Why is English so poor in Thailand?

Students are simply just not 'taught' here

Recently I read an article that stated adults in Thailand are ranked 55th from a list of 60 countries on their English proficiency skills. From what I have seen as an English teacher working in government secondary schools over the last 10 years, I'm not surprised,

English program pitfalls

What are the disadvantages of being an English program teacher

Since I've been teaching in Thailand. I've by chance and not necessarily choice - always been placed in English Programs. English Programs are immersion-based ‘special' educative programs placed within government schools.

Another swipe at the system

I know I'm not the first to write about the education system in Thailand

Last week I was sat down by my managers (yes, this required all three of them) with minutes to go before the bell for first lesson and was told that my teaching style is not appropriate for the school. I had to clarify exactly what it was that they didn't like and was met with the response, "We don't want TEFL style teaching at our school."

Thailand's month of mourning

This is when Thai culture can really catch us unaware

Thailand has entered a month of mourning following the death of His Holiness the Supreme Patriarch. So what does that mean for us foreigners? How will this period of mourning affect us?

Who does teaching in Thailand suit most?

Postbox letter from Jack

Teaching English in Thailand is a good match for some people at some stages of life and maybe not a good match for the same or different people at different stages in life.

Not a career path

Postbox letter from Chris

The biggest problem with Thai government schools is the teachers having to produce their own lesson material and curriculum.

Baby steps and spontaneity

An ode to a semester in the books

One thing I will say for any aspiring teachers who are even mildly contemplating the idea of hopping over the pond to teach is this: Give it a shot! I for one am 25 years old and despite being here for seven months, am still wildly unsure of what I want to do for a career.

Amazing Thailand

Postbox letter from Russell

Those of us that have been here some years all know how this country has changed in the past 5 years. And most of us with balls would say it’s not for the best.

Summertime blues

Major changes that will affect many teachers

Next year it's going to be a very long summer. Schools will be finishing in early March as usual but the new school year won't begin until mid-June. That's a 3-month holiday we're looking at. Great news for our students but it may be a little worrying for teachers that don't get holiday pay