School and Recruiter Reviews

Questions on ACLIPSE and REACH TO TEACH -- Katy D. -- 20 November 2009

I am trying to teach in Asia and am talking with Aclipse and Reach to Teach. Does anyone have anything to say about either recruiter? So far I am less impressed by Reach to Teach but I haven't ...

Re: Walton Foreign Language Centre in Huadu (Gaungzhou City). -- Andy -- 18 November 2009

WALTON SCHOOL....A complete disgrace.Since i have been there which is not long at all, 8 tecahers have ceither come or gone, with only one of them completing his contract due to needing the money, ...

Re: Clifford School in Guangzhou, China -- Trent -- 17 November 2009

I live at Clifford Estates and although I am not teaching at Clifford, I happen to live in section D of Clifford Estates and I know many students from Clifford, most of which are Korean. They attend ...

Re: Clifford School in Guangzhou, China -- Son of My Father -- 18 November 2009

I know many students from Clifford, most of which are Korean. They attend the bi-lingual program. I have heard absolutely nothing from them other than how bad the school is, how lame the Canadian ...

Re: Clifford School in Guangzhou, China -- cunning linguist -- 17 November 2009

Thank you for adding to the lexicon of terms used on this Forum. We have had, groveling weasels; teachers without a personality disorder; mixed mammals, and your latest addition, "dressed up back ...

Re: Clifford School in Guangzhou, China -- Turnoi -- 18 November 2009

"Pretend teacher" is another term that had been in use on this board for some time. "Pretend School" (=crappy training centres) developed from that. In response to the "pretend teacher" posts, I ...

The Ultimate (or Pen-ultimate?) Truth about "Pretend Teachers at Work" -- Turnoi -- 18 November 2009

Here is the link to the said article I was referring to in my previous post: http://www.eslteachersboard.com/cgi-bin/forum/index.pl?noframes;page=2;read=51512 I reckon that future generations of ESL ...

Re: Religion in China -- Turnoi -- 17 November 2009

This is an old post and an old thread. You will need to know the context to understand why this post has been made. Please read the other relevant posts in this sub-thread.

Re: Religion in China -- icpenguin -- 17 November 2009

What's wrong?

Re: My experience at Clifford School in Panyu -- john -- 17 November 2009

These posts are full of so much BS!!!!!!!!!!! I would believe they are by one person who has had some bad experience, and probably a person who was inexperienced and couldn't cope! I am a very ...

Re: My experience at Clifford School in Panyu -- Turnoi -- 17 November 2009

What is Clifford? I guess it is just another of the many crap places that do not deserve to have the word "school" in their name. Rather a pretend "school" then, I would assume.

Re: My experience at Clifford School in Panyu -- Qifuren -- 17 November 2009

Clifford School is a Pre-K to 12 private school that offers two programs: Bilingual and Manitoban. The school is approaching 3000 students and hires 80+ Western Staff. The school only hires certified ...

Reach to Teach/Aclipse/Canadian Connection QUESTIONS!! -- Kate Doerksen -- 13 November 2009

Hi, I've never posted to this kind of thing before so I don't know if I am posting to the right people... I am currently looking for a teaching position with my husband in South Korea. This ...

Ahil English School Korea, Ulsan, Nammok -- ANET -- 12 November 2009

During my 5 1/2 years in Korea, I taught at 5 schools and most of them were great. Unfortunately one was hell. That was Ahil English School in Nammok, Ulsan. I was short paid. Teachers were played ...

ENLI, Tianjin -- unhappycamper -- 11 November 2009

10,000+ per month, what a joke!!! The rate of pay is 100RMB per hour, (not academic hour), minus a very questionable tax rate and a very expensive apartment that you need to pay for yourself. The ...

Re: ENLI, Tianjin -- Balanced View of Enli -- 15 November 2009

First of all, I am not ENLI, I am not an agent for the school, and I do not even know the owners of this school directly. It is true that they have a particularly nefarious name in the greater ...

Re: ENLI, Tianjin -- Turnoi -- 15 November 2009

You advise extreme caution to take for granted what the OP regarding ENLI said. I do strongly advise the same caution regarding what you said about that poster. It is not the first time that someone ...

Re: ENLI, Tianjin -- Turnoi -- 12 November 2009

Yeah, that sounds like a real joke... Is is that kind of pay and conditions that foreign teachers take all the trouble to work for in China?! A very bad business deal indeed! There is only one ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Brian -- 8 November 2009

I currently work for Pagoda at the Gangnam branch. I am about to begin my third year. I have no doubt that some of the complaints here are valid. I have seen some questionable things. However, its ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Theo -- 9 November 2009

Brian writes: I currently work for Pagoda at the Gangnam branch. I am about to begin my third year. I have no doubt that some of the complaints here are valid. I have seen some questionable things. ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Brian -- 9 November 2009

Sorry for that. I guess I should have been more clear. I am on my one month yearly vacation provided by Pagoda. I am in Chiang Mai at ECC getting my CELTA. I want to improve as a teacher. This seemed ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Theo -- 10 November 2009

Brian: Do you notice how I used the simple perfect to denote that it is where I normally live? I am getting my CELTA. Do you notice how I used the present progressive to denote that this is happening ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Brian -- 10 November 2009

Again, my apologies. The split shifts do last a long time. Some longer than others. I was on them for seven months. Again, it is NOT EASY. It is a job. It is not a vacation. That doesn't mean, ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Turino -- 11 November 2009

Brian says: The split shifts do last a long time. Some longer than others. I was on them for seven months. Again, it is NOT EASY. It is a job. It is not a vacation. I say: As a former teacher in the ...

Re: Pagoda Teaching Academy, Seoul, South Korea -- Silverboy -- 12 November 2009

I will second that. I am currently working only 3 days a week in China, 14 classes a week and that is how I like it. Go back to Australia and work 50 hours a week? No Thanks, even though the money is ...

Helping the "enemy"? -- Turnoi -- 13 November 2009

....many people will consider you to be a traitor for helping the ememy ( China ) to speak our language. I did not make that comment to sound racist, but it is a fact that the Chinese are not well ...

Re: Helping the "enemy"? -- Silverboy -- 13 November 2009

I did not say that the Chinese are my enemy Turnoi, some Chinese people are my enemy, and I enjoy taking retribution against them. Most of the Chinese people I have met in the street are fine, some ...

Re: Helping the "enemy"? -- Turnoi -- 14 November 2009

I am fully aware that you did not say anything lime that yourself and that you were quoting from other sources. However, I could not help commenting on it. Take care, S.!

Re: YUMING EDUCATION CENTER - TIANJIN -- NORA -- 7 November 2009

THE CONTRACT IS A TRAP. IN FACT THE AVERAGE SALARY IS THE LOWEST STANDARD IN CHINA(ABOUT5000/MONTH WITHOUT LODGMENT. THEY ARE VERY DIHONEST.BE CAREFUL MY FRIENDS.

Re: YUMING EDUCATION CENTER - TIANJIN -- Silverboy -- 13 November 2009

Yes, Yuming Education is crap, I have had dealings with them before. They have not paid their teachers in the past, the "school" lets the parents decide who is a good teacher ( always a sure sign of ...

Ahmed Bakran with Skyline Global Solutions in Pennsylvania -- Mary Versteeg -- 6 November 2009

I was offered a position to teach in Saudi Arabia by this agent. His company name is Skyline Global solutions, the website is www.globaltechsolutions.com. Has anyone had experience with him. He says ...

What's what at Majie High School of Sichuan Province? -- OnceBittenTwiceShy -- 5 November 2009

Can anyone enlighten me re what teaching and living there would be like? Oh, and what about Victor Zhao, the school's foreign affairs officer? Is he a Westernised Chinese in terms of outlook, or ...

Wuhan Bioengineering Institute, Yangluo -- MetalStorm -- 5 November 2009

Keep away from this place which is located near a crappy town called Yangluo, one hour from Wuhan. This university uses recruiters to obtain it's foreign teachers. Teachers are told that they ...

Re: Wuhan Bioengineering Institute, Yangluo -- Migrant Worker -- 7 November 2009

This place sounds like a nightmare. If Chinese would stop for a moment to think, they would understand that most foreigners come here for a positive experience. We don't come here for money, that ...

Re: Wuhan Bioengineering Institute, Yangluo -- MetalStorm -- 6 November 2009

I also forgot to mention that that shower trays in the hotel rooms for FT's at WBI are cracked, water leaks everywhere when you have shower, dangerous. I asked the hotel staff to fix this ...

Re: Wuhan Bioengineering Institute, Yangluo -- Turnoi -- 7 November 2009

You said: There are also constant technical problems with the FT's computers at WBI. And I want to add: If so, it is because these specialists of excellent academic expertise probably take a ...

Re: Wuhan Bioengineering Institute, Yangluo - lovely place, really! -- Turnoi -- 5 November 2009

From what you say it must be a lovely place that every foreign teacher would really like to work for, whow! And the kind of extra care they are giving you by preventing you to come and go freely to ...

Re: Oxford Centre / Bielsko Biala, Poland -- Chris Mulhall -- 5 November 2009

MMMHMMM.... Thought so...figured this issue would raise it's head sooner or later. I'm no daisy myself but the treatment of others suffered at the hands of this school would lead me to ...

Re: M-Trading, Saudi Arabia -- M-Trading Beware!! -- 3 November 2009

It is amazing what M-Trading will say about those who share true experiences with others in order to better inform them before making a decision for employment. Just remember to investigate the ...

Re: M-Trading, Saudi Arabia -- Turnoi -- 3 November 2009

This M-Trading business probably acts as a recruiter, and recruiters, like in China, cannot really be trusted. There are some other good reasons why I would strongly advise against working in Saudi ...

Re: English in Action, Slovakia -- Gen -- 2 November 2009

I have worked for "English in Action" or a few years ago it was called "Native Teachers of English (NTE)". After the first week of working there we had our pay cut in half meaning that we were ...

Aston English -- F-Aston -- 2 November 2009

Aston is a horrible company to work for. Take it from me. I worked there for 6 months, my first job in China and it was ridiculous what I was put through. First of all, the manager at the school ...

Re: Aston English -- wendy h -- 3 November 2009

hi F-Aston. At what school/city were you in when you were working with Aston?

Re: Aston English -- Silverboy -- 3 November 2009

Why do people continue to work at training centres? Only work at universities, you will be much safer and much better off!

Re: Crappy Aston English -- Turnoi -- 2 November 2009

That Aston is a crap "school" is not a new thing. I really do hope that your report will help to convince newbies to stay away from this Aston crap altogether!

Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Ex-TC Teacher -- 1 November 2009

Somewhere in Hunan..... Teachers J & E get paid 4000 a month with airfare at the end. They applied to the school directly. However, Teacher B was brought by an agency. He gets 4100 month, broken down ...

Re: Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Turnoi -- 1 November 2009

It may not necessarily be the dean pocketing portions of the airfare, could be someone else as well. The Chinese have to learn to be more transparent in their financial policies regarding matters ...

Re: Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Ex-TC Teacher -- 5 November 2009

Do you think this is fair, as B is working less hours? I am thinking if he was given less hours on purpose, this would constitute a scam! Thanks!

Re: Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Turnoi -- 5 November 2009

Sorry, I do not quite understand in which way the contents of your post relate to what I said in my post that you seem to have responded to.

Re: Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Ex-TC Teacher -- 6 November 2009

Turnoi, You totally right in saying that anyone could be pocketing his airfair. However, I am not quite sure if he is getting his airfair stolen. He does not claim it at the end of the year. It is ...

Re: Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Turnoi -- 6 November 2009

"Included in his salary"? I am wondering... that must a big joke on the part of those claiming it! If so, I would it is deception at its highest level that is at work! Don't believe it!

Re: Somewhere in Hunan.. -- Ex-TC teacher -- 12 November 2009

But B is doing only 32 classes a month! I would like to see if this was deliberate.

Chungdahm Institute (CDI) -- luffy3 -- 31 October 2009

Hi, everybody, I'm interested in hearing about people's experiences with CDI's training (Chungdahm Institute). I'm particularly interested in those who had either failed or didn't ...

US -- myprof -- 31 October 2009

I would say CarrotEnglish is right behind Lingaphone.

Linguaphone is Kaputt in the PRC -- Monitor -- 30 October 2009

Bravo! I hope it's the first of many TC's to go under: http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/?id=417705&type=Metro

Re: Linguaphone is Kaputt in the PRC -- Silverboy -- 30 October 2009

Linguaphone bankrupt? Great, I really hope the reports are true. Next, EF, Aston, New Oriental, they are all crap, and the DOS who are employed there are scum. If myself and other TC haters had ...

The real reasons -- Turnoi -- 31 October 2009

The real reasons why Linguaphone went bankrupt is sheer mismanagement in business and a total lack of inability to run a sound business. It is probably less for reasons of our anti-TC "campaign", I ...

Re: Linguaphone is Kaputt in the PRC -- Hunter -- 31 October 2009

Yes, TCs are as superfluous as a swine flu!

Other TCs on my bankrupt wish list - high priority! -- Turnoi -- 31 October 2009

Please do not forget: Yangshuo, Tianshuo, Suzhou Foreign Language "School", Owen's Bucks in the Land - they are crappy places, too. They need to follow EF, Aston, New Century in Dalian, Kidcastle ...

Re: Linguaphone is Kaputt in the PRC -- Turnoi -- 30 October 2009

If that really is the case, then this is a great day! I sincerely hope that many other crappy training centres will follow and "suffer" the same fate! They do deserve it! Nobody is in need of these ...

LINGUAPHONE CHINA BANKRUPT -- burnt-by-linguaphone -- 30 October 2009

Linguaphone China has gone completely, suddenly and irreversibly bankrupt according to reports in the published editions of The China Daily, the Guangzhou Morning Post and The Shanghai Daily. The ...

Re: LINGUAPHONE CHINA BANKRUPT -- Turnoi -- 30 October 2009

That is good news! Hopefully, there are more crappy TCs to follow.

Recruiting Arabic speaking volunteers/ Shanghai Fair 2010 -- Ex-TC teacher -- 29 October 2009

Shanghai fair? I think the big fat company that runs all these high-powered business meetings can afford to pay Arabic speaking interpreters (highly-skilled people) at least a bob or two! SCAM! ...

Re: Recruiting Arabic speaking volunteers/ Shanghai Fair 2010 -- Turnoi -- 30 October 2009

I agree. Stay away from that kind of "fair"!

Re: Recruiting Arabic speaking volunteers/ Shanghai Fair 2010 -- EX-TC teacher -- 31 October 2009

Look out Y H! We are making phone calls!

Chung Dahm Learning-South Korea -- Stranded in Korea -- 28 October 2009

This is a warning to anyone who has accepted a contract or who is thinking about accepting a contract from Chung Dahm Learning ( www.teachinkorea.com www.aclipse.net www.cdiamerica.com ). There is ...

Re: Chung Dahm Learning-South Korea -- nonameman35 -- 1 November 2009

i decided months ago to forget about CDI and move on, til i got your email. i did want justice though for the way CDI took advantage of me. i wonder though, if you aren't some sting operation ...

Re: Chung Dahm Learning-South Korea -- Stranded in Korea -- 1 November 2009

I am more than happy to give you the name of attorney who would be representing this case. However I would rather not share information about a possible lawsuit against Chung Dahm Learning on a ...

Pattison English, Beijing -- JC -- 26 October 2009

For anyone interested in teaching English in a reputable school, DO NOT go near this one. The owner will lie and cheat and manipulate to get her own way. The art of USING PEOPLE is her specialty. ...

