If you’re a teacher in Thailand, or considering a move to this vibrant country, you’ll be keen to know how you can enhance your teaching skills. One of the most effective ways to do this is by obtaining a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). This qualification is highly respected worldwide and can open up a wealth of opportunities for career progression. But that’s not all! There are also a plethora of resources available that can help you to continually develop your teaching abilities. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits of getting a PGCE and highlight four incredible resources that can support your professional development.
Why Obtain a PGCE in Thailand?
The PGCE is a one-year higher education course in England, Wales and Northern Ireland that provides training in order to allow graduates to become teachers within the maintained schools. In Thailand, the PGCE is recognised as a high-quality teaching qualification, and obtaining it can significantly enhance your career prospects.
Firstly, a PGCE can help you to stand out in a competitive job market. Schools in Thailand, like those in many other countries, are increasingly seeking teachers who have a deep understanding of pedagogy and child development. A PGCE provides this knowledge, giving you an edge over candidates who only have a bachelor’s degree.
Secondly, a PGCE can open up opportunities for career advancement. With this qualification, you could move into roles such as head teacher, curriculum coordinator, or education consultant. These positions often come with higher salaries and more responsibility, providing a rewarding career path for ambitious teachers.
4 Incredible Resources for Teachers in Thailand
While obtaining a PGCE is a fantastic way to boost your teaching skills, it’s not the only option. There are many resources available that can help you to continually develop your professional abilities. Here are four of the best:
1. The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT)
The ISAT is a professional organisation that supports international schools in Thailand. It offers a range of resources for teachers, including professional development workshops, networking events, and a comprehensive library of teaching materials. The ISAT also provides advice on best practice in international education, helping you to stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods.
Comparatively, think of ISAT as your professional development toolbox. Just as a carpenter wouldn’t be without his hammer and nails, a teacher in Thailand shouldn’t be without the resources and support that ISAT offers.
2. The British Council
The British Council is a UK organisation that promotes English language learning and cultural relations worldwide. In Thailand, it offers a range of resources for English teachers, including lesson plans, classroom activities, and online training courses. The British Council also hosts regular events where teachers can network and share ideas.
Imagine the British Council as your teaching compass, guiding you towards effective English teaching methods and providing you with the tools to navigate your way through the ever-evolving landscape of language education.
3. The Education and Training Development Agency (ETDA)
The ETDA is a Thai government agency that supports the development of education and training in the country. It offers a range of resources for teachers, including online courses, webinars, and a digital library of educational materials. The ETDA also conducts research into education policy and practice, providing valuable insights for teachers.
Consider the ETDA as your educational GPS, providing you with the latest routes to successful teaching strategies and pinpointing areas of interest in the vast world of education policy and practice.
4. ThaiTESOL
ThaiTESOL is a professional association for teachers of English to speakers of other languages in Thailand. It provides a forum for teachers to share their experiences and learn from each other. ThaiTESOL also hosts an annual conference, which is a fantastic opportunity for professional development and networking.
ThaiTESOL can be likened to your professional discussion group, a place where you can exchange ideas, share experiences and gain insights from fellow educators navigating the same teaching journey.
Conclusion
Boosting your teaching skills in Thailand is a multifaceted process. Obtaining a PGCE can provide a solid foundation of pedagogical knowledge and open up new career opportunities. Meanwhile, resources like ISAT, the British Council, ETDA, and ThaiTESOL offer ongoing support and professional development opportunities. By utilising these resources, you can ensure that you’re always at the top of your teaching game, ready to inspire and educate the next generation of learners in Thailand.
Take Your Teaching Career to the Next Level with The IQTS at UWE
Ready to elevate your teaching credentials beyond the PGCE and stand out in the competitive field of international education? The International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) programme at The IQTS at UWE is your next step. Designed for educators seeking to enhance their professional development and overcome the barriers of strict qualification requirements, the iQTS programme significantly boosts your chances for career advancement. With a 45% increase in promotion rates and a 30% salary boost, our Level 7 qualification connects you to a global network of professionals, making you 65% more adaptable to international curricula. Don’t let isolation or the balance between work and ongoing learning hold you back. Join the iQTS programme and become part of the 90% who are satisfied with the insights gained, all while studying flexibly online. Make Your Next Step towards achieving your full potential as an educator on the global stage.