Bilingual Or Ep Schools

[uncrebel11]

New to the forum and had a few questions.

I'm currently teaching Mathematics at a private bilingual school in Honduras. I like what I'm doing and am currently considering what my next move will be after this year is over. I know it's a ways in advance, but I had a question for everyone. I do have a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Mississippi in the US, and the teaching experience I've gotten here. When my contract runs out here next summer, I am interested in my options in Thailand (in Bangkok, more specifically).

Would I be a candidate for a job at a bilingual school in Bangkok teaching Math, or another subject in English (rather than TEFL)? I'm not clear on when the school year begins at bilingual schools in Bangkok, but I know my contract runs out here in June of 2012. If this is after the school year begins, do these schools ever hire during the school year if there are still unfilled vacancies? Is there a chance I could find work for a liveable salary? I say liveable, meaning enough to live comfortably on (with occasional nights out on weekends). I have a small amount of student loans, but the monthly payment is pretty low and I have a bit of money set aside to pay them monthly if I need to. Would I need to be on the ground in Bangkok to interview, or do bilingual schools hire from abroad? I would ideally like to teach what would be "middle school" for U.S. students (6th 7th 8th grade), which is what I'm teaching now. I like the age group. I currently teach six 45-minute classes a day here, 5 days a week, with a few holidays and a break for Christmas and Easter. Could I expect more or less of a workload at a Thai bilingual school? I have heard of accommodation allowances being included on top of the salary. Would a bilingual school allow me work legally and assist in obtaining a work permit or proper visa for the school year?

I hope that's not too much to ask. I've looked for answers on the forum and others, but would appreciate some feedback on my particular situation. Thank you to anyone in advance who offers some insight. Have a great day!

EDITED TO ADD: I do not have a teaching certificate from the U.S., so international schools are not an option (I'm guessing). So I'm looking primarily for bilingual schools or anywhere else I can teach a particular subject (mathematics, hopefully) in English.

[Scott]

First, since you have a degree and some experience, you are very likely to find work in a bilingual program. The grades you are looking at are lower Mathyom (7-8-9). Upper Mathyom is 10-12.

The salary would be roughly 35,000 baht per month or higher. With a degree and experience, I would very wary of anything less than this unless the benefits are particularly to your liking.

You could a subject such as math or social studies, but when starting you may have less choice.

The school year starts in mid May, so you would arrive late and this would limit your options. Some schools do hire from overseas, but your chances of securing employment while still in Honduras for a late start in the school year are slim.

Schools hire throughout the year. Teachers quit, move to other schools, bomb out, etc., etc.. You might need to support yourself without or work (or with part-time tutorial work) for a few months until something to your liking comes along.

Teaching in Thailand is a little bit of a crap shoot. Finding a school you like and that likes you is more a matter of luck than anything else.

Best of luck and keep us posted.

Welcome to the forum.