Re: Pattison English, Beijing - Much ado about nothing, simply pretence! -- Turnoi -- 27 October 2009

According to what you say, this Pattison thing (not to mention "school" because it does not seem to be a genuine one) must be a total scam for students, investors and foreign teachers alike. Do you ...

Re: Foshan Lingdong - ESL school review -- Anonymous -- 26 October 2009

I worked at one of the Lingdong School campuses in Foshan China. Sometimes the job was ok, sometimes it was really bad: The good: My Visa was processed without problems. However, I do know of ...

Re: Foshan Lingdong - ESL school review -- cunning linguist -- 25 October 2009

I though your post was balanced explaining some good points and bad points. It is very clear the promises that were made and those that were broken. You also gave some data that is not easy to find ...

NDI - Wuhan -- John -- 24 October 2009

Newcomers: Generally speaking, Chinese schools and job agents will play fast and loose with the contract. In 5+ years in China, I have yet to come across a totally satisfactory school, and have ...

Re: NDI - Wuhan -- Silverboy -- 25 October 2009

What you have said is absolutely correct. I hope others take notice. Until very recently I was working in Wuhan, I am very familiar with NDI and the Xudong branch at Xiao Pin Mao. I have not worked ...

Re: NDI - Wuhan -- Turnoi -- 25 October 2009

My question is: What does a certain design in/of the rooms in that place really help if all the rest of that "school" is crap?

Re: NDI - Wuhan -- Ex-TC teacher -- 31 October 2009

Does it matter? The point is, there are no good training centers in China. Extc

Re: Walton Language School, Guangzhou -- Andy -- 24 October 2009

Walton school of cheats ...liars....thieves....AVOID AT ALL COSTS!! Whilst you might read this and think " oh another teacher that didnt get what they wanted so decided to bad mouth the school" you ...

Re: Walton Language School, Guangzhou -- Turnoi -- 25 October 2009

Whow...another great "school" qualifying for this year's Top Award in Incompetence! Or should we better get rid of such places you may safely call "crappy"?

Re: ITC Training suspended by College of Teachers -- Michael -- 23 October 2009

This post is over five years old...and ITC has been doing TESOL courses in good standing since then. Give it a break, man!!

Re: ITC Training suspended by College of Teachers -- Turnoi -- 24 October 2009

Glory Hallelujah, everything has changed and is better now at ITC! The only problem is that it is hard to believe...LOL!

Re: Thai-American International School -- alarmed -- 22 October 2009

A little late I know - but allow me to warn anyone of this place. 1. The owner and current administrators "bought" their degrees from degree mills in the USA. 2. The owner threatened several of his ...

Re: Thai-American International School -- Turnoi -- 24 October 2009

What you describe is morale at its lowest level provided all this is true. It is an instance of a single crap "school" that demonstrates the fact that there are evil places like that in the highly ...

Re: Thai-American International School -- Silverboy -- 23 October 2009

I have warned people about this "school" many times. Everything you have said about that place is true. It is a case of avoid at all costs! Teachers beware!

Re: Nanchang Hangkong University in Nanchang, Jiangxi Provin -- Francis -- 21 October 2009

It seems they were at it again. An American teacher was sent away, after they found out that he was overweight. It didn't really matter to the Waiban, i.e. Maggy and her sidekicks, that ...

Re: Nanchang Hangkong University in Nanchang, Jiangxi Provin -- Ana -- 17 November 2009

Hi, I've read that your school seems good, do they have any vacancy this coming 2010?

Re: Nanchang Hangkong University in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province -- Adam Hughs -- 17 November 2009

I saw these messages by chance. I am a full-time foreign teacher working in this university, and I do think I am working fine here. The international office in this university is trying their best to ...

Darussafaka Schools - Warning!!! -- Eng Teacher -- 20 October 2009

This is a warning to all teachers. Do not work at Darüşşafaka schools! The school is located in Maslak, Istanbul, Turkey. It’s a boarding school for students age 10-19. The school used to ...

i want to know... -- bianca -- 20 October 2009

Does anyone know about America School of Madrid aND JOBS4TEACHERS? tHANKS...

Re: i want to know... -- Turnoi -- 26 October 2009

If I remember correctly, this was listed as a scam already on various internet forums! Be very cautious and never send any money if they ask you to!

Canpac, Guangzhou and Heshan -- Jordin -- 19 October 2009

I recommend not working for a training centre called Canpac, unless they've changed their name after fleeing the city without paying me. Last I heard they were moving out to Heshan, wherever that ...

The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- biochip -- 17 October 2009

OK, my uni wants us all to submit ourselves to taking this test. You can see the front page of the site below. http://202.96.25.8/IntlHR/login.php Ostensibly it's to "evaluate" us, which would ...

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- Irritated Foreign teacher -- 8 November 2009

Yes, I had to take this test. After working at my school for almost 2 and a half years now, my boss sprung this ridiculous test on me last week. I took the psychological exam, but after one look at ...

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- biochip -- 11 November 2009

Yes, the test is remarkably flawed. In the version I got there was an instance in which the Chinese hadn't been translated in one of the answers. This leads me to believe what you are getting is ...

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- Turnoi -- 8 November 2009

You should refuse to take this test and could give the following reasons: 1. There are real doubts that the test is legit. 2. It is not in your contract that you are obliged to take the test. 3. Tell ...

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- Turnoi -- 18 October 2009

To me, it looks like a fake! Do not register and do not leave any of your personal data there!

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- Migrant Worker -- 25 October 2009

I believe the University has a deal with the recruiting agency to "Help" each other out. By taking your information and using it to place you in other jobs in the future. These jobs will most likely ...

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- Turnoi -- 26 October 2009

If that really is the case as you suggest I would call it "illegitimate" and hence consequently refrain from all action in this respect. Why in the world should someone from among the foreign ...

Re: The evaluation system for foreign language experts = legit or bullsh*t? Did you have to take it? -- Rigs -- 9 November 2009

I just took the test (5 mins ago).. was a bit suspicious so I goggled about it. hmm I should have not take the test. But an hour ago, i had a heated argument with my school. They really forced me to ...

Kingspoint!!! Don't work there! -- seoulimprov -- 17 October 2009

Kingspoint!!! Don't work there! This hagwon is located just outside Sunae Station on the Bundang Line of the Seoul subway system. It’s on the fourth floor of a nearby building. The owner and his ...

Re: New Century English School Dalian -- satisfiedteacher -- 16 October 2009

I am currently working for New Century in Dalian and also am astounded by the criticism directed towards what has only been a wonderful place for me to work. I am always paid on time, the Chinese ...

Re: New Century English School Dalian -- Turnoi -- 17 October 2009

Now we know everything we have to know about New Centure English Pretend "School" in Dalian - what a wonderful and excellent place to work for and to study at! Or is it the opposite that is implied? ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- JN -- 16 October 2009

Re: Response to Oldhat - Is It a Good Time to Come to China? -- Monitor -- 16 October 2009

I reckon it's as good a time as any to come to China to teach English. In the last decade there have been no significant changes to the way China treats its foreigners except for during 2008 due ...

Re: Response to Oldhat - Is It a Good Time to Come to China? -- oldhat -- 16 October 2009

You could say it's as good of a time or it's as bad of a time. However, though China in general wouldn't have changed in the way it treats foreigners, the schools now have the upper hand ...

Re: Response to Oldhat - Is It a Good Time to Come to China? -- Monitor -- 17 October 2009

I agree with you that some schools in China entice more foreign teachers than they actually need to come here to teach, usually initially with L visas, and then weed them out! They tend to be ...

Re: Response to Oldhat - Is It a Good Time to Come to China? -- Silverboy -- 17 October 2009

I agree that in a backwater a teacher has way more negotiating power. Yesterday my uni practically begged my not to leave, as two foreign teachers have quit in the last week. I am getting 4500 a ...

Re: Response to Oldhat - Is It a Good Time to Come to China? -- oldhat -- 17 October 2009

Very well said monitor. I have found essentially the same job as you, including backwater location, and am happy with it for essentially the same reasons. It's a good job!

What's the Lowdown re Xiangtan University? -- Darren Oliphant -- 16 October 2009

The FAO rep there wrote me recently that there will be a number of vacancies for foreign teachers of English at that seat of learning come the upcoming spring semester. Lowdown, please; thanking you ...

Re: What's the Lowdown re Xiangtan University? -- Hunan Escapee -- 16 October 2009

The city of Xiangtan, Hunan is a garbage dump. There is no other way to put it. I spent almost two years of my life there when I first came to China. There is absolutely nothing, nothing redeeming ...

Re: What's the Lowdown re Xiangtan University? -- Silverboy -- 16 October 2009

Interesting to hear your views. I was offered work in Xiangtan recently, I definitely won't be going there now! I would advise others who are interested in central China to stick to Changsha ( ...

Re: New Century English School Dalian -- bob -- 15 October 2009

in response to hayden,and to anyone who is currently working at the joke of a school ,new century.or anyone who is planning on working there .hayden makes good points about his time there. but let me ...

American Bilingual School of Kuwait -- L Grigor -- 15 October 2009

WARNING not to work at the American Bilingual School of Kuwait- aka ABS here is a blog which tells of what they did last year, which is the worst of many terrible stories about this insane assylum ...

Is it a good time to come to China? -- oldhat -- 15 October 2009

I don't think so. There's the economic recession driving more people to look for work alternatives, but this doesn't work in favor of new teachers. 1. You get the short end of the stick ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- cunning linguist -- 16 October 2009

Me love you long time, Boom Boom - Ok, maybe that's Thailand (where the most popular t-shirt stated " No Money, no Honey" ) rather than China, but I would be really interested to hear a louwai ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 16 October 2009

I would agree that Thailand is probably still No 1 as far as girls are concerned, the people are also MUCH,MUCH,friendlier! Thai women are the most beautiful in the world, by a long shot, although ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 16 October 2009

I would agree with quite a lot of that. Coming to China to teach is certainly not a career option, that notion is just laughable. If you are from the West your teaching experience in China will be ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- cunning linguist -- 16 October 2009

Ah ha. So now we know the context in which many Chinese girls find your hairy legs so attractive!

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 16 October 2009

Yeah, sometimes CL. Chinese bar girls are just an occassional distraction for me. I am looking for a Chinese wife right now, that is my No 1 priority and reason for being in China. If my mission ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- cunning linguist -- 17 October 2009

Well the princess is still the princess and I am still the frog! But we cannot agree where to live and I can't see it going much further. I've spent most of my life, so far, near the sea in ...

Frog in the well -- Turnoi -- 19 October 2009

Very often, it is much nicer to be a frog than a princess. Princesses very often have a hard life; they have to worry about their dress and how to present themselves in public; they have to attend ...

Re: Frog in the well -- cunning inguist -- 19 October 2009

Simple I may be. As for tiny, I can only recount a tale of visiting a club in one of the phlegm-gobbing capitals of China - Shenyang. After a dip in the hot and cold plunge pools, then a massage by a ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 18 October 2009

I am quite jealous that you are living near the ocean. Something that I miss here in China. Nothing like an spending an Australian summer on the Gold Coast or at Bondi in Sydney! If I could I would ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Watching -- 19 October 2009

Maybe the feeling is mutual.

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Billy Bloggs -- 17 October 2009

I don't usually agree with hardly anything Chinese people say, but I agree with that statement! That sounds like a good base to start a relationship with a Chinese woman, Silverbaby. Better you ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 18 October 2009

You should think twice before you make disparaging remarks abouts Bangkok bar girls. Many of them are actually quite smart, their English is fluent, and they learned it without any help from crappy ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Watching -- 19 October 2009

There is one big difference! For the bar girls, it can make their livelihood much easier and more lucrative if they can converse with their prospective clients in English. In addition, they spend ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Billy Bloggs -- 19 October 2009

Au contraire, little Silver. I like Thai women. That is why I suggested you take your wife search to Thailand. After all, I don't think many Chinese women would consider marrying a laowai who, by ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Turnoi -- 19 October 2009

Thai ladies do deserve the same consideration as Chinese ladies do; in case you really mean what you said, you should perhaps better not give such an "advice". Perhaps, in a next life, the Thai ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Turnoi -- 17 October 2009

Silverboy, have you ever considered to date one of my young crocodile ladies in case everything else fails? I promise, they have attractive teeth and would really love to have you; I am not so sure ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 18 October 2009

Thanks for your advice Turnoi! I may seriously consider it in light of what has happened to me recently!

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Turnoi -- 19 October 2009

Yes, please consider and do it, you may make these young ladies happy.....LOL.

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- realitycheck -- 19 October 2009

Did you guys know that you can meet Asian girls (including Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese and Japanese girls) in your home countries? It's not difficult. I've had two Asian girlfriends in ...

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- Silverboy -- 19 October 2009

Yes, you are right, but there are a lot more Asian women in Asia, obviously. Also,it is much cheaper to live in Asia if you are a Westerner!

Re: Is it a good time to come to China? -- HireEd -- 15 October 2009

Bravo! An essay steeped in experience, and expertly articulated. I loved so much about my five years in China (2003-2008), but employment and several hideous apartments are not among the fond ...

WARNING: Abby, recruiter in Hebei, Shijiazhuang - abbytesol@yahoo.com.cn -- Randy -- 14 October 2009

This is just a warning message to anyone dealing with a recruiter named Abby in Shijiazhuang city. The problem I have had with her and her associates are as follows: - They hide the fact they they ...

Abby and the Abbyss -- Turnoi -- 17 October 2009

From what you say it seems that this "Abby" person is forms part of the crappy EFL abbyss in China. I would not wonder if that is the reason why she calls herself "abby". "Abby" rhymes in ...

Re: World International English School -- Phil -- 12 October 2009

Hello ucblade, what is the extent of the chinese have the same work ethic? They have the same work ethic as far as what? Meaning not not informing their foreign teachers of events and the current ...

ALL IN CHINA - WARNING SIGNS -- WarningSigns -- 10 October 2009

Hi there, I'm no expert, but I've seen quite a few people going through hell this year. Just thought I'd post a little warning. With western countries finding their economic feet stuck in ...

Re: ALL IN CHINA - WARNING SIGNS -- Jose -- 13 October 2009

Hi there, I just saw your big WARNING message and was reading through it. Good points for sure! I remember a few years ago I was negotiating with a company called BSK. I didn't end up signing up ...

Re: ALL IN CHINA - WARNING SIGNS -- Turino -- 11 October 2009

Your post is an excellent one,WarningSigns: If they need 10 teachers, they'll hire 15, keep 15 on reserve as pending. They'll hire them, but will not pay any fees for them until they have ...

Re: ALL IN CHINA - WARNING SIGNS -- WarningSigns -- 13 October 2009

Thanks Turino, I've read quite a few of your articles, so that is a compliment. My question is this; regarding this "Hiring 10, having them fly to China, then taking the 3 or 4 best and sending ...

Re: ALL IN CHINA - WARNING SIGNS -- Turino -- 14 October 2009

WarningSigns has posted: My question is this; regarding this "Hiring 10, having them fly to China, then taking the 3 or 4 best and sending the rest packing on their own bill"... how can a foreigner ...

Re: World International English School -- Abs -- 11 October 2009

Anyone dissing EF is out of order and to be honest any chinese management is as BAD is not the school. A school is not a school without teachers and a good school or training center is a one with ...

Re: YUMING EDUCATION CENTER - TIANJIN -- Paulo -- 9 October 2009

This company is a joke and quite frankly should NOT be in business, and how much longer they can carry on, given the amount of BS they seem to cause each and every person that unfortunately goes to ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- All Are Equal -- 9 October 2009

Hello to all, I was very pleased to read your post because it did indeed serves as a warning for any qualify teacher looking for a job in that part of China. But i must admit i really felt insulted ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Paul -- 9 October 2009

Many foreign teachers of English are teaching nothing but oral English here in China. Naturally, the accent and fluency of a foreign teacher, as well as his grammar are important considerations for ...

