My TEFL Heaven experience was nothing short of fantastic. From the second I began looking on TEFL Heaven's website, assistance was given to me by their dedicated staff members. Every step of the way during the signup process, the staff members were there to answer any questions I had about teaching/living in Thailand, training on an island, and moving across the world.
After signing up, the team members continued assisting me with tips on what to pack, where and how to arrange my paperwork and passport documents, and with the logistics of arriving in Thailand and transportation to the training destination on Koh Chang. I felt a sense of comfort during preparation as no question I had went unanswered. Additionally, we were added to a Facebook group where the trainees and staff could interact - a chance to get to know one another and bounce questions/ideas around.
After landing in Bangkok, we had two action-packed days of team-building and orientation. During this, we met our fellow trainees and got so see some awesome cultural sites in Bangkok, such as Wat Arun. Additionally, we were educated on some Thai cultural practices and words which came in handy as we set off for the island of Koh Chang. The transportation to Koh Chang was arranged by TEFL Heaven - one less thing to stress about.
The training experience on Koh Chang was absolutely wonderful. First off, the island was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been - and we got to spend 3 weeks there! On the weekdays, our training group received comprehensive, in-depth training by our Trainers. Having never taught a single thing in my life, this education was extremely valuable. I was able to learn from the ground up, with no prior knowledge.
We learned how to teach English as a foreign language, how to manage a classroom, and how to effectively communicate with the students. Additionally, we were educated on the ins-and-outs of the Thai school system. Lastly, we got 1 hour of Thai language class every day. The trainers were so qualified and enthusiastic! Our classroom was on-site at the resort on Koh Chang - I could see the ocean and palm trees while learning! The things I learned during training have helped me immensely inside and outside of the classroom.
On the weekends and afternoons, our TEFL training group was allowed to explore the island, seeing some amazing spots such as waterfalls and hiking trails, and trying the ever so delicious Thai food that Koh Chang has to offer. Any time I had a question or an issue came up, the TEFL staff was able to provide prompt and thorough assistance. Even during a relatively serious personal matter on the island, the staff was able to help me through it as friends, and provide guidance for which I am very thankful.
As for the guaranteed job - I was placed in the awesome city of Chachoengsao. This placement was done after the folks at TEFL Heaven and my agency were able to discuss where they thought I would thrive. The job placement is guaranteed, and intentional, in order to set the teachers up for success. Not surprisingly, the agency and TEFL Heaven has operated extremely professionally and assisted every step of the way.
I can say with confidence that TEFL Heaven has changed my life in the most positive way. I gained knowledge, training, cultural orientation, some great friends, and an awesome job here in Thailand. I had my reservations, as anyone would, about moving across the world to start a new life teaching English. However, the folks at TEFL Heaven made the experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Looking back, now that I have been here for 3 months, I would not change a thing. I recommend TEFL Heaven wholeheartedly to anyone considering making the leap.
THANK YOU TEFL HEAVEN!!
-Grant
