So here I am, having just completed the 120-hour Online TEFL Course - that's the most study I've done since graduating from uni 15 years ago! And now it feels like the whole world is out there waiting for me... I just don't know where to start!
Seeing all the dialogues to-ing and fro-ing here on Chalkboard, I realise I've tapped into something very exciting and special and I want a piece of it. I'm in full-time employment at the moment, but have set myself a deadline of October to figure out what - and where! - my first TEFL adventure will be. This also coincides with a "milestone" birthday, so I have plenty of impetus to make this happen!
So where to go? Well I would love to find work in Africa, but everyone keeps telling me that most of the work there is volunteering - and I can't afford to volunteer. So if anyone's got any tip-offs about paid work, however lowly the wage, in Africa, I'm keen to hear. Apart from that, South America, Indonesia and Italy all appeal. I know, I know, an eclectic bunch of countries, but all in some way fascinate me - and I think that has to be a prerequisite for getting the most out of a TEFL job. Having said that, like many on this site, I'm very open-minded and have a sneaking suspicion I will end up going somewhere I never thought I would!
So armed with my newly-won TEFL certificate, time for the next bit - exploring what's out there in the Wonderful World of TEFL... :)
Jeanie
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Wow Trevor that took me back a bit! I lived in Brakpan, first in Anzac which was almost halfway to Benoni :) and then we moved to Brenthurst.
Good to have you here. It’s always great having a group member that actually lives and works in SA. Thanks for the info.
Hi there!
There are plenty of opportunities to teach in South Africa for cash, especially if you know where to look! You could try a language school in Pretoria (where a lot of embassies are located), or Cape Town, a popular tourist destinantion. If you are going to spend 3 months to a year here, you could even offer "extra lessons" privately. If you need specific information, you're welcome to contact me.
Hey, thanks all for your lovely comments and words of encouragement! That's exactly why I joined this site - to feel like what I'm embarking isn't so daunting and "out there" as all that!
Honor, thanks for your steers re people to talk to - I'll certainly be following them up now for advice. Now that I'm no longer head down with my TEFL course (!), I can turn my attention to researching opportunities...can't wait to see what unfolds!
Katie, your China posting sounds great - and a good idea to go somewhere where there's more assistance and support seeing as it's your first job. Take your handy Mandarin phrasebook and I'm sure you'll be fine!
And Monique, totally aree with you about hitting that SUBMIT button for the last time - when I got my online certificates through, I was so proud of myself, it was like passing my A-levels all over again!!
Jeanie
Congratulations! Isn’t it a wonderful feeling when you hit the ‘’submit’’ button for the last time…
Good Luck with your search. I’m sure you will find something.
Congratulations on finishing your course!
In terms of deciding where to go I know I recommended a couple of guys in S. America to chat to, but you might want to add these to your list for Italy and Indonesia:
Italy: http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/emmafoers and http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/cherogoth
Indonesia: http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/robertclarke
Good luck!
Hi Jeanie, great to read your blog. Like you I've taken the big jump and about to dive into a new phase in my life as a TESOL teacher. Training done, and I've signed a contract to teach in China starting in August!!!
I love SE Asia, having travelled extensively there and initially was going to Vietnam BUT decided for my first placement I wanted a position where there was increased assistance and support. Am now hoping that is what I get as I dont speak a word of Mandarin!!!!
Good luck with your ventures and hope you find your dream position
Cheers, Kate.
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