Canadian perfection? -- Glasshouses -- 11 October 2009

. . . . . are both rather poor, all be it he is deemed . . . . . For the near-perfect Canadians; all be it. For us far-from-perfect Aussies; albeit.

Re: Canadian "Berfecction" -- Turnoi -- 17 October 2009

If all Canadians could be rightly claimed to be "perfect", then I am "berfecct", too. Why? Because I am most likely the only one who had been able to count the single trees that there are on Canadian ...

Re: Canadian perfection? -- cunning linguist -- 14 October 2009

Well said! Having worked with several aussies I can confirm that they were excellent teachers and really good fun on social occasions. Just like kiwis they don't take life too seriously, do the ...

Re: Canadian perfection? -- Elmer Johnson -- 14 October 2009

I've noticed that in China, foreign teachers of English from Canada tend to be rather conceited about their pronunciation, and dislike Americans more often than not. Maybe they have an ...

Re: Canadian perfection? -- cunning linguist -- 14 October 2009

As three-quarters of Canadians live close to the American border then it's probable that there is some cross-border influence and the conceit you suggest is nothing more than a defence mechanism. ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- cunning linguist -- 11 October 2009

I'm not sure what is the main point of your post. Based on a small sample of three Canadian teachers I have worked with, all in their fifties, I would agree that some Canadians are excellent ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- All Are Equal -- 10 October 2009

Hello to all, First of all i want to thank all those reading these posts.To reply to what the other guy just wrote, first i want to tell him that i did not say i have the best pronunciation,spelling ...

Aston -- Midna -- 8 October 2009

Alright, here's an Aston review! The school is a hit or miss, depending on which city you go to. There are two types of schools that fall within the Aston umbrella... corporate and franchise. ...

Re: Aston -- Haggisbreath -- 8 October 2009

Sadly, the corporate schools aren't necessarily much better, and are not themselves wholly above "screwing people over", either. The corporation is what made those rammy franchises possible in ...

Re: Aston -- Midna -- 15 October 2009

See that's what I don't understand about most of the foreigners here. Every (secondary) school has some kind of problem. This is China, not the US or any other country we may be used to ...

Re: Aston -- courselite -- 16 October 2009

Sorry Midna, I found your post a bit offensive and took it upon myself to counter a few of your statements. Midna wrote: “See that's what I don't understand about most of the foreigners here. ...

Re: Aston -- Midna -- 19 October 2009

Offensive? Aww and I didn't get get to my joke about the pandas and the dolphins. I guess that means something must have struck a cord with you. Hahaha. Well thanks for "countering" my post. I ...

Re: Aston -- courselite -- 19 October 2009

Midna wrote: I guess that means something must have struck a cord with you. Hahaha. Well thanks for "countering" my post. You probably mean "chord," and yes, but not the way you mean it. It struck me ...

Re: Aston -- Midna -- 23 October 2009

Forgive me almighty troll, for I've made a few typos on a forum full of grammar/spelling Nazis. You still have yet to address why you're coming into a review topic about a specific thing and ...

Re: Aston -- courselite -- 24 October 2009

Ah, Midna, you've fallen into using one of the lowest "logical fallacies" = attacking the opponent. You've labeled me a "troll," a "loonie" (loony?) and "stupid," in which case, I can't ...

Re: Aston -- Turnoi -- 25 October 2009

The poster you are addressing must be one of Aston's corporate lackeys. Therefore; I would propose to ignore what this "Midna" poster says.

Re: Aston -- courselite -- 25 October 2009

Ah, yes, well, "Midna" is an anagram for "Admin." I wouldn't think Midna is Aston Admin though, unless their administration is worse than I'd imagined. Midna basically sat up and called ...

Re: Aston -- Turnoi -- 24 October 2009

It seems you have been infected by the same disease of spelling/grammar (error) nazis: "Well almighty troll" should read correctly "Well, almighty troll,......". So what made you then coming ...

Time for "objective" data? -- cunning linguist -- 24 October 2009

The issue of what is a good school or training centre seems to get lost at times on this Board. Personally I don't support blanket condemnations unless there is clear evidence. Often this ...

It is high time to act! -- Turnoi -- 24 October 2009

Objective data are always helpful and a necessity. But they can only serve their purpose if those to whom they are available are capable of drawing the necessary conclusions in form of an abstract ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- cunning linguist -- 24 October 2009

I don't disagree with your fundamental point about abstraction. Sure, it is difficult to control all the variables - but that is my point. What if a disgruntled ex-employee, possibly after being ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- Turnoi -- 25 October 2009

I don't disagree with your fundamental point about abstraction. Sure, it is difficult to control all the variables - but that is my point. What if a disgruntled ex-employee, possibly after being ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- cunning linguist -- 26 October 2009

An interesting analysis. Thanks for that. You cover similar points to those I made but perhaps in greater detail. Regulating the ESL market is the right way forward, but even wearing my optimistic ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- Turnoi -- 26 October 2009

If now is the time for action, what action would you propose? If I can help - I will. CL When I said "it's time to act", I was assuming that those who are to act are the proper authorities in ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- englishgibson -- 17 November 2009

One wrote: When I said "it's time to act", I was assuming that those who are to act are the proper authorities in the places concerned. Anyway, thank you for your preparedness to help out. Give ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- cunning linguist -- 26 October 2009

Thanks for your consideration and prompt reply. The "proper authorites" in China include the SAFEA and employers. The key question is how they can be influenced to change. Budwisner, on the Aston ...

Re: It is high time to act! -- Turnoi -- 27 October 2009

So to set the ball rolling I will email IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language), and ask what influence they have in China, and suggest they also get some ...

Action taken -- cunning linguist -- 27 October 2009

Dear Sir I have for some time considered becoming a member of IATEFL. Your conference programmes, Special Interest Groups and publications all seem to be worthwhile and offer the TEFL teacher an ...

Re: Action taken -- Turnoi -- 27 October 2009

Well done, and thank you so much, CL!

Re: Action taken - response to my email -- cunning linguist -- 6 November 2009

E-mail response to me, from IATEFL - edited highlights. I will protect the guy's identity as he has only been in the job as a volunteer for a few months. " ... for a few months, but I know that ...

Re: Action taken - response to my email -- Turnoi -- 9 November 2009

Thank you, CL, for posting this response here and the efforts you have taken in this! Well, foreign teachers in China concerned need to be pro-active in the matter and eventually will have to form ...

Re: It is high time to act!//On a side-note -- Turnoi -- 27 October 2009

But I always remember a graphic poster I saw in an office which read, " Our mission was to drain the swamp, but it's difficult to remember that when you're up to your arse in crocodiles" - ...

Re: Aston -- Turnoi -- 19 October 2009

Let's make it less complicated than you suggest and simply ask: Why should someone work for a place like Aston at all? Life is more fun without them; very simple.

Re: Aston -- Midna -- 23 October 2009

Let's make it less complicated than you suggest and simply ask: Why should someone work for a place like Aston at all? Life is more fun without them; very simple. Having no real experience with a ...

Re: Aston -- wendy_h80 -- 9 October 2009

It makes no difference if you teach at a coprerate school or a franchise school the Aston system of schools are run by Chinese head masters. managers etc. They are allowed to run the school any way ...

Re: Aston -- Val -- 11 October 2009

Aston is a business first and a school last. In order to be more competitive with other winners such as EF and Kid's Castle and Shane they have created more gimmicks, more advertising, have put ...

Re: Aston -- Budwisner -- 12 October 2009

Wow...some interesting responses here! The "decision to exploit teachers" at Aston is not exactly new. It's more like a founding cornerstone of the company. They've been laughing about it for ...

Re: Aston -- courselite -- 13 October 2009

Maybe there's a glass ceiling to the lucrative TEFL industry and “short-term” profits are all there really is to make, so a shrewd businessman would get as much as he could while the goings are ...

Re: Aston -- courselite -- 15 October 2009

Well, I can't object to anything Budwisner said. Of course the optimistic answer has to be the correct answer, unless we just want to embrace cultural and economic suicide. Whichever scenario ...

Re: Aston -- Budwisner -- 14 October 2009

Courselite has written a very thoughtful post, and I agree with a lot of it. But some of it, I don't. I firmly believe that it's quite possible to garner long-term profits ranging far beyond ...

Re: Aston -- cunning linguist -- 15 October 2009

The Forum throws up some interesting terminology. In addition to "groveling weasels", we now have " mixed mammals" and also teachers without "personality disorders" - keep up the good work!

Re: Aston -- cunning linguist -- 14 October 2009

An excellent post that gets to the heart of the problem so often mentioned on this forum. If there are hordes of teachers (without personality disorders) wanting the Asia experience it's little ...

Re: Avoid Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources -- Wallace -- 7 October 2009

I know about this school firsthand, and I know others who got shafted by Yangzhou Yada Yada. SEP isn't telling the whole story. The situation there is much worse than he says. The problems with ...

Re: Avoid Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources -- Turino -- 7 October 2009

Wallace has stated the following re Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources: It is not a school for someone who wants to teach. It's a school for backpackers and people who otherwise ...

Web International Yangzhou -- Kevin -- 6 October 2009

Hi, I am Kevin. What do u know know about Web International in Yangzhou? Is it a good place to work? How is the working environment? i am looking forward more information, opinion and suggestions. ...

Re: Web International Yangzhou -- Henry -- 30 October 2009

Hi Kevin, I worked there for a short period. I lived in yangzhou for long time. But Web is a new school and working environment is really bad, especially the staff. I was forced to leave my job and i ...

Owen Buckland -- Jenny -- 5 October 2009

Thought you would like to know that I am currently in Yangshuo where I was told that Owen Buckland's college had closed down and was being run by another principal. I called to demand my ...

Re: Owen Buckland -- Monitor -- 5 October 2009

Well done, Jenny - youve made 'Owing Bucks' live up to his contractual obligations! I reckon he had no choice but to cough up the bucks owed you because you had been employed legally by his ...

Re: Owen Buckland -- Silverboy -- 5 October 2009

I am glad some of the police are finally paying some attention to that grub Owen Buckland, a useless piece of trash in China's EFL scene. I would also like to make readers here aware of someone ...

Re: Owen Buckland -- Turnoi -- 6 October 2009

Congratulations, Silverboy, on your unique style of writing in this post...LOL.

Bucks in the land -- Turnoi -- 6 October 2009

"Buck" is, as far as I know, an American term for cash. "Land" is a land. To me, this name "Buckland" translates as "bucks in the land/for the land". I think, understanding "Buckland" in this sense ...

Re: Owen Buckland -- Ex-TC teacher -- 6 October 2009

And I didn't forget to emphasize.... Also, stay clear of the schools run by his little brothers, including, but not limited to; Oral College, Omeida College, West Street School and Omeida again! ...

Is it legal what Bucks in the Land is doing? -- Turnoi -- 6 October 2009

Read this thread, it is also about employing foreign teachers with an F or L visa only instead of the Z visa legally required: http://www.eslteachersboard.com/cgi-bin/china-info/index.pl?read=4365 ...

Re: Beware of Sacred Heart Elementary School in Keelung, Taiwan - Recruiter Go2TeachEnglish.com is n -- Brian -- 5 October 2009

Being one of the teachers that ducked and covered from a camera crew beating and police raid, I feel that I should reply to this thread. A problem exists somewhere between the school (Sacred Heart) ...

Re: I guess anyone can write anything -- Chris W. -- 5 October 2009

Hi Johnathan, I would like to point out that your knowledge of a recruiting firm, or lack thereof, does not hold much credence with people who don't know you when you want to rant about business ...

Re: I guess anyone can write anything -- Turnoi -- 6 October 2009

"Chris" or whoever you are, I do not need to post such a long text as yours; I just can make a reply in a single sentence like this: It is so nice to rant about crappy training centres in China! And ...

Re: Beware of Sacred Heart Elementary School in Keelung, Taiwan -- Andrew Hogenson -- 5 October 2009

I've read this thread and decided to put my two cents in. First of all, yeah, the Sacred Heart School has some issues it needs to work out. I worked there last year and they do have some problems ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 4 October 2009

Tone and contents of this post sound Chinglish and must have been written by the Chinese boss or some of his lackeys of that crappy place in Shijiazhuang. Another school "defence" by the crappy owner ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 4 October 2009

Best choice you've ever made? Hahaha, what a nice joke!

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review - REPLY -- mark -- 3 October 2009

What can i say. Apart from the odd mad teacher that has come through the gates (to which a teacher that was here at the start has told me about when i asked) NORMAL teachers... good teachers are here ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review - REPLY -- i.sawitall -- 4 October 2009

I worked at Hutchins school in early 2008. In this school is totally the sh1ts. Like many of the schools in China, any White face is a native speaker. I was totally victimized because as an ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review - REPLY -- Turnoi -- 4 October 2009

Ungracious "Grace" is a kind of Dos there - am I right in this? Well, that's China, and that's a good reason why to avoid schools of that kind.

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review - REPLY -- Monitor -- 5 October 2009

Turnoi said: Ungracious "Grace" is a kind of Dos there - am I right in this? My definition of what (Ungracious) "Grace" is, based on the relevant information in the other poster's post, is 'a ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review - REPLY -- Turnoi -- 4 October 2009

Reading your two posts in "defence" of that "school" make me think that you must feel happy to have got a job there; may be, you could not land a job somewhere else for one or the other reason. ...

Shenyang Chicago International English -- Thom -- 30 September 2009

On August 23, 2009 his school posted an ad to teach students from 15 to 18 years old. I applied for and took the job. i paid to move from Chongqing to Shenyang at a cost of 2800 RMB only to find hat ...

Re: Shenyang Chicago International English -- Turnoi -- 1 October 2009

If an employer asked me to move for job reasons, then I would tell him that all costs in connection with this would be his. If he did not agree, I would not agree to take the job. As simple as that. ...

Did good old Al Capone open another business branch in Shenyang? -- Turnoi -- 1 October 2009

The "school" has "Chicago" in its business name. As far as I know, Al Capone came from Chicago, and that is why I am wondering whether he and his other godfathers have opened another business branch ...

Re: Did good old Al Capone open another business branch in Shenyang? -- Turnoi -- 2 October 2009

Thanks for the interesting info. I just hope that Shenyang Chicago "school" would not lose its temper. Or have they lost it already?...LOL

Re: Did good old Al Capone open another business branch in Shenyang? -- tatsuospirit -- 2 October 2009

Just as a historical note, Capone was raised in NYC then moved to Chicago because his temper put his life in danger. But then again, maybe this use of Chicago is the "fear factor"?

Re: Shenyang Chicago International English -- Monitor -- 1 October 2009

Another horror story. Fellow foreign teachers, ensure you're clued up, do your research thoroughly, and be very, very cautious whenever you're looking for work here in China. If you do so, ...

Re: Shenyang Chicago International English -- Turnoi -- 1 October 2009

It would be better to eradicate and eliminate all these rubbishy training centres, and the Chinese would do themselves a favour!

Re: School of life.... get a life and stop messing with people's lives -- ROMEO AND JULIEt -- 30 September 2009

YES, I do agree and like the sigh SAIDS BEWARE OF THE DOGS, BEWARE OF THE SCHOOL OF LIFE> WARNING BE CAREFULL

Re: School of life.... get a life and stop messing with people's lives -- Turnoi -- 30 September 2009

And beware of the robbers in the wood...ehmmm... I mean the robbers in the school management office!

