In response to 'qualifications won't turn your fortunes around' (Postbox 25th March 2022), I'm halfway in agreement. While it is true that getting better qualified does not automatically lead to higher salaries, there are indeed good options here for those who look for them.

I can only speak for myself, but I left back in 2016 to get experience teaching back home. I was able to work at a public school in the States, and later at an international school in Asia. During such time, I added onto my qualifications with a graduate degree in my content area and in curriculum and instruction. I was then able to come back to Thailand in 2021 to work teaching in my content area. The salary is in line with what I have made with my previous two jobs, which affords me a nice life if I may say so.

The jobs *are* out there. Admittedly, it's not a guarantee but to suggest that there aren't jobs here to support a decent life is simply silly. Now admittedly, I don't teach ESOL (though I did for much of my career) but the experience doing so has helped me with my students, who are varied levels of ELLs. I would say that if you are experienced in teaching your content area, there are jobs to be had. I think many teachers who stick it out here and improve their skills and qualifications find themselves in better jobs. For those considering upgrading their qualifications, while it is true that it is no guarantee of a massive upgrade there are jobs to be had.

Aaron