5 Steps to Begin Teaching in Vietnam
Ever considered teaching in Vietnam? It’s not as daunting as it might seem. With a degree and TEFL certification in hand, you’re halfway there. Online job portals and recruitment agencies are a goldmine for teaching positions. Tailor your applications, prep for interviews, and design an outstanding demo lesson. And don’t forget, immersing yourself in Vietnamese culture is essential for a smooth transition. But how do you steer through all these steps effectively? Stick around, there’s more to learn about this exciting expedition.
Table of Contents
Before you leap into teaching in Vietnam, it’s essential to wrap your head around the country’s education system. Similar to other Asian countries, education holds a high societal value in Vietnam.
The system’s structure is divided into five levels: preschool, primary school, secondary school, high school, and higher education.
You’ll note that Vietnamese students start their education expedition at preschool around the age of three, progressing to primary school when they turn six. The primary school cycle lasts for five years, followed by four years of secondary school. High school education spans three years, after which students have the option to pursue higher education.
You’ll be stepping into a system that’s competitive and rigorous, with a strong emphasis on mathematics, science, and English.
English, in particular, has increasingly become a core subject at all levels due to globalization. There’s a high demand for native English speakers to enhance the students’ language skills.
Acquiring Necessary Teaching Qualifications
In order to thrive as an English teacher in Vietnam, acquiring the necessary qualifications is essential. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be in education. Additionally, Vietnam usually requires a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification, which proves your proficiency in teaching English.
Getting certified doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Online and in-person courses are available worldwide, giving you flexibility to fit your schedule. TEFL courses range from 120 to 250 hours, while CELTA courses are more intensive, often requiring full-time study over four weeks. Both provide practical teaching experience, which is indispensable.
Importantly, make sure your certificates are accredited and recognized globally. You don’t want to spend time and money on a course that won’t be accepted.
Lastly, you’ll need your original certificates – not copies – when applying for jobs, so keep them safe.
Searching for Teaching Opportunities
Once you’ve obtained your teaching qualifications, it’s time to plunge into the job market. Vietnam’s lively cities and serene countryside are teeming with opportunities for aspiring educators. But where do you start looking?
Firstly, go online. There are many job portals and websites dedicated to teaching jobs in Vietnam. Websites like ESL Jobs, Teach Away, and Dave’s ESL Café are good places to start. They provide extensive listings and allow you to filter searches according to your preferences.
Secondly, consider contacting recruitment agencies. Many schools in Vietnam use these agencies to find suitable candidates. They can streamline the process and even negotiate contracts on your behalf.
Here are a few steps to guide your search:
- Research and bookmark reliable job portals and recruitment agencies.
- Regularly check these sites and respond promptly to any opportunities that interest you.
- Tailor your application to suit each specific role, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
- Network with other teachers in Vietnam, as they can provide priceless understanding and may know of unadvertised positions.
Preparing for the Interview Process
With your applications sent, it’s time to shift gears and prepare for the interview process. The key to success lies in your preparation. Researching the school and its culture is essential. Understanding their teaching philosophy would give you an edge.
Practice common interview questions related to teaching in Vietnam. They could range from your teaching style to how you would handle language barriers. Remember, interviews aren’t just to assess your suitability, but also for you to see if the school is the right fit for you.
Prepare a demo lesson, as most schools will want to see you in action. It’s your chance to show your teaching skills and creativity. Keep it engaging and relevant to the Vietnamese curriculum.
Here’s a table to help you gather your thoughts:
| Preparation Steps | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Research the school | Understand their culture and values |
| Practice interview questions | Be ready for anything |
| Prepare a demo lesson | Showcase your teaching skills |
| Assess the school | Verify it’s a right fit for you |
It’s normal to feel nervous, but with preparation, you’ll be ready to ace that interview.
Adapting to Life in Vietnam
After acing your interview and securing a teaching position, you’ll soon find yourself on a plane to Vietnam.
Once you land, the real journey begins. Adapting to life in a new country can be challenging, but with the right mindset, you’ll soon feel at home.
To help you adjust, here are some key highlights of life in Vietnam:
Food:Â Vietnamese cuisine is a blend of flavors that will keep your palate guessing. From Pho to Banh Mi, you’ll have plenty to discover.
Climate:Â Vietnam’s tropical climate means hot and humid weather. But, don’t worry, you’ll adjust in no time.
Culture:Â The culture is a mix of traditional and modern influences. Accept the local customs and immerse yourself in the community.
Transportation:Â Motorbikes are the norm here. Whether you choose to ride one or prefer taxis, getting around is an experience in itself.