Re: YinChuan Cambridge English School -- Kenji -- 29 September 2009

What is the deal with school's named Cambridge? Is there some kind of curse? I can think of another great example.

Re: YinChuan Cambridge English School -- Turnoi -- 30 September 2009

I think the owner of a crappy training centre has "stolen" the name "Cambridge" to make his place look first class while it is definitely not. It is probably run by a clone of Hamlet who asked: "What ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Ex-TX teacher -- 30 September 2009

Let's not forget Omeida College and Oral college in Yangshuo!!

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 30 September 2009

Omeida "College" and this crappy Yangshuo already are ranking first in Hall of Shame list of crappy training centres in China! Do they still exist? I have heard they were out of business already.....

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- EX-TC Teacher -- 1 October 2009

Bankrupt？ I hope so, but I doubt it somehow, you know, many people would like to work there... not all are going to read these messages.... Ai yo.

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Tutu -- 28 September 2009

I used to work for MKC and are returning soon(as have a few others) and compared to many other schools out there MKC is easy to work for. Not sure what Canucki wants in order to keep the classrooms ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Cornelius -- 29 September 2009

It's very great that you've tried the rest, and are returning to the best! Their are too many idelers and complainers teaching in China. These folks are getting their low pay too readily. ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

Perhaps it is better to be "an ideler and a complainer" than to be frustrated all the time. How do you feel personally in this respect? I hope you find yourself still in good health!

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

My question is whether Manhattan Kids Club is run by kids; to me it looks a bit like that. No place that I would ever work for!

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Tutu -- 29 September 2009

Turnoi, Until you try you will never know....you will only know what other people say and based on that how can you make an informed decision! If you have worked there maybe we have met...but based ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

As for being run by kids....well sometimes "kids" know exactly what other kids need! Go kids! There may be kids who like crocodiles when they can watch them in the zoo. At that innocent age, the ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- I GOT F!!! -- 28 September 2009

Hutchin English School of Shijiazhuang is another disreputable institution to stay away from. My manager at Hutchin School was this Chinese flake named Simon. He claimed he was fair and impartial ...

Hutchin SHIJIAZHUANG, -- i.sawitall -- 7 October 2009

I can believe what you said is true Jane. The same happened to me Jane in respect of deductions when I left the school. Sorry I did not post anything before to warn other teachers.

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Joe -- 29 September 2009

You got into a fight with a student in class...hmmm I think you should count yourself lucky you weren't fired on the spot!

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- IVAN YERKINOFF -- 14 October 2009

Joe, Maybe your grasp of the English language isn't so good. If you read Jane's post, she stated that she was assaulted. That is not a fight if one person raises their arm in self defence. I ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Joe -- 16 October 2009

Ivan Perhaps you should spend less time Yerk-in-off and more time reading books before you make disparaging remarks about my qualities as a teacher. My use of the word fight to describe the incident ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- IVAN YERKINOFF -- 22 October 2009

Joe, http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/FIGHT Main Entry: fight Pronunciation: \ˈfīt\ Function: verb Inflected Form(s): fought \ˈfȯt\; fight·ing Etymology: Middle English, ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Trevor -- 30 September 2009

You got into a fight with a student in class...hmmm I think you should count yourself lucky you weren't fired on the spot! Joe, you seem to care not about that FT having been cheated out of air ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Joe -- 1 October 2009

HI Trevor 1) You're correct that two wrongs don't make a right, and it is unfortunate that this fellow lost out on a lot of money. My advice to him and every other teacher is to make sure you ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- mark -- 3 October 2009

hay i still work at hutchins. there is also 3 other teachers here from the west. 1 has been here for 3 or 4 years 1 for one year and has just asked for a new contract 1 who is helping the school out ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 30 September 2009

Trevor, it seems to be quite normal around here that posters like that Joe ignore things like those you have mentioned. They cannot be "helped".......

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Monitor -- 29 September 2009

My manager at Hutchin School was this Chinese flake named Simon. Please clarify what a Chinese flake is. I had to change from L to a Z (working)visa before I could work at hutchin School. Total visa ...

Chinese flake - here is my ultimate wisdom on the matter.....LOL -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

Corn flakes are, as far as I know, a product of Western culture. If not, may be it was invented by some tigers, rattle snakes, crocodiles, or meat eating monkeys to feed those species relying ...

Crappy TC- BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

It is bad to read your report. But what happened in your case can also happen at any other crappy training centres, that is why they are poorly run and managed crappy training centres. All crappy ...

Re: BLACK LIST SHIJIAZHUANG, HEBEI, PRC. - ESL school review -- Monitor -- 29 September 2009

What you said about changing your visa type points makes me almost certain you got the position through an agent, probably one one based in Shijiazhuang. It's possible that your agent and your ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- R -- 28 September 2009

I'm working at MKC. I renewed my contract. I saw many teachers finish their contracts here. I like MKC. They pay on time. All the programs are already planned out for you. You never have to work ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Erik P -- 29 September 2009

Hi, "R". You seem to have a point there. But I've a question. If Manhattan is so good, why did Tim Alan, "Sick & Tired" and ... said terrible things about it?

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- R -- 2 October 2009

Well. For Tim, I know he was fired from his job for doing something very unprofessional and stupid. He was angry after he was fired. For the others, I wouldn't take them too seriously. One said, ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Erik P -- 9 October 2009

Now I know what you mean: you can just tell from the way they write. Some are really just too much. Thanks, R.

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Mary Proctor -- 2 October 2009

For the others, I wouldn't take them too seriously. One said, "I have not met one person who has finished their contract with the school." But we were all here at the graduation party at the end ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Silverboy -- 4 October 2009

What a hypocrite you are? It is very disturbing that in China there are many self-serving corrupt and lying DOS grovelling weasels like yourself. MKC is one of the WORST schools in China, always has ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 4 October 2009

ALL TEACHERS AVOID MANHATTAN KIDS CLUB IN SHENZHEN OR ANY OTHER CITY. THE OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT OF MKC ARE EVIL CRIMINALS! ALWAYS AVOID THIS CRAPPY PLACE! And I would add: Manhattan Kids something is ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 2 October 2009

Posters like you seem to ignore the fact of all the cheat, deception and mistreatment that private owners of crappy training centres have done to foreign teachers. The same applies to their lackeys - ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 2 October 2009

My own judgement mingled with a bit of common sense simply tells me that the important issue is not whether someone was fired, deserving or non-deserving. Rather, the point in question is the ...

Re: Manhattan Kid's Club - Shenzhen - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

If Manhattan is so good, why did Tim Alan, "Sick & Tired" and ... said terrible things about it? Perhaps the reason is that Manhattan is run by kids; can sometimes be terrifying! Or.......

DD Dragon English? -- Alex -- 28 September 2009

Does anyone know anything about DD Dragon English? I have seen several hiring ads and would like to know anyones experience. Thanks.

More reasons NOT to teach in Korea. -- eslguy -- 28 September 2009

1. The almighty photo: Korean bosses put no thought or emphasis on whether or not you have good qualifications, experience or a genuine desire to do the job. All they really care about is your looks. ...

Re: Juren seems to be Legit, anyone know more? -- Jacob Wilson -- 27 September 2009

Hello, I'm Jacob Wilson, Foreign Service Manager, for Juren Wuhan, I would like tho clear up a few misguided statements in the previous post by some members. Juren Education Group, a Beijing ...

New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Turnoi -- 28 September 2009

It is quite astonishing to suddenly see now all the posts in favour of certain companies that have received bad /unfavourable reviews some time ago: First, their response to such unfavourable reviews ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Jacob Wilson -- 28 September 2009

In reply to Turnoi, "It is quite astonishing to suddenly see now all the posts in favour of certain companies that have received bad /unfavourable reviews some time ago:" The original poster had ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

I fully stand by what I have said. Wuhan Juren is in need of foreign teachers, hence your attempt at polishing up the company's crappy image. Nice try on your part, but it does not work! ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Jacob Wilson -- 29 September 2009

Turnoi, I see you did not accept my challenge to find negative reviews of Juren Wuhan, instead you have only offered the same insightless rhetoric.

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

I see you did not accept my challenge to find negative reviews of Juren Wuhan, instead you have only offered the same insightless rhetoric. I am wondering if your unfounded praise of Wuhan Juren ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Silverboy -- 30 September 2009

Yes Turnoi, I fully agree, the stinking odour of Jacob Wilson and Juren is further polluting the already degraded environment of Wuhan. Jacob is just another corporate lackey happily spreading his ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Turnoi -- 30 September 2009

Yes Turnoi, I fully agree, the stinking odour of Jacob Wilson and Juren is further polluting the already degraded environment of Wuhan. Yes, the environment of Wuhan exists because of general ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Monitor -- 28 September 2009

Other discerning readers will have their doubts too. I agree with what you have said. Maybe it's worth adding that it's likely that cautious jobseekers have googled the names of particular ...

Re: New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Turnoi -- 29 September 2009

But ask yourself why it is it that there are considerably fewer complaints on this board about the directly aforementioned educational institutions than there are about TC's! Monitor Yes, ...

New, "good" Wuhan Juren???-Really???? I have my doubts! -- Turnoi -- 28 September 2009

It is quite astonishing to suddenly see now all the posts in favour of certain companies that have received bad /unfavourable reviews some time ago: First, their response to such unfavourable reviews ...

Qualifying for a post -- Turnoi -- 27 September 2009

Well, I'm sure that given enough time even your crocs would qualify. FT-me What a nice perspective! I am really hopeful to be able to reduce the rate of unemployment among my friends....LOL

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin Huite, Tianjin, China -- Ben Watson -- 26 September 2009

Wow, Your criticisms of Witty tell me that you're incredibly lazy and that you like to complain. Nothing you said about Management is atypical. They want to protect their interests and the way ...

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin Huite, Tianjin, China -- Jeff -- 26 September 2009

You worked at one branch of 3 for one year, and you're willing to say for certain that my description of my management at my branch for the years 2007-2009 was not accurate? Well thought out. You ...

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin and Jokes -- Turnoi -- 27 September 2009

You said you were the youngest staff member, and yet you also claim to know a lot about typical Chinese management style. Is that based on experience or arrogance? No, that is not based on arrogance ...

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin and Jokes -- Tom -- 29 September 2009

Thankfully, we can usually rely on Turnoi to hit the nail on the head. Whereas it happened that Witty paid me just about all they said they would, aside from tax which I was never able to work out ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Monitor -- 26 September 2009

Do you really want to go to China. Better check out www.truthaboutchina.com I have enjoyed reading your post. But unfortunately for me, I can't access the link you have kindly provided! ...

Re: Rubbish in public..... -- Yancey -- 25 September 2009

That is pretty sad with the crt monitors. Sad that the love for money is more powerful then the love of people. I guess I will make sure I don't go to Guiyu when I go to China. This type of thing ...

Re: Rubbish in public..... -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

If you've got opposing thumbs and can walk erect, you're in. Still, crocs would not qualify even then. We need better equal opportunity employers in China, I guess.....LOL.

Are there any good schools in China? -- Yancey -- 25 September 2009

I have been browsing through a bunch of threads in this forum and have only found negative impressions (on the most part) regarding any and all FT positions in China. I am very interested in packing ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Silverboy -- 27 September 2009

If you do not have a degree and/or at least two years teaching experience the only jobs you will get will be at crappy training centres, the best jobs at universities are unavailable for you. You ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Turnoi -- 27 September 2009

I can only fully agree with what the Silverboy poster says. Think twice before you are going to accept a job offer in China; there are too many crooks out there - shameless and filthy recruiters who ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Monitor -- 25 September 2009

It depends what criteria you use to define a 'good school'. Yes, it's true there are lots of complaints on this board by FT's. Yet there are many FT's who choose to remain ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Yancey -- 25 September 2009

It depends what criteria you use to define a 'good school'. As per 'good school' I really wouldn't know compared to everyone's elses experience. white females are preferred. ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

Here are some responses to your questions typed in bold below the relevant portions of your text. In your experience and understanding of the esl work environment/opportunities what type of chance do ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Yancey -- 25 September 2009

***With a Bachelor degree, you should be fine in the ESL area. An essential prerequisite for teaching! I was wanting to get into teaching prior to getting my bachelors completed. I've noticed a ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

Studing online is exactly a one-man show. A good deal of my associates degree was online also. The biggest issue with that is motivation. Just studing TEFL, I would need to figure a game plan or make ...

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Yancey -- 25 September 2009

:D sorry, definetly not a blue haired, blue eyed type of guy.... Blond haired is what I meant. :)

Re: Are there any good schools in China? -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

Well, I found it somewhat weird to read "blue-haired"... in your post and thought it was a typo. Can happen. I can imagine quite well that you were not talking about the physical appearance of punks ...

Re: New Century English School Dalian -- Looking_at_Dalian -- 22 September 2009

I'm interested in knowing some of the more reputable schools in Dalian. Would you let us know?

Re: New Century English School Dalian -- Looking_at_Dalian2 -- 23 September 2009

Looking_at_Dalian Date: 22 September 2009 In Response To: Re: New Century English School Dalian (Turnoi) I'm interested in knowing some of the more reputable schools in Dalian. Would you let us ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- Foreigner in Jiangxi -- 19 September 2009

Re: Fear of Foreign Influence -- Alan -- 20 September 2009

Foreigner in China. I couldn't agree more, and I'm glad someone has the balls to come out and say it on these boards. I was there in Jan/Feb of this year, and the attitude even then seemed ...

Re: Fear of Foreign Influence -- Turnoi -- 21 September 2009

Yes, that's true - Jiangxi province and Nanchang city are very provincial and backward in comparison to other places in China. There has been already a thread on this board with respect to that ...

Re: Fear of Foreign Influence -- Monitor -- 21 September 2009

The aforementioned fear and its associated distrust manifest themselves in the government's policies towards foreigners living and working in China. For example, old China hands cannot obtain ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- Foreigner in Jiangxi -- 22 September 2009

Re: Fear of Foreign Influence -- Monitor -- 22 September 2009

It seems the five-year rule hasn't been applied universally to date, but it's still lurking in the background? the link below will give you more information re the above: ...

Re: Fear of Foreign Influence -- A Spooner -- 22 September 2009

Information re the so-called '5-year rule',click the link below - http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=75409

Fears and "fears" -- Turnoi -- 20 September 2009

If the situation is such as you describe it, then it is indeed unpleasant to go there for work, and FTs should avoid this area and go somewhere else. Fortunately, China is big enough to provide some ...

Avalon Mapo Campus, Seoul, Korea -- John -- 18 September 2009

Don't under any circumstances work for Avalon Mapo Campus. This Hagwon suffers from all the usualu problems of a Korean Private school and many more besides. The list of problems I, and my ...

Re: Avalon Mapo Campus, Seoul, Korea -- Turnoi -- 22 September 2009

Sounds like as if this "school" qualifies for inclusion in the Korea "Hall of Shame" list that some other users on this forum maintain.

Re: Foshan and DongGuan Meten English Centre /Metro English -- JacktheHack -- 14 September 2009

After spending some time with Metro English School / Meten English School (also having the dubious honour of working with Frank Zhao - manager of both Foshan and DongGuan Meten Englsih Centre - ...

Re: Foshan and DongGuan Meten English Centre /Metro English -- earthling -- 15 September 2009

I can certainly substantiate all the accusations about Metro, Helen Zhou, and her little puppy Helen. I was contacted by them due to my experience with their CALL methods (at the time) and since I ...

