David Parfitt

David Parfitt's blog on Ajarn.com


Understanding the Thai school system

A guide for foreign teachers

If you’re planning to teach in Thailand, it helps to have a basic grasp of how the education system is structured. While life inside a Thai classroom can sometimes feel unpredictable, the framework that holds everything together is actually quite well organised - at least on paper.


Why do technical school students fight in Thailand?

In Thailand, fights between students from rival technical colleges have been happening for years.

Movies, TV shows, and social media often glamorize technical students as tough and rebellious, making fighting seem cool. Some students see it as a way to earn respect or boost their reputation.


Navigating teaching contracts in Thailand

Before signing a contract, take the time to thoroughly evaluate the terms.

Teaching in Thailand comes with its share of challenges, and one of the most critical aspects to understand is your employment contract. While some agreements are fair and well-structured, others can be ambiguous or skewed in favor of the school.


I definitely made the right choice

The expat teacher lifestyle is filled with rewards

I've always wanted to travel, write, and have varied experiences, and I'm now able to do those things.


Honestly, I'm here in Thailand to teach

For the male teachers out there, how do you build rapport in the classroom?

There's no denying it: there's sometimes a stereotype about male English teachers in Thailand being seen as sex tourists. If you're single, you're fighting an uphill battle against this perception.


A teaching room of your own

It's not just about having a space to teach; it's about creating a hub for learning, laughter, and lifelong memories.

Starting out as a floating teacher meant I didn't have a proper classroom for the first two years. It was like being a nomad in the world of education, but it taught me to adapt like a pro.


The ideal student to teach

What characteristics make the perfect Thai student?

It's only fair for teachers to entertain thoughts about the benchmarks for role model language learners. Let's explore the traits that many teachers would cherish in their students.


Featured Jobs

School Counselor

฿32,000+ / month

Bangkok


Grade 8 School Teacher

฿55,000+ / month

Bangkok


Middle/High School Social Studies Teacher

฿100,000+ / month

Bangkok


NES Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher

฿50,000+ / month

Nakhon Pathom


Online English/Subject Teacher

฿825+ / hour

Online


English Language Instructor

฿39,000+ / month

Bangkok


Featured Teachers

  • Charlene


    American, 42 years old. Currently living in USA

  • Cecil


    French, 42 years old. Currently living in Thailand

  • Victor


    French, 42 years old. Currently living in Thailand

  • Alvei


    Filipino, 24 years old. Currently living in Philippines

  • Celice


    Filipino, 23 years old. Currently living in Philippines

  • Mae


    Filipino, 26 years old. Currently living in Philippines

The Hot Spot


Will I find work in Thailand?

Will I find work in Thailand?

It's one of the most common questions we get e-mailed to us. So find out exactly where you stand.


Contributions welcome

Contributions welcome

If you like visiting ajarn.com and reading the content, why not get involved yourself and keep us up to date?


Air your views

Air your views

Got something to say on the topic of teaching, working or living in Thailand? The Ajarn Postbox is the place. Send us your letters!


The cost of living

The cost of living

How much money does a teacher need to earn in order to live in Thailand? We survey various teachers earning different salaries and with different lifestyles.


The region guides

The region guides

Fancy working in Thailand but not in Bangkok? Our region guides are written by teachers who actually live and work in the provinces.