Why Teaching English In Thailand

As the third fastest growing economy in Asia behind China and Japan, Thailand is becoming an extremely attractive place to work for westerners. With living standards still relatively cheap and the climate warm all year round, enduring long cold winters and heavy taxation seems like madness. For this reason teaching English in Thailand has become very popular over the years and is now experiencing a further period of rapid growth.

The demand for foreign teachers is growing at an exponential rate because of the increasing importance for Thai people to speak English to a high standard. The Thai Ministry of Education recently announced that it will be recruiting a further 300 foreign teachers for its state schools over the coming year, offering higher than usual salaries in a bid to up the standard of English for its expanding economy.

Monthly teaching salaries for foreigners currently stand at an average of 35,000 Baht a month (approximately $1,160), and can rise to nearer 50,000 Baht within a couple of years. When you consider it costs approximately a third of the price to live in Thailand when compared with the West, that is a salary with the equivalent of around $3,000 per month. Food is far cheaper in Thailand, as is accommodation, and around half your income is savable if you budget properly.

Teaching English in Thailand is a place to start a career as a foreign teacher, and also a great place to study your TEFL course. A number of companies offer placements at prices far cheaper than the West, and with immediate TEFL job opportunities offered on completion. Perhaps the greatest benefit in studying your TEFL in Thailand is being able to gain hands on experience teaching foreign students during your course.

Studying your TEFL in Thailand allows you to get a feel for the country, people and culture before finally making up your mind whether you want to teach there permanently. TEFL courses can be found all over the country, but are most prevalent in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with Chiang Mai offering perhaps the most attractive balance between city and rural life.

There has never been a better time to consider teaching English in Thailand than now. Thailand is very welcoming to foreign residents and the country is desperately seeking talented, personable teachers to fill positions all over the country. Study visas are readily available through companies offering TEFL in Thailand courses and accommodation can be arranged prior to arrival.

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