Shenzhen Foshan and DongGuan Meten English Centre /Metro English -- JacktheHack -- 15 September 2009

Another link talking about the situation in Shenzhen. A number of the management at Meten Headquarters are ex Com-Com employees - go figure. See blue link below. Keep sending me the good stuff....

Re: Foshan and DongGuan Meten English Centre /Metro English -- JacktheHack -- 15 September 2009

To add to my previous post some further links provided to me about the Meten menace. This time from Chengdu. See the link below in blue. Also I have been kindly advised that, and I quote "the poor ...

Songyuan Foreign studies college -- FedEx -- 12 September 2009

So this is in regards to probably one of the worst schools in China. The headmaster at this school offers you good pay and all these benefits. You end up working for the guy and you get paid nothing ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- I.sawitall -- 3 October 2009

I thought I was unfortunate enough to end up working in Songyuan at one of the other schools. There is nothing to do in Songyuan except meeting with the few foreign teachers from the other schools ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Monitor -- 4 October 2009

Funny you should mention a case of an FT being instructed to lie about his country of origin. At a private college in Dongbei, where I taught for two semesters, the Chinese director told a Russian ...

When I was born, my parents were not at home -- Turnoi -- 5 October 2009

Foreign teachers, especially in case of non-native speakers of English, are more than often instructed to lie about their country of origin and and their native tongue. This clearly indicates that ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- ft-me -- 13 September 2009

Well, I can see why you'd think it is one of the worse schools in China; however, there's lots of competition. It might make it into the top 500. Come to exotic China, blah, blah, blah. ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Monitor -- 14 September 2009

I'm sorry that you are so disappointed by what's happening in the PRC. That said, it's more than likely your post will have infuriated those readers who love said country. I haven't ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- ft-me -- 14 September 2009

Perhaps if you had read between the lines, you would realize that my scathing comments are based on my love for China rather than the reverse. Time to say it like it is, time to remove the rose ...

Rubbish in public..... -- Turnoi -- 24 September 2009

Nice picture, and a good way to prove what you and others say - Nanchang and entire Jiangxi are like this - backward. All the rubbish you can see on the pic smells like hell and attract the rats ...

Re: Rubbish in public..... -- ft-me -- 24 September 2009

Yes, the truth is often unsavory. Things are not quite as some would have us believe. My question is a simple one: Why can't China with all of its cash reserves, more adequately address the most ...

Re: Rubbish in public..... -- Turnoi -- 24 September 2009

I agree. All the talk about a "harmonious" society and the "happiness" of the people are empty words and have no meaning at all when you hear them as standard phrases from officials. I had one local ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- FedEx -- 19 September 2009

I still love China, the people, the government...etc...Sure the country has its problems but that is a whole other side. I just wanted to point out my fustration on a school that claims on this ...

Western Views of China -- Turnoi -- 14 September 2009

I would definitely approve of your agenda as you described it - painting a picture of the real situation as it is and clearly naming the problems there without the intention of bashing that nation ...

Re: Western Views of China -- ft-me -- 15 September 2009

Excellent post, Turnoi. I especially like how you've taken a realistic look at the romantic notion of China; that is, we in the West often have a storybook understanding of China that is not ...

Re: Western Views of China -- Silverboy -- 15 September 2009

I would agree that many Western people still have very romantic notions about China in regard to it's culture and history. As the majority of Western people have not lived or worked in China for ...

There is still a lot of water in the Yangzi River! -- Turnoi -- 16 September 2009

This is the new and "progressive" China.......lol! Silverboy No, it's certainly not the "progressive" China; perhaps it is the "new" China in terms of economical progress, and not all of that is ...

Action and non-action -- Turnoi -- 15 September 2009

Well, Ft-me, if I am really honest, I must say that I was one of those romantic Westerners with regard to China, her culture and history myself. This was while I was at university, studying ...

Re: Action and non-action -- ft-me -- 15 September 2009

I've read several translations of the Daodejing over the years and have studied the Yi Jing as well (I Ching). And I, like you, was drawn to China by my studies and my fascination for Asian ...

Re: Action and non-action -- Turnoi -- 16 September 2009

Your reply is very interesting, thank you! Regarding the crappy world of ESL in China, should we perhaps advise "non-action" in the case of setting up new crappy training centres? If so, we at least ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- bob -- 14 September 2009

It seems the said school was intended to trouble foreign teachers. It is unbelievable. I experienced one case, one teacher lost his bag somewher and shouted scolding foreign languages department that ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- I.sawitall -- 4 October 2009

What is your Christian name? And where are you from? Because I don't believe it happend. Because I know the teachers that have worked there. I am 99% shure that you are Bill's goons (can you ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Turnoi -- 18 September 2009

Even if the story you tell is true, your conclusions are somewhat misleading, I am afraid. An FT accusing the English Department people of theft for reasons that are really unfounded is one thing and ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Mahoma -- 7 October 2009

I have also worked for SFSC and I completely agree with what FedEx, Volvo and Isawitall said. I didn't last long there cause I don't know how to remain quiet upon seeing someone being treated ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Sam Cong -- 20 October 2009

My name is Sam, I used to work for Songyuan Foreign Studies College for 3 years, and now I am coming back to work for this great school again. I am shocked to see that the people who were fired by ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Volvo86 -- 6 October 2009

I will say that everything I have read is true. I worked at that school and left the country with the feeling of disappointment and dashed hopes about China. I want to come back some day but I will ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Monitor -- 6 October 2009

I'm happy to know that someone finally stood up. I thought it was just me but as I can see, it wasn't. I can't believe that Bill is still treating people the same after all these years. ...

Re: Songyuan Foreign studies college -- Volvo86 -- 6 October 2009

You are absolutely right about what you said. But Bill is not a foreigner. He is the chinese headmaster and owner of the school. He does think we are all naive to the fact that we are foreigners and ...

Re: YinChuan Cambridge English School -- Matthew Horton -- 13 September 2009

I have heard this criticism before, that most western FT's are self-serving. It is true that many are recent college grads and are primarily looking to have a good time in a foreign country, and ...

Re: YinChuan Cambridge English School -- Turnoi -- 14 September 2009

As I have pointed out earlier, there is nothing wrong with FTs with a self-serving attitude in China. Crappy training centres employing these FTs also are. In fact, the only thing they are interested ...

dubai -- ft-me -- 13 September 2009

The Dubai scammers, as posted by Barbara in the scam alert forum, have indeed been operating for some time. However, if you track their IP address, you'll find that they are operating out of the ...

Jobs4Teachers.org -- Jimmy -- 12 September 2009

Has anyone received an ESL teaching job thru these people?Jobs4Teachers.org...They claim to find you a school teaching english anywhere in the world and they charge a 100USD application fee...I have ...

Korea "Hall of Shame" -- fourth edition -- Theo -- 10 September 2009

OK, readers, here’s the fourth edition… Please keep those contributions coming! PUBLIC SCHOOL Programs EPIK (English Program in Korea) SMOE (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education) These are both ...

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" -- fourth edition -- Monitor -- 10 September 2009

Great post, Theo! You've obviously done your homework in a thorough manner. China's clearly a heaven on earth compared to South Korea in the eyes of informed jobseekers. Thanks again for your ...

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" -- fourth edition -- Turnoi -- 11 September 2009

Yes, I agree - THEO has done a great job! Thank you. Keep up the good work, Theo!

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" -- fourth edition -- Silverboy -- 10 September 2009

Yeah, Theo knows what he is talking about, there is no way I will be heading over to Korea any time soon either!

Re: Guiyang CC English school -- disgruntled -- 8 September 2009

avoid avoid avoid this school is a con, just wants foreign teachers as an advertisement and wages are not 6000rb they are lying scum avoid avoid avoid

GanSu AnDe Foreign Language Vocational Training School, Lanzhou -- Chris -- 8 September 2009

Beware of GanSu AnDe Foreign Language Vocational Training School In April I accepted a job offer with this school to start in September 2009. The owner of the school (Mr Qiao) made little contact ...

Re: WANTED RECRUITING AGENCY / OSS ENGLISH CLUB, SU-AM, ULSAN -- Chris Edwards -- 8 September 2009

OSS ENGLISH CLUB SU-AM INSITITUTE, Ulsan I searched for information about the school that my girlfriend has been working at and we found this comment. I am in favour of hagwon blacklists because they ...

Re: WANTED RECRUITING AGENCY / OSS ENGLISH CLUB, SU-AM, ULSAN -- L. P. -- 8 September 2009

Hello, I am the current foreign teacher at OSS. I haven't had any problems since I have been there except for my air conditioner but that was fixed promptly. The school is old but is run and ...

NDI (New Dynamic Institute) Suzhou, China -- John Mann -- 7 September 2009

Be advised - stay away from these people; if you really want to teach find someplace professional and fair. Fact - check if you wish - last year two managers were fired after meetings at the police ...

Re: NDI (New Dynamic Institute) -- Kaibo -- 11 September 2009

In defense of NDI I do not intend to get into any slanging matches over the article by John Mann - 7th September 2009 - but I would like to mention my own personal experience with New Dynamic ...

Re: Cambridge CITC Sudan Teachers Beware!!!!! -- Nicholas Kelly -- 7 September 2009

I am replying to the offensive, threatening, pornographic, false and misleading information which makes a serious damage to our school and our GM’s personal reputation, and still not removed from ...

Re: Cambridge CITC Sudan Teachers Beware!!!!! -- Venera Sejdiu -- 2 November 2009

Hi there, I lost Dr. Salah's email and as I was looking for his email online I found this website talkign about complaints towards CITC Sudan. I just wanted to say that I was working for CITC for ...

Pornography?????? He, what`s that? -- Turnoi -- 8 September 2009

I do not think that any of the messages cited in your post contain any passage that could rightly be labelled as "pornographic". Users and editors of this site are vehemently opposed to seeing any ...

Re: Pornography?????? He, what`s that? -- Turnoi -- 8 September 2009

It seems Turnoi is one of the webmasters of this site. I wonder how many (Turnoi's) posts against this school ( in fact since the first post in December 2008). I assume this a neutral web site ...

Re: Pornography??????- To the fake writer using my name -- The One and Only Turnoi -- 9 September 2009

The post I am responding to has not been made by me. Someone else took my name pretending to be "me". Nice try, but it does not work! I am a normal user like any other but unlike you who is in need ...

Re: Pornography??????- To the fake writer using my name -- Turnoi , Monitor , Monitor2 , 3rd Party -- 12 September 2009

I wonder how anyone can post , reply and participate without even registered as a guest????????????? In all forums in the web anyone can not take any action unless he registered first or to be a ...

Re: Pornography??????- To the fake writer using my name -- Turnoi -- 12 September 2009

Your post does not contain anything that helps clarify the matter regarding CTC Khartoum. You and your defence of that crappy school called "CTC" are not very credible considering the means of ...

Re: Pornography??????- To the fake writer using my name -- James1957 -- 12 September 2009

I ask myself why you feel the need to write such an lengthy and hysterical tirade? I'm sick of people registering just to post huge rants about schools, and if you search online you'll find ...

Re: Pornography??????- To the fake writer using my name -- Turnoi -- 12 September 2009

You must be a DOS at that crappy training centre discussed here in this thread with your own hidden agenda. Do you want to tell us that everything reported here about this crap school is not true, ...

Re: Pornography?????? He, what`s that? -- Monitor -- 8 September 2009

I assume this a neutral web site but it seems even the managment of this web site participate by giving thier own openion using a false name. I must assume the poster who posted the above can not be ...

Re: Pornography?????? He, what`s that? -- The Real Turnoi -- 9 September 2009

Yes, Monitor, you are right - I did not make that post with the three spelling mistakes you mentioned (occasionally I have some in my text but not such kind as you mentioned). And yes, you mentioned ...

Re: Pornography?????? He, what`s that? -- Monitor2 -- 9 September 2009

OK, regardless to the spelling mistakes , where is the rest of my posting ?????????

Re: Pornography?????? He, what`s that? -- Turnoi -- 9 September 2009

Perhaps, it was eaten up by the same crocs that gave the fake poster a gig bite. Perhaps, it was eaten up by that fake poster you responded to.....who knows????...LOL.

teachermexconnect -- language-diva -- 6 September 2009

Hi! I would like to know a little more about teachermexconnect. I'm considering teaching abroad and since I don't know where to start, I thought it was a good idea to let them do the job. I ...

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin Huite, Tianjin, China -- Tom -- 5 September 2009

So what do you do with this generous break between classes, go to a relaxing teachers room? I don't think so; in actual fact you just move along the fish bowl to another see-through compartment, ...

Bad recruiter in Thailand: AYC and K.D.ERYARAR -- harry -- 4 September 2009

BEWARE OF AYC AND K.D.ERYARAR. THE GUY IS A SO CALLED RECRUITER IN THAILAND AND PROMISES YOU A JOB AND A EXAMPLE CONTRACT TO GET YOU TO GO TO BANGKOK EVEN SAYS HE WILL PICK U UP AT THE AIRPORT BUT ...

EF Rizhao -- ted bundy -- 4 September 2009

If you come across an advert for foreign teacher needed in EF rizhao please ignore it! This school is one of the worst schools ever, the boss is a megalomaniac and the school is very poorly equiped ...

Re: EF Rizhao -- Silverboy -- 5 September 2009

Thanks for the warning about that place TB! There may be a few real Ted Bundy types lurking around at that place......lol!

"EF" or "BF"? -- Turnoi -- 5 September 2009

The entire business philosophy of EF is crap and entirely counter-productive to good and decent ESL education. A franchise system like that of EF can never work efficiently in this respect. The ...

Re: "EF" or "BF"? -- Silverboy -- 6 September 2009

Yeah, I like that BS one!

Re: "EF" or "BF"? -- Turnoi -- 6 September 2009

Your vote is an appropriate one, I guess...lol.

Re: Crap\ Pretend schools in China\ Thailand -- Michael -- 4 September 2009

Silverboy, I'm very interested to hear about your bad experiences working with Yulun Education and Dr Charles Chen. After finishing a 6 month contract with the company after i first arrived in ...

Re: Crap\ Pretend schools in China\ Thailand -- Silverboy -- 4 September 2009

For your information "Micheal", I have had personal contact with many of the "schools" on that Crap and Pretend School list. "Dr Charles Chen" is a recruiter, he claims to have a Ph D, if he really ...

Re: Crap\ Pretend schools in China\ Thailand -- Michael -- 22 September 2009

Silverboy, Yes he does have a PH D, he lectures weekly at one of China's most prestigious universities Jiao Tong University. You mention you applied for a position and never had a reply. Based on ...

Re: Crap\ Pretend schools in China\ Thailand -- Turnoi -- 23 September 2009

You said: You mention you applied for a position and never had a reply. Based on this you are then able to call somebody a liar, deceiving and a parasite. I'm sure he gets a lot of resumes for a ...

What makes them "elites"? -- Turnoi -- 23 September 2009

Quote from: http://www.shyulun.com/en/sub1.asp?id=24&tid=6 Shanghai U-learn Education Group boasts a team of elites who have passion for the career of education. That's the place this Michael ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Michael -- 23 September 2009

Hi guys, Ha yes I agree the term 'elites' may be a big call. I guess the point I am trying to make is that we are not out to get anyone, we do take pride in our company and we do strive to ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Joe -- 25 September 2009

Dear Mike Just want to wish you good luck with your business. Unfortunately on this website you'll find a few small minded and bitter people who can't seem to accept that maybe, just maybe, ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Just an FT in China -- 25 September 2009

Training centers are an integral part of EFL in China. Tarring them all with the same brush is an injustice perpetrated by contributors who still have not accepted that education in this globalized ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Silverboy -- 27 September 2009

So you like the "fun and games" at training centres? I assume that if an FT at your school does not "entertain" the students and make them laugh he will be labelled a "bad teacher" and will be fired. ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- ft-me -- 26 September 2009

Three questions: How many training centers have you actually taught at in China? What makes you think all the fun and games actually prepare students for the rigors of real language acquisition that ...

