Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved from Thailand to Shanghai, China then back to the UK.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I worked in Thailand on and off for about three years mostly in government schools.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

Better career options. I felt I had gone as far as I could go as regards the teaching scene in Thailand and wanted to try another country to experience something new.

Q4. What are the advantages of working where you are now compared to Thailand?

Well right now I'm back in the UK and have been struggling to look for meaningful work. So I've decided to become a full-time student again and embark on a career in social work for a new challenge.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Almost everything: the weather, the people, the lifestyle and the excellent quality of food. I also miss being able to be on an beautiful beach only a couple of hours away from where I used to live.

Q6. Would you advise a new teacher to seek work in Thailand or where you are now?

I would advise a new teacher to gain a starting position in Thailand and possibly stay for one or two years but don't stay too long as you can get stuck in a bit of a rut. At least that is how I found it at a government school. Maybe it is a little different working for an international school.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Yeah, certainly. Myself and my partner plan to return to Thailand on holiday but not sure if I would like to teach in the country full time again. Almost everyday I think about returning for a few weeks in order to recharge my mental state.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I think Thailand is a great place to begin your teaching career but don't stay too long in the one position. If you are planning on staying for the long haul I would recommend doing the PGCE and trying to gain a position in an international school. I would also recommend China if your fancy a change of pace and scenery. It is a country that is so diverse and has a lot to offer the new or mid range teacher. On the whole I found the teaching environment to be a lot more professional and student focused.

My last piece of advice would be not to return to the UK without a real career plan in place. I thought I would pick up work quite easily with my experience but it has proved to be a long difficult slog and something I would not want anyone else to make the mistake of repeating. Also the reverse culture shock is something that has hit me hard and to a certain extent effected my mental health.