Q1. Where did you move to and when?

The Midlands, UK in November 2017, although I'm moving back to Manchester soon.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

A year. Worked in two different schools, six months in each. First school was a government run one in Bang Lamung, second was a private school in Pak Chong.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

Family reasons and I decided to do a PGCE and become a qualified teacher. That way I can work abroad earning more money and have slightly more stability visa wise.

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

Better money and shorter hours of work. Also knowing that I won't be asked to come in early/stay late without any warning.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Pretty much everything. I miss the weather, the food, the people, the friends I made and even the kids! Although I earn considerably more money here my lifestyle was of a much higher standard while in Thailand. Here I've ran out of money before payday. In Thailand I could save every month even while travelling lots.

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

Depends what you want from life I suppose, but I would encourage anyone to give it a go. From my experience of working in UK schools and Thai schools they are very different, but it's definitely a worthwhile experience working in Thailand.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Definitely. I'm hoping once I have the PGCE and I am a fully qualified teacher that I will be able to find better paid work that will allow me to start saving for the future. In the meantime I'm hoping to go on a holiday back there - I still have so much I want to see and do there.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I wish I had moved to Thailand years ago, as I could have stayed a lot longer without having to think about retirement plans and savings. But for anyone considering it I would say give a go, you've nothing to lose and you'll probably have the time of your life even if it's only for a semester.