Vietnam has emerged as a hotspot for educators seeking to teach at an international school. This Southeast Asian nation offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and bustling cities. With an ever-growing number of international schools, Vietnam presents a plethora of opportunities to educators around the globe. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or a fresh graduate, this guide will help you navigate the process of landing a teaching job in this vibrant country.
1. Eligibility Criteria to Teach at an International School in Vietnam
If you're planning to teach in Vietnam, it’s crucial to understand the requirements for obtaining a work visa and a residency permit for 2023. Here's an outline of the prerequisites:
A Bachelor's degree (BA/BSc) or higher in a relevant discipline
Medical clearance, obtained within Vietnam
Professional teaching certification (e.g., BEd, PGDE, PGCE)
A minimum of 2-3 years of teaching experience at the grade level you plan to teach
Two positive teaching references
Age under 65 years
All necessary documents must be authenticated and legalized for the work permit and residency application. Fluent non-native English speakers may be considered if there's a shortage of native speakers.
2. Compensation and Benefits for International School Teachers
The monthly salary for international school teachers in Vietnam ranges from $2000 - $4900 (2023), contingent on experience and students' age. The compensation package typically includes:
Housing or housing allowance
A standard workweek of 25-28 hours with two days off
Paid holidays and vacation time
Flight reimbursement
School fee discounts for your children
Medical insurance
Possible performance bonuses.
3. Understanding the International School Landscape in Vietnam
Vietnam has seen a surge in the number of international schools, primarily concentrated in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. These schools cater to both local children and expatriates' kids.
Schools usually operate from 07:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, with some offering after-school extracurricular activities. The student population can be quite diverse, with some schools hosting up to 50 different nationalities.
International schools in Vietnam offer various curricula, including American, British, Australian, and International Baccalaureate.
4. A Day in the Life of an International School Teacher in Vietnam
On a typical day, teachers and students gather for an assembly between 7:00 and 7:30 am. The teacher's schedule usually involves a mix of teaching and planning, with the latter including lesson planning and grading.
After the academic day concludes, teachers often run clubs or supervise extra-curricular activities. Keeping accurate records of attendance, homework, and assessments is a crucial part of the job.
Communication with parents is typically more frequent and involved in international schools, given the fee-paying nature of these institutions and the parents' expectation for a superior education.
5. Student Demographics and Learning Styles
International schools in Vietnam attract a diverse mix of students, including local Vietnamese children and expatriates' kids. Class sizes can vary, but you may find yourself teaching a class of around 22 students hailing from 12-14 different countries.
It's important to be mindful of the different learning styles represented in your classroom. For instance, students from South Korea, China, and Taiwan may prefer to learn through memorization.
6. Preferred Teacher Nationalities in Vietnam
Vietnam's international schools hire teachers from various nationalities, often in line with the curriculum they offer. For instance, US and Canadian teachers are in demand at American curriculum schools, while British and Irish teachers are sought after at UK curriculum schools.
7. Application Process for Teaching Positions in Vietnam
The primary hiring season for jobs starting in August is the previous November/December, approximately 8 months prior. Job vacancies may also arise in January due to staff changes or school expansion.
Schools may also re-advertise unfilled positions during the term. Early application is therefore recommended.
8. Key Qualities Sought in Potential Teachers
Schools in Vietnam look for various attributes in potential teachers, including:
Experience with the specific curriculum taught at the school
Excellent subject knowledge
Effective communication skills
Professional appearance and demeanor
A wealth of ideas for engaging lessons
Approachability and teamwork skills
A commitment to continuous professional development
A positive attitude and willingness to contribute to the school community
A long-term commitment to the school or school group
Excellence in classroom teaching
9. Teaching English in Vietnam
English language teaching positions are available in cities and larger towns throughout Vietnam, with salaries ranging from $1000 to $2300 per month. English language teachers in Vietnam typically need to satisfy the following requirements:
English language teacher requirements 2023:
Native English speaker with TEFL/CELTA certificate and bachelor degree, clear criminal record check, and ability to pass a medical examination in Vietnam. Some schools may also require 3 years of teaching experience for a Vietnam work permit.
Before making the move, secure medical insurance and ensure you have sufficient funds to cover initial expenses such as document processing, flights, housing deposits, and living costs for the first few weeks.
10. Living in Vietnam as an International School Teacher
Living in Vietnam offers a different lifestyle compared to countries like the US, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and the UK. The cost of living is significantly lower, allowing teachers to save a substantial portion of their salary. The climate is generally mild or hot, with no snow or ice in the winter season. Navigating Vietnam is made easy with various transportation options, including public buses, trains, bicycles, taxis, Grab, motorbikes, cars, and airplanes. For those interested in driving, temporary driver's licenses are available upon application.
Lastly, Vietnam is famous for its breathtaking beaches, providing a perfect weekend getaway. From the scenic Tuan Chau and Do Son beaches near Hanoi to the bustling areas of Nha Trang and Vung Tau, there's a beach for every preference.
To teach at an international school in Vietnam is not just an employment opportunity, but a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture and contribute to the global community. With careful planning and preparation, you can make the most of this rewarding adventure.
Let us know in the comments what your day looks like at your international school!
Comments