Turkey - TEFL in Turkey
Although jobs in State schools in Turkey are possible, most are in the thriving private schools which, incidentally, usually pay more. With demand outstripping supply, jobs are fairly easy to come by and the private lesson market is booming (although some schools don't allow this in the contract).
In 2011 it was announced that Turkey would recruit some 40,000 native English teachers over the next four years to work in state schools alongside Turkish teachers (similar to the Japanese JET and Korean EPIK programs).
Working in Turkey is not going to make you rich, but it's enough to live on reasonably well. The cost of living is a lot less than Britain or America, especially if you smoke and drink.
As for qualifications, you will need a degree and a TEFL certificate such as the ICAL TEFL Certificate.
Many schools will provide basic furnished accommodation, sometimes shared. They should also provide basic health cover but a private insurance is also recommended.
Many teachers work on a tourist visa which theoretically means you can only stay for up to 3 months without working. What often happens is that the teacher is required to make a trip outside the country (to Greece for example, next door) every three months so that their passport looks up to date.
The better schools will, however, do the paperwork and get a correct visa organised. In the near future it looks like Turkey will be joining the EU and therefore this problem will not apply to teachers from European Union countries, however American and non-EU teachers will find getting work here harder.
Cultural Issues
One common concern amongst Turkish people is that foreigners rarely show any knowledge of Turkish culture and history and are suprised when stereotypes are not met, for example that the women don't all wear headscarves.
A few tips for foreigners are, aside from learning something about the country before going there:
- don't chew gum in public
- don't talk loudly in public
- getting drunk is frowned upon
- shake hands when you meet (men, women and children); it's not common to shake hands when leaving (only good friends will kiss)
- when you enter a room, if you are not met by anyone you should greet the oldest or most senior person first
- courtesy is crucial
- never point the sole of your shoe or foot towards anyone
- eye contact is less obvious and muted
- do not stand and talk to someone with your hands on your hips or in your pockets
- the Western OK sign is offensive and rude
- be punctual; eight o'clock means eight o'clock
- be prepared to eat a lot if invited for dinner; clean your plate and leave the knife and fork beside it when finished
- if you invite someone to eat then you will be expected to pay the bill and vice versa
- take a small gift if you're invited to someone's home (flowers, chocolates or a bottle if your host drinks - check this as much of the country is Muslim and many do not drink) and, while on the theme, gifts are not usually opened in front of the giver
And of course, learning a few words of Turkish goes a long way to make friends and learn what the country is all about!
