Teach English in Surin, Thailand (2024)

Surin, located in the northeastern region of Thailand, often referred to as 'Isaan,' presents a unique blend of traditional Thai culture with influences from neighboring Cambodia. Known for its magnificent Elephant Round-Up festival, ancient Khmer temples, and serene countryside, Surin offers a truly immersive experience for those who seek to understand Thailand's cultural tapestry beyond its metropolitan centers. This city, while growing in modernity, retains much of its rich heritage and tradition, making it an ideal place for teachers to not just impart knowledge but also learn from an age-old culture. Teaching English in Surin provides educators with an opportunity to integrate into a close-knit community and witness firsthand the intersection of Thai and Khmer influences.

Reasons to Teach English in Surin

Cultural Immersion: Surin's distinct cultural identity, shaped by its proximity to Cambodia, offers a deep dive into the traditions, festivals, and way of life unique to this part of Thailand. Teachers can immerse themselves in this vibrant milieu, gaining insights that are often missed in more touristy areas.
Demand for English Education: With globalization and the ASEAN community, there's a growing emphasis on English proficiency in Thailand's northeastern provinces. Surin, being an integral part of this region, has an increasing demand for English teachers, especially in schools that aim to elevate their students' language competencies.
The Elephant Round-Up Festival: Surin's world-famous Elephant Round-Up, held annually in November, is a spectacle that showcases the deep bond between the Thai people and these majestic creatures. Teachers living in Surin get a front-row seat to this extravaganza, learning about the historical and cultural significance of elephants in Thai society.
Untouched Natural Beauty: Surin is surrounded by lush landscapes, rice paddies, and serene water bodies. For those who love nature, the city and its surroundings offer ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Community Engagement: Given its smaller size compared to metropolises like Bangkok, Surin offers a tight-knit community environment. Teachers often find themselves forming deep connections with locals, attending traditional ceremonies, and being part of neighborhood celebrations.
Affordable Living: Surin offers a lower cost of living compared to Thailand's major cities. Teachers can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, savoring local delicacies, and indulging in experiences without burning a hole in their pocket.
Ancient Temples and Historical Sites: The region is dotted with ancient Khmer temples reminiscent of Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Teachers can spend weekends exploring these architectural wonders, understanding the historical narratives, and marveling at the craftsmanship of yesteryears.

Understanding Surin's Education Landscape

Surin, like many other provinces in Thailand's northeastern region, is witnessing a significant transformation in its educational landscape. With the Thai government's increasing emphasis on English proficiency as a means to integrate more effectively within the ASEAN community, the demand for quality English education in Surin is on the rise. While traditionally, schools in Surin have followed the national curriculum with a limited focus on English, there's now a push towards integrating more English language courses, and consequently, a higher demand for qualified English teachers.

Many schools, both public and private, are establishing English Programs (EP) where subjects like Science, Math, and of course, English, are taught in the English language. Additionally, bilingual schools and English language centers are mushrooming across the city, aiming to equip students with competent language skills.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Surin

The requirements to teach English in Surin will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in Thailand. However, it's essential to be aware of the specific nuances that might be relevant to Surin. Here are the key requirements:

A four-year degree in any major (bachelor’s degree or higher).
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.
To pass a police background check from your home country.
To undergo a simple health check.
Possession of a TEFL certificate is preferred, but not mandatory.
Previous teaching experience, while advantageous, is not a strict requirement.
An inherent interest in Thailand and its diverse culture is crucial for a more enriching teaching experience.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Surin

When it comes to remuneration, teaching in Surin offers a balanced package. While the salary might be slightly lower than what one might earn in bigger cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, the cost of living in Surin is substantially lower, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle.

Salary: Teachers can expect to earn between 25,000 to 55,000 THB per month, depending on qualifications, experience, and the institution's prestige.
Contract Benefits: Some schools offer yearly bonuses, health insurance, and even paid holidays.
Work Schedule: Typically, teachers will work from Monday to Friday, giving them ample time during weekends to explore Surin and nearby regions.
Professional Development: Schools in Surin, especially those with English Programs, often provide training sessions and workshops for their teachers, ensuring they are updated with the latest teaching methodologies.

Embarking on a teaching journey in Surin allows educators to make a significant impact on their students' lives while enjoying the serene beauty and rich culture of this Thai province. It's an opportunity for personal growth, professional development, and cultural enrichment.

