Teach English in Songkhla, Thailand (2024)

Nestled on the eastern coast of the Malay Peninsula, Songkhla is an enchanting province of Thailand, boasting a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With the shimmering waters of the Songkhla Lake on one side and the vast expanse of the Gulf of Thailand on the other, this coastal haven offers picturesque landscapes, making it an idyllic destination for educators looking for an exotic backdrop to their teaching journey. Its rich Malay and Thai heritage is evident in its architecture, festivals, and daily life. As you wander through the ancient quarters of Songkhla's main city, also named Songkhla, you'll discover a harmonious blend of cultures, colorful street art, and historical sites that stand as testament to the region's storied past.

Reasons to Teach English in Songkhla

Cultural Immersion: Songkhla offers a unique cultural fusion of Thai and Malay influences. This rich tapestry is evident in its festivals, food, and daily life. As an educator, you'll gain firsthand experience of this confluence of cultures, deepening your understanding and appreciation of Southeast Asian traditions.
Natural Beauty: With its serene beaches, scenic lakes, and lush hills, Songkhla is a nature lover's paradise. The picturesque landscapes provide ample opportunities for weekend getaways, allowing you to rejuvenate and find inspiration outside the classroom.
Historic Charm: The old town of Songkhla is a treasure trove of history. From ancient temples to Sino-Portuguese shophouses, there's a story waiting to be discovered around every corner. This rich historical backdrop can also be a wonderful resource for interactive and engaging lessons.
Demand for English Education: As Thailand continues its efforts to globalize, the demand for English education in provinces like Songkhla has surged. This offers ample job opportunities for educators, especially in schools and language centers.
Genuine Thai Experience: Unlike the more touristy destinations in Thailand, Songkhla offers a more authentic experience. The warm and welcoming locals are eager to share their customs and traditions, giving you an unfiltered glimpse into Thai life.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Songkhla is relatively lower than in Thailand's major cities. This allows for a comfortable lifestyle on a teacher's salary, with the added benefit of being able to save or explore more of the country.
Safety: Songkhla is generally safe for expatriates, with a low crime rate and a friendly local population that's accustomed to and appreciative of foreigners.
Gateway to the South: Located near the Thai-Malaysian border, Songkhla can serve as a gateway to explore the southern part of Thailand and even venture into Malaysia. The geographical advantage makes it perfect for those bitten by the travel bug.

Understanding Songkhla's Education Landscape

Songkhla's educational landscape reflects its commitment to providing quality education to its residents, with an increasing emphasis on English proficiency. The province is home to a mix of government-run schools, private institutions, and language centers. With the Thai government's push towards English proficiency for integration into the ASEAN community, there's been a heightened demand for English teachers in Songkhla.

Public schools in the province follow the national curriculum, which includes English as a mandatory subject. This has led to a significant demand for native English speakers to improve the quality of English education. On the other hand, private institutions and language centers might offer more flexible curriculums and often focus more intensively on language acquisition.

There's also a growing interest in bilingual schools and programs within Songkhla, which combine the national curriculum with an international one, primarily taught in English. Such institutions often look for teachers with a higher qualification and offer better salaries and benefits in return.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Songkhla

The requirements to teach English in Songkhla will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in Thailand. However, for clarity, here are the specific requirements for Songkhla:

A four-year degree in any major (bachelor’s degree or higher).
Native English Proficiency: To be a native English speaker (NES) OR a non-native English speaker (NNES) with a TOEIC score of 600 or IELTS score of 5+. This test can be done in Thailand or in your home country.
Police Background Check: You'll need to pass a police background check in your home country to ensure the safety of the students.
Health Check: A simple health check is also a part of the hiring process, typically done within Thailand.
TEFL Certification: While a TEFL certificate is not mandatory, it's preferred by many institutions. Having one not only boosts your employability but might also qualify you for a higher salary.
Experience: Experience in teaching, while not a strict requirement, can be an advantage during the hiring process and might come with added perks in terms of salary and benefits.
Cultural Interest: An evident interest in Thai culture and the willingness to integrate into the local community is often seen as a significant plus by employers.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Songkhla

In Songkhla, an English teacher's salary can range between 25,000 to 50,000 THB per month, depending on the institution, qualifications, and experience. Public schools generally offer salaries on the lower end of this scale, while private institutions, bilingual schools, and language centers might offer higher pay, especially to more qualified teachers.

