Worried about teaching in Taiwan

[Shasta]

Hello fellow EFL teachers and wannabes! I'm thinking about teaching in Taiwan next year and looking for advice.

After (assistant) teaching in Japan on the joyride that is the JET Program, I am quite worried about teaching in Taiwan as I have read so many warnings and blacklists of untrustworthy schools, recruiters, etc. On the other hand, I haven't seen any posts of teachers recommending their current or previous school/chain as reasonable places to work.

Any teachers in Taiwan (especially Kaohsiung) have any good stories of employers or advice of where to start? Is it best to go over and find a job by yourself? Any advice would be apprieciated. (anyone living in Kaohsiung now?)

[Hypiereon]

I think having a place to recommend former schools would be good, but there needs to be a way to keep employers or recruiters from recommending their own schools. Foreigners who have worked at a place is always a good place to start, but you'd need to be sure you were dealing with someone who really worked there.

I'd have no problem recommending several of the schools I've worked for on the mainland here in ChengDu, but Taiwan is a whole other ball of wax, and not only have I never been there, I do not know anyone who has either. Sorry I can't be of help in this instance, but maybe someone who's been to Taiwan or maybe even checked into going there could be of help?

[gfell]

Hello Hypiereon,

I know you've mentioned it before to me regarding a "Green Light" of schools rather than just a "Black List". Will get this done by Sunday this week. Now that I've publicly committed myself, I suppose there is no backing out.

[kkbaby]

Just come to Taiwan and find a job once you have arrived. You obviously know about teaching and type of jobs out there since you are now in Japan teaching. Lots of great schools in Taiwan, so don't let the black lists scare you too much.

Once you are here, you can see for yourself the school before accepting the position. I think it's always better to arrive in a country then look for a job instead of accepting a job without seeing the school first.

I teach at Kaohsiung American School. Great students, great school and great curriculum. Was introduced to this school by a friend already working there!

So, don't hesitate, get over here and see the schools before committing. Am certain you will find something you like!

[Shasta]

Thanks for the imput everyone!

It's still awhile 'till I'm thinking about going, so I'll remember your advice when I start looking more seriously.