Living in Surin

Surin is a province tucked away in the northeastern part of Thailand, boasting a rich cultural history and serene landscapes that are markedly different from the bustling cities of Bangkok or Phuket. For those considering teaching English in Surin, understanding the essence of life here can make for a smoother transition and an enriching experience.

1. Cultural Tapestry:

Surin is renowned for its yearly Elephant Round-up Festival, which showcases the province's deep-rooted connection with these majestic creatures. The festival draws both locals and tourists, eager to witness impressive displays of elephant prowess, from football games to tug-of-war. Beyond this, the province is also known for its intricate silk production and the Khmer ruins, reminding residents of its historical significance.

2. Cost of Living:

One of the most attractive aspects of living in Surin is its affordability. From local markets offering fresh produce to street food stalls serving up delectable Thai cuisine, living in Surin is reasonably priced. Rent, in particular, is significantly cheaper than in Thailand's major cities. Teachers can expect to rent a decent apartment or house for a fraction of what it would cost in Bangkok.

3. Natural Beauty:

Beyond its cultural landmarks, Surin offers its residents a chance to experience Thailand's untouched natural beauty. With national parks like the Phanom Sawai Forest Park, those living in Surin can easily escape to nature's lap, taking in the scenic vistas or exploring its hiking trails.

4. Local Transportation:

Getting around Surin is fairly straightforward. While it doesn't have the extensive public transportation system seen in larger Thai cities, there are ample songthaews (shared taxis), tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis to get around. Many teachers also opt to rent or buy a scooter, allowing for greater flexibility in exploring the province.

5. Community and Social Life:

While Surin may not have the nightlife of Pattaya or the shopping malls of Bangkok, it offers a tight-knit community vibe. Many expatriates and teachers form close bonds, often gathering for social events, weekend trips, or simple dinners. This sense of community can be incredibly comforting for those moving away from their home countries.

6. Climate:

Like most of Thailand, Surin experiences a tropical savanna climate. There are primarily three seasons: the cool dry season (November to February), the hot dry season (March to May), and the rainy season (June to October). While it's advisable to carry an umbrella during the rainy months, the climate is generally warm throughout the year.

Teacher Stories

1. Sarah from the USA:

"When I first told my family I'd be teaching English in Surin, Thailand, they had to Google where it was! But the past two years in this beautiful province have been the most rewarding of my life. The kids are eager to learn, and the community welcomed me with open arms. I've formed bonds that I believe will last a lifetime. And oh, the food in Surin is to die for!"

2. Liam from the UK:

"I've always been a history buff, and Surin, with its ancient Khmer ruins, was a dream come true. While teaching was initially challenging due to the language barrier, the smiles on my students' faces made every struggle worth it. Weekends are for exploring, and I've trekked through some of the most scenic landscapes here."

3. Thando from South Africa:

"Coming from South Africa to Surin was a culture shock, but in the best way possible. The festivals, the traditions, the warmth of the people – it's been an incredible journey. As a teacher, seeing my students grow and being a part of their lives has been a joy. Surin has become my second home."

4. Emily from Australia:

"Being in Surin is like taking a step back in time. Away from the hustle and bustle, here, I found a sense of peace. My school is supportive, and my colleagues are more like family now. The Elephant Round-up Festival was a highlight, a spectacle I'll never forget."

5. Sean from Ireland:

"I'd previously taught in Bangkok and wanted a change of pace. Surin was just the ticket. Life's slower here, in a good way. The students are respectful, curious, and always eager to engage in fun activities. I've also picked up a bit of Thai, thanks to my friendly neighbors!"

6. Zoe from New Zealand:

"As a nature lover, Surin's parks and landscapes spoke to my soul. Teaching here has been fulfilling, but the adventures after school are equally enriching. Whether it's hiking, visiting local temples, or just enjoying a quiet evening by a serene lake, Surin has a piece of my heart."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Surin

Choosing to teach English in a foreign country is not just about the job; it's about immersing oneself in a new culture, environment, and way of life. Surin offers a unique blend of Thailand's rich heritage, captivating nature, and genuine human connections.

Whether it's the allure of ancient ruins, the bond with enthusiastic students, or the simple joys of daily life in a close-knit community, Surin has something special for everyone. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact while experiencing the heart of Thailand, Surin beckons.