of adventure and ambition. Let’s break down what this lifestyle actually looks like. The Time Zone Advantage The US stock market opens at 9:30 AM Eastern Time. ...[Read More]
Laurus International School: A Reality Check for TEFL Teachers
Thinking about making the leap from eikaiwa to an international school in Japan? It’s a common career move for English teachers looking for better pay and more stability. But not all international schools are created equal. Some, like the one described below, offer a veneer of professionalism that quickly cracks under scrutiny. Here’s what you need to know before you apply. The Paycheck is Better,...[Read More]
Essential Document Guide for UK Teachers Heading to China
If you’re a British teacher packing your bags for China, you’ve likely hit the same wall: a confusing maze of document requirements, conflicting advice, and costly fees. The good news? Getting your paperwork right is completely doable—you just need the right roadmap. The DBS vs. ACRO Debate Let’s clear this up first. China officially accepts both the DBS (Disclosure and Barring S...[Read More]
Navigating Document Requirements for Teaching in China: A UK Teacher’s Guide
If you’re a UK teacher dreaming of moving to China, you’ve likely encountered a maze of document requirements. Between background checks, notarisation, and apostilles, the process can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s more straightforward than it seems once you understand the key steps. Understanding the Background Check: DBS vs. ACRO One of the first hurdles is the pol...[Read More]