Dear Teflwatch,
I was browsing your website recently and came across the “Good Vibes Lounge.” I was reading about the first nominee and was instantly struck by how much it mirrors the school I am currently working for. I have never taught English before and consider myself lucky to have landed a job at a great school, especially considering everything I have been reading in your “hall of shame.” So, I’d like to go ahead and nominate Super English Language School, in Surat Thani, Thailand, for your Good Vibes Lounge. I am nearing the end of my one year contract and below is my assessment of the school so far:
• No problem at all getting my Work Permit or Visa. The school took care of everything. Smooth transition and acclimation process.
• As far as paperwork is concerned, Super English requires very little from me. In fact, after my 3 month probation period was up, I didn’t even have to submit lesson plans for my in-house classes.
• They have always paid me on time, never a problem. I get paid hourly, so the more I work, the more I get paid. The director even offered to pay me early and at half month periods when difficult or financially straining situations presented itself, such as when I returned from my October break.
• Several times during the year, Super English offered free classes to its students, yet paid me and the other teachers for the hours we taught – demonstrating their commitment to both their students and teachers.
• The director is an awesome teacher, able to connect to students of any age and proficiency level. His training is top notch, encourages creativity in the classroom and is always doling out positive reinforcement. He shows his appreciation and I really feel like a valued member of a team. He goes out of his way to make sure all of his teachers are comfortable.
• The working environment is really relaxed, fun and laid back. As long as we maintain certain standards in the classroom, which is easy to do, the director gives us the independence to teach how and what we want.
• The school also has a large supply of excellent teaching resources along with a good library for leisure reading.
• The admin staff is great too! They take care of everything from copies to reminding me when I have to check in with immigration. They’re also a great source for practicing Thai.
• All of the other teachers are a lot of fun and really care about teaching. Going to work is like hanging out with your friends. Out of the teachers who worked there during my stay, only one left and he is planning on returning this month.
• The management provided me with lots of information about the school and the town beforehand so I had an idea of what to expect. They were honest and up front from the beginning.
• My contract included free accommodation in a private apartment of my own within walking distance to the school, up to 3.5 months of holiday break, free Muay Thai classes and free nights in a beach resort – the school made good on everything.
Super English Language School is an awesome school and offers a great working environment for teachers.