My program started end of May 2023 and l really was nervous because it was my first time going to be away from home for such a long time ,however with the constant support of XA they made it less worrying. I left South Africa already placed at a school in a fishing village which was my requirement to not be placed in a big city. Throughout my placement XA ensured that l was taken care of in terms of my visa applications and my accommodation needs.
I really struggled with the teaching part , there were many days l would feel like quitting however talking and sharing with the other foreign teachers helped a lot because l understood their own challenges also and made me realize l was not alone. At the end of my 6 months in October l decided l wanted to go back home as l was missing my family however after spending 2 weeks travelling and exploring Thailand l decided to give the program another shot , that was the best decision ever. XA then assisted me with the second placement , now in city and the experience there has been nothing but life changing , l have found my voice , my confidence in teaching is strong. I have developed strong bonds with other foreign and local teachers.
In the 14 months of being here in Thailand l have truly grown as an individual and in my passion of teaching. I get to travel during long weekend and explore this beautiful country and mingle with people and understand their culture better. This for me has been the best year of my life.
What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The most nerve-wracking moment for me as a new teacher in Thailand was the first day of class ,facing a room full of students with potential language barriers and cultural differences. Overcoming this meant l had to prepare in advance for my lessons ,be flexible and open to new teaching methods.