If you told me a year ago I’d be working in Thailand, I don’t think I would’ve believed you. When I heard about the opportunity to teach in Asia, I wasn’t sure I would go, but I already felt excitement. When I was searching for a program, I wasn’t sure it would ever work out, but I started to feel like I wanted it to. When I struggled to find a program, that’s when I was sure that if I felt this much love toward a country I hadn’t been to, then something amazing was waiting for me there. When I found TheFewerThings, I was ready to go if accepted - I usually take some time to decide, but I didn’t need it; I booked an interview right away. In the moment when I got the email, I had no doubt it was meant for me - and how right I was.

However, having various teaching experiences in Europe is kind of an advantage - the knowledge I got during the two-week orientation helped me become a better and more efficient teacher. The support and the dedication of all the people in the program really push you to become even better. I can’t explain the constant support we got. I remember getting a sense of peace when I got my confirmation email from TFT, then my placement, and I was right to trust them, because the support has been insane. From the constant information about everything going on in the country to making sure we get to Thailand and then to our placement, they made sure we were not only ready to do this, but to do it feeling secure. Never have I ever imagined that coming aaaall the way to Southeast Asia would be this calm and almost easy!? Moving is never easy, but the team behind you literally does everything in their power to help you ease into this new life - not only as a teacher but as a foreign person in Thailand.

I had a couple of goals in mind coming to Thailand - learn about different cultures, experience REAL slow life, become a better teacher, make a routine, eat healthy, focus on the positive things, and experience life at its fullest. Well, safe to say it’s already happening, and it is unbelievable. When I tell you I’ve never worked this hard, but I’ve also never experienced such “quiet.” Apart from the culture shock of spicy food, confidently crossing the road, everyone riding a motorcycle (yes, even if it’s a three-year-old holding onto their parent), and weird insects (as part of everyday life and part of the cuisine as well), life’s never been more peaceful. Every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow, talk to strangers, smile at people, show the students a whole new world, be the coolest teacher ever, try to learn Thai, and experience the locals’ warm welcome. And if in doubt: “mai pet” or “mai pen rai.”

Starting my TEFL journey was a big decision for me; however, it turned out to be the best decision I have ever made. It started with a very phone call with TFT, which turned into a semester in Thailand. The Fewer Things have been so helpful throughout my journey as an EFL teacher in Thailand, from the very beginning to the very end, they have shown great support. And with their TFT clubhouse scheme, I have the ability to choose whatever and wherever I want to go next (depending on school placements). To anyone new or old to the TEFL world, I couldn’t recommend The Fewer Things enough, 10/10

I came to Thailand with The Fewer Things having never taught before, and was placed in a city to teach with my husband. We are truly very happy to have done so, despite my initial nerves at teaching! We have been given good support and even when there have been some small problems (as would be expected moving halfway across the world to work!) The Fewer Things have been really supportive and responsive. Thailand is a fantastic country, very calm and peaceful- the school and students themselves have been very respectful and a joy to work with. We are super happy to have made this career change as two slightly older participants- I liken it to taking off a backpack of stress I didn't even realise I had! Even if you are not a recent graduate, you won't regret it! ❤️

It has been incredible and I'm only halfway through. Life changing doesn't cover it, to experience a brand new country, culture and do so whilst immersed in making a difference to school children's lives has been a whirlwind.

I was a bit nervous before heading out as I expected to be but I felt that I was supported and given everything I needed.

What price can you put all on this

The school itself has been very welcoming and the whole process of getting set up whilst seemingly difficult has been fairly straightforward with the support on offer.

Jump in to adventure, what is stopping you?

I came out to Thailand at the end of April, ready to start teaching in May. Within the first few days, I had already made so many friends!

The Fewer Things are super supportive and respond super fast to any worries or questions. There is always someone a quick WhatsApp message away.

The staff and students at the schools are so welcoming and friendly. I have enjoyed every second so far and have decided to sign up for another semester already!

If you’re thinking about teaching abroad, you should definitely do it!

I am so glad I chose to go through The Fewer Things programme to teach abroad in Asia. Before I even arrived I felt reassured as I was able to talk to Will and Molly from the team if I had any problems or questions. The group chat and orientation was a great opportunity to meet teachers before starting work and I couldn't have imagined moving abroad without the company of other teachers in the same boat. I am living in a small city called Namphong in Thailand and it has been nothing but an authentic experience of living amongst locals, eating Thai food and (trying) to learn the language. Before arriving here I didn't quite believe in the 'mai-pen-rai' way of life in Thailand, which means 'no worries' but my experience has been both adventurous and laid back. Overall, taking that first step of signing up to The Fewer Things from my laptop led to my whole life changing a few months later. Now I don't think there is any better feeling than the sun shining as you finish work on a Friday and feeling like you have a made a difference through teaching English, no matter how small.

I joined The Fewer Things (TFT) to teach in Thailand in October 2024, and I cannot recommend this programme enough for new teachers! TFT was incredibly supportive throughout the entire process, from assisting with the required documents for working in Thailand and offering packing advice to providing regular communication and promptly responding to any queries during my placement.

I was incredibly fortunate to be placed in Pattaya, which offered a perfect balance of city and beach life. This location also provided many opportunities to travel around Thailand during the length of my contract. While teaching in Thailand was sometimes chaotic and challenging—especially when adapting to a new culture—it was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I have loved getting to know and learning from the students over the semester.

I’ve had an incredible time teaching in Thailand, during which I’ve gained lifelong friends and created unforgettable memories that I will cherish forever. I am so grateful for this opportunity and look forward to working with TFT as I explore new destinations once my contract ends!

When I first moved to my placement in Thailand, from the outside, it looked like nothing much was going on. It's a small farm town with little going on, which made me wonder if I should be here. But as time went on, I am very grateful and lucky to be able to be placed where I am. I was able to build many incredible friendships with coworkers who are from Thailand. By having those relationships, I have been able to have so many incredible experiences and special moments. I also really enjoyed the school I'm working at the teachers and the students are all so kind and supportive. I have been able to be a part of a welcoming and kind community that I'm so grateful to have.

Anytime I needed help with anything, at least one person would come up and ask to help me because they were just so kind. It's all thanks to TFT for assisting and helping me to be able to be where I am today. I am also grateful for TFT because they have helped me from the very beginning of this journey of finding a job in Thailand to getting settled into my new home. They help you with any question you have, so if you need assistance navigating Teaching English Abroad, I recommend The Fewer Things :)