Benefits might include:

Health Insurance: Basic health insurance might be provided, though it's advisable to consider supplementary insurance.
Paid Holidays: This is standard for full-time positions, especially in public schools.
Visa and Work Permit Assistance: Most reputable institutions will assist in obtaining and financing the necessary work visa and work permit.
Contract Completion Bonus: Some institutions offer a bonus upon successful completion of the contract term.

The cost of living in Songkhla is relatively low, allowing teachers to lead a comfortable lifestyle while also saving a portion of their salary.

Living in Songkhla

Songkhla, a charming coastal province situated in Southern Thailand, offers an authentic blend of rich history, beautiful landscapes, and lively urban life. The province is surrounded by the Gulf of Thailand to the east and a mountain range to the west, creating a picturesque backdrop for residents. Let's delve into what life is like living in this unique city.

Natural Beauty and Beaches

Songkhla boasts stunning beaches, with the most notable being Samila Beach. Here, locals and expats alike can enjoy a tranquil setting with white sandy shores, clear blue waters, and the famous mermaid statue that has become an icon of the city. There's also the scenic Songkhla Lake, the largest natural lake in Thailand, perfect for boat rides and witnessing local fishermen at work.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The city offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, far removed from the hustle and bustle of touristy destinations like Bangkok or Phuket. The Old Town of Songkhla, with its preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, provides a window into the city's past. Museums like the Songkhla National Museum and Folklore Museum give deeper insights into the region's history and culture.

Cost of Living

Living in Songkhla is quite affordable. Accommodation options range from local apartments to more modern condominiums, all at a fraction of the cost you'd find in Thailand's major cities. Local markets and street food vendors offer delicious Thai food at very reasonable prices. Transportation within the city is also affordable, with options including songthaews (shared taxis), motorbike taxis, and tuk-tuks.

Local Festivals

Throughout the year, Songkhla celebrates various local festivals, immersing residents in vibrant cultural experiences. The Songkran Festival, Thailand's traditional New Year's celebration, sees locals engaging in water fights and ceremonies. There's also the Chak Phra Festival, which celebrates the end of Buddhist Lent with colorful processions.

Safety and Community

Songkhla, like most parts of Thailand, is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. The city is relatively safe, but as with any urban area, it's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. There's a growing community of expats and English teachers in the city, making it easier for newcomers to find a support system and make friends.

Teacher Stories

Sarah from the USA

"I moved from California to Songkhla three years ago to teach English. The transition was a bit of a culture shock, but the welcoming nature of the locals made it all worthwhile. Songkhla's coastal vibe and rich history provided a backdrop for some of my most cherished memories. Teaching the students here, I've learned just as much from them as they have from me. It's been an incredible journey of growth and understanding."

Liam from the UK

"Songkhla felt like a breath of fresh air after teaching in Bangkok for a year. The pace of life is slower, and the beaches are stunning. While the resources at schools might not be as abundant as in bigger cities, the enthusiasm of the students and the community's support more than makes up for it. Plus, I've become quite the expert on Southern Thai cuisine!"

Thandi from South Africa

"I never thought I'd find myself in Songkhla, but I'm so glad I did. The beauty of the lake and the beaches are beyond words. And the students? They're curious, respectful, and always eager to learn. It's been an enriching experience, both personally and professionally."

Maddison from Australia

"The community feel in Songkhla is unlike any other place I've taught in. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms. While there's a language barrier at times, the kindness shown by the locals and the students transcends words. I've made lifelong friendships and memories here."

Connor from Ireland

"Songkhla offers the best of both worlds - the serenity of a coastal town and the dynamism of a city. Teaching here has been rewarding in so many ways. The smaller classroom sizes allow for a more personalized teaching approach, and outside of school, there's always something new to explore."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Songkhla

Songkhla, with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, has become a sought-after destination for English teachers from all over the world. Beyond the picturesque landscapes and rich cultural experiences, what truly sets Songkhla apart is its community's warmth and openness.

It's not just about imparting knowledge; it's a mutual journey of learning and understanding. Whether you're drawn to Songkhla for its beaches, history, or its genuine Thai ambiance, there's no doubt that teaching English here will be an enriching chapter in your life.