Institute Review
I have been an ESL teacher for many years, living and worked in different locations in Korea and in other countries. I was realistic about my expectations when I joined this company but I couldn't of imagine the hell that lay ahead for me each day while working in this 'organization'. Overall, the staff seemed nice in the beginning but there is little to no help, ever, with anything! When I began working here the owner didn't introduce herself to me until 3 months later, even though I seen her each day. You are literally on your own and that goes for teaching, health, dealing with parents, office politics, housing, everything. There is zero professionalism, most staff dislike each other, the owner cuts countless corners trying to save pennies, and this applies to all staff and kids. Many, many teachers spoke of mental stress, exhaustion and depression while working here, the management knew and not only didn't help but actively punished those who spoke out asking for guidance. This is not a school concerned with educating children, it is a business which exploits its staff and cons parents into parting with money. I'm surprised it isn't under serious investigation by now having broken many labor laws.
The pros
The academy is colorful, but tiny! There is an unlimited budget for color printing and classrooms are colorful.The curriculum is made for you but it is inadequate, at times not relevant and pretty boring to teach.
Special days are proposed at being for the kids but they are just photo opps for the parents and future parents.
The cons
The management is the biggest problem. They treat their employees like trash, there are slight exceptions but that is based on how much the parents like that particular teacher and nothing to do with work ethic. Countless staff members (Korean and foreigners) quit mid contract. All staff were exhausted, not just tired, exhausted. You get the bare minimum, nothing extra, not even a thank you. The owner refused to give release letters so those people wanting to leave had to leave Korea. There was even a situation where a lady had a miscarriage and they refused her sick leave and asked her to immediately return to work. There isn't enough space to write all the cons for this place.
Advice to Management
Stop cutting corners, show some appreciation for your staff, prioritise the children, pay teachers for the extra work they do, communicate with all employees, treat people with respect, check in on employees, especially those who are struggling.
Institution Location
Wirye, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do
Experience
10%
Professionalism
10%
Work location
60%
Living situation
50%
Pay & benefits
40%
Support & facilities
40%
Health & safety
60%