Teaching in Cambodia is not like your typical 9 to 5 job back home. Be ready for crowded classrooms, limited resources, and students of all ages and skill levels. You’ll work long hours, but don’t worry, your weekends will be free to explore the ancient temples, tropical beaches, and bustling cities. The pay may be low, but the cost of living is even lower. A bowl of noodles will set you back a dollar or two. And while the initial culture shock may be jarring, the friendly locals and laid-back lifestyle are sure to win you over. There will be challenges, but for the adventure and memories, teaching in Cambodia will be worth every second. Trust me, after a year in the Kingdom of Wonder, you’ll never want to leave. The students and experiences will change your life in ways you can’t yet imagine.
Preparing to Teach in Cambodia: Qualifications and Requirements
To teach in Cambodia, you’ll need the proper qualifications and paperwork.
Degree and Experience
Cambodia requires teachers to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Experience teaching English is preferred but not always required. Some schools may accept applicants with degrees in English, linguistics, or education.
Work Permit and Visa
To legally teach in Cambodia, you need a work permit and a proper visa. Work permits are obtained through your employer and could take 3 to 6 weeks to process. Most teachers apply for a business visa (type E) which is valid for 30 days. Your school will help you extend it to a work permit stay of 6 to 12 months.
Job Placement
The majority of teaching jobs in Cambodia are at private language schools or universities in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Some schools hire overseas, but many prefer to interview in person. Do research on schools in your desired city and contact them directly about openings. Be prepared to provide copies of your degree, TEFL/TESOL certificate, resume, and references.
Living in Cambodia
Life in Cambodia offers a blend of rewarding challenges. Learn some basic Khmer phrases, dress conservatively, and be respectful of cultural differences. Housing and cost of living varies in different cities. In Phnom Penh, a one-bedroom apartment averages $300 to $500 per month. While salaries are lower than other Asian countries, you can live comfortably and save money.
Cambodia is an amazing place to experience a different culture and way of life. If you go in with realistic expectations and an open mind, teaching in Cambodia can be a life-changing journey. The rewards of helping students to learn and grow far outweigh any struggles. Take the leap—you won’t regret it!
What to Expect as a Teacher in Cambodia
As a teacher in Cambodia, you can expect a rewarding yet challenging experience.
You’ll likely work at a private school teaching English to students of all ages. Be prepared for large class sizes, limited resources, and varying levels of English proficiency. Stay patient and flexible. Focus on conversation and practical skills.
The school year runs from October to July, so you’ll have long holidays to explore Cambodia’s natural and cultural wonders. However, the hot season from March to May can be brutal without air conditioning, so be sure to stay hydrated!
The lifestyle in Cambodia is laid back. People value relationships, respect and harmony. Dress and behave conservatively, especially outside of schools and major cities. Learn some basic Khmer phrases to be polite. And try lots of delicious, cheap Khmer food – you’ll love it!
While the salary is modest, the cost of living is low. You can live comfortably and save money. Housing and transport are provided or subsidized by many schools.
There will be challenges, but with an open mind and a sense of adventure, you’ll thrive. You’ll build lasting friendships and connections. And you’ll make a meaningful impact through teaching. By sharing your knowledge and skills in Cambodia, you can open up opportunities for students to improve their lives and shape the future of Cambodia.
What an incredible opportunities to learn, grow and give back. The rewards of teaching in Cambodia will stay with you for years to come.
Teaching English in Cambodia: Jobs, Salaries and Benefits
Teaching English in Cambodia offers many opportunities for meaningful work with competitive pay. Jobs abound for qualified teachers, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Salaries in Cambodia are lower than most neighboring countries, but the low cost of living means you can live comfortably and save money.
Jobs
The majority of teaching jobs in Cambodia are at private language schools, training centers and NGOs. You’ll typically teach English to Cambodian students of all ages. Requirements usually include a bachelor’s degree and TEFL/TESOL certification. Some schools prefer teachers with experience, while others hire teachers with little or no experience.
Salaries
Salaries for English teachers in Cambodia range from $700 to $1,500 per month. pay will depend on factors like your qualifications, experience, location and type of school. Teachers in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap generally earn slightly higher salaries. Benefits may also include paid time off, health insurances, and flight reimbursement. If you want to spend a year teaching English in Cambodia, you should prepare yourself for crowded classrooms, limited resources, and students of all ages and skill levels. The pay may be low, but the cost of living is even lower.