White monkeys in a big muppet show -- Turnoi -- 27 September 2009

Making fun and playing games in class all the time has nothing to do with genuine teaching. The poster you are responding to obviously thinks the training centre he is working for is an arena for ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- ExTC Fan -- 25 September 2009

Well then, 'Just an FT in China', you'd have us believe you are just that. However, what you have written praises up training centres. Methinks you might well be 'Just a TC DOS in ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Joe -- 26 September 2009

Yes! I'll happily stand in the pro-training center crowd. Everyday I walk into a nice modern training center to work. I'm greeted at the reception by a beautiful smiling face and walk to the ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Teacher Ted -- 26 September 2009

Those who denigrate training centres in China as a whole have their own personal reasons for doing so. Some such critics are not up to the job - they aren't good teachers! Others dislike working ...

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- TCEnemy -- 26 September 2009

Hahaha, nice joke! All TCs are crap!

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

Yes, exactly. Well said!

Re: What makes them "elites"? -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

Yes, it is true that it is hard to "believe" that there a "good" training centres and recruiters doing a good job "out there". The truth is that they don't, and we are told by so by the reality ...

I have some real elites for you..LOL! -- Turnoi -- 24 September 2009

Well, Michael, even if you may feel fed up with my responses to you - as a critical and discerning reader, I have to tell you this: You are mentioning "elites" on your site, and it seems that ...

Re: I have some real elites for you..LOL! -- Michael Shaw -- 24 September 2009

Thank you for your time and insights. If anybody has any questions or is interested in finding a teaching position in China I would be more than happy to provide you with more information regarding ...

Re: I have some real elites for you..LOL! -- cunning linguist -- 24 September 2009

Charlie Chen or Charlie Chan? We need to be told! "Madness twin brother of genius because each live in world created by own ego. One sometimes mistaken for the other." Charlie Chan at the Opera ...

Re: I have some real elites for you..LOL! -- Turnoi -- 25 September 2009

Or what about Chen or Chan, the famous actor in Hongkong-made martial art movies????...LOL.

Re: I have some real elites for you..LOL! -- Turnoi -- 24 September 2009

It seems that at least you have some sense of humour... Now, you should not be astonished when I take your word for it and have some of my elites apply for a job.....

On The Nature of Business in the crappy world of ESL -- Turnoi -- 5 September 2009

Apart from the fact that as a really good-looking crocodile (hahaha!)I would never have any chance to be hired by that "Dr." Chen (or whatever his real name is), I do really take pride in not having ...

Re: Crap\ Pretend schools in China\ Thailand -- Third Party -- 4 September 2009

Michael's words were: I'm very interested to hear about your bad experiences working with Yulun Education and Dr Charles Chen. My view is your post represents a reasonable enough response to ...

Re: Crap\ Pretend schools in China\ Thailand -- Silverboy -- 5 September 2009

No point trying to sell your DOS and corporate lackey rubbish here TP. I can spot people like you 10 miles off. Go back to your home country and sell some ham and pineapple pizzas!

BEWARE OF SINNOCAN -- GEORGE -- 1 September 2009

I THINK TEACHING IN CHINA IS FUNNY AND INTERESTING WITH SOME TRANSLATORS SAYING DIFFERENT THINGS.A TIANJIN AGENCY NAMED SINNOCAN RECRUIT ONE OF THE FUNNY TEACHING ASSISTANTS AND THEY KEEP SCREWING UP ...

Re: Aclipse -- Kads -- 1 September 2009

I too have dealt with Aclipse. I sent in all my information, blah blah blah, I know I am qualified to get a job in S.K. which I didn't even WANT. They didn't have the sense to tell me they ...

Re: Aclipse -- Turnoi -- 1 September 2009

From what you say it seems that this Aclipse outfit is a complete waste of time; there is nothing professional about them; quite the contrary is the case. As a business, they are absolutely ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- Nanchang Ren -- 1 September 2009

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Turnoi -- 1 September 2009

That´s an interesting report. Nanchang as a place is quite well known to many, and for reasons associated with the place itself, it is not the most popular place that foreign teachers would want to ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- ft-me -- 9 September 2009

"do not think it is a campaign targeted at the foreign teacher as such - remember:China obviously is in urgent need of foreign teachers!" Turnoi Yes, indeed. But the question is, what is that "urgent ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Silverboy -- 9 September 2009

I agree with you, but I would not go as far as advising teacher's to avoid China altogether. Yes, avoid all the useless training centres and those "international schools", but there are some ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- ft-me -- 10 September 2009

"It is why you will find people coming on to boards like this and complaining about "pretend teachers", they attempt to discredit people like myself and others who are trying hard to derail the gravy ...

"Pretend" Teachers and their connection to my beloved pets -- Turnoi -- 11 September 2009

The usage of the term "pretend teacher" has a special history on this board. There used to be some posters calling other FTs "pretend teachers" in terms of what these posters thought were low-profile ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Silverboy -- 11 September 2009

Perhaps you are right, maybe it really is a waste of time teaching in China, at most places anyway. I did not mean to say that all universities in China are OK, yes, there are more than a few that ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- tatsuospirit -- 11 September 2009

Hi Silverboy, Just letting you know, I understand this "Just today I had a senior professor at my uni sit in on my class. " I don't really like this But if a school is serious about the ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Silverboy -- 11 September 2009

Yes, it is OK if someone observes, but not some useless TA or DOS with no qualifications. A real professor? I have no problem with that, I think because I am a vey individualistic sort of person I ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- ft-me -- 13 September 2009

Students at the last college where I worked in China, when I questioned them about evaluations of FTs, told me that it wasn't something they took seriously. In fact, as it turns out, they just ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Silverboy -- 15 September 2009

I think that students, DOS, TA's or anyone else who is not qualified should not be observing and/or assessing the skils a or abilities of an FT. If a student in China thinks that an FT is not ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Gary -- 16 September 2009

I had one Dean turn up to my class to assess my classroom work, when I asked her what criteria she was using she did not answer, three times I asked her. After the third time I asked her to leave ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Turnoi -- 16 September 2009

Perhaps they have a grudge against you when not renewing your contract. You may have made them lose their face when you took your students out of class. But I think you will eventually find a better ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line and doing a favour -- cunning linguist -- 12 September 2009

I agree with your comments and those of Turnoi. On the observation of teaching I would say that it does not matter even if the observer is a professor, provided they know what they are doing. Unless ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Monitor -- 11 September 2009

But if a school is serious about the education, then its normal to observe teachers on occasion. For what its worth to you. For what it's worth to you, the Chinese generally comply with the old ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Turnoi -- 9 September 2009

I would basically agree with you; ESL education in China (and not only there) is not about education but about money, especially in the private sector of crappy training centres. The role of foreign ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- ft-me -- 9 September 2009

Exactly, Turnoi, it is, and will be, the Chinese students who are the most hurt by this. There are some exceptions, of course; such as those students who, despite the fact that they were unable to ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Turnoi -- 10 September 2009

"The Chinese are masters at the fine art of double speak. I've been to many countries in my lifetime, and, to be perfectly honest have never met anyone, anywhere more capable of looking you in ...

Re: The Thin Blue Line -- Silverboy -- 10 September 2009

Yes, I agree, it is wise to be careful when selecting your "friends" in China. Many people will want to be your friend, but usually it is because they want something from you. Men who are looking for ...

Doing someone a favour in China -- Turnoi -- 11 September 2009

Yes, Silverboy, you are right , and I do completely agree with what you said. Let me "reinforce" what I said in my previous post regarding FRIENDS and "friends" by adding the following below: If ...

Re: Mr. Bi / Ludong University (yantai) - ESL school review *Link* -- Carl -- 1 September 2009

As far as I can tell, the author of the original post is either misinformed or worked at the school a long, long time ago. I worked at Lu Dong University for 2 years (2007-2009) and found the school ...

Esl Resource Group/ ERG -- shana -- 31 August 2009

Has anybody used or heard of the Esl Resource Group/ ERG agency? If so, can anyone tell me how their experience was? Also, has anybody hear about the Stanford Review in Yongin?

Qiqiha'er University -- Robert Dunlop -- 28 August 2009

Avoid this University at all costs. They lie, cheat and steal and change the contract at will. Treat the foreign teachers like dirt, and use their passports to buy and import foreign cars. They lie ...

Re: New Century English School Dalian -- bob -- 27 August 2009

ok whoever you are. you could not be more wrong.this school and anyone involved do not give two shits about the english teachers . oh they may treat you like gold for the first while .and then it ...

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin Huite, Tianjin, China -- Tom -- 27 August 2009

All you say, I found to be true from my short time with them. From that experience and speaking to others with longer experience I would advise if any teacher is thinking of working for about 6000 ...

sunny english school in Hohhot and Meizhou -- Steve Bromberg -- 26 August 2009

Does anyone have any information about the Sunny English Schools of Hohhot and Meizhou?

Re: sunny english school in Hohhot and Meizhou -- groucho -- 26 August 2009

hohhot hothot. you will be in middle of no where? no info.

Re: sunny english school in Hohhot and Meizhou -- Turnoi -- 30 August 2009

Hohot is not a "hot" place to go to, it truly is in the middle of nowhere. And the "sunny" english "school" may not be as "sunny" as you may expect. My opinion - stay away from that place, and do NOT ...

Re: sunny english school in Hohhot and Meizhou -- Monitor -- 30 August 2009

Hohot is not a "hot" place to go to, it truly is in the middle of nowhere. And the "sunny" english "school" may not be as "sunny" as you may expect. My opinion - stay away from that place, and do NOT ...

Re: sunny english school in Hohhot and Meizhou -- Turnoi -- 30 August 2009

Does this confirm or not confirm my suggestion that Hohhot is not a "HOT" place to go?...smile.

KAU and Sangmyung University summer camp by Jay Lee & Sally -- Lucy -- 26 August 2009

I've been posting in the wrong place. For whoever wants to read my review, please refer to the other thread under Teacher's Discussion Forum. Apparently, people let a lot of negative things ...

Canada International School, Uijongbu, South Korea -- As per Megan -- 22 August 2009

Re: Black List IN KOREA - Canada International School By:Megan Do not work for CIS, Canada International School... http://www.cischool.com/ Mr. Kim, the owner, doesn’t return tax refunds, underpays ...

Re: Canada International School, Uijongbu, South Korea -- Michele Rothe -- 14 September 2009

My daughter just left for Seoul yesterday to work at CIS for Kyoung-Ae Jo. The phone # is 82-31-765-6774. Is this Dr. Kim? After reading your post, I am certainly concerned. Please share with me any ...

Ahil English School, South Korea, Ulsan, Dong-Gu, Nammok -- ANET -- 22 August 2009

Ahil English School, South Korea, Ulsan, Dong-Gu, Nammok. The following is written in the public interest of the ESL community. If I can spare at least one teacher the misery these people caused me, ...

Korea "Hall of Shame" - third edition -- Theo -- 22 August 2009

OK, readers, here’s the third edition… Please keep those contributions coming! PUBLIC SCHOOL Programs EPIK (English Program in Korea) SMOE (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education) These are both ...

Re: Verbal Agreements -- steve -- 22 August 2009

The only thing that's legally binding in China is a written contract. I have an email from an potential employer stating I was hired, salary, dates, etc. everything a contract would include. He ...

Re: Verbal Agreements -- penname -- 23 August 2009

Even with a signed contract there are problems. I recently attempted a transfer from one college to the other on the same university campus. I had worked at the first college for three years. My new ...

Reviews about schools and recruiters -- School and Recruiter Review board -- 21 August 2009

School and Recruiter Review

Hampson CZ Mlada Boleslav -- Eileen -- 21 August 2009

Hi guys I just left one of the worst schools, I've ever taught for. At the beginning the two owners seamed pretty nice, and they were, the problems started with my first paycheck. I think the ...

Re: Hampson CZ Mlada Boleslav -- passingthrough -- 21 August 2009

No offense intended; however, considering the quality of your English, you're lucky to have been employed as an English instructor in the first place. That being the case, it is difficult to ...

Re: Hampson CZ Mlada Boleslav -- Eileen -- 23 August 2009

Dear X: I am sure it was rather gratifying to ridicule my post. I am aware of my grammatical limitation, in fact English is not even my first language. However, I refuse to become a caricatural ...

Re: Hampson CZ Mlada Boleslav -- Turnoi -- 23 August 2009

Eileen, I fully agree with you - and you have given the right answer. The poster you replied to may have felt a need to show what he/she thinks is a superiority as a so-called native speaker. I am ...

Re: Hampson CZ Mlada Boleslav -- passing through -- 23 August 2009

You're right; I should have resisted the temptation to focus on your poor English skills and instead focused on your plight. Nevertheless.................. Good luck.

Re: Hampson CZ Mlada Boleslav -- Turnoi -- 21 August 2009

Mlada Boleslav is a rather dirty industrial and commercial provincial place in the Czech Republic where different privately run English Training centres operate. Very often, foreign teachers there ...

New Times International Sichuan Chengdu -- Chengdu FT -- 21 August 2009

They just recently posted an ad looking for a teacher. They are more of a middle man than a "school." I worked for them briefly part time back in 1999. They paid a 100 an hour back then and still pay ...

Re: New Times International Sichuan Chengdu -- Tired of Extortion methods -- 6 November 2009

I second the warning. New Times International in Chengdu is a bad deal all around. The company plays middleman to various schools, Universities and even factories. Of course, in most cases, the ...

Re: New Times International Sichuan Chengdu -- Monitor -- 6 November 2009

When you finally realise you're getting about 30-40 RMB per hour, it's too late. Basement wages, indeed! And is that the rate for white FT's? I'd heard that disreputable Chinese ...

Zhejiang Zhuji Ronghuai School -- Mmmm -- 20 August 2009

Does anyone have any experience with this school? Zhejiang Zhuji Ronghuai School Thanks, mmmm

Re: Modern English Studio, Seoul Korea -- what can I expect -- 20 August 2009

Ok, I have read all of the threads. This must be an "interesting" place to work. I am now second guessing my interview. Nothing has been posted about Modern English Studio recently. Are things ...

Re: Modern English Studio, Seoul Korea -- Migrant Worker -- 21 August 2009

Perhaps, some people just have to learn the hard way. Don't be a fool. Do you really want to take such a big risk?

Re: Modern English Studio, Seoul Korea -- Theo -- 20 August 2009

I have to say, I'm rather stunned by your post/query. So many people made negative posts about Modern English Studio, and you want to know more and claim nothing has been posted recently when ...

Reviews about schools and recruiters -- School and Recruiter Review board -- 21 August 2009

School and Recruiter Review

Re: Shenzhen ING school -- M.E. Lilly -- 16 August 2009

I got an anonymous tip recently that a Singaporean businessman named Tony Yu is now the CEO of ING. Was Tony there when you got ripped off? Tony is gaining a reputation as a liar and crook in the EFL ...

Re: Shenzhen ING school -- ken -- 17 August 2009

I never met the owner of ING school but I know the manager Bessy and he is so bad. I suggested using tape recorders to help the students here their mistakes and he said that was a bad idea. Later ...

Re: Shenzhen ING school -- Pingfan -- 19 August 2009

Another insider tip... Leo is nowhere to be found this entire week, so now our next week schedule is up in the air. If I was a teacher at ING, I will think very seriously of leaving..... and soon!

