Once there

Upon Your Arrival

At the beginning of the program, a one-week orientation is included to familiarize you with the local culture. This includes explanations about your program, cultural visits to learn about the country, and local language courses.

You will be supported by local staff throughout your journey, who will be available for any requests.

Budget and Local Life

It is important to note that you will not be paid during the first 2 months in Thailand, as you will be in training. Your first salary will be paid at the end of your first month on the job, approximately 3 months after your arrival. Therefore, it is necessary to plan for a minimum budget of 2000€ to cover your costs during this period.

FAQ on local life, working conditions, and budget to prepare

• What is the daily cost of living?
  It is advisable to budget around 100 bahts per meal, including a drink; however, local Thai food can range between 30 and 60 bahts per meal.

• Do the schools provide lunch?
  Some schools do, but not all. It depends on each employer and their policy.

• What is the cost of transportation?
  Taxis cost between 60 and 200 bahts for a 15 to 30-minute ride. Motorbike taxis cost around 50 bahts. Songtaews are the most economical option, with fares ranging from 10 to 30 bahts per ride.

• Is transportation between my accommodation and workplace included?
  Some schools assist teachers with transportation, but this is rare. However, public transportation in Thailand is well-developed.

• Is Thailand a safe country?
  As with anywhere, it is recommended to stay vigilant, but Thailand is generally a safe country for both men and women traveling alone.

• What age groups will I be teaching?
  This can range from kindergarten to high school. We try to respect individual preferences, but we cannot guarantee that you will be assigned to your preferred age group.

• What are the working hours and days?
  You should expect to be at school for 8 hours a day, with around 4 to 5 hours of teaching. Generally, you will work Monday to Friday, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break. You may need to participate in events outside of these hours.

• Are there extracurricular sports activities I must attend or teach?
  It depends on the school. Generally, participation in extracurricular activities is voluntary, but concerts, cultural festivals, and other events may require your attendance.

• After my contract, can I stay in Thailand or must I leave immediately?
  You can stay as long as you have a job and a valid work visa.

• Can I renew my contract and work visa without leaving the country?
  It’s possible, but it is more likely that you will need to travel to a neighboring country to renew your visa.

• What is the validity of a work visa?
  This depends. Generally, it is valid for 6 months or 1 year, depending on the contract duration.

• What type of visa will I have upon arrival?
  This depends on your country of residence. We process applications on a case-by-case basis.

• Are there evening or weekend activities organized?
  Your evenings and weekends will generally be free. However, the local training organization arranges meetups for teachers across Thailand.

• Will I have language classes? How will I understand my students?
  During your orientation week and TESOL training, you will have several Thai language lessons to get started. In class, using gestures to give instructions is recommended.

• What is the best place to work?
  This depends on personal preferences. There are no bad places to work, and there are advantages to working both in urban and rural areas.

• Is it possible to have a second job to earn extra money?
  Yes, many teachers give additional English lessons to increase their monthly income, either through their employer or privately.

• How are the authorities?
  Thai authorities are generally professional and helpful.

• What are the medical services and insurance like?
  It is mandatory to have travel insurance for the entire duration of your stay. Insurance provided by schools is often basic.

• How is the phone and internet connection?
  Wi-Fi can be unstable in Thailand. It is recommended to have a mobile plan with plenty of data. The local team will provide you with a Thai SIM card upon arrival.

• Can non-native speakers participate in the training and placement?
  Yes, but the required basic level is B2-C1.

• What if I don’t like my job? Can I change it?
  Yes, but it may take time. You need to be patient and flexible.

• What is the dress code for teaching?
  Men must wear pants and a collared shirt (sometimes a tie). Women must wear a skirt and a blouse or dress, although some schools allow pants.

• Is the TESOL course difficult? Can I fail?
  Yes, but the local team will support you in case of difficulty to help you succeed.

• Do teachers need to have a CV?
  Yes, your CV must be formatted according to the model sent before your arrival.

• Are there strict laws?
  Yes. Thailand has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs and forbids speaking negatively about the royal family.

• Can couples be placed together?
  Yes, but not necessarily at the same school, only in the same city.

• What is the level of English and behavior of students?
  The level of English is often beginner. Thai students are generally well-mannered.

• What curriculum will I follow?
  There is no universal curriculum; each school has its own.

• Will my colleagues speak English?
  Yes, but sometimes in a limited way.

• Will I be teaching students with special needs?
  Yes, probably, but they may not necessarily be identified as such.

• Do schools deduct a deposit?
  Sometimes, but it is rare. Some schools withhold a small portion of the salary until the end of the contract.

• What deductions are made from the salary?
  Some schools deduct 3% tax, but not in the first year.

• Is overtime work paid?
  No.

• Can I expect a salary increase?
  Yes, if you do a good job, you may receive a raise or renewal bonus.

• Can I teach English in a neighboring country?
  Yes, we offer placements in other Asian countries.

• Do schools provide documents and textbooks?
  Yes, generally, but not always.

• When are the school holidays?
  Government schools have one month of vacation in October and two months from March to April.

• What is the difference between language schools, private schools, public schools, and universities?
  Schedules, salaries, and vacations vary. Language schools typically do not have long vacations.

• Can I choose between part-time and full-time work?
  Most positions are full-time.

• Is religion a sensitive topic?
  No, but it is important to be respectful.

• What happens if I lose my job?
  If it is due to misconduct, the local team will not be able to find you another job.