Category Expat Advice

China’s Crackdown On Private Tutoring – How Will This Affect The TEFL Industry?

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 28, 2021

With the private tutoring industry booming in China, the government is proposing trial restrictions on when and how these companies can operate. With the TEFL sector making up a large part of the tutoring market, could this have huge implications?

Leaving a TEFL Job in China – Complete Guide on Doing it Right

Ashraf Vachhiat
June 17, 2021

Whether you've decided you're leaving a TEFL job in China and returning home, or simply transferring to a different school, you'll need to make sure your paperwork is in order. By skipping any part of the process, you could get into problems later down the line which may cause major delays to your plans, or even worse! When you're overseas, the last thing you need is to be stuck in limbo. Check out our helpful guide on what to do when you're ready to leave your position.

Legalising a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certificate – What’s the difference?

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 24, 2021

If you've just completed a course in teaching ESL, or you're thinking about moving into the field, one of the biggest questions on your mind might be - what is the difference between TEFL, TESOL and CELTA? Is one more "valid" than the other, and will they all be accepted for teaching positions overseas?

Getting A TEFL Job In China – 10 Ways To Spot Scams And Stay Safe

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 24, 2021

If you're planning on teaching English in China, it can be difficult to know where to start. The recruitment process when you're dealing with a company overseas can be difficult in itself, but with such huge differences in processes and requirements, it can feel like a minefield.

Going to work in China – The latest on the situation

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 20, 2021

Although life in China is returning to something close to normal, the government continues to keep a close eye on who's allowed to come into the country. And while most schools are allowing children back into classrooms, there is a major shortage in teaching staff because of continuing travel restrictions across the globe. We look at the situation as it currently stands, from inside and outside China.

Getting a PU Letter for China – Guide to Invitation Letters

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 6, 2021

With the Coronavirus pandemic causing so many travel restrictions globally, most countries are keen to keep movement across their borders to a minimum. Although China made quick progress in returning life to a state close to normality, they have introduced strict measures for incoming passengers. Here we look at what this new documentation is, and how you get it.

Preparing for the recruitment boom – Expanding your skills in lockdown

Ashraf Vachhiat
May 7, 2020

Adjusting to a new country, and even a new career certainly has its difficulties. Whether you’re looking to relocate overseas once lock down is eased, or simply looking at trying a new career path teaching online, now is the perfect…

Coronavirus – How the impact on teacher recruitment is evolving

Ashraf Vachhiat
March 26, 2020

With all of the headlines around the Coronavirus constantly filling up our news feeds, it's leaving many with more questions than answers and filling those who had planned to relocate with uncertainty. In our unique position, assisting people looking to move and travel around the globe, we are here to provide a balanced and informed view of the situation.

Teacher Retention Crisis

Ashraf Vachhiat
March 16, 2020

Retention is a challenge facing schools all over the world. From the UK to China, teachers are leaving their jobs in higher numbers than ever before. Why is the world collectively facing such a crisis?

Applying for a TEFL position in China – Protecting your paperwork

Ashraf Vachhiat
December 19, 2019

After an amazing response from our previous piece giving ESL teachers wishing to teach in China advice on what to watch out for in their job contract for China, we have a follow up post with even more hints and tips on staying safe in the world of TEFL employment.

Requirements for Teaching English Abroad

Ashraf Vachhiat
November 14, 2019

Teaching English as a Foreign Language, otherwise known as TEFL, is a great way to travel the world whilst also gaining teaching experience. Whether you would prefer to explore Europe, have an awesome Asian adventure, hit South America, or anywhere else, there are schools everywhere looking for teachers; providing you with the opportunity to live and work in a whole new place.

Driving as an expat – can I use my UK license abroad?

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 24, 2019

If you're moving overseas you may be thinking about how you're going to get around whilst you're there. Some people who live in a city are more than happy to rely on public transport, which you might find is vastly superior to services in your own country! But if you need to drive, can you use your UK license abroad?

English Teachers in China Being Exploited by Rogue Agencies and Schools

Ashraf Vachhiat
October 3, 2019

What began as a dream transformed slowly into a nightmare. Vanessa Wachtmeister had moved to China to work as an English teacher on the back of promises made by her agency. They assured her that the process would be easy and seamless, and that she’d have the experience of her life teaching in the Far East. It ended with her leaving her apartment at the dead of night, changing her phone number, and paying $3,000 USD for a student visa to make sure the agency couldn't trap her in the country for violating her contract.

Education recruitment – an Interview With Munir Mamujee

Ashraf Vachhiat
July 9, 2019

Vital Consular are excited to announce that we have teamed up with m2r Education, where we aim to set a new precedent in recruitment support. In this interview, the Managing Director of m2r, Munir Mamujee, shares his thoughts on the growth of the education sector, why he feels his unique approach to recruitment is breaking the mould in his field and how the partnership with Vital will help him take this even further.

Average wage expected to rise globally in 2016

Ashraf Vachhiat
January 21, 2016

Global wages are expected to rise by their highest rate in three years, according to a salary forecast revealed by the Korn Ferry Hay Group. Research reveals that workers around the world are expected see real wage increases of 2.5% as pay increases combine with historically low inflation to leave employees better off.