Teaching English abroad is a rewarding and enriching experience, and Vietnam is a popular destination for English teachers. This guide will help you navigate two popular avenues to teach in Vietnam: public schools and language centres.
1. Introduction: Teach Abroad in Vietnam
Vietnam, with its unique culture, low cost of living, and scenic beauty, has become a favourite destination for individuals looking to teach abroad. Vietnam offers many opportunities for teaching English. Are you ready to make Vietnam your next destination?
Whether you decide to teach in a public school or a private language centre, each provides a distinct experience. This guide aims to delve into the specifics of teaching in both settings. Helping you make an informed decision.
2. Types of Teaching Opportunities in Vietnam
When you decide to teach in Vietnam, you will find yourself in one of three possible settings:
Public schools, via a language centre or an agency that acts as a liaison between you and the school
Private language centre classes
International schools or academies
Each setting has its unique advantages and challenges. This guide will focus on the first two options, providing insights into teaching in Vietnam in public schools and language centres.
3. Differences in Schedules: Flexibility vs Pay
One of the primary contrasts between public schools and language centres in Vietnam lies in the flexibility of the work schedule. Public schools typically demand teachers for specific periods during the day, leaving you with substantial free time.
Language centres often require a denser teaching schedule, with classes running throughout the day and into the evening.
The pay scales in these two settings can vary. Public schools generally offer a higher pay scale due to early morning classes, travel requirements, and managing larger classes without air conditioning.
Meanwhile, language centres, despite their longer hours, tend to compensate with a comfortable working environment.
4. Teaching Experience: Public Schools vs Language Centres
The teaching experience at public schools and language centres in Vietnam can be drastically different.
Public school classes typically comprise larger student groups and might lack air conditioning. The large class size can limit your ability to conduct games or physical activities indoors.
On the plus side, teaching in public schools gives you the opportunity to make a significant impact on students who may not be able to afford private language classes.
Language centres ensure your teaching experience is as comfortable as possible. They usually have advanced facilities, smaller class sizes, and a vast array of resources, including teaching aids and technology.
The work at language centres can require a stronger curriculum to follow and more extensive lesson preparation.
5. Qualifications and Certification for Teaching in Vietnam
Whether you choose a public school or a language centre, both will have specific qualification requirements. Most teaching positions in Vietnam require a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification as a minimum requirement.
Some schools might also require a bachelor's or master's degree in education, and a few years of experience.
A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Languages) course is another widely accepted certification. Some schools, like Ninja Teacher, even offer a specific TEFL course for Vietnam.
6. Cultural Considerations while Teaching in Vietnam
When you teach abroad in Vietnam, understanding the local culture and societal norms is crucial. For instance, pronunciation is an essential factor in teaching English in Vietnam.
Parents and school administrators highly value good pronunciation from foreign teachers, as they want to instil the same in their children.
Respecting and acknowledging local customs and traditions is equally important. Remember, you are not just a teacher but also an ambassador of your own culture.
The exchange of ideas and experiences can be a rewarding part of the journey to teach in Vietnam.
7. The Classroom Experience in Public Schools
A typical lesson in a public school involves a mix of activities designed to engage students and make the learning process fun. Teachers often blend traditional teaching methods with creative activities to encourage participation.
For example, a lesson might begin with a simple greeting, followed by a lesson warm-up. The lesson could then move on to vocabulary games, reading exercises, and finally, a productive activity like drawing or a treasure hunt game.
8. The Classroom Experience in Language Centres
Language centres often provide a more structured teaching experience. A typical class can last for two hours with a 15-minute break and can include various teaching aids like projectors, computers, and physical resources.
The lesson usually follows a specific curriculum, with the teacher having the flexibility to incorporate games and activities to make the class more engaging.
9. Making the Decision: Where to Teach in Vietnam?
Choosing between a public school and a language centre ultimately depends on your preferences and career goals. If you prefer a flexible schedule and want to make a significant impact, teaching in public schools might be the right choice for you.
If you prefer a comfortable working environment with advanced facilities and a more structured curriculum, a language centre could be a better fit.
Remember, the choice to teach abroad is a significant one. It's important to seek as much information as possible before making a decision.
Joining online communities and discussion forums about teaching in Vietnam can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed choice.
10. Conclusion
Vietnam offers a wealth of opportunities for those wishing to teach abroad. Whether you choose to teach in a public school or a language centre, each path offers unique experiences and challenges.
The key is to understand your own career goals and personal preferences, and choose the path that aligns with them.
No matter where you choose to teach, remember that your journey in Vietnam will be as much about learning as it is about teaching. Embrace the culture, learn from your students, and most importantly, enjoy the experience of teaching in a foreign country.
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