Trainers
Michael Bence
After working in an office for many years a friend suggested I try teaching English overseas and as she had already done so in Spain and thought that would be the perfect destination for me. She was right! Knowing very little about the country itself, I arrived to find a culture full of energy and a great love of life, not unlike Australia’s: sun, sand, sea, friendly locals and an incredible nightlife. It didn’t take long to get used to eating late (around 10pm for dinner), having a siesta and staying out late! The Spanish philosophy is work to live, not live to work! I got a teaching job within weeks of looking, met some great teachers and have formed some lifelong friendships with both teachers and locals. I loved Spain so much that I ended up living there for nearly five years and saw some amazing places as the country is jam-packed with history, art and natural beauty. Now I am a fluent speaker of one of the most international languages in the world and having this skill has helped me to appreciate the challenges and thrills faced by both students and teachers.
On returning to Australia, I soon found myself working at one of the many language colleges in Sydney. Back in Australia I was presented with classrooms full of various nationalities and, therefore, helped me to gain a greater understanding of cultures and needs. I have worked in senior teaching roles which have allowed me to develop my skills further. I am specialised in teaching intensive courses and know a few tips on how to deal with their demands.
One day I saw a job offer to teach English in a small country in the Middle East, Qatar. Why not? Here lay another chance to live overseas, experience another culture and make a great income to boot! One bright sunny Friday morning (a day off over there), I was out walking and listening to the many neighbourhood mosques calling the faithful to prayer, how peaceful I thought. I was really in the Middle East! If you love food and shopping, go to the Middle East, you won’t be disappointed! Just be wary of the heat…..phew!
Now as a TESOL trainer for Teach International I have the chance to bring all this experience to others. And as a TESOL teacher what experiences they have been!
