Teach in Thailand: Your Complete Guide

1. Why Teach in Thailand?

Thailand is one of the most welcoming, affordable, and culturally rich countries in the world—and teaching here is a rewarding way to live abroad, gain life experience, and make a real difference.

Whether you're looking for adventure, professional growth, or a meaningful year overseas, Thailand offers:

• A relaxed, friendly lifestyle
• Warm, welcoming local communities
• Delicious food and vibrant culture
• Beautiful travel destinations
• Low cost of living with the ability to save
• A supportive teaching environment
• A chance to build real-life teaching and leadership skills

Teaching in Thailand is not just a job—it's a life-changing experience.

2. What It's Like to Be a Teacher in Thailand

Thai students are known for being respectful, curious, and energetic. Classrooms are lively, fun, and full of personality. Most teachers find that students respond best to interactive, upbeat lessons with games, conversations, and activities.

Typical Teacher Responsibilities

• Teach conversational English
• Create engaging lessons using provided materials
• Encourage participation, confidence, and communication
• Collaborate with Thai teaching staff
• Participate in occasional school events (sports days, ceremonies, etc.)

Weekly Schedule

• 20–24 teaching hours
• Monday–Friday
• Weekends and evenings free

This gives teachers plenty of time to enjoy the lifestyle, explore Thailand, or relax.

3. Placement Locations Across Thailand

MediaKids partners with schools in regions across the country—including central, northern, and northeastern Thailand.

Placements include:

• Small towns with strong community culture
• City outskirts with a balance of convenience and nature
• Mid-sized cities with modern conveniences
• A mix of primary and secondary government schools

You may share preferences for your placement, and we do our best to match them based on available openings.

4. What You Need to Qualify

To teach with MediaKids, you must:

• Be a native English speaker (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa)
• Hold a bachelor's degree (any field)

Optional but helpful:

• TEFL/TESOL certificate
• Teaching experience
• Classroom or youth-related experience

Many MediaKids teachers are brand-new to teaching—so don't worry if you've never taught before!

5. What MediaKids Provides

We ensure teachers feel confident, supported, and prepared.

Professional Support

• Dedicated coordinator for the entire contract
• Academic support & teaching guidance
• Pre-arrival and in-person orientation
• Assistance with documents and school communication

Visa & Work Permit Support

• Step-by-step guidance to obtain your Non-B Visa
• Full support for your work permit after arrival

Teaching Materials

• Lesson plans
• Worksheets
• Curriculum guide
• Ongoing academic support

Insurance

• Accident insurance for all teachers
• Health insurance for teachers completing 2 semesters or renewing contracts

Accommodation Assistance

• Housing allowance
• Help arranging accommodation close to your school

6. Life in Thailand: Cost, Culture & Travel

Cost of Living

Thailand is known for being affordable. Teachers can comfortably pay for housing, food, transport, and activities while still saving money each month.

Food & Culture

• Famous for flavorful dishes
• Vegetarian-friendly options
• Rich traditions, temples, festivals, and art
• Warm, welcoming people

Travel & Transportation

• Easy-to-use transportation (buses, trains, flights)
• Affordable domestic travel
• Stunning destinations: beaches, mountains, cities, national parks

Thailand is one of the easiest countries in Asia to explore.

7. The Application & Placement Process

Step 1 — Apply Online
Submit your application and documents through the MediaKids website.

Step 2 — Interview
Join a friendly interview to discuss preferences, expectations, and placements.

Step 3 — Placement Offer
Our team matches you with a suitable school based on your qualifications and preferred regions.

Step 4 — Prepare Documents
Send copies of your degree, transcript, passport, and background check for visa processing.

Step 5 — Orientation
Complete online orientation followed by an in-person training session before the semester begins.

Step 6 — Start Teaching
Meet your coordinator, settle into housing, and begin your teaching journey.

8. A Day in the Life of a Thailand Teacher

• 7:00 AM — Morning coffee, walk to school
• 8:00 AM — First class: speaking activities
• 10:00 AM — Break, chat with Thai teachers
• 11:00 AM — Another class or planning time
• 12:00 PM — Thai lunch for less than $2
• 2:00 PM — Light afternoon class
• 4:00 PM — Free for the day
• Evening — Gym, café, night market, or friends
• Weekend — Beaches, waterfalls, temples, or city trips

9. Common Challenges & How MediaKids Helps

Challenge: Adjusting to a new culture
Support: Orientation + coordinator + teacher community

Challenge: Classroom management
Support: Lesson plans + tips + academic consultants

Challenge: Homesickness
Support: Large teacher network + social media groups

Challenge: Finding housing
Support: Housing allowance + accommodation assistance

10. Final Tips for Success

• Bring energy and creativity to class
• Be flexible and open to new experiences
• Engage with your Thai co-teachers
• Try the local food and language
• Travel on weekends—it keeps life exciting
• Stay positive and enjoy the journey

Teaching in Thailand is an incredible opportunity to grow personally and professionally while making meaningful connections.