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- DarrenHelps -- 16 August 2009

I am shocked at the reports and the childish manner in which you all act here. As i am a pgce qualified teacher i have seen esl teachers at work. Do not be proud of your tefl or esl, they hand them ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- passin'through -- 21 August 2009

There are at least three punctuation errors in your post. Definitely a case of the pot calling the kettle black. You're not alone, though; there are many so called teachers posting here who ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- Silverboy -- 16 August 2009

Just because you have a pgce qualification it does not make you a good teacher. I would suggest you take a good look at the mistakes in your own post before you make derogatory remarks about others. ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- beaux -- 17 August 2009

Darren, I wasn't quite sure of who you were criticizing in your blog. Was it Fountain school or the teachers at Fountain, who may have TEFL or ESL credentials which are different than yours? Are ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- HireEd -- 16 August 2009

Uh, the quality of your post stretches credibility as well! No such word as "alot," for example.

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- Turnoi -- 17 August 2009

What does this pcge qualification mean anyway? Is it next to or above a PhD where people spell "I" as "i"? I am really wondering......lol.

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- JN -- 18 August 2009

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- gonegold -- 21 August 2009

What is a Ph.D? The definition is a Doctor of Philosophy. If a person refers to someone having a Ph.D in music for example, they have not described the degree in the proper manner. I have a Doctorite ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- passin'through -- 21 August 2009

" I have worked in foreign countries teaching EFL....not ESL for ten years and I can tell you from experience, there are many people who call themselves teachers of English who cannot put a decent ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- passin'through -- 21 August 2009

By the way, there are at least 12 English errors in your post, and those were discovered in seconds by doing a quick count. There are some great online writing tutorials you could check out if ...

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- Daren Helps -- 22 August 2009

Well at last someone who knows their English. Well done nobody just passin through, or did you mean passing through. Thanks one and all for your replies. Regards Darren Helps.

Re: FOUNTAIN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL, ZHUHAI. - ESL school review -- passin'through -- 22 August 2009

Passin' or passing - take your pick. I was thinking at the time of my students who have such a hard time with reduced speech in terms of their listening skills, so just tossin' it out there ...

Re: Witty International English / Tianjin Huite, Tianjin, China -- The Looks -- 15 August 2009

In Teda they don't give breaks in between classes.

Korrnell Academy, Hsinchu, Taiwan -- kayli -- 13 August 2009

I am just curious if anyone has heard anything good/bad about this school, their website is descent but there is very little about them on the internet as they are a new school.

Re: Istek Schools - Istanbul, Turkey -- Theo -- 12 August 2009

Sorry for your very unfortunate experience with Istek in Turkey. Thanks a lot for taking the time to detail your story and warn others about the perils of working for Istek. I wish I could say your ...

Re: List of good schools? -- Kevin -- 10 August 2009

My wife and I had a very good experience with Shengda College in Zhengzhou and LTC in Beihai, China.

Re: Contract / Visa after arival, no !!! -- Turnoi -- 9 August 2009

The excellent advice given by DPP is a general rule as far as China is concerned: 1. Never go without any signed and valid contract in your hands. Ask them to send you a signed contract in both ...

Re: Contract / Visa after arival, no !!! -- Defrauded Teacher -- 23 September 2009

I might add that it is wise to get someone to read any letter of invitation you receive from the employer to see if the name on the contract in Chinese agrees with the name on the Contract and the ...

loganchuang -- groucho -- 8 August 2009

what is your age/ if you are over 60, Please don't send emails to me. It is trash....understand? what you folks think about chinese who treat you like shit. thanks. his email: 605821727@qq.com ...

Re: loganchuang -- groucho -- 9 August 2009

to THE OWL. all i did send him my resume and the school which was posted on the net. thanks OWL.

Frank Zhang -- The Owl -- 9 August 2009

I am not too sure what the other poster tried to say here, but the two email addresses 605821727@qq.com and loganchuang@qq.com belong to Frank Zhang. Therefore, I assume that the other poster was a ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Turnoi -- 9 August 2009

Frank Zhang has been known to operate under different aliases for quite some time - by posting in forums and changing his email addresses frequently and regularly. The reason: He has got such a bad ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- HireEd -- 9 August 2009

Bombard the SOB! I'm sick of him preying upon expats. Let's put him out of business!

Re: Frank Zhang -- Migrant Worker -- 10 August 2009

Frank Zhang is still operating and recently tried to offer me a job. I am amazed this man is still around. I would have thought someone would have axed him by now. He must have some extremely mad ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- The Owl -- 10 August 2009

Migrant Worker: If you wish to provide in this thread his current phone number and email address(es), it would help other teachers identify him.

Re: Frank Zhang -- Migrant Worker -- 11 August 2009

I am sorry, I have already deleted the Email, but he was using the alias Sang Xing. And it was for a position around Suzhou. Even if it was an excellent position, I was surely go around him and ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Silverboy -- 10 August 2009

Yes, Frank Zhang is a filthy piece of garbage!

Re: Frank Zhang -- Monitor -- 30 August 2009

Yes, Frank Zhang is a filthy piece of garbage! Of course, you're entitled to your opinion. However, it appears that in spite of all the warnings against said agent, he still has clients who ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Turnoi -- 30 August 2009

It's a matter of personal opinion, I guess. There are many people who have horrible stories to tell about this guy - far too many in my opinion, including myself. And therefore I think it is wise ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- HireEd -- 31 August 2009

Of course, you're entitled to your opinion. However, it appears that in spite of all the warnings against said agent, he still has clients who entrust him to place them within the Chinese edu ...

Re: Frank Zhang, the chameleon -- Turnoi -- 3 September 2009

Frank Zhang is a real chameleon changing his appearance all the time as he thinks fit. It´s high time that my crocodiles will catch that animal and eat this him up.....LOL.

Re: Frank Zhang -- Silverboy -- 3 September 2009

I will happily second that!

Re: Frank Zhang -- Tasman -- 3 September 2009

It's about time you stopped flogging a dead horse re Frank Zhang! The majority of the rest of us is bored to death by constantly being reminded of the above-mentioned knave's existence and ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Silverboy -- 5 September 2009

Actually, I have not spoken about FZ much lately, but it is important to place warnings about him here still from time to time, especially in light of the fact that there are still some stupid laowai ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Trey -- 5 September 2009

There will always be some stupid Laowai defending the indefensibly barbaric and predatory behavior that is so prevalent here. Disgusting, isn't it? Best thing we can do is educate ESL teachers ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Turnoi -- 3 September 2009

I can`t agree with you; Frank Zhang and his misdeeds cannot be mentioned often enough. There are people like you, Silverboy, and others including myself who know about him: But there are others, ...

Re: Frank Zhang -- Turnoi -- 31 August 2009

The praises regarding Frank Zhang wangbadan posted on various forums are all a fake and were made by no other than Frank Zhang himself.

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Cassandra Franklin -- 8 August 2009

Living In Yeosu: I am currently working at E-World in Yeosu, South Korea. Yeosu is a small city surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and the sea. It has been convenient to live in an apartment that ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Silverboy -- 8 August 2009

Sounds like just a big advertisement for "E-World" to me! In China there are "chiggers", maybe in Korea there are " kriggers" like yourself........lol!

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Theo -- 8 August 2009

Wow, two VERY conflicting views, descriptions, and experiences with May and Lynda (between you and OP Linda). Cassandra, you sound far more like a recruiter than a teacher. Yours is one of the most ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Amanda -- 11 August 2009

I am a teacher at E-world now, with Cassandra, and was a teacher at ChildU with Linda. What Linda typed is completely inaccurate on so many accounts. All of the "truths" she was allegedly "told" were ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Theo -- 11 August 2009

Amanda: Not reaching out to other foreigners or Koreans, shying away from the culture, the language and the food, she created her own experience here. and The ONLY two teachers to not complete their ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Amanda -- 11 August 2009

I'm really not sure what Theo has to gain by commenting on a post and a school with which he has no experience or knowledge. I am not going to fight with you Theo. That wasn't my intention ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Theo -- 12 August 2009

Amanda: I will say however, those of you with any math skills (as well as common deducing abilities) will have already gathered that I have not been in Yeosu for three years consecutively, but three ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Amanda -- 11 August 2009

And the reason Kelli's post and Cassandra's post may have similarities is due to the fact that what they write is true. You can see that over two years (Kelli's post was in 2007 and ...

Re: E-World in Yeosu, South Korea - ESL school review -- Migrant Worker -- 10 August 2009

I have to agree with Theo and Silverboy. I REALLY wanted to believe there was a good training center out there in Korea in hopes to spur more but this post does seem like some sort of replay with a ...

Re: Changchun Xinyu Education School -- Migrant Worker -- 7 August 2009

Though this is probably true, it is possible that both of these companies are growing institutions that are simply opening new centers throughout China. I know that the ESL market is certainly still ...

Changchun Xinyu Education School -- Silverboy -- 7 August 2009

Has anyone else here noticed that the Changchun Xinyu Education School is constantly looking for teachers? Similar to EF and NDI, they are always looking for teachers. I can only come to one ...

Recruiter Scott or Mr G/Ji in Guangzhou -- Frey Mistico -- 7 August 2009

Scott or Mr G/ Ji (zggzscott@yahoo.com.cn) he works for a school(Gzmetc.com)but I think that he recruits teachers part time by himself and I do not imply that it has anything to do with the school. ...

Re: Contract / Visa after arival, no !!! -- Silverboy -- 6 August 2009

That is great advice DPP, and every newbie should take note. It is always a crap school that will ask a teacher to come to China on an L visa. What you said about "lemon teachers" in China is very ...

Contract / Visa after arival, no !!! -- Kai Lamborn -- 5 August 2009

August 6, 2009 Recently, I was offered a position at a College in Nanjing. During the course of correspondence with this college, which states it has a preparatory program for students entering into ...

Schools in Jiangsu: No Z visa -- CAT -- 7 August 2009

HI THERE ! I HAVE BEEN TEACHING AT 2 DIFFERENT COLLEGES IN JIANGSU FOR THREE YEARS.( PUBLIC COLLEGES ) THE SCHOOLS FROM JIANGSU DON`T PROVIDE A Z-VISA. IN THIS PROVINCE, ANY L-VISA ( TOURIST VISA ) ...

Re: Schools in Jiangsu: No Z visa -- Steve -- 22 August 2009

It is ILLEGAL to work in China without a Z-visa. You can be fined 500 rmb a day and permanently deported. The same is true for L and F visas. The type of visa has NOTHING to do with the residence ...

Re: Schools in Jiangsu: No Z visa -- Silverboy -- 7 August 2009

That is true, Jiangsu is one of the few provinces left where an L-visa can still be converted to a Z-visa and residence permit. Still, you have to be confident that your employer can and will convert ...

Re: Schools in Jiangsu: No Z visa -- BAD ADVICE -- HireEd -- 7 August 2009

CAT, if that arrangement works for you, then fine; but I think you're being very irresponsible by making such a recommendation to others. I worked for one college, two universities, and several ...

Re: Schools in Jiangsu: No Z visa -- BAD ADVICE -- CAT -- 10 August 2009

Hired, My way is different from yours but I have never had problems in China. Surely, one needs a three-month tourist-visa to have enough time to look for the right school. Three years ago, I checked ...

Re: Contract / Visa after arrival, no !!! -- HireEd -- 6 August 2009

Hello, Kai, and thanks a lot for your post. I quite agree with you that one should never accept a position that does not provide Z visa issuance and contract in advance. Do you mind telling us the ...

Re: Contract / Visa after arrival, no !!! -- Joe Blow -- 16 August 2009

I see both sides of this struggle. You want to be legal, but you also want to see what the place is like before really committing. It is a bad situation for FTs cause there are very few options. I ...

Re: Contract / Visa after arrival, no !!! -- Chengdu FT -- 16 August 2009

Nice post about the positives and negatives of both sides. Personally I would agree with Joe Blow. If you have the resources it is much better to come over and check out a school in person before ...

Re: Another Crap TC contract, Fujian -- La Mano Gaucha -- 5 August 2009

Yes indeed. I dealt with Plato very recently for a few days and although his offer did not require me to do an in-person interview, the terms were essentially the same as those posted here. After I ...

Re: Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources -- Dieter Miterbeiter -- 5 August 2009

Ah, yes. Yangzhou Vocational College of Environment and Resources. Friendly FL Department. Terrible accommodations. Home for the desperate and unsuspecting. I tried that college a few years ago. ...

Re: Saekyung College / University / ESL Starter / Yeongwol -- 1st Teacher Employed at the College -- 4 August 2009

I originally posted this declaration on a different blog, and I feel that my message should now be added to this posting to reinforce the author's statement. As one of three instructors initially ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Alan -- 3 August 2009

I'm sorry to say but Nanchang is an absolute armpit, it's the capital of a province of farmers, filled with farmers, enough said. The wal mart has nothing in the way of expat food, the ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- WOLF TOTEM -- 4 August 2009

I'm sorry to say but Nanchang is an absolute armpit, it's the capital of a province of farmers, filled with farmers, enough said. The wal mart has nothing in the way of expat food, the ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Alan -- 7 August 2009

Well, I'm sorry for having an opinion about Nanchang that concurs with yours. And , well, hell, I'm sorry for wanting a bit of quality of life that Nanchang doesn't offer. And no, a murky ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Silverboy -- 4 August 2009

I am glad to read your post. I nearly took a job at a university in Nanchang. However after I did a bit of research on Nanchang I decided I would definitely give the place a miss. The city looks ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- WOLF TOTEM -- 4 August 2009

The city looks really ugly ( at least Wuhan has East Lake and environs ), I could not find any information about decent Western restaurants, no good bars or nightspots, in other words, sounds like ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Silverboy -- 4 August 2009

Yes, unlike yourself I really do have my priorities in order. Maybe all FT's should follow your words of wisdom and head straight for Nanchang, Jiangxi province so they can experience the the ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- WOLF TOTEM -- 4 August 2009

Great cities of the world: Sydney, London, Hong Kong,Paris ,New York?! Sydney is not one of the great cities of the world. Just your nationalism on display again.

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Silverboy -- 5 August 2009

No, you are wrong once again! I think a very large chunk of the world's population would agree that Sydney is one of the world's great cities. I wonder if many Chinese cities would make it on ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- HireEd -- 5 August 2009

Yes, WOLF, if only we wicked westerners could stop imposing our arrogant ways upon the Chinese, we might learn something from them. Case in point: ...

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Turnoi -- 6 August 2009

I do make the claim that Sidney is one of the most attractive cities in the world. I am not Australian, and thus it is not possible to accuse me of "nationalism".... I also claim that Nanchang is one ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- John Nanchang China -- 6 August 2009

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Turnoi -- 6 August 2009

I have been to Nanchang, and I have experienced it as such. Given the fact that there are much better developed places and more beautiful places like Hangzhou, it would not be wise to go to Nanchang ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- John Nanchang China -- 7 August 2009

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- Turnoi -- 7 August 2009

I have been an FT in China like you.

Re: Nanchang University of Aeronautics née Nanchang Institute of Aeronautical Technology - ESL schoo -- WOLF TOTEM -- 6 August 2009

I also make the claim that if the WOLF TOTEM poster would care to study the DAODEJING more intensively, the conclusions and the tone in the postings of that poster would be very different from what ...

Enough already! -- HireEd -- 6 August 2009

WOLF TOTEM:Please do not give me advice. I don't want nor need it. Thanks, WOLF, for confirming our collective suspicions. It seems your purpose in life here is to bludgeon the rest of us with ...

