Chiang Mai Questions - Ajarn Forum

sarahtron · 21st December 2007, 01:21

Hi everyone! I was wondering if some of you could help me out with a few questions...

My boyfriend and I are moving to Thailand in May 2008. He is going to take the SEE TEFL course in Chiang Mai. I have an MA TESOL...We both hope to work in Chiang Mai.

I know that there are several documents needed to get work...Do we need to bring our transcripts and ORIGINAL degrees? How many transcripts? Should we bring letters of reccomendation, as well? I just don't want to get there and realize that we left some really important things at home. Also, how likely will it be for him to find a post-TEFL job in Chiang Mai? Do you think the TEFL school will help a lot in that aspect?

Does anyone live in Chiang Mai and have any advice??

Thanks so much!

Loaded · 21st December 2007, 09:44

Hi

Each Provincial education office interprets rules differently. Chiang Mai is quite relaxed and your original certificate should be sufficient. However, it’s a good idea to bring transcripts as a school may request or rules may change. No need for recommendations. The police clearance thing doesn’t seem to be enforced in Chiang Mai either. Early May the new academic year begins, but most schools will still be looking through to June as at this time of year there are far more jobs on offer than teachers available

MisterStretch · 21st December 2007, 10:37

Just to be safe, as things change here, bring your original or notarized transcripts, along with original university degrees and a police background check (made within 90 days of your arrival in Thailand). The background check can be a simple one made at your local sheriff's office or you can get the FBI background check (which takes 14 weeks to get).

It's better to be safe than sorry.

expatwannabe · 21st December 2007, 12:34

Quote:

Originally Posted by sarahtron

Do we need to bring our transcripts and ORIGINAL degrees? How many transcripts? Should we bring letters of reccomendation, as well? I just don't want to get there and realize that we left some really important things at home. Also, how likely will it be for him to find a post-TEFL job in Chiang Mai? Do you think the TEFL school will help a lot in that aspect?

MA TESOL... learn to spell recommendation.

Yes, bring transcripts and original degrees. But never hand originals of anything over to any individual or school. Give them copies only. Some schools have been know to hold originals ransom to deter you from leaving.

Letters of recommendation don't amount to a hill of beans.

Good chance of finding a job in ChiangMai. But the best hiring season is FEB-MAY or so.

Having a TEFL is like having a key to the school's administration office. After that, it's your interview skills and work history that get you the job.

Good luck.