Benefits
In addition to competitive pay and benefits, teaching in Cambodia offers a rewarding experience. You’ll get the opportunity to experience Cambodian culture firsthand, travel on weekends and holidays, and make a meaningful impact through education. The welcoming Cambodian people and laid-back lifestyle also make it an appealing place to live and work.
While teaching in a developing country like Cambodia certainly has its challenges, many teachers find it a fulfilling experience. If you go in with the right mindset, teaching English in Cambodia can be a rewarding chapter in your life. The key is finding a reputable school, learning about the culture, and maintaining a sense of adventure.
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Living in Cambodia: Accommodation, Lifestyle and Culture
Living in Cambodia: Accommodation, Lifestyle and Culture
Accommodation
As a teacher in Cambodia, your accommodation will likely be provided as part of your salary package. You’ll typically stay in an apartment or house, either on your own or shared with other teachers. Most places will have basic furnishings, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Don’t expect luxury, but you’ll have the essentials.
Lifestyle
Life in Cambodia moves at a slower pace. People value relationships, family and enjoying the moment. As a teacher, your lifestyle will allow you to immerse yourself in the culture. You’ll likely work standard school hours, leaving evenings and weekends open to connect with locals, explore the countryside, and learn about Khmer traditions.
Some things you may experience in your free time:
-Visit the temples of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s also one of the largest religious monuments in the world.
-Enjoy Khmer cuisine like fish amok, beef skewers or fresh tropical fruit.
-Relax at a beach in Sihanoukville or one of the southern islands.
-Shop at the lively markets for everything from moto parts to silks.
-Learn about the Khmer Rouge and visit the Killing Fields and S-21 Prison museum.
Culture
The Cambodian culture is influenced by Buddhism and revolves around family, respect and tradition. Some cultural norms to be aware of:
- Greetings: The sampeah, a gesture of greeting with hands in a prayer-like position, is common. Say “Chum reap sour” (Hello) and “Oun chum reap sour” (Goodbye).
- Dress modestly, especially away from beaches and nightlife spots. For women, below the knee skirts or pants and covered shoulders are recommended.
- Remove shoes before entering homes and religious buildings.
- The head is sacred, so avoid touching people on the head.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Hand holding is acceptable, but kissing should be avoided.
Living in Cambodia will be an adventure. Experience the rewarding lifestyle, embrace the culture and enjoy this colorful country! Let your life as a teacher in Cambodia begin.
Top Tips for New Teachers in Cambodia
As a new teacher in Cambodia, here are some tips to help you settle in:
Learn the Culture
Cambodia has a rich culture and history. Do some research on Buddhism, the Khmer language, arts, and cuisine. Showing respect for the local culture will help you better connect with your students and colleagues.
Dress Appropriately
As a teacher, you are a role model. Dress conservatively by avoiding shorts, tank tops, and flip flops. For men, wear button-down shirts and slacks. For women, wear knee-length skirts or dresses and modest tops. This shows respect in the classroom and community.
Develop Good Relationships
Build rapport with your students, their parents, and other teachers. Greet people with “Chum reap suor” (Hello) and “Oun chay vea” (Thank you). Invite colleagues out for coffee or food. Attend community events. Strong relationships will make you appreciate living in Cambodia.
Learn Survival Khmer
While many Cambodians speak English, learning basic Khmer will show you respect the local language. Focus on greetings, please/thank you, and numbers. Carry a Khmer phrasebook and try to use what you learn with locals. They will appreciate your effort.
Be Patient and Flexible
Cambodia’s education system differs from Western systems. Classrooms may lack resources, and teaching styles emphasize repetition and memorization. Do your best within the system while also using interactive activities. Deal with obstacles like power outages with patience and grace. Maintaining an open and flexible mindset will lead to a rewarding experience.
The keys to success as a teacher in Cambodia are immersing yourself in the culture, building good relationships, learning basic survival skills, and staying patient and flexible. Follow these tips and you’ll feel at home in no time! Best of luck in your new role educating Cambodia’s future leaders.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the truth about what life as a teacher in Cambodia is really like. Sure, it won’t always be easy, but the rewards far outweigh any challenges. You’ll get to experience a culture unlike any other, form meaningful relationships, and make a real difference in the lives of your students. At the end of the day, you’ll go to sleep knowing you’re contributing to a brighter future for Cambodia. If you go in with an open mind and heart, Cambodia will change you in all the right ways. The exotic locale, the kind people, and the work you do will all combine to create an experience you’ll never forget. So don’t overthink it – just take the leap and embark on the teaching adventure of a lifetime in the Kingdom of Wonder.
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