For the English Teacher in Taiwan There’s abundant information on the internet about teaching English to children in Taiwan, but there is very little information about the ‘special events’ that an English teacher might find themselves roped into by their school. This is the story of a ‘special event’ that I did when I was a teacher at Hess Educational Organization.
Cami, you would like to tell a story in the park on Saturday? says my Taiwanese branch manager. uhm what? I say, looking up from a stack of papers that I’m grading. Yes, I think you will like very much. And maybe you sing song too. If confusion was apparent on my face, my manager showed no signs of knowing it. So yes, I think we will meet at sports park, 10am. Huh? Okay good, my manager walks away from this baffling exchange, satisfied. I later asked my western manager, or Head Native Speaking Teacher, what this was all about. I think it’s like, an event for the children of the community. You just go to a park and read a story. It’ll be fun.
Teaching English overseas is a great way for people to experience the world. The job doesnt require many qualifications and positions are abundant in all parts of the world. Many of these jobs pay very well and are a great way to spend a year or two after university saving money and paying back the loans. Moreover, youll be able to learn a new culture and language and have an experience that few people experience.
In order to be an English teacher, you simply need to be a native speaker and a university degree. If you are looking for high level jobs such as teaching at an international schools or teaching business, you will need to have a teaching degree and experience. However, most countries are simply looking for people with some education and that are a native speaker. In countries in Asia and South America, a teaching certificate (called a TEFL), might be required. However, these courses only take a month and are very easy.