TEFL Jobs in Thailand

Thailand is one of the easiest places to find TEFL jobs anywhere in the world simply because there are so many jobs available right across the country. If you possess a TEFL certificate, a university degree and a professional manner you are almost certain to find a job to suit you.

How to Find TEFL Jobs in Thailand

All Thai state schools are required to employ at least one native English speaking teacher, however, in places such as Bangkok and Phuket there are generally more available positions than there are teachers. Because of this you are in a good position to choose which job you would prefer as working conditions do vary between schools. The majority of teachers start their job search once they are in the country as Thai employers generally place a high value on appearances, often at the expense of experience or teaching ability.

Salaries are not particularly high in Thailand but neither is the cost of living. As long as you are careful you should be able to live quite comfortably. School salaries in Thailand usually start at around 30,000 THB per month. The usual weekly schedule is between 40 and 50 hours per week, but you will have plenty of paid holidays to balance out the hours. The best time to look for work is before the start of the school year in May, although jobs can be found at any time of the year.

Working as a teacher in Thailand is usually a pleasure as teachers are highly respected in Thai culture. Although it is important that you behave in a professional manner and are aware of the local culture at all times or this respect can be lost quite quickly.

TEFL Jobs requirements in Thailand

The vast majority of school jobs in Thailand require a TEFL certificate and a university degree in any subject. Sometimes you will be able to secure a higher paid position if you have some teaching experience but it is not essential.

Providing you are willing to commit to a school for a minimum of one year they will usually aid you in the process of getting the correct work permit and visa organised. In order to get your work permit you will need to provide the original copy of your university degree certificate.

Other Types of TEFL Jobs in Thailand

As well as the numerous jobs available in state run schools in Thailand, you will also find TEFL jobs available in private language schools and international schools.

There are many private language schools in Thailand which generally pay by the hour and do not offer fixed hours; often you will also need to travel to your appointments. These jobs sometimes ignore the need for a university degree and even a TEFL certificate. However, they will also not help you obtain a work permit which means you will have to make regular runs across the border to renew your tourist visa. This also means that you will be working illegally which is something we cannot condone.

Jobs in international schools generally pay very well, although they are fewer in number and generally require some teaching experience. These schools often follow a western academic schedule.

Questions to Ask your Employer

Working conditions vary considerable from school to school so before you accept any job offer there are a few questions you should always ask to avoid any unpleasant surprises once you start work. Obviously, you need to ask questions regarding your salary or hourly pay rates, as well as any levels of compensation for travel time and expenses that might be available. You should also enquire about the availability of school resources for lesson planning and teaching materials. Other questions regarding the need for work permits or visas, as well as how much help the school will provide with this are also advisable. Finally, you should ensure that you get all the important details confirmed in a written contract.