Opinion shared by a Chinese student -- Migrant Worker -- 6 August 2009

I believe every part of China is rich with culture and history... or something else. I really can't offer my own opinion, as I have never been to Nanchang. So that being said, I would like to ...

Re: Opinion shared by a Chinese student -- Alan -- 7 August 2009

Thanks Migrant Worker, Now if some expats could get it into their thick skulls that some Chinese people feel this way about Nanchang, then it is not just us western comfort seeking lao wais who feel ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- John Nanchang China -- 9 August 2009

Re: Opinion shared by a Chinese student -- Alan -- 10 August 2009

Right, I think we've got it - expats who live and work in Nanchang are not as clever as you; because, let's face it, you're an expert on these matters. You've certainly got Nanchang ...

Re: Opinion shared by a Chinese student -- Turnoi -- 11 August 2009

I have experienced Nanchang as a place with houses full of rats because Chinese neighbours are used to put their rubbish in the open air and not in containers. Rats smell the rubbish and come in ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- John Nanchang China -- 11 August 2009

Re: Nanchang -- Turnoi -- 12 August 2009

Nanchang ...The only western comforts are trivialities, such as being able to buy coffee and a few western snacks such as crisps, western chocolate etc. There are plenty of KFCs and McDonalds and the ...

Re: Nanchang -- Silverboy -- 11 August 2009

It seems that Nanchang is a very boring and backward place, however you must like it if you have lived there for ten years. What is the main reason why you like it? I am also curious about your "man ...

Re: Nanchang -- Alan -- 12 August 2009

John Wrote: Building the new accommodation for overseas teachers there is a classic example of no thought / consultation or understanding of what overseas teachers want, when this was planned. I ...

Re: Shao Chun School, Nanchang, Jiangxi - ESL school review -- Alan -- 3 August 2009

Thats nanchang all over. Cheating and lying seemed to be endemic when I was there. Thank god im in a better job and better place. I certainly wouldn't advise any would be FT to even consider ...

Re: Chengdu Meten / Metro -- Chengdu ft -- 3 August 2009

Totally agree with what you said. It is the little things that drive you crazy. Looking for markers for the white board. Fix screwed up schedules. The last month I was there that happened every ...

Global Language Institute, Ansan - http://www.asglobal.kr -- Drahcir -- 3 August 2009

Global Language Institute, Ansan If you work here do not expect to get your severance pay or your return flight home. I worked here for 10 months. I enjoyed my job and had no problems for nine ...

Re: Global Language Institute, Ansan - http://www.asglobal.kr -- Theo -- 3 August 2009

Very sorry to learn of your all-too-typical misfortune. Your story seems to be rapidly becoming almost the norm for so many hagwon FTs in Korea these days. With high homeside unemployment rates, ...

Re: TOPIA ENGLISH ZONE -- Jason -- 2 August 2009

I currently work at Topia in Jukjeon. There are many campuses, so judging them all by a review of a single campus isn't very accurate. Don't forget, there are corporate-owned Topias and ...

EBY English Institute/Gwangju -- Fischer McLee -- 2 August 2009

Hey all, Has anyone heard anything, positive or negative, about this place? Terms are - 2.2-2.3 mil KRW/mo M-F: 2:30-9 pm 5-10 7-15 years old / class fully furnished single studio apartment + the ...

Re: EBY English Institute/Gwangju -- Theo -- 2 August 2009

Hello, again, Fisher, I don’t know anything about this school (hagwon) in particular, but are still some things I can point out when seriously considering such positions as the one outlined here. ...

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- Silverboy -- 1 August 2009

Well said DPP, couldn't have put it better myself. You are exactly right, it is wise to avoid Western "managers" at schools in China. These people were losers in their own countries, they were to ...

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- Theo -- 2 August 2009

DitheringPitterPatter: I generally steer clear of any places that profess to have "western" management, touting this as if it is a good thing, it isn't. In my experience you will often have the ...

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- Crashtests-Marty -- 2 August 2009

There's some truth in all of the above, but can we blame Aston English School or Western management for the problems the OP wrote about Ankang Aston? Aston is only cupable to the degree they ...

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- Chengdu ft -- 3 August 2009

When I went to the interview, I was told that all the schools were owned by "an American corporation" (translation = naturalized Chinese citizen) and that they were not running a Franchise system. ...

International College of HBNU Huangshi Hubei -- Adrian Keefe -- 1 August 2009

This so called college posits itself as being part of Hubei Normal University. It isn't. It is a private and fraudulently run institution that uses 'foreign teachers' as a marketing ploy ...

Re: Korean "Hall of Shame" , my 2 cents; Two for the price of one! -- Chengdu ft -- 31 July 2009

This in regards to the Korean International School in Shenzhen. I am not at all if this is the same place, but if it is you are probably lucky. About three years ago a FT from Chengdu left to go ...

Chengdu Meten / Metro -- Chengdu ft -- 31 July 2009

Hello, I just saw a job advert for Meten English in Chengdu and thought I would write a review for you all. I was part time and they lived up to the about 75% of the contract, however I still would ...

Re: Chengdu Meten / Metro -- Paul Peters -- 16 August 2009

I have been a part-time teacher at Meten for about 10 months now. I also have gripes…… but for me - - Meten is a wonderful place to work. Meten does their very best to accommodate my schedule ...

Re: Chengdu Meten / Metro -- Chengdu FT -- 16 August 2009

Meten a wonderful place to work??? Tolerable, but wonderful? What city, and which branch? All the chain schools vary from place to place, and my review is based strictly on my experience at Baboa ...

James Jeong in Seoul -- Zap Brannigan -- 30 July 2009

Well I figured I'd recommend my friend James at ESL411.com . As I depart from my year in Korea I can say without a doubt that he is definitely someone worth talking to if you're looking for a ...

Re: James Jeong in Seoul -- Theo -- 30 July 2009

That's great, Zap. Thanks! Glad to know you had a good experience in Seoul. Too bad I can't say the same, but I appreciate your post! Best wishes. T

Re: Jiangnan University - Lambton College, Wuxi City -- Lambton Teacher(Wuxi)until now??? -- 29 July 2009

To all the readers, I RAMIL BASA RABACA, admit that for 4 consecutive terms, I was been a FT of Jiangnan University-Lambton College (Wuxi),even there was something wrong happened between me and the ...

Owen Buckland, Buckland Group, Yangshuo China -- Buckland Group Victim -- 28 July 2009

BUCKLAND GROUP SCAM - YOU MUST READ THIS!!! IS OWEN BUCKLAND and his Yangshuo based BUCKLAND GROUP running a scam that puts foreign teachers' into illegal employment or has he been unfortunate in ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- JN -- 29 July 2009

Re: Owen Buckland, Buckland Group, Yangshuo China -- wdb -- 29 July 2009

Today I have received yet another junk mail offering a teaching position from “Fred”. Who the Hell is Fred? Fred as usual provides almost no details, yet he hopes to entice ‘foreigners’ to teach in ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- JN -- 30 July 2009

Re: Owen Buckland, Buckland Group, Yangshuo China -- wdb -- 31 July 2009

JN, Thanks, appreciate the time and effort on your part. Interesting. I may try to locate this guy, shouldn't be too difficult. I'm absolutely not interested in the position, however, ...

Re: Shanghai United International School -- sk -- 28 July 2009

Shanghai United International School It is greedy school ,they always want to dig money from parents . SUIS try to raise up tuition since second year from 60,000RMB to 80,000RMB 2007, all parents ...

Re: Linfen IELTS School, Linfen, Shanxi -- Jesper -- 27 July 2009

I'm currently in Linfen and by accident saw this post and thought i had to reply. I can tell you that in Linfen center the polution is not as bad as it looks on the pictures, yes there is ...

Aston English School, Ankang China -- Ryan -- 27 July 2009

This Aston school might be OK to work at in the future, at some point, once the rough spots are smoothed over. For now one would probably do better to work at most any of the other roughly 50 Aston ...

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- McKennaDMT -- 22 August 2009

I've heard of this school. Bad news! High turn over of all staff, foreign or Chinese. The franchisee hasn't been willing to change or compromise and treats all his employees like factory ...

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- Silverboy -- 28 July 2009

The points you listed are a very good reason to keep away from ANY Aston school, not just the branch in Anyang!

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- HireEd -- 27 July 2009

Excellent, informative post! Many thanks! ...and by the way, readers, Aston has rather a lousy reputation in just about any location. Not recommended.

Re: Aston English School, Ankang China -- Chengdu ft -- 31 July 2009

Aston is a bit of joke. Last summer I went for an interview in regards to one of their summer sessions. When we chatted on the phone it was one set of conditions. Only three weeks and not full time ...

Re: tianjin -- pascal -- 27 July 2009

if you , the school, did not oiss off the teacher, for some reason, why will he post?

Re: tianjin -- HireEd -- 27 July 2009

pascal: if you , the school, did not oiss off the teacher, for some reason, why will he post? As my students in China would often say: "oiss off"? Mr. pascal, what's meaning "oiss off"?

Re: tianjin -- EX TC teacher -- 27 July 2009

I think it means "Piss off". Piss off = to go away, to annoy, to frustrate (Seperable) Example. (1)TianJin YuMing. We will piss you off. (2) Piss off! TianJin YuMing.

Hall of Shame CN updates? -- tim -- 27 July 2009

Dear fellow teachers, Is there a current 'updated list' of troubled-schools in China? This would be helpful for us to look at before taking a September contract. Also, I can verify just two ...

Re: Hall of Shame CN updates? -- Silverboy -- 27 July 2009

Yeah Tim, that Walton place has received enough negative reviews to be included in the Hall of Shame. As for the honor list, that may be a good idea, however I would not put any training centres on ...

Re: Hall of Shame CN updates? -- Theo -- 27 July 2009

Hi, tim, I imagine that Silverboy will be responding to you as well. Thanks for making a contribution to the China "Hall of Shame," and thanks also for your suggestion of a 3-tier system. What you ...

Re: University Center -- Aqaba, Jordan -- ziad qassaymeh -- 26 July 2009

this lady who worked for us was very strange and an oddity she has the little man syndrome and never cooperated although we gave her housing and we gave her all her salries she dealt in a very odd ...

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" - first edition -- ANET -- 25 July 2009

Sorry, in addition to the reply I just posted, I should mention that the Korean woman who trail-blazed ahead of me blowing away the language barriers in the case against Tom&Jane later lost her job ...

Korea "Hall of Shame" - second edition -- Theo -- 25 July 2009

OK, readers, here’s the second edition… Please keep those contributions coming! PUBLIC SCHOOL Programs EPIK (English Program in Korea) SMOE (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education) These are both ...

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" - first edition -- ANET -- 24 July 2009

Thank you Theo. You can add Tom&Jane English School in SunAmdong, Namgu Ulsan to the list. This hagwon had a history of firing teachers after 11 months to avoid paying the 12-month completion ...

Re: Silverboy -- contact request -- Silverboy -- 24 July 2009

Yep, no problem.

Re: Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources -- Silverboy -- 23 July 2009

I especially agree with what you said about schools taking teachers passports. NEVER give any school in China your passport, except when you must convert your Z-visa to a residence permit. That is ...

Andinet International School In Addis -- john -- 22 July 2009

This commentary is intended to enlighten the general public and especially perspective employees. The following is suppose to be informative and not a condemnation, or a ringing endorsement of the ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Silverboy -- 23 July 2009

I read your entire post, I agree with nearly all the things you wrote, but your post could have been much shorter, you could still have covered all the issues you mentioned if your post was much more ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- john -- 19 August 2009

Well I think that if one person posts something about a company, then someone will read it and think twice about working there. If two people post something negative about a company, then I would ...

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- JN -- 24 July 2009

Re: Education -- Silverboy -- 24 July 2009

I want to respond to what you said about Jiangxi peasants. A peasant is usually very poor, can't speak English ( or even Putonghua ),therefore they do not have the resources and skills to travel ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Migrant Worker -- 23 July 2009

This is totally true! Degrees and papers do not signify superiority over another. Degrees are what society wants you to be, every educational center is a business and you are simply buying their ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Silverboy -- 24 July 2009

Some people who are degree holders actually do have some intelligence, the problem with a lot of "educated" people or "academics" is that they lack common sense. I noticed this a lot some years back ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- aster -- 2 November 2009

I have never written my opinion about what someone else wrote, but I felt I needed to say something here. I was really surprised when I saw these comments that John wrote about Andinet School. What I ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Monitor -- 2 November 2009

So again, consider the source before you believe what you read. If a teacher was fired from his job at a school, do you think he will have anything good to say about the school? That depends on the ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- aster -- 4 November 2009

Dear Monitor, When you say the facts according to me, you must be sure to take a balanced look. You also need to say the facts according to John. Because what he writes is only his opinion. It is not ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Monitor -- 4 November 2009

Everyone should have to consider the source of whatever is written and make our own choices about what to believe. That is free speech. Including what I write. I do not need you to question me. If ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Turnoi -- 3 November 2009

I agree, Monitor, with what you said! Have a good day!

(Message Deleted by Poster) -- JN -- 24 July 2009

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- john -- 17 August 2009

I have to agree with everyone that has posted on this thread. When I was refering to was true in Ethiopia, but however was not true for China. I have worked in China before and agree they all want ...

Re: Andinet International School In Addis -- Migrant Worker -- 24 July 2009

Well, I read this somewhere but... I think this explains a lot. 10% of the population of the world actually think. 20% of the population of the world THINK they think. 70% of the population of the ...

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" - first edition -- Migrant Worker -- 22 July 2009

Thank you for this enlightening post, I have not been to Korea but I think I am happy here in China. Korea seems to be making things extremely difficult for FTs and I don't want to go through all ...

Re: Korea "Hall of Shame" - first edition -- Silverboy -- 22 July 2009

Thank you Theo for for all that useful information and the Korea Hall of Shame. May the latest inductees in the Hall of Shame receive all the bad publicity and resulting loss of revenue and profit ...

Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources: Avoid -- ESL Teachers United -- 21 July 2009

http://www.eslteachersunited.org/ESLForum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=315&p=373#p373 This was ALSO posted in regards to the Yangzhou College of Environment and Resources today at www.eslteachersunited.org ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- Chrissy -- 21 July 2009

Hi there! Yes, I've taken the Will-Excel TESOL course and I think they're great. I really enjoyed the training and teaching practice. They took excellent care of me in Harbin, and found me a ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- Kimiya -- 12 August 2009

Wow. That wasn't suspicious at all. (Sarcasm) I read a number of things here that are positively scathing, most of which being months apart....AND THEN an almost immediate reply to a post from an ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- Lia -- 19 October 2009

I havent been to this thread in a while but a friend of mine who is considering this school had something happen to him that was fairly similar to the second post. No open spot, then an open spot, he ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- Chrissy -- 19 August 2009

It seems a bit odd how one can correlate making a (reasonably) timely response with being affiliated with said organization. However, I know the internet well enough to know that nothing I can say ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- Kimiya -- 24 August 2009

I have watched the video testimonials, and have much difficulty believing that everyone who goes through there is so satisfied that they volunteer to laud praise on video. What I have an easy time ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- Silverboy -- 26 August 2009

I never take any notice of testemonials and corporate lackeys, makes no difference if a testemonial is done by coercion or by free will, usually employees are forced to do them, they are just a lot ...

Re: Opinions of Will-Excel Global? - ESL school review -- That1Guy -- 1 September 2009

Well, I've been reading for some weeks now on the scrutiny of Will-Excel whatever. You all make a good point, and you'd be blind not to see it. However, I have no experience